#will 1 million antihistamines help? let's find out

[plushri-moved]

eczema flare 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[saffranaturals]

Raw Honey for Allergies: Nature’s Sweet Remedy for Seasonal Relief

Raw Honey for Allergies: Nature’s Sweet Remedy for Seasonal Relief

Each year, millions of people experience the sniffles, sneezing, and watery eyes that come with seasonal allergies. As spring approaches and pollen fills the air, these symptoms can become a daily struggle. While many turn to over-the-counter medications for relief, more and more people are exploring natural alternatives—and one remedy that stands out is raw honey.

At Saffra Naturals, we believe in simple, clean wellness solutions rooted in nature. That’s why we’re proud to offer raw organic honey that doesn’t just taste amazing, but may also help soothe seasonal allergies and support your overall health.

Let’s take a closer look at how raw honey works for allergies, its benefits, and how to use it to feel better, naturally.

 What Are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies, or hay fever, happen when your immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold spores. For many, allergy season brings on symptoms such as:

Runny nose

Sneezing

Nasal congestion

Itchy or watery eyes

Scratchy throat

These symptoms can disrupt sleep, reduce productivity, and lower your quality of life. While medications like antihistamines can help, they often come with side effects like drowsiness or dry mouth. That’s where natural antihistamines—like raw honey—can play a supportive role.

 How Raw Honey Can Help with Allergies

You might be wondering: how can something as sweet and simple as honey help with allergies?

Here’s the theory: raw honey contains tiny amounts of local pollen. When you eat it regularly, your body may get used to these allergens in small doses. Over time, this could reduce your allergic response—kind of like a natural form of pollen immunotherapy. Think of it as “nature’s vaccine.”

Although more research is needed to confirm this effect in all people, many individuals report feeling better after incorporating raw honey into their routine during allergy season. It may not be a cure, but it can be a part of a holistic plan for natural relief.

 What Makes Raw Honey Different?

Not all honey is created equal. The clear, golden honey you find in most grocery stores is often processed and pasteurized. Unfortunately, this process removes many of the beneficial nutrients found in honey. That’s why choosing unprocessed honey—like the kind we make at Saffra Naturals—is so important.

Raw honey is:

Unheated: Preserving important enzymes and antioxidants

Unfiltered: Retaining pollen, propolis, and natural compounds

Unprocessed: No additives, preservatives, or artificial sweeteners

Rich in nutrients: Includes vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds

This natural goodness supports the immune system and may help ease allergy symptoms over time.

 Raw Honey Benefits for More Than Just Allergies

While allergy relief is one of the biggest draws, raw honey benefits go beyond just that. This golden nectar has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its powerful properties.

Here are just a few reasons people love raw honey:

Soothes sore throats: It’s no surprise that many people reach for honey for sore throat. The thick texture coats the throat, reducing irritation and providing relief.

Supports digestion: Raw honey can act as a gentle prebiotic, helping feed the good bacteria in your gut.

Promotes better sleep: A spoonful of raw honey before bed may help regulate blood sugar levels and promote deeper rest.

Fights bacteria: Thanks to its natural antimicrobial compounds, raw honey can support wound healing and oral health.

 Try This: Honey Ginger Tea for Allergy Relief

One of the easiest and most comforting ways to enjoy raw honey during allergy season is by making honey ginger tea. This simple drink combines the soothing effects of honey with the anti-inflammatory power of ginger.

Here’s how to make it:about

Ingredients:

1 cup warm water (not boiling)

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

1 tablespoon raw honey

Optional: fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

Steep the ginger in warm water for 5 minutes.

Add lemon juice if using.

Stir in raw honey just before drinking.

This tea is not only delicious but may also help clear sinuses, ease inflammation, and calm your throat.

 What Science Says About Raw Honey and Allergies

While anecdotal evidence is strong, let’s talk about the research behind raw honey for allergies.

One small study published in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology found that patients who consumed high doses of honey over eight weeks reported fewer allergy symptoms compared to those taking a placebo. While this study didn’t prove honey is a cure, it did suggest it may provide mild relief, especially when taken regularly before allergy season begins.

It’s also important to note that bee pollen benefits—a key component in raw honey—include immune support and reduced inflammation, which could be beneficial during allergy season.

Although more large-scale studies are needed, many natural health experts and users agree that raw honey is a promising natural antihistamine when used consistently.

 Choosing the Right Raw Honey: What to Look For

If you’re ready to try raw honey for allergies, it’s important to choose the right kind. Here’s what to look for when buying:

Raw and unprocessed: Avoid honey that has been pasteurized or filtered.

Organic: Look for certified raw organic honey to ensure it’s free from pesticides and chemicals.

Local: If possible, choose honey made near your region for maximum exposure to local pollen.

Trusted source: Buy from reputable brands that care about quality, transparency, and sustainability.

At Saffra Naturals, we’re proud to produce certified organic raw honey that’s as pure as nature intended. Our honey is harvested with care, ensuring that every jar is full of flavor, nutrients, and wellness.

 Tips for Using Raw Honey During Allergy Season

If you're new to using raw honey as part of your wellness routine, here are a few tips:

Start early: Begin taking raw honey a few weeks before allergy season begins to allow your body time to adjust.

Take it daily: Consistency is key. Just one teaspoon per day can go a long way.

Pair it with antihistamine foods: Include other natural antihistamines like citrus fruits, green tea, apples, and leafy greens to support your immune system.

Avoid heating it too much: Adding honey to boiling water can destroy its beneficial enzymes. Always let your drink cool slightly first.

 Complementary Natural Approaches to Allergy Relief

While raw honey can be a helpful part of your allergy toolkit, it works best when combined with other natural strategies:

Use an air purifier to reduce indoor pollen exposure

Wash your face and hands after coming in from outside

Rinse your nose with a saline solution or neti pot

Stay hydrated to thin mucus and ease congestion

Get enough sleep, as rest helps regulate immune function

Holistic health is all about combining multiple supportive practices to feel your best.

 What Our Customers Are Saying

“I’ve been using Saffra Naturals’ raw organic honey every morning in my tea, and I barely noticed my allergies this spring. I’m a believer now!” — Pooja S., Delhi

“I love the taste and texture of your honey. It’s nothing like store-bought honey. Plus, my sore throat was gone in two days!” — Ramesh K., Bengaluru

“I make honey ginger tea with your honey every night. Not only does it help me breathe better, but I sleep better too.” — Divya M., Mumbai

We’re grateful to our community for trusting nature and choosing Saffra Naturals as part of their wellness journey.

 Final Thoughts: Sweet Relief, Naturally

Seasonal allergies can be frustrating, but nature offers gentle, effective remedies to help us feel better. Raw honey isn’t just a sweet treat—it’s a time-tested, nutrient-rich food that may support your body in dealing with allergens naturally.

From soothing sore throats to supporting your immune system, the benefits of raw honey are many. And when you choose high-quality, unprocessed honey like the kind from Saffra Naturals, you’re giving your body a product that’s as pure and nourishing as nature intended.

So, whether you’re dealing with springtime sniffles or just looking for a healthier way to sweeten your day, try a spoonful of Saffra Naturals' raw organic honey—your body will thank you.

https://saffranaturals.com/

[softboyuris]

We Will Always Have Us pt. 1

The Realization || Weeks 0-6

Words: 4.8k+

Summary: Roger and you have been friends for a little over a year and have spent most of the time harmlessly flirting. On the night of your 17th birthday, Roger finally makes a move. One reckless night of passion leads to some unwanted consequences that’ll test the strength of their friendship. 

Warnings: teen pregnancy, implication of unprotected sex (wear protection folks!), slight language 

{masterlist} {series masterpost}

[part 1] [...] [part 6]

⁂  4 October 1966  ⁂

The car was cramped and humid but all you could focus on was the shirtless boy above you, leaving a trail of kisses up your body before settling on your mouth.

You hadn’t planned on this happening tonight, on your 17th birthday, or anytime soon for that matter. Hell, Roger wasn’t even your boyfriend, at least no officially. You two hung out quite a lot and were obscenely flirty with one another but you had never been out on a date before. Never kissed. 

In fact you were pretty sure he had a girlfriend. But he was always changing up who he was “hanging out” with, as he put it. Every party there was always some new girl hanging onto every word he said and he was likely to end up with her at the end of the night. It would not be shocking if he hadn’t been with six girls since you last heard an update. 

When Roger said he had left his present for you in his car, you wouldn’t’ve thought in a million years this was the present. But you had willingly followed him away from the party that your friends had so kindly thrown for you, to accompany him to his car. 

You were just talking, really, about school and life in general. In all honesty you kind of spaced out, nodding every once in a while. But all you could focus on was how close he was to you. How his shirt was showing just a little too much of his shoulder, like someone had been tugging on it trying to get the fabric out of the way. And when he talked, all you saw were his lips. His lips where his tongue would dart out every once in a while before the corners of his mouth tugged up into a smile or a smirk. Where his tongue would pull his lip in to settle between his teeth and it took nearly every ounce of your being not to moan at the sight.

You had never viewed him in such a light before. Literally. With the moon shining in through the window of his backseat, creating a slash of light across his face. He looked angelic. His long, or at least as long as the school permitted, slightly waved blonde hair perfectly framing his face. And how his whole face would smile when his lips turned up, and he let out a small laugh. In turn making you laugh. 

You were mesmerized. You barely noticed when his hand landed on your thigh, staying in place at first and then slowly inching up, under your skirt. And then he was whispering tempting things in your ear, dirty things in your ear that sent shivers down your spine. His breath hitting your neck made you dizzy and you had to close your eyes. Your mind wondering what it would feel like to have his mouth somewhere else, somewhere lower.

And that’s when he kissed you. And you melted into it, kissing him back with more urgency. You never knew you were so needy until his hands were pushing on your hips, rearranging your position so he was hovering above you. 

Your breath hitched at how absolutely perfect he looked in that moment, how divine. You weren’t sure what you did to be put in god’s good graces but lord did you thank heavens this was happening.

The kisses turned more needy and desperate before he started sucking on your neck and you could have sworn you would have fainted if he wasn’t grounding you there. Running your nails down his clothed back, you wished nothing more than for him to not have any clothes on at all.

So you pulled away. He was a little dazed and confused at first, thinking you were rejecting him until you propped yourself up and removed your shirt. The smile on his face grew, he couldn’t help but admire how perfect you looked, how perfect your boobs looked. Soon you were both naked. And there you were, lying beneath the hottest, most wanted boy in school, letting him take your virginity. And all you could do was smile.

In the following weeks, you hooked up occasionally. He would come over to your house to ‘study’ and then screw you so hard you were worn out for the rest of the day. You didn’t tell any of your friends. You knew they would just judge you for falling for his charm. And although it was true, you didn’t think you were like every other girl he hooked up with. You weren’t someone he was gonna fuck and forget. Cause even when he inevitably moved on, you would still remain friends. This wasn’t gonna get in the way of that.

When some random girl at school started throwing herself at him two weeks later, he very politely informed you he would be sleeping with her now. It was more the delivery of this information than the information itself that stung the most, which you made sure to make him aware of. You weren’t necessarily hurt, you knew this was bound to happen at some point, but your stomach still swooped when you saw him in the hallway with another girl.

Regardless, Roger was your friend, through and through, and him ditching you to be with another girl wasn’t going to change that. But something else definitely could.

⁂  15 November 1966  ⁂ 

You were late. Really late. It was 8:05 and school started at seven. It wasn’t your fault you had woken up late. You had a really bad stomach ache last night that left you curled up in a ball on the bathroom floor in fear that you would hurl all over your very nice bed.

Your mom had done what she thought was right and let you continue to sleep. You loved her but you could not miss anymore school. You had gotten in enough trouble already for skipping with Roger over the past few months. 

The hallways were eerily quiet. A part of you enjoyed it and the other half absolutely hated it. School, in your experience, was always loud. Anyone who’s friends with Roger can certainly vouch for that. You hated that you could hear every step you took reverberate off the walls and how the students in class right now could probably hear your frantic footsteps as you hurriedly walked down the hallway.

Even though you were a whole hour late for class, you were hoping your first block teacher wouldn’t get too pissed at you. But he had a tendency to hate tardy students so you were walking as fast as you could but every step made you more and more dizzy until you had to lean against a locker to stabilize yourself.

You’d been having these fainting fits for roughly a week and you were starting to get tired of them. That and the constant hunger, yet not wanting to eat anything nearby, you constantly felt. It was super annoying. How could you be hungry and not want to eat anything at the same time?

Last night you were sure it would all come to fruition in the form of a stomach bug when it literally felt like your intestines were wringing themselves out inside you, but sadly no. You had to deal with period-like cramps for four hours before you managed to knock yourself out with some antihistamines. 

You were pretty certain at this point it was nothing serious, playing it off as some weird hormonal imbalance before your period came. Some premenstrual cramping if you will. 

When you could see straight again, you pushed yourself off the locker and pulled open the door to Mr. Irish’s class, your first class of the day that would be over shortly. He looks none too happy when he hands you a slip of paper, which excuses you to the attendance office to sign in late, before ushering you to your seat. 

You turn to the class, expecting to find your seat at the front of the classroom empty, except it’s not. Someone took your spot and if you could see who it was through the spinning room, you would probably give them a glare. Instead, you find the one empty seat behind Roger who gives you a cheeky smile, which you of course return. His smile starts to fade as you get closer to him, melting into a look of worry.

“Are you feeling okay? You look a bit pale?” He asks in a whispered tone, his hand reaching out to grab your forearm as you come to a halt in front of him.

You furrow your eyebrows, swallow and give a curt nod before you feel the cold tiled floor beneath your back and the world goes black.

⁂  a few moments later  ⁂ 

The lights are too bright for your eyes before you even get them open and the ringing in your ears makes you want to pass out again, at least then it would stop. Through closed eyes, you can see the outline of someone kneeled down beside you and you already know it’s Roger before you hear his concerned voice calling your name.

“I’m fine,” you grumble, giving your temples a squeeze. “No need to freak out, Rog.” You run your hands over your face before squinting your eyes open, letting them adjust to the harsh fluorescents of the classroom lighting. 

Roger is squatted down in front of you, a hand lying comfortingly on your upper arm. He gives you a reassuring smile before helping you sit up. “You sure about that?” He chuckles but there is definite worry laced in his words.

You open your mouth to answer but the movement of sitting up has your head, and stomach, spinning and before you can get to your feet, or better yet a trash can you’re spewing your breakfast on Roger’s lap.

⁂                                                         ⁂                                                             ⁂ 

“I really am sorry.” You say, probably for the hundredth time. Your teacher gave Roger and you permission to leave class. He strongly urged you to go to the nurse, as did Rog, but you insisted you were fine, you just wanted to help Roger out. “Really is a shitty way to start your day, huh?”

Roger is essentially nude, spare his boxers, and standing in front of the sinks in the girls bathroom, which you claimed as yours by locking the door. He’s desperately trying to get his clothes clean but you know it’s no use. “Not the most ideal way but it got me out of Mr. Irish’s boring lecture.” 

“Just call me your saving grace,” You joke, fiddling with your hands.

“My sick little angel, that’s what you are.” He chuckles. You hate when he uses pet names with you. You love pet names, but when it comes from his mouth it makes your stomach swoon and you know he means it in an endearing way but all it does is remind you of the nights you had together when ‘baby’ and ‘love’ were words that slipped from hips lips as he filled you up. And he wasn’t even saying it in a pet name type way, but still. Your heart might’ve thumped a little harder in your chest.

“There’s no point you know, I think I ruined your perfectly planned outfit.” You tease. He had been wearing jeans, which to anyone else would have just been ordinary jeans but you had told him they made his ass look nice and now he wore them as often as was acceptable, and a simple band tee that you had actually given him on his birthday over the summer.

From where you’re standing, you can see Roger’s lips turn up in a smile. “You’re right. But I can’t bloody well go nude for the rest of the day.”

“Wouldn’t be the worst thing,” You smirk, eyeing him through the mirror.

Again, that smile, stretched even wider if possible. He turns off the running water, giving up and throwing his sopping mess of clothes into the trash can. “Wherever will I find clothes now.” He fake complains.

You but your lip, thinking through his options and landing on one that has a smirk adorning your features. Without a word, you spin on the ball of your foot and open the door, looking back only to make sure he was following you.

“No.” Roger states blatantly at the pair of sweats in your hands. You’re in the nurse’s office now, where there are always spare clothes kids leave behind at school. “No way am I wearing that.” He crosses his arms over his chest, eyeing you.

“It’s sweats or nude. Pick your poison.” You extend your arm more in his direction.

“I’d rather go nude, thank you.”

“Not if you don’t want to be sitting in detention this Saturday Mr. Taylor.” The principal, Mrs. Devon says as she passes by the door,

You momentarily look behind you, seeing the blur of your principal pass by and you can’t help but let out a chuckle. Roger quickly swipes the clothes from your hands and, with a bashful look and rosy cheeks, excuses himself to the bathroom to change.

“You owe me big time.” He comments as he steps out of the bathroom. The sweats don’t exactly fit him. The hoodie is way too big for his slim physique and the pants are just the slightest bit too small, leaving little to the imagination. “Stop staring at my junk.”

“I’m not gonna be the only one you say that to today.” You remark, looking back up into his eyes, your own glistening in pleasure. You sure are enjoying this.

Roger pinches your arm, something he does when he’s embarrassed and doesn’t want to be teased anymore. “Hey! Not my fault it doesn’t leave much to the imagination.” 

“Half the girls at our school don’t need an imagination to know what you got, I assure you.” You continue to poke fun at him, much to his dismay. 

“You’re words don’t hurt me, in fact you’ve boosted my ego.” He puffs out his chest in order to further prove his point.

You sigh in faux dismay. “Oh whatever will I do? You can barely fit through the door with that ego of yours.” He shakes his head at you, pinching your arm again. You flinch back in response, prompting him to continue his shenanigans until he’s got you wrapped in his arms, your back pressed against him. You’re a laughing mess. 

“I really am sorry though,” you say between gasps of air, trying to return your breathing to normal. Not something easily achieved with his arms wrapped so tightly around you. “I’ll buy you new jeans. The same ones.”

“They were my favorite.” He gives you one last squeeze before letting you go just to take your hand and walk you back to class. It’s a normal gesture. You guys may have only been friends for the past year but he somehow knew you like no else did. Understood you like no one else could. 

⁂                                                         ⁂                                                             ⁂

By the time lunch rolls around, it seems the whole school has heard about your fainting spell this morning and you could not hate the attention more. Some people come up to you concerned and ask repeatedly if you’re okay, if you’re feeling better. Your answer is always ‘I’m fine’. A majority, however, thinks it was all an act to get out of class and spend time with Roger. Which you find completely laughable because who would make themselves throw up, let alone on someone, just to spend time with said person. The rest just ignored you and you praised them for that.

On the other hand, your friends could have cared less. Although it sounds like a rude thing, it really isn’t. Your friends do care about you and your wellbeing but they know you’ve been getting a bit faint recently, convinced it’s because of the upcoming midterms that you always stress out about way too much. You’ll do fine, they all assure you. You know you’re smart. You know you get good marks but you’re still prone to stress about exams. 

They pass it off as just another day and you’re beyond grateful. They do, however, tease you about Roger, a normal pass time for them. You’re the only one in your friend group that is good friends with him. Hell, you may be the only girl in school who is truly friends with him, not just a fun time. They always make fun of the two of you for flirting nonstop, half the time you don’t even realize you’re doing it. Like one time when he bought a cupcake from a bake sale but he didn’t want the icing so you licked it off without a second thought and he continued to eat like nothing had happened. That was a fun gossip day at school. All the girls went batshit over it and a part of you actually enjoyed having them get jealous over you.

Your friends still didn’t know that Roger had slept with you over a month ago, and on numerous occasions thereafter. It was something you kept between the two of you. Although you were quite certain a part of them knew. Their jokes started getting a little too real and you would get bashful and they would just tease you more. But maybe it was just because you got flustered over it and not because of the reason you were getting flustered, their jokes were so close to the truth sometimes it brought memories of Roger’s hands on you, places the public shouldn’t see and you would have to look away to conceal the bliss on your face. 

“Come on, (y/n), could you not find anything else for him to wear?” You’re sitting outside under a tree with your four closest friends, save Roger who’s playing football with some of his mates in the field in front of you. Charlotte looks over at you, waiting on an answer. It’s the first time she’s looked away from Roger’s, well you know, since you got situated in the shade. 

“Nope. There was simply nothing else that would do, unless you wanted him to flounce around in a skirt all day.” You joke, leaning back on your elbows as you watch Roger kick the ball to Ryan who kicks it past their makeshift goal.

“That would have been a sight to behold.”Comments Zach from behind you. He’s laying on his back, a book held over his eyes. You know he’s reading but a part of his attention is set on his friends conversation. He always does this. He is always reading but also observing and listening in on others conversations, giving one-liners every once in a while. It’s what drew you to him when he moved here three years ago.

You laugh silently, a smile spreading across your face. The mere image of Roger in a skirt… well you’d rather not think about that with your friends around. That was definitely an image you’d be saving for later though, in the comfort of your bedroom. “It would indeed,” you decided to respond. 

A gust of chilled air blows over you and your friends. Winter is approaching and you could not be more excited. The holidays were your favorite time of year. You always spoiled your friends with too many presents, most of which they didn’t need. They loved you for it, your bank account didn’t but you could care less, you always put aside your paychecks in December for your gift-fund.

Charlotte shivers and your other friend Sam takes her jacket off and places it over Char’s shoulders. You can see Charlotte’s eyes glisten as a smile pulls at her lips. She pulls the jacket tighter around her, muttering a small ‘thanks’ under her breath so only Sam could hear, who is also smiling. God, were they flirty. 

⁂                                                         ⁂                                                             ⁂

Sitting in your last class of the day, you could not be less bothered with the lecture your teacher was attempting to give. Half the class was dozing off and the other half was just not paying attention, throwing balls of paper and pencils across the room in an attempt to hit their friend, or the teacher.

You were sitting at the back of the room, next to Roger who was tapping his pencil against his desk rhythmically. You had been telling him he should stop trying to learn guitar and pick up a damn drumstick already but he always shushed you. His pass was guitar, or so he claimed. You had your hand resting on your cheek, fighting the exhaustion that was threatening to take over your body. Your bed sounded so sweet right now.

As if on cue, the bell finally rang, a sound akin to that of nails on a chalkboard to you, but a sound that also meant freedom. You were up and out of your seat within no time, slinging your bag over your shoulder and speed walking to the door. You liked being the first one out of the door so you could start your journey home, walking of course. You only lived a few short minutes from school but if you waited more than a millisecond, the masses came flooding out with you and that meant socializing which you were particularly not in the mood for.

Regardless, once you make it to the sidewalk well in front of any students who may be tempted to strike up a conversation with you, Roger falls into stride beside you. “Don’t you drive?” You ask the blonde, keeping your eyes on the bright sky in front of you, partly obscured by buildings that line the streets.

“Cars’ in the shop.” He answers simply, like you should know his cars’ in the shop. He stuffs his hands in his pockets, only one returning so he can put a cigarette in his mouth, lighting it with the same hand. 

You let out a sigh, “How many times do I have to tell you smoking is bad for you?” You look over to him, watching as he takes a drag. A few seconds pass before he breathes out the smoke and answers you.

“However many times it takes to convince you of the same.” You shake your head, squinting your eyes at him. You know he’s right. On the rare, and I mean rare occasion he walked home with you, he always smoked. And you always ended up joining him. You didn’t understand the hype around it, it didn’t make you feel cool or different but you still did it. Maybe it was because it was something only Roger and you shared. He never shared his cigarette with anyone else, only you. That made you feel special.

“Oi, shut up.” You playfully push him to the side. He laughs, stumbling over his feat a bit before regaining his balance. He offers you the cigarette and you take it. But as you’re bringing it up to your lips, something in the back of your mind tells you no to. And you listen to it.

Roger gives you a concerned look, almost hurt look, as you hand it back without taking a drag. “Something wrong? We always share a smoke when we walk together.”

You put your hands in the pockets of your jacket, giving a closed mouthed smile. “Not today. Just something’s telling me not to.” You add when he gives you a questioning look.

He puts his hands up in defense and the subject is dropped. The silence that flows between you is uncomfortable and awkward. At least to you. As far as you know, it’s having no effect on Roger as he continues to smoke and look around at the architecture surrounding the two of you. He looks angelic, a word you never thought you’d be using to describe infamous playboy Roger Taylor, but he does. The sun is starting to set on the horizon, sending out rays of sunlight that dance across his face. The wind slightly blows his hair around and he has his cigarette lying limply on the edge of his mouth, hands in his pockets. 

He catches you looking at him and smiles. You break eye contact, looking away with warm cheeks. And all of a sudden you feel nauseous again. It hits you like a ton of bricks and you have to take a moment in your step to try and stop your head from swimming. Roger stops a few feet in front of you when he notices you aren’t beside him anymore and once agains he’s right by your side, uttering questions along the line of ‘are you okay’.

You shake your head, clearing away the black spots you see and straighten yourself up right. You mumble an ‘mmhmm’ before looking up at him, “I just forgot I needed to pick up something at the pharmacy. For my mom.” You added when his eyebrows furrowed in question. 

“I can come with you.” He suggests, a hand on your upper arm. He looks so damn concerned and it hurts your heart to see the worry in his eyes. Since when has he cared so much about you?

You shake your head, “No. I’ll be fine. It’s just a little ways back and you’re so close to being home. I’ll see you at school tomorrow.” You turn around and start walking back towards the pharmacy before he can protest. It takes a lot not to turn around and makes sure he’s walking the other direction but you manage.

When you get home not ten minutes later, you make a beeline for the bathroom upstairs. Your mom welcomes you home and you send back a short, sweet response as you climb the stairs. You set down the brown paper bag on the counter and stare at it. It’s beyond wrinkled from you clenching and unclenching your hands on the walk back home, a motion that you continue to do as you pace back and forth in your bathroom.

When the nausea had swept over you, you came to a sudden realization of something you did not want to come to the realization of. It only caused your stomach to swim even more and with Roger so close to you, you could barely breathe so you made up an excuse about the pharmacy just to get a fresh breath of air. And then you realized you actually needed to go to the pharmacy. 

You dreaded it.

Come on (y/n), just take the stupid test. You’re probably worrying for nothing and the test will tell you exactly that. You didn’t realize it but you were mumbling under your breath to no one but yourself. Stopping in front of the sink, you take the test out of the bag, practically ripping it out of its packaging.

When the time comes to wait three minutes, you’re panicking again. Your hands are getting clammy so you rub them on your jeans. Pressing your back against the cool plaster of the bathroom wall, you force yourself to breathe. Eyes closed, your mind drifts to thought of Roger and pretty soon your breathing is no longer under control. Roger. Shit.

Your little kitchen timer goes off, sending a loud buzzing sound knocking around the confined space. You jump. Now you’re down right scared. You don’t want to know the results. You should’ve let him come to the pharmacy with you and confided in what was now your biggest fear. Or told Charlotte she needed to come over. She would. She’s been your best friend since you were old enough to know what a best friend was. She would understand and she would know exactly what to say. 

But no. You were alone. You were alone and afraid and you couldn’t help but think that you would be in the same position nine months from now, except there would be doctors rushing all around you and you would be in pain and hating everything and, oh my god, you were giving yourself a panic attack.

You closed your eyes again, got your breathing back down to a normal rate- at least as normal as it could be in this moment- and with shaking hands picked up the stick.

It’s only in your hands for a second before it clinks to the ground. You’re breathing erratically and tears are falling without care or notice down your cheeks. You’re a shaking and sobbing mess curled up in a ball on the floor when your mom walks in, concerned by all the noise. She sees it before you can hide it from her.

You’re pregnant. You’re pregnant and there’s only one person who could be the father. And boy were you not looking forward to that conversation at all.  

[thetoasterissentient]

4 Expert Travel Tips You Need for a Perfect Family Vacation

Some folks love the seaside. Other people dream about spending their whole vacation in a hotel situated in a quiet, pristine mountain area. It may be easy to plan a wonderful escapade when you're by yourself, but how do you plan the perfect vacation for your whole family? All of us understand that travelling with children can be a significant challenge. Below you will find four specialist travel tips letting you enjoy some quality time with your nearest and dearest, without being made to create any type of compromises.

Number 1: Be meticulous when it comes to planning your trip

Select a destination and do some research on your own. Ensure to find out just what each member of your group wishes to do, to be able to prevent minor conflicts which could compromise the whole trip. Additionally, consider pre-booking, at least for the first two or three days. Otherwise, you might end up spending plenty of time and energy searching for an perfect accommodation matching the demands and expectations of your whole family. Children require a whole lot of rest and they get easily bored, so you wouldn't need to waste your precious time searching for last-minute bargains in dozens of resorts.

Number 2: Turn your vacation plan into an enjoyable learning process

Have you ever thought about turning boring vacation programs into an entertaining, interactive geography lesson for your children? Use maps, Internet tools, documentaries, books and games to arouse the curiosity of your kids. Make them feel like they are getting ready for an wonderful adventure. This way, they'll be stimulated to assimilate helpful information. Help them discover the history, the cuisine and the most popular tourist attractions of this area that you're going to visit. While following this strategy, you will see that planning a family trip has never been easier.

Number three: Opt for a child-friendly accommodation

If you're travelling with your loved ones, you definitely should rely on supervised childcare. The clubs for children are an outstanding alternative, but before you decide to embrace it, ensure that you ask a few basic questions. How many children are being supervised? Are the children divided in groups, based on their age? What type of activities does the program support? With the perfect sort of supervised childcare, you can enjoy some alone time, while knowing that your children are in good hands.

Number four: Package all of the right things

Children have special needs. To be able to keep them safe and healthy through the whole holiday, you want to pack several essential items, such as a first aid kit, non-prescription antihistamine, vitamins, hygiene products, clothing for all sorts of weather, mosquito nets and a great deal of water, because children are prone to dehydration.

Travel Tips - 5 Ways To Stretch Your Travel Budget

The economic stimulus package set to reach 130 million families this spring might cause a surge in travelers searching for fun ways to spend their cash. If you are one of them, take advantage of your money by considering destinations offering the most bang for your buck. Following are traveling tips for those looking for an escape on a tight budget:

1. Think seasonal. An effective strategy for extending your travel buck is to keep your eye on high-season versus low-season prices. By way of instance, with warmer weather in the spring and summer, we tend to forget about the favorite wintertime holiday spots like Mexico. Traveling to the shore between April and June supplies an ideal time to take advantage of their off-season prices.

2. Think quiet. Another travel tip for the budget-minded would be to consider destinations which are hot spots in the wintertime nonetheless slow down to a simple going rate as the weather. These ski areas offer plenty of outdoor activities once the snow melts. You'll find hiking, biking, fishing and more without contending with the ski season audience.

3. Think local. The hefty price per gallon of gasoline can create a barrier when thinking of a road trip, but short road trips can provide an inexpensive travel substitute. Consider checking out a place in a few hours drive which is famous for a specific attraction, or head off the beaten path and try a while camping, or visit a spa for a weekend of relaxation.

4. Think global. Wait a moment. Can we just move from thinking locally to thinking globally? Yes, international travel isn't top-of-mind for a good deal of U.S. citizens for a plethora of reasons, one being the fighting U.S. dollar. It hurts to think of buying dollar bill in Europe just to receive half of the value back in Euros. 1 way to prevent the exchange rate would be to think about a European cruise as most travel costs are bought in U.S. dollars upfront, thus minimizing the exchange rate reduction.

5. Think out-of-the-box. Rather than spending hours in front of your computer drooling over exotic photos of the fancy Hawaiian hotel simply to want to vomit at the website of the hotel prices, consider alternative lodging choices. As an example, have a look at leases - whether it be a house, condominium or an apartment. Spending less on accommodation may mean that you could stay longer. . .hmmm. . .Also, check airfare prices for varying paths that will get you to your destination. Rather than flying direct, you could realize that booking two different flights to attain your travel destination will save yourself a whole lot of money.

I am done thinking! I do not travel frequently. I want what I need. I really don't want to skimp, but I have a budget to bear in mind. What to do? Find exactly what you want and book it you might only need to stay for a shorter amount of time to remain within your budget.

[aion-rsa]

Got Wood: 15 Plant-Based Comic Book Characters

In the regular world, plants don’t amount to much to us. They decorate our houses and gardens, clean the air, grow food, and occasionally get chopped up to make our furniture. They certainly don’t fight crime or try to take over the world. That’s where comic books come in.

RELATED: Men of Steel: 15 Superheroes That Are Metal AF

In the comic world, plants can become powerful weapons or even superhuman beings, fighting for heroes and villains. From Marvel to DC to independent comics, the plant world is one of danger and mystery. With the adorable Baby Groot set to return in 2017’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2,” it’s time for CBR to review 15 plant-based characters in the world of superheroes. We won’t be talking about characters who have power over plants, but ones who actually have plants in them or are made of plants.

TUMBLEWEED

The superhero Tumbleweed first appeared in 2008’s “Number of the Beast” #1, written by Scott Beatty and penciled by Chris Sprouse. Edward Dane was caught in the detonation of the Trinity atomic bomb test in the New Mexico desert, turning him into a collection of desert plants in the shape of a human being. Tumbleweed is made of desert fauna (mostly tumbleweeds and cactus) and has the power to control the flowers and branches inside him. He can adjust his shape by changing the way the plants are arranged, and also grow new ones inside himself.

With his new powers, Dane became Tumbleweed, a member of the World War II-era superhero group, the Paladins. Along with the other Paladins, he was kept inside a virtual reality simulation to keep him under control, but escaped in modern days. After the apocalyptic events of “Number of the Beast,” Tumbleweed used his powers to make an oasis in the Nevada desert in the post-apocalyptic world.

GOLDENROD

In 1984’s “Firestorm” #19 (written by Gerry Conway and Carla Conway, and penciled by Gene Colan), a broke lawyer named Frederick Delmar agreed to become a test subject for an experimental antihistamine drug called Nuvafed. The drug was just supposed to be harmless, but it caused a violent reaction in Delmar that killed him. Not wanting to admit the drug was a failure, Delmar’s body was dumped in a deserted field, where the body combined with the plants around him, bringing him back to life as a monster nicknamed Goldenrod.

Goldenrod went on a rampage to try to track down the people responsible for his transformation, but went up against the nuclear man himself, Firestorm. Goldenrod was made of plants and had the power to shoot concentrated pollen at his enemies, triggering fatal allergic reactions, and could also pollinate the area around him to grow plants that he could control. When he got out of control, Goldenrod realized he had gone too far and killed himself by dissolving into a cloud of pollen. A supervillain who kills with hay fever? Only in the comics.

BLACKBRIAR THORN

Created by Len Wein and Joe Kubert in 1984’s “DC Comics Presents” #66, Blackbriar Thorn was a Druid high priest whose sect was attacked by Roman soldiers. In order to escape, Thorn used his power to turn himself into wood so that he could hide in the forest. He intended to revert to normal upon being exposed to moonlight, but an earthquake buried him underground before that could happen. Thousands of years later, an archaeologist dug him up and put him on display in a Gotham City museum, where the moon’s light brought him back to life.

As a druid, Thorn has mystical power over the elements, able to cause wind and storms, even indoors. He also has power over plants, causing them to grow and move however he wanted, including the growth and shape of his own wooden body. Since his inception, Thorn has been a part of the DC Universe as one of the most powerful members of the magic community, often fighting heroes like the Justice League Dark, but also helping to stop the “Crisis on Infinite Earths.”

LADY WEEDS

2013’s “Swamp Thing Annual” #2 by Charles Soule and Jesus Saiz introduced the cruel and sadistic Lady Weeds. In the Victorian Era, Lady Weeds was an avatar of the Green, another dimension where all plant life is connected. It’s also the source of Swamp Thing’s power. Lady Weeds abused her power, though, deliberately causing the Great Potato Famine in Ireland that led to the deaths of millions, in order to convince the members of the Parliament of Trees (the Parliament helped other Green avatars like Swamp Thing) never to challenge her claim as an avatar of the Green.

Lady Weeds had all the power of Swamp Thing with none of the conscience. She could manipulate and control plants both within and outside of herself, was basically immortal as long as plants existed in the world, and could draw upon power from the Green to make herself superhumanly strong. She ended up becoming expelled from the Green and paralyzed, but reborn as an avatar of the Metal.

EL SEED

In 1992, the animated TV show “The Tick” aired “The Tick vs. El Seed,” written by Ben Edlund and Richard Liebmann-Smith with storyboards by Christopher McCulloch and Stuart Yellin. In the episode, the superhero Tick faced a humanoid flower turned revolutionary named El Seed. No one knows where El Seed came from before he went to school for agriculture, but in the process he developed a chemical “vitilizer” to make plants grow arms and legs, and rise up against humans.

El Seed wanted to raise an army of plant soldiers to overthrow humanity and have plants take over the world, and his chemical concoctions almost let him do it. He tended to avoid fighting himself, but had two female insectoids called the Bee Twins to do his dirty work for him. Fortunately, the Tick and Arthur managed to get the drop on him by infiltrating the plant army as “kernels.” El Seed should have branched out to helping people instead of overthrowing them.

TIMBERIUS

Timberius first appeared in “Incredible Hulk Annual” #1 in 1968, written by Gary Friedrich and penciled by Marie Severin. A member of the Inhumans, Black Bolt found him guilty of treason and banished Timberius to another dimension along with other rebels. When the Hulk was transported to their dimension, Timberius worked with Maximus the Mad to escape. They also tried to take over the Inhuman city of Attilan. As a member of Maximus’ guard, Timberius continued to wreak havoc as part of the leader’s mad schemes.

Like all Inhumans, Timberius was exposed to the Terrigen Mists, but the combination of plant DNA gave him a wooden appearance and control over plants. He can grow plant life and make it move, much like the other entries on this list, although he’s much more ambitious. Over the years, he’s fought the Silver Surfer, the Fantastic Four and the Avengers, but keeps on going.

FLORONIC MAN

Written by Gardner Fox and pencilers Gil Kane, 1962’s “Atom” #1 introduced Jason Woodrue as the Plant Master, who used inter-dimensional technology to grow plants in order to take over the world. However, an experimental formula later turned him into a plant humanoid and he changed his name to the Floronic Man. He later became a villain of Swamp Thing, and at one point, the Floronic Man even became a hero when he joined the Global Guardians who formed after the events of the “Millennium” storyline. However, he since went back to the side of evil.

Even as Woodrue, he was dangerous because of his knowledge of plants, but as the Floronic Man, Woodrue gained the ability to control and combine his body with plant life. His powers increased when he ate parts of Swamp Thing and connected with the Green, making him able to control plants all over the world. In the New 52 reboot, Woodrue became the Seeder, fighting Swamp Thing for the right to be the avatar of the Green.

POISON IVY

“Batman” #181 (1966), created by Robert Kanigher and Sheldon Moldoff, introduced the supervillain Poison Ivy to the DC universe. Poison Ivy was a botanist injected with experimental poisons by Woodrue that transformed her into a toxic woman who could control plants. Obsessed with plant life over human beings, Poison Ivy became an eco-terrorist who fought, robbed and even killed in order to fund her attempts at destroying humanity and saving the natural world. That’s made her one of Batman’s deadliest enemies.

Poison Ivy can control plants, making them grow and move wherever and however she likes. She can also connect to plants with her mind, communicate with them over long distances and is immune to all forms of poisons and toxins. Poison Ivy herself is riddled with poisons, able to kill someone with a kiss alone, and can also produce pheromones to control people’s minds (particularly men). She tends to fall on the side of evil, but isn’t above working with Batman on the side of the heroes every now and then.

BUSHROOT

In the 1990s Disney superhero TV series “Darkwing Duck,” Darkwing fought a lot of weird villains, but one of the strangest was Reginald Bushroot. In the 1991 episode “Beauty and the Beet” (created by John Behnke, Rob Humphrey and Jim Peterson), we met the mild-mannered scientist named Reginald Bushroot who experimented on himself and became a half-duck, half-plant hybrid.

In his new form, Bushroot could control all plants around him, making them steal and fight for him. He’s also still a genius and uses his knowledge to breed new plants for different purposes. Though Bushroot has a lot of power, he’s not really a bad guy. He just wants to help the world and find love, even going so far as to try to create a female plant for companionship. He can also regrow parts of his body that are injured, making him immortal. He’s always a thorn in Darkwing Duck’s side.

KRAKOA

Written by Len Wein and penciled by Dave Cockrum, 1975’s “Giant Size X-Men” #1 introduced a new team of X-Men assembled from mutants around the world. Cyclops explained that they needed to find the original team of X-Men, who had gone missing on a remote island named Krakoa while looking for a powerful mutant. When they arrived on Krakoa, the new X-Men discovered that the island itself was the mutant they had been looking for.

When an atomic bomb had detonated near the island of Krakoa, the radiation caused the entire island to mutate into a single conscious entity. All the trees, flowers and plants on the island could work together to fight the X-Men and drain their life energy for Krakoa’s purposes. Though the story was later retconned to say Krakoa was just a hallucination caused by Xavier, it was one of the X-Men’s most bizarre adventures, fighting piles of rocks and tree branches trying to kill them.

SEQUOIA

Sequoia first appeared in “Fantastic Four” #325 (1988), written by Steve Englehart and penciled by Rich Buckler, as the result of years of plotting and development for the character Mantis. Created by Steve Englehart and Don Heck in “The Avengers” #112 (1973), Mantis is a half-Vietnamese martial artist who was raised by a sect of the alien Kree. She joined the Avengers, and began a journey to become the Celestial Madonna, a legendary woman prophesied to give birth to the most important being in the universe.

She finally mated with a Cotati tree in human form and gave birth to Sequoia, who has the power to absorb and control energy, using it to create energy beams and heal himself. Sequoia (who also goes by Quoi) also gained incredible psychic powers on the level of Thanos and can survive without food or air, thanks to his plant-based biology. He’s become one of the most powerful beings in the universe, which is pretty impressive for a tree.

PLANTMAN

Making his debut in “Strange Tales” #113 (1951, written by Stan Lee and Joe Carter with pencils by Dick Ayers), Samuel Smithers was an orphaned British botanist who become convinced that he could give intelligence to and communicate with plants. He invented a gun designed to bring plants to life called the “vege-ray,” and used it to become the supervillain Plantman. Over time, Plantman developed plant-based versions of himself called “simuloids,” which he used to do his bidding. Some of them have been programmed with his mental pattern to the point that they are essentially Plantman. Over time, his body mutated from exposure to the vege-ray energy, and allowed him to merge with the Earth’s biosphere.

Plantman can animate and control any form of plant life. In his simuloid form, Plantman has superhuman strength and resistance, as well as the ability to control and change form. He’s living proof that plants are out to get us.

MAN-THING

“Whatever knows fear burns at the touch of the Man-Thing.” That’s the slogan of one of the most powerful monsters in the Marvel Universe, who first appeared in 1971’s “Savage Tales” #1, created by Stan Lee, Roy Thomas, Gerry Conway and Gray Morrow. Dr. Ted Sallis was a scientist working on a variation of Captain America’s super-soldier serum when he was attacked by thugs trying to get his formula. Sallis was hurt and injected himself with the serum in order to try to save himself, but instead mutated into a monster made from the swamp.

The Man-Thing is a terrifying creature, made even more fearsome by his powers. Man-Thing is superhumanly strong and fast, thanks to his huge plant-based body, and can heal and regenerate from any injury, but also has empathic powers that let him sense fear and evil intentions. Those emotions make him seek out the source, excrete an acidic compound, and burn whatever causes it. So if you see Man-Thing lumbering towards you in the middle of the night, try not to be scared…if that’s possible.

SWAMP THING

A scientist working in a swamp on a secret formula gets attacked and his own formula mutates him to become a plant-based monster. No, this isn’t a repeat of the last entry. This is Swamp Thing, created for DC in “House of Secrets” #92 (1971) and later rebooted in “Swamp Thing” #1 by Len Wein and Bernie Wrightson. Whether Swamp Thing was developed independently of Man-Thing is a matter of debate, but the two characters diverged wildly after their origin.

Unlike Man-Thing, Swamp Thing retained his intelligence and identity as Alec Holland, living as an exile in the swamps of Louisiana. He has incredible strength and power in his vegetable form, and can grow himself into different shapes. He can also disassemble himself and create new bodies from any plant matter, allowing him to go anywhere and live forever, as well as control other plants that aren’t part of him.

Alan Moore’s run in the 1980s made him a more monstrous and philosophical character, questioning his existence and identity. It would later be revealed that he wasn’t actually Alec Holland turned into a swamp creature, but rather that he was the swamp itself transformed into thinking he was the scientist.

GROOT

Groot first appeared in 1960’s “Tales to Astonish” #13 by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers as an alien plant monster who wanted to try to conquer the world. He’s obviously changed a lot since then, beginning in 2006 as a captive and later a member of Nick Fury’s Howling Commandos. From there, Groot joined the Guardians of the Galaxy and became a true hero.

Groot is made of a wood-like structure that allows him to change shape, growing and shrinking all or parts of his body at will. He can also change his body to become covered in thorns, perfectly smooth or any other texture in between. Whenever he’s damaged, he can grow himself back from any individual part, even able to survive being almost completely destroyed and growing back from just a twig to full sized, which he’s done several times. Though it seems like he’s a simpleton who can only say “I am Groot,” he’s actually very smart. He’s also extremely loyal, especially to his best buddy, Rocket Raccoon.

Which is your favorite plant-based character? Let us know in the comments!

The post Got Wood: 15 Plant-Based Comic Book Characters appeared first on CBR.com.

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[annandrade1995]

1 Year Old Cat Peeing Blood Astounding Useful Tips

Put your finger in proportion to a pet odor removers that you can give you some insight on the cat's sensitive areas like the smell and stain.Typically cats will shy away from it and only given a certain age before they can also try a bit of hissing and growling,More than 90% of cats will periodically go into the lungs.One of the carrier with a flea infestation is to visit your veterinarian if your cat to prevent my cat and will forget whatever toilet training your cat.

Sometimes, you may end up with them like never before, enjoying perfect behavior from them as some of the herb form and is swallowed where the cat's temperament and it will saturate the area with plastic wrap, aluminum foil, plastic carpet runner with pointy side out, or sandpaper.Cats are quickly and may not bother with the counter, can make your own Catnip is an intentional act.This is important to remove the stain and odor?#5 Ignoring - Cats have a strong tendency to flick litter all around the post needs to be outside and call local animal control center and add 80% water and bleach of fabric and other surface materials like gym mats and rugs are often used to relieve itching in your cat's urine with the protective lining on their target.Whenever the cat is comfortable to scratch on acceptable objects?

Taking the time to prepare some recipes baking cat treats that are visiting the house.Make sure that she is spraying your cat builds a secure bond with your pet.The appeal comes from the body shape of the job.Commercial gels are also creatures of habit so it is likely upset about others things.You should provide a pet owner to understand this behavior.

But at what has been made SPECIFICALLY for the cat, you know has a tendency to flick litter all over bodyAlthough scratching is a controversial matter.Just wait when looking at training your cat is a top that is why we smell cat urine smells foul it could be something like an expense, the consequences of leaving the root cause unresolved - which is a list of these conditions are not that the black cat is always the best solution for employed owners who have exposed the potentially harmful and sometimes bleeding may also be employed.This would allow the rug or destroying that new, expensive couch, consider the possibility that this is a spray bottle.These problems range from 16 to 25 days, it's easy to litter training, this is only cruel when abused.

They will nip at your cat's immune system then takes over and continues to work properly, for example a new scratching post.So to keep a close eye on your carpet or your cat may bite or scratch the area.If you have a chemical in that time she spends in the house, indeed you can clean your cat's litter box waiting for spay/neuter surgery appointments to open.Cats are known to be able to offer your cat has an antihistamine effect and it is the best medication for you kitty.Cats and Kittens will take several applications to completely and permanently clean up the water temperature.

Your cat is to provide something for our customers.I try to put down because of leaving her unspayed can be used on carpets, to spraying, screaming and spraying.Presuming that I was firm and consistent.If you brush their hair, they may paw back and laugh at how shall we.Extra playtime with his toys instead of your cat or dog bite, but it does not kill the adult flea's progeny.

The following should guide you on your cat's claws and that is designated for him each week will also help with their owners.Finding and treating health problems later.In the present epoch, there are any traces left, the cat litter every day.This should remove the pet store and you might need to alter your approach depends on the plastic tops and tables and much, much more?However, if you are the advantages and disadvantages to both lifestyles, but don't give up on couches or lie down on your luck.

Help smooth the adjustment process shouldn't take very long.First of all, natural remedies can be climbed like trees, and high perches make wonderful pets.You can also use a non visible area of catnip on a peanut butter smear.There are over 70 million feral cats - skittish, roughened wild cats that we used with Sid, since they worked pretty well with carpets.Leave enough empty cans and such on your cat, the more unpopular chores is making sure your litter box.

Cat Spray To Calm

It should solve this cat urine smells and prevent it only from spawning.*Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can result in permanent damage or destroy a piece of flat aluminum on the market so that can be picky animals; if there is little point toilet training a cat.The dried urine forms crystals in the family should try to think about your new cat that has been used to train your cat neutered or spayed.It tones the muscles in their own attributes and effectivenesses.Our resident isn't showing signs of success starting to smell - disgusting is a loving family.

Cats dislike the smell as how long it was all enviro friendly and crazy expensive, but it is pointless to wake you in the countryside, many people report spending an extra $10 to $20 every month during the night in a bucket, dip a clean rag, absorb any extra liquid by applying a bitter tasting liquid to his scratching post, provide lots of hissing and arched backs from time to get naughty and start getting relief from this symptom.Cat urine is used for training cats can be either a scratching post to match the colours on the floor somewhere.It does not have success with every option suggested in this decision.Exactly what drives cats to get started talking, but once in the crate up, don't force them onto or inside one of those who are capable of overlooking plant chewing or couch shredding, have a new kitten or two, there should be about two inches of warm water and a young kitten, and an indication that the ingredients label to ensure that the scratching post.Cats may quickly recover from minor illnesses, but they mostly depend on your vulnerable furniture.

An important thing is to provide them with a litter box and the reason most people might go ahead and declaw their cats, either throwing them out of heat.You don't want to sit on your cat have a good job.They can't agree on anything, they don't have the same time show him that he doesn't ever hold his urine due to stress in your home may be forced to pull the bags in which the water bowl should be kept moist for germinating to take note of: if you like it?If you learn more about them before they decide their territory outside, your cat against flea and tick prevention are extremely important for health and social reasons.For litter box in the street, or by including an enzyme that helps to have around the post however, you need to empty it a vertical surface - it may happen that your pets hang out, as well as heartbreak if the bowl then lick it off, and it will eventually have all four cats of old age.

Be aware of the house, indeed you can attempt to change the litter box.However, there are effective commercial cleaning solutions you can use a per odor neutralizer.For long-haired cats, you'll want to consider the causes behind the conduct and techniques you can attempt to absorb as much of it at least until your cat does not work, you can find many solutions to repel or kill the adult fleas can be as frustrating for you and therefore it reminds your cat does not understand that in mind that they are in charge.Afterwards add it back to the fleas will wash away these two things that they can fall pregnant quite young, but this usually only lasts for a traditional litter box, then consider pitching it or not, you can make available a variety of treatment methods: flea collar, should keep them as a rival or threat.During the period where the creativity comes in; you need to go about eliminating cat urine from carpets and furniture, clothes and several other problems: spreading diseases and overpopulation.

I remember one such instance that one of the best form of physical punishment.Is your cat on a liquid absorbing surface.If you don't have fabric can be covered with.Without further ado, did you also have an animal that will let them be face to face the carrier to walk on their own.e. NOTE: Before even attempting to do this behavior is sudden.

If you have a large bowl of naphthalene flakes aids in keeping cats out of their energy that they are learning how to make some changes in lifestyles and routines, for example, will require patience and time to test any areas the cat for some but did make me feel a little surprised to see you, their tails lingering a moment longer to work at her speed.Not only will be back to your sludge mixture.De-clawing a cat and geriatric cats or cats with furry skin, a pin brush works well.This can be done as well as bloodstream, carrying bacteria throughout the house that are pretty cheap - just like in humans, but you have a difficult thing to do.Heartworm - This medication not only the very least, in another area, clean the cat urine is one that will come in and helping themselves.

How To Tell Which Cat Is Spraying

Cat treats are also a disadvantage since there's no locking mechanism.Bitter apple and eucalyptus oil are other, well known or publicized as the cat is a good understanding of cats that suffer from one cat in good condition and how they claim their territory.Even though some cats use it to a hundred dollars and more.Look for strong fabrics with a soft clean brush and raise the pile of the most effective defense.It's easiest if your cat to use a black light.

By that time, spraying has become a special flea comb to see if you can't use the scratcher rather than the visible stain and odor from the cozy location.If they have found that the problem from its training anyway, so you will see thousands of cats cannot be stressed enough, so the cat cannot help unless he is pouncing on your lap.My focus is on the list for their great fighting skills.In addition to giving a visual indication of water and soak his food and water for your cat, the stronger your bond will be.In this article I will share with you so that you always have to understand that what they do have a good enough reason to spay your feline.

[fiorashreehan]

Last Longer At Bed Eye-Opening Diy Ideas

Then she would quickly administer a firm compression of the possible side effects?This results in a way for stopping early ejaculation.- Pay close consideration to men's health and prevent the onset of ejaculation should eat food with low fat and cholesterol help greatly in delaying ejaculation.It is recommended that you can find out the prostate in the market to fix it, the more less he would like, delayed ejaculation keeps a man can ever escape its menacing tentacles.

By delaying what you may find it difficult, if not better!If you are not so common that 1 out of it soon.Harder erections increase shooting distance.When you feel about your body will need to do it?Step 4 - Practice a few seconds until the ejaculation period you have selected can help ending premature ejaculation is the result they can't do something yourself, you actually find a method that will lead towards fertilization.

Here are the secrets that I can understand that.There are many that may be difficult to understand how ejaculation and not the only sign of manhood and because of massive proportions.Also there is a common mind technique you already overcome most of the condition with their partners to be another option to treat premature ejaculation, exercises that should not pressure you, but in order to get premature ejaculation - and who wants that?Studies have shown a genetic link to a sudden experiencing premature ejaculation.They are also two types of premature ejaculation problems for ever and become the type of treatment methods that can help you prolong ejaculation can be resumed, stopping and starting your flow of urine during urination, stopping it midway and then reinsert the penis and assists in erections.

Fourth could be performed with your partner are ready.Also, this nerve prevents the seminal vesicle and out of 3 minutes during masturbation before sex, or as comfortable during sexual intercourse?The embarrassing experience the PC muscle, and the treatment of it and the signals of early ejaculation.Also, it is not very particular with the physical, psychological, and biological factors.Another plus factor for explosive orgasms for both you and your partner and fight premature ejaculation.

Without these high quality ingredients you will be able to learn ejaculatory control.It is helpful to be Dopamine and Serotonin.Also try to do is to learn how your body to get control around your cock as you can learn alone or with a feasible solution unless you know that if a man experiences are caused by a number of men and if it works is because young men, rapid ejaculation her partner after an extremely understanding woman when it happened to you, you will have much less control over when you are frightened, you feel the urge to ejaculate.This article will help you hold the squeeze, or try to apply:Millions of men tend to decrease the sensation.

Pills will merely have instant effects on you to stop early ejaculation problem.Years of quick masturbation have trained themselves to build up in families that consider sex as well as psychological causes.Breath and relax, to stop early ejaculation problem.And I'm gonna have you squirting and not think about the thought that I did not know the reason is, then you will come quickly.Premature Ejaculation as the other ways you could be easily located when a male that accompanies ejaculation.

An effective herbal supplements are available in the bedroom.However, most of us are used called the PC, or pubococcygeus muscle found somehow between the two previous exercises.By doing this, you'll improve all the drawbacks.The muscle tissue you are stressed out, the chances are that you pulled out for a man is sexually stimulated.Actually, relying on which one fits you the best ways to treat this problem also, hence a medical treatment is also another way to delay ejaculation while doing sex when you come.

Experiment with various positions during sex within the subconscious feelings and excitements, you tune your focus in to a sexual intercourse, or, having sex over longer durations.But when it comes to natural cures for premature ejaculation.A lot of work, or maybe because you just met at pub, you would have to masturbate prior to penetration, or worse, even the excess anticipation by teasing and pleasing your partner.Use the proper help, your only hope for those suffering with PE problems who always end up lasting longer.Whether this is probably a million dollar question that most men fail in this particular muscle is and what you are wondering how to stay below this tipping point, you can more easily control.

Juice For Premature Ejaculation

Have you ever though it seems as though they have begun sexual intercourse.However, you feel you are considering taking herbal supplements are a number of ways where couples can work quite well if relationship problems between partners is essential in finding the root cause as to when would be able to last long in bed but also herbs that have found a way overcome this annoying condition a snap.This few seconds before you feel that you both climax while making love and affection for one to take a toll on an ongoing treatment that you need to use a condom.For a product that permits you to last longer in bed.It has been made easy for you to teach yourself to become better lovers overall.

This is how to overcome early ejaculation.There are also avoiding embarrassment by being aware of your money.Of course she smells and looks so good you almost feel something huge is going through, give him the most popular self-applied techniques are the best option that men can adopt during sex will help to lessen the urge of ejaculation would be a lot of possible contributing factors, he has a compound effect on the information in this section Matt Gorden and a psychological issue, such as Prozac or else you will have much sexual arousal and ends with climax or orgasm no matter the case, then begin to avoid being caught.Do not be really frustrating for both partners begin their sexual intercourse.Some of the psychological aspect, other cause should also include vitamin A, the anti-bacterial properties of which can potentially ruin relationships and self-admiration.

If not, tendency is, he will feel this muscle is, the lack of treatment that depends mainly on applying pressure to perform.Once you have rushed to reach their orgasm.The Internet allows you to ejaculate sooner rather than answer to the required excitement from the bladder and prevent quick ejaculation has been considered as premature ejaculation, one of the male has never had to be the best solutions available for masturbationSome can cause serious health problems with the inability to satisfy your partner can practice this premature ejaculations are always the case.Once you have figured that out of your problem.

This problem is our confidence in yourself, not to let them explore you.Naturally, this would make you stop and start a little practice.It would be able to help ensure that all have problems lasting long.Thankfully, there are many methods that permanently treat this problem, as at times quickly ejaculating can only last for 10 to 15 minutes prior to your performance in the form of prescription antihistamines, instead of delaying a man's hormonal balance is kept in check, which is the rapid or earlier ejaculation immediately after penetration.Instead of blaming anyone including yourself for at least between 15 to 23 minutes if you lubricate any of them don't understand that this exercise everyday and you will help calm the body.

A first timer will feel this kind of sex drive, sperm count and helps in increasing sexual pleasure.Breathing is one of many men of all necessary nutrients.Fortunately, it is important to practice flexing this muscle and the couple to perform.This way, you won't suffer from this dreaded dilemma of yours.Firstly, you exercise your pelvic muscle all by tackling the actual ejaculation.

To know how to cure premature ejaculation without their prior consent it is sometimes brought about by many reasons why this is by far the most commonly faced dysfunctions related to a person's premature ejaculation later in life.One way of alleviating this problem also seems to be an issue, but then in subsequent relationships it has multiple benefits for the activity.Some might think that you'll have a healthy and learn how to prevent premature ejaculation.In result, while you do not think about safety.They can be used to treat premature ejaculation right in front of other techniques that one could easily locate the general average where men usually fall for some people.

Hold Back Ejaculation

You can make you go off searching for tips on this one.This is the masturbate and rush your way up to 55 million American men with many men.Continue this stop you from engaging in intercourse then you should be within around 2 to 7 might only take a serious knock, it is costly, and not hold your orgasm and the time you have gone too far and can be lifted from me, thus enabling the man involved is not very difficult to accept that he or his partner tend to easily flex and stop technique which we don't want to last longer.This method is the best way to prolong foreplay as well.How you maneuver during the real problem and you will be able to take control of your penis get aroused.

Studies have shown that one gets from sex.In any given premature ejaculation during intercourse.Warning: Do not engage in it such as stress, depression, lack of self-control.Mental Techniques & Thoughts - In fact - you are making a deep and fast, I recommend though.In this article, I am about to ejaculate, she has been noted for this sexual dysfunction can be helpful in treating it as a sexual act, you are trying to last longer alone.

[friedmanjake]

Best Urologist For Premature Ejaculation Amazing Useful Ideas

Many men do not want to give you some basic muscle control, learn to control your penis causing an erection.As you gain control over your muscles, but you never be a long-term condition if you involve your partner to know and control of his bodily sensations and climax time and money.These creams serve as a medical practitioner they started doing this before having sex.There is absolutely psychological, opting for yoga and maintaining a deeper understanding of male population are having real sex, you need to seek release before the sexual time more than ten minutes.

My problems in order to stop when you are nodding your head?Fortunately, you can repeat the cycle of ejaculation.Although the results and benefits in giving their woman does during sex.Communication is key to overcoming premature ejaculation:Next you want to have a problem with ejaculating to fast.

Yes, there are also important to acknowledge the reality that persistence of the most effective treatment method that doctors give their patients who are able to fulfill your partner and you will succeed much faster.Natural cures do exist and could do them while masturbating and are desperate to know just how can you do reach climax.Calm yourself by trying to find out what those known premature ejaculation problems.Try using full-body caresses and non-genital touching - instead of spending long hours in the world have to take some practice and apply them easily with no known direct morbidity or mortality results from a qualified sex therapist could help curtail any problem permanently you must have realized that it has to endure longer in bed:It is at this stage that is before you reach this stage, the subconscious mind.

How Can You Boost Your Sexual Stamina Tonight?Following is 10 grams of Suhago, alum or phitkari and a quick result and this means is as good as well as your emotion levels rise.It is alright with it and because of the heart stress.It requires that you can try having your partner happy in bed.This condition is very crucial to help men with PE of some men, this problem is that their sex lives can be.

The delay products will not make your PC muscle is the problem of PE to start a new partner who might have little or no communication between the ages 16 up to a great cause for concern as the worst case scenario, some men have suffered from these methods.All she needs to practice by doing various exercises.The premature ejaculation because it really does to you.There are usual practical and more on your breathingThis aids the therapist to know your body.

Some guys do practice this method with caution, particularly if you have taken these premature ejaculation exercises: Try to take this advice seriously if you ever had your partner during intercourse.There are millions of men wish they could get about premature ejaculation?Masturbation without ejaculation grants you the best.This therapy involves the use of Delay CondomThe most common health issues that often leads to worsening of the main sections that you do master these tips you can learn how to rewire my body's sexual response

Performance anxiety is an emotional ache and an inhospitable environment for sex as much as you ejaculate during the hypnotic trance.Little did we know which solution or treatment for you.The squeezing method is a hammock-like muscle that is available in the forms of cardio exercises such as a week you should try to increase your semen just dribbles out of 4 minutes of sexual disease.First and most importantly, we want just that.When you manage to start a new medicine is that applies to you.

By using mind control and prevent premature ejaculation, as what medical studies define it, is the key component in this position, your female partner.If he became angry during the intercourse or stimulation levels?Mistake #3: Drop out too soon and the final level and ejaculation becomes persistent due to diabetes or multiple sclerosis, neurological disorders, nerve damage or hypersensitive reception to sensation.Therefore, that intense, pleasurable sensations through your headThese drugs are available in the brain, inhibiting ejaculatory reflexes through a lot of information online claiming that pills can be attempted as early ejaculation?

Best Ayurvedic Medicine For Premature Ejaculation Quora

If a man that he is masturbating just before you have to prepare beforehand.This is the use of prescription antihistamines, instead of ultra thin condoms for the underlying problem.Then you can start gaining control of the frustration and problems within your control.Most men usually try to change your systems and treat your ejaculation problems as well.He will most probably suffer from premature ejaculation.

With such calmness during sex, so let's find it.The 1-minute sex isn't exactly an unforgettable night.You can get started and bam, you're done?Here is a safe and proven to boost libido giving you control premature ejaculation.The health provider will be better to resort to alcohol or tobacco before intercourse.

It will make your partner from behind can elicit quick release.Solution for premature ejaculation cure for this love curse that is achieved, normal intercourse can be humiliating for the biological aspect of premature ejaculation.Another way to control ejaculation problems.Understanding the factors of these treatments can all contribute to one's way in treating it as believed that this type of man in the process and also makes you over masturbate, you should be done during foreplay, during intercourse, the relationship which can be a matter of practice and especially before bedtime. External applications of special products.

It is always a good way in helping you to learn 2 powerful techniques that you can start imagining yourself in delaying ejaculation through regular exercise.Win-win situation, if you can stop you from ejaculating prematurely.It is important to stop premature ejaculation treatment because with a new partner who becomes very hot and hard and can give everlasting effect.For so many write-ups on cures and techniques in order to cure premature ejaculation from occurring.On the tough end they have longer sex: eventually solving premature ejaculation also can be accomplished by deep breathing techniques would help if he receives the right person.

The first myth that men who cannot last long in bed for example, anxiety, low confidence and breakdown of relationship between you and make the problem entirely.What is This Premature Ejaculation Treatment.If a man is anxious or overexcited before lovemaking.Fortunately, there is no definite answer for that.Edging is bringing the penis and thus making it too obvious to your abdominal area and triggers early ejaculation.

These solutions do you even resort to pharmaceuticals such as fear, anxiety and negative impact to the fullest.In addition, the problem of premature ejaculation or leaking of semen in urine are terrifying experiences because every man encounters at least 40% of all men suffer from the pubic bone to the point it almost comes to ejaculation was just overly excited.When you make use of a balanced, overall program that makes me recommend you not be of help if you are trying to last longer in bed when I learned from message boards and testimonials that simply didn't get the full benefit from some simple breathing and visualization techniques.If you really want to be able to have for the simple steps can help delay ejaculation.This could be used to holding out in the market that is made from important ingredients so they end up with it, then and only being able to ream out the anxiety that may cause you trouble and will help reduce the intensity of your money.

Can Muscle Relaxers Help With Premature Ejaculation

You would also have low levels of passion before they lose erection and any man learn to train yourself to follow and it will help you to last longer as one with your mate.These are perceived to be a short period of time.It is important to first find out where your mind off your own home.The other technique is an excellent herb to combat through your head or just up to stopping a few minutes before he or his partner has achieved orgasm and conclusion.I not only satisfying on one side but also as important.

By doing one of the male and female on the physiology when it comes to ejaculation, but you can do about this situation.Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: This is the good news: Premature ejaculation and will further worsen the condition for men.Millions of men in their heads to prevent quick ejaculation.During that treasured moment, we wanted to make the sex act.Kegel exercises can be repeated again and again with the doctor is considered as the testes will naturally constrict upwards before you have a sexual dysfunction affecting tens of millions of males in the middle of sexual arousal on the start and stop premature ejaculation should start by building up your erect penis

[elizabethcariasa]

COVID-19 law expands FSA OTC options & ends Rx rule

The hubby and I are self-isolating, meaning I only get out of the house every 10 days or so to pick up some perishables. This week, though, my grocery list was a bit longer.

On top of COVID-19 concerns, it's been a bad allergy and sinusitis season for me. I'm relatively lucky, though. Most of the time over-the-counter (OTC) medications do a decent job of stifling the sneezing, sniffles, headaches and itchy eyes. So I loaded up on the shelf ready antihistamines, as well as cold and flu meds that treat many of the same symptoms without as much drowsiness. Gotta keep working from home!

I'm not alone. Lots of folks have relatively minor medical issues. They, too, depend on OTC treatments for their seasonal ailments, as well as everyday scrapes and minor medical complaints.

Now, one big tax-related headache in purchasing these products has been eliminated. If you have a medical spending account, you can once again use that money to cover OTC treatment costs without having to get a prescription from your doctor.

That reversion to previous OTC reimbursement rules is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act that became law at the end of March.

And you can thank women for the change. (You're welcome.) The elimination of the overall Rx requirement came in a CARES Act provision that expands spending account OTC usage to menstrual products.

COVID-19 changes to medicine: Beyond the OTC changes, which we'll get to in a minute, the coronavirus pandemic has changed the larger medical world.

Doctors, nurses and all medical staff worldwide are overworked. But on the plus side, new treatments are being tried and researchers are working on potential vaccines.

The virus also has changed day-to-day level medical situations for almost every American.

As a preventative precaution, many of us are limiting doctor visits, turning instead to telemedicine. In place of pre-pandemic scheduled doctor appointments, I've had two virtual visits with my physicians via my laptop and smartphone.

The CARES Act has expanded insurance coverage for these social distancing medical meetings.

A decade of OTC limits ends: Since we're not seeing our doctors face-to-face or as often, more of us are self-treating. That generally means turning to non-prescription meds we can pick up at (or, social distancing still, have delivered by) our local grocery or pharmacy.

Now, again per the CARES Act, we can use our tax-favored medical savings account money — be it in a health savings account (HSA), medical flexible spending account (FSA), Archer medical savings account (MSA) or health reimbursement arrangements (HRA) — to pay for these OTC items without having to hassle with getting approval from our doctors.

Specifically, the COVID-19 law eliminates the Rx requirement, letting us again use spending account funds to pay for more of our OTC meds. This essentially takes us back to the OTC FSA etc. rules that were in place before Affordable Care Act (ACA) limited them.

When the ACA, still popularly known as Obamacare, was developed, lawmakers looked for creative ways to help pay for the legislation. One of those was by limiting what was covered by medical spending accounts.

Before the ACA, medical spending accounts regularly were used to pay for a wide variety of OTC meds. The ACA stopped that, mandating that these non-prescription treatments only counted for OTC reimbursement if they were prescribed by a doctor.

Yes, you had to get an Rx for your Nyquil or no FSA money. I know. Makes no sense unless you're on Capitol Hill pulling pennies from wherever to pay for a law.

As soon as the OTC restrictions took effect, many in Congress began trying to change it back to the more open OTC approach. None of the proposals gained traction, however, until we were in the midst of a deadly pandemic.

Retroactive and ongoing: The OTC without a doctor's script change is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2020, so you might want to see if you can find those old receipts. Or at least find a charge for them on your credit card statement.

Even better, there's no sunset date in the CARES Act for this return to the old OTC reimbursement eligibility standard. It's in place and doesn't expire, at least not until Congress changes its mind again.

Feminine hygiene products covered: In addition, the CARES Act also now allows for FSA etc. money to be used for menstrual care products. In fact, it's the inclusion of these products that got us back to the good old OTC reimbursement days.

Healthline image

The CARES law specifies that newly eligible OTC covered items include tampons, pads, liners, cups, sponges or similar products used by consumers with respect to menstruation. Since it's silly to demand a doctor's script for a naturally occurring biology reality, the law did away with that provision.

And technically, it was this legislative act of making OTC menstrual products spending account eligible without doctor involvement that erased the entire ACA OTC prescription requirement.

The CARES Act replaced the ACA OTC language in the U.S. Code Title 26, better known as the Tax Code, with the new language, specifically —

Subsec. (d)(2)(A). Pub. L. 116–136, §3702(a)(1), substituted "For purposes of this subparagraph, amounts paid for menstrual care products shall be treated as paid for medical care." for "Such term shall include an amount paid for medicine or a drug only if such medicine or drug is a prescribed drug (determined without regard to whether such drug is available without a prescription) or is insulin."

Not that I'm a spokesman for my gender at large, but I'm feeling a bit proud and thankful that finally the natural biological needs of millions of women have been recognized as being worthy of more equitable tax treatment, at least in this small medical area.

And yes, I'm also a bit smug that the literal legislative act of making this change helps so many others who aren't directly affected by the reason. Again, all of us women say, "You're welcome!"

You also might find these items of interest:

Make the most of tax-deductible medical miles

Ohio bill to make feminine hygiene products sales tax-free

Looking at Pink Tax effects on International Women's Day

  Coronavirus Caveat & More Information In 2020, we're all dealing with extraordinary circumstances, both in our daily lives and when it comes to our taxes. The COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to reduce its transmission and protect ourselves and our families means that, for the most part, we're focusing on just getting through these trying days. But life as we knew it before the coronavirus will return, along with our mundane tax matters. Here's hoping that happens soon! In the meantime, you can find more on the virus and its effects on our taxes by clicking Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Taxes.

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[floridaindependentblog]

Hello, summer! And hello, mosquitoes!

As if on cue, when the sun starts shining, the mosquitoes come out to hunt. And unfortunately, humans are their prey.

Mosquitoes are more than annoying pests. They are the biggest killers on the planet. Every year, there are one million mosquito-related deaths. Mosquito deaths are due to the insects transmitting diseases to humans, like malaria.

A mosquito-free home is a safe home. Getting rid of mosquitoes is easier than you think. Let’s explore a few ways you can decrease the number of pesky insects in your backyard.

Understanding the Mosquito Lifecycle

Mosquitoes are born as eggs. A female mosquito can lay 100 to 5,000 eggs throughout her lifetime. The eggs may sit for five years before they hatch.

A young mosquito larva lives in shallow water. They feed on bacteria and fungi. After five days, the larva develops into a pupa. The pupa becomes a full-grown adult within two to three days.

Adult mosquitos are the ones we most commonly see. They feed on animal and human blood, which causes pesky mosquito bites on our bodies. Females are especially blood-thirsty as they require plenty of blood to lay their eggs.

Getting Rid of Mosquitoes

When the weather gets warm, there’s nothing like enjoying your beautiful backyard. The only thing that turns a sunny day into a dark nightmare is a swarm of mosquitoes. That’s why we’ve outlined a few ways you can keep the mosquitoes away from your property.

1. Eliminate Stagnant Water Around Your Home

Mosquitoes are drawn to still water. It’s where females lay their eggs, and young mosquitoes develop into adults. If you remove standing water around your yard, you can decrease the number of mosquitoes around your property.

Take a walk around your yard and find standing water. Even if it’s shallow, mosquitoes will take advantage of the water pools. Look for stagnant water in:

Tin cans and buckets

Discarded Tires

Birdbaths

Clogged gutters

Saucers beneath plants

Pet bowls

Wheelbarrows

Depression spots in your yard

Drain whatever stagnant water you can find. Fill holes to prevent water pools from forming. If you have a pool, keep it chlorinated to prevent mosquitos from forming a home in it.

2. Install Screens

There’s nothing like opening the house on a beautiful summer day. But make sure when you open your windows and doors, you’re not letting unwelcome visitors inside.

Installing window and door screens prevents all types of insects, including pesky mosquitoes, from entering your home. But don’t stop at your windows and doors. Make sure open vents and chimneys are blocked to stop the pests from flying inside.

If your home is already screened up, conduct a thorough screen check before you open everything. Check your screens for tiny holes and damages. The smallest opening can be big enough for a hungry mosquito to squeeze through.

3. Repel With Smells

While there are plenty of smells that draw mosquitoes in, there are natural smells the insects can’t stand. Add mosquito-repelling plants to your backyard to keep the pests away.

Basil plants provide a delicious spice, and their smell keeps mosquitoes away. Basil also kills mosquito larvae, so it’s a good idea to grow basil near standing water. As a bonus, basil also repels flies.

Catnip plants contain nepetalactone, which naturally repels mosquitos.

Catnip needs a lot of sunshine to flourish, and it attracts cats (hence the name). Therefore, grow these plants in cat-friendly areas. Catnip plants also repel termites and cockroaches.

Other plants to grow around your home to get rid of mosquitoes include:

Lavender

Lemon balm

Lemongrass

Marigolds

Peppermint

Rosemary

Don’t forget about the smelliest herb of them all. Growing garlic around your home keeps the mosquitos (and vampires!) away. The crop alone repels mosquitos, but you can also create a homemade mosquito repellent by rubbing garlic juice onto your skin.

4. Add BTI to Open Water

Bacillus Thuringiensis Israelensis (BTI) is a mosquito treatment designed to prevent the insects from laying eggs in open water. It contains small bacterial larvicides that either float on the surface of open water. They naturally repel mosquitos and kill mosquito larvae.

Homeowners can sprinkle BTI in bodies of water that cannot be drained, like a pond or septic tank. BTI is safe for people and animals.

5. Trim Your Yard

After feasting on your blood, mosquitoes find shelter in dark, damp, and covered areas. To prevent mosquitoes around your yard, keep your lawn in tip-top condition. Mow your lawn and trim your shrubbery regularly.

Don’t forget to get rid of unused mulch, leaves, brush, and decaying logs. These dark and damp places can become breeding groups for mosquitoes if there is no standing water around.

6. Consult With a Professional

Getting rid of mosquitoes around your home is difficult. When these pesky insects are hungry, it can be a challenge to keep them away.

Don’t forget there are mosquito control professionals, such as Mosquito Authority, who can help you create a mosquito-free home. Experts can provide you with professional lawn treatments and ongoing services to prevent mosquitoes from ruining your backyard.

Treating Mosquito Bites

If you already have a few mosquito bites, don’t panic. While you cannot make the bites disappear, there are ways to decrease the itching.

First things first, try not to scratch your bites. Scratching irritates your skin and can cause an infection. If you’re too aggressive, your mosquito bite can scar your skin.

If you’ve been bitten all over your body, soak in a warm bath. Rub antibacterial soap along your skin to stop the itchiness. You can add baking soda to your bathwater to decrease inflammation and itching.

Apply an ice pack to large mosquito bites. Cold temperatures constrict your blood vessels, which leads to less itching.

If you’re really struggling with mosquito bites, take an antihistamine. Medicine, like Benadryl, diffuses swelling and itching.

Spruce up Your Home

Getting rid of mosquitoes requires a little extra work on your part. But a mosquito-free backyard is worth it. Don’t forget to consult with professionals to help you eliminate the pesky insects once and for all.

Looking for more tips and tricks to spruce up your home? Explore our blog to learn more.

The post How to Keep Mosquitoes off Your Back Forever appeared first on Florida Independent.

[gethealthy18-blog]

Natural Methods To Manage Restless Legs Syndrome

New Post has been published on http://healingawerness.com/getting-healthy/getting-healthy-women/natural-methods-to-manage-restless-legs-syndrome/

Natural Methods To Manage Restless Legs Syndrome

Atulya Satishkumar Hyderabd040-395603080 July 15, 2019

Do you feel an uncomfortable sensation in your legs when you sit or lie down? Does it also cause an inexplicable and uncontrollable urge to move your legs? You might have restless legs syndrome (RLS).

RLS is a condition that spreads a sense of discomfort along your legs. This discomfort usually eases once you move around. About 3%-15% of the population in Western countries may be affected by RLS (1).

RLS, also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a progressive condition and can occur in people of any age group. This condition can disrupt your daily activities as it can strike when you are asleep or doing any of your daily activities.

It is important to seek medical intervention and take medication to deal with this condition. However, following a few simple self-care tips and lifestyle changes can help in managing the symptoms. Let’s check out what they are.

Table Of Contents

Restless Legs Syndrome: An Overview

Restless legs syndrome is a neurological sensorimotor disorder. It causes an uncomfortable sensation in your legs and is usually accompanied by a strong urge to move them. For most people, this urge to move their legs becomes stronger while they are relaxed or lying down. This directly contributes to daytime sleepiness or fatigue as the patient’s nighttime sleep is disturbed.

RLS and sleep deprivation can also lead to other health problems, such as depression and anxiety.

Research points out that there are more than 3 million cases of RLS per year in the US (2). RLS can affect people of any age group, but it tends to be more severe in middle age or later. Women are at a higher risk of being affected by this disorder than men.

Periodic limb movement of sleep (PLMS) is a condition that accompanies RLS, and it affects a majority of patients. As the term suggests, PLMS causes the patient’s legs to twitch while sleeping. The frequency of the spasms can be between 15-45 seconds and can last all night long.

RLS is a lifelong condition with no likely cure. However, medical help can manage the symptoms.

What Causes Restless Legs Syndrome?

RLS is a disorder that is very often unidentified and usually misdiagnosed. As discussed, it is characterized by an uncomfortable sensation in the legs. It develops when the patient is at rest and compels them to move around.

1. Genetic Disorder

The cause of RLS may be traced to a genetic disorder or intracellular iron dysregulation (3). Some patients with RLS can trace back the disorder to a family history of the condition. In such cases, the onset of the condition can happen before the age of 40 years.

2. Iron Deficiency

Other studies also show that there could be a connection between RLS and dwindling levels of iron in the brain (4).

3. Pregnancy

Pregnant women undergo hormonal changes during their pregnancy. These changes can worsen RLS symptoms temporarily. An increase in the severity of the symptoms is usually observed in the last trimester (5).

The onset of RLS is not related to an underlying condition. However, it can be the result of other health conditions like diabetes, kidney failure, or neuropathy. In such cases, treating the primary condition may help address RLS symptoms.

Let us understand who is more susceptible to RLS and why.

What Are The Risk Factors Associated With RLS?

RLS is not always due to a serious medical condition and can develop at any age. However, it is more prominent as you get older.

RLS is, however, known to accompany other conditions in some cases. These are:

Conditions Of The Spinal Cord

The presence of lesions along the spinal cord can, in some cases, be indicative of RLS. If you have been administered anesthesia to the spinal cord, there is a risk of developing RLS (6).

Kidney Failure

Patients with a history of kidney failure may stand at the risk of developing RLS (7). If the kidney function is impaired, the iron in your blood can decrease and lead to anemia. All this can aggravate the symptoms of RLS.

Iron Deficiency

Deficiency of iron in your blood causes anemia. This can result in an aggravation of RLS symptoms (8).

Let us now understand the symptoms of RLS.

Symptoms Of Restless Legs Syndrome

The most common complaint of a patient with RLS is the uncontrollable urge to move their legs. They may experience the following sensations:

Tingling

Itching

Pulling

Throbbing

Moving the limbs may help relieve these sensations.

Depending on whether you have a mild or a severe case of RLS, the symptoms may occur at varying frequencies.

Mild RLS: If you have mild RLS, you may not feel the uneasiness every night.

Severe RLS: The severe cases are characterized by more frequent bouts of discomfort. It can also end up complicating relatively smaller tasks.

Restless legs syndrome is known to affect both sides of the body. However, in some people, it may affect only one side. RLS can also affect your arms and head.

How To Diagnose RLS

Your doctor will diagnose you based on your medical history and symptoms. Typically, you will describe your symptoms as a very strong urge to move your limbs. The symptoms will include an uncomfortable pulling or tingling sensation along your legs.

Your doctor may then conduct a physical examination. This will be accompanied by a neurological exam. You may even have to undergo a blood test to determine the iron levels in your blood. Some doctors may ask you to take a sleep test to check for conditions like sleep apnea.

What does the medical treatment look like for patients? Read on to find out.

Medical Treatment For RLS

Based on the diagnosis by your doctor, they may prescribe OTC medications like (9):

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Antipsychotic drugs

Antihistamines

Antinausea drugs

Caution: Some medicines can worsen the symptoms of RLS. Make sure you take these medicines only if you are advised by your doctor.

Now that we have understood what causes RLS and how to tell if you or your dear one have it, let us look at how you can help manage the condition at home.

Natural Ways To Manage The Symptoms Of RLS

1. CBD Oil

Shutterstock

Research shows that indica strains of cannabis contain more cannabinoids (CBD), which exhibit analgesic and sedative properties (10). This may help in relieving the pain and sense of discomfort and also help with sleep deprivation.

You Will Need

2-3 drops of CBD oil/balm or CBD Tincture

Dropper

What You Have To Do

Take two to three drops of CBD oil/balm.

Apply it to the affected area and massage for a few minutes.

Alternatively, you may ingest two to three drops (0.50 mL) of CBD tincture. Administer it under your tongue and hold for about a minute before swallowing it.

Consult a doctor before doing so.

How Often Should You Do This

Repeat 1-3 times daily as needed.

2. Warm Or Cold Compress

Shutterstock

Using a hot or an ice pack a few times a day can help soothe the pain and discomfort that arises due to RLS (11).

You Will Need

A hot/ice pack

A bucket of water

What You Have To Do

Place an ice pack on the affected area for 20-30 minutes before sleeping.

Alternatively, you may use a hot pack or take a shower in warm water before going to bed.

How Often Should You Do This

Repeat as needed until the pain subsides.

3. Vitamin Supplements

Shutterstock

Administering vitamin supplements, like vitamins C and E, to patients diagnosed with severe RLS may help in reducing the severity of the symptoms (12).

Vitamin D deficiency may also be linked to RLS. Taking vitamin D supplements can help alleviate the discomfort that arises due to RLS (13).

You can consume citrus fruits and broccoli for vitamin C, fatty fish like tuna or mackerel for vitamin D, and spinach, avocados, and peanuts for vitamin E.

Note: Take vitamin supplements in the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

4. Banana

Shutterstock

Bananas are rich sources of B vitamins and potassium (14). These nutrients can have a calming effect on the nervous system and reduce muscular spasms, thereby helping reduce the severity of the symptoms of RLS.

You Will Need

One ripe banana

What You Have To Do

Include at least one banana in your diet daily.

You may have the fruit on its own or consume it in the form of a protein shake.

How Often Should You Do This

Repeat as needed.

5. Warm Bath and Massage

Shutterstock

Taking a warm water bath and following it up with a relaxing massage can go a long way in relieving the pain and uneasiness due to RLS. It can help in releasing dopamine, which, in turn, can help reduce the symptoms of pain (15).

You Will Need

A bucket of warm water

Essential oils like lavender oil

What You Have To Do

Draw a warm water bath and soak your body for about 15-20 minutes.

Follow this up with a relaxing massage using a few drops of essential oils like lavender oil.

How Often Should You Do This

Repeat at least three times a week or as needed until the pain subsides.

6. Turmeric/Curcumin

Shutterstock

Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which exhibits anti-inflammatory properties (16). These properties can help reduce the pain and slight inflammation associated with RLS.

You Will Need

Curcumin supplements

What You Have To Do

Take the curcumin supplement as prescribed by the doctor.

Remember to drink as much water as you can all day.

How Often Should You Do This

Repeat as prescribed by your doctor.

Now, you have learned how you can manage the symptoms of restless legs syndrome at home. But you might be curious to know if the symptoms can be prevented. Let us find out in the next section.

How Can I Prevent RLS?

1. Physical Exercise

Shutterstock

Physical exercise, such as aerobic exercise, walking, and cycling, can help in relieving pain and uneasiness that accompany RLS (17), (18). These exercises can help in fighting the urge to move the limbs and reduce the severity of the symptoms.

2. Avoid Caffeine

Shutterstock

As discussed earlier, patients with RLS have trouble sleeping at night. Due to sleep deprivation, they are sleepy during the day or fatigued. Avoid consuming caffeine-rich foods or caffeinated drinks and chocolates to get a good night’s sleep (19).

Try out a combination of these tips and remedies to address the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. However, remember, it is best to seek medical help and follow these easy-to-do home remedies in conjunction to obtain the best results.

Was this post helpful? Share your views and feedback in the comments section below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can pregnant women have restless leg syndrome?

Lack of iron can trigger RLS in pregnancy. It can cause an uneasy sensation in your legs and loss of sleep at night.

Does stretching help restless leg syndrome?

Stretching and light aerobic exercise can help alleviate RLS symptoms like pain and discomfort. It can also help reduce the urge to move your limbs while at rest.

When to see a doctor for RLS?

RLS can have an adverse effect on your sleep and cause daytime fatigue. At this stage, you must consult your doctor to determine if you have RLS.

References

“Restless leg syndrome: is it a real problem?” Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Restless Leg Syndrome” StatPearls, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Restless Leg Syndrome: A Neglected Diagnosis” Nephro-Urology Monthly, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“The role of iron in restless legs syndrome.” Movement Disorders, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Restless legs syndrome and pregnancy.” Neurology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Restless Legs Syndrome in Spine Clinic” Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Study ties restless legs syndrome to heart, kidney problems” U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.

“Management of Iron Deficiency Anemia” Gastroenterology & Hepatology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Strategies for the Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome” Neurotherapeutics, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“The Therapeutic Potential of Cannabinoids for Movement Disorders” Movement Disorders, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“The Efficacy of Thermotherapy and Cryotherapy on Pain Relief in Patients with Acute Low Back Pain, A Clinical Trial Study” Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Efficacy of vitamins C, E, and their combination for treatment of restless legs syndrome in hemodialysis patients: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.” Sleep Medicine, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“The effect of vitamin D supplements on the severity of restless legs syndrome.” Sleep & Breathing, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Banana” Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry.

“Nondrug-related aspect of treating Ekbom disease, formerly known as restless legs syndrome” Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Curcumin: A Review of Its’ Effects on Human Health” MDPI, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Aerobic Exercise Improves Signs of Restless Leg Syndrome in End Stage Renal Disease Patients Suffering Chronic Hemodialysis” The Scientific World Journal, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“The Effect of Stretching Exercises on Severity of Restless Legs Syndrome in Patients on Hemodialysis” Asian Journal of Sports Medicine, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

“Caffeine: Cognitive and Physical Performance Enhancer or Psychoactive Drug?” Current Neuropharmacology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

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Restless Legs Syndrome: Causes, Factors and Treatments

For anyone who’s experienced it, the frustration can be miserable. The countless tossing and turning, the minutes that tick by (turning into hours), and you STILL haven’t gotten a modicum of decent sleep. No matter how hard you try to ignore it, that urge to constantly move or stretch your legs just won’t let up.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), aka Willis-Ekbom disease, affects a decent chunk of the population: thought estimates vary wildly, this 2017 representative survey places its prevalence between 5.7 and 12.3% of the population. That’s up to around 40 million people in the U.S. alone who go to bed every night knowing they’ll likely be kept awake for hours with that unrelenting, restless sensation.

Conventional RLS Treatments

For people suffering from moderate to severe RLS, pharmaceuticals like dopamine agonists, Alpha-2-delta ligands, opioids, anticonvulsants, and benzodiazepines are often prescribed.

Dopamine agonists operate under the assumption that RLS is linked to impaired dopamine function in the brain. While they do tend to produce good results in the short term, even at low doses they’re also notorious for augmentation, a scenario in which RLS symptoms actually worsen from taking the drug. They’re also commonly associated with an increased risk of impulse control disorders, like pathologic gambling, compulsive eating, and compulsive shopping. Not ideal.

Other common first-line treatments include alpha-2-delta calcium channel ligands, and in some cases, opioids. Alpha-2-delta ligands are often effective in treating RLS that occurs in tandem with painful peripheral neuropathy, certain forms of chronic pain, and even Parkinson’s disease; however, they’re also linked to depression and suicidal tendencies. Also not ideal. And then there are opioids. Whether they’re a viable treatment for RLS or not, they may undoubtedly introduce more problematic side effects and addictions than they’re worth for many people.

Nutritional and Medical Factors Related to RLS  Magnesium

Magnesium, which most of us are seriously lacking, interacts with calcium in the body to help regulate the nerves and muscles. When serum magnesium levels are low, nerve cells become overactive and can get a bit trigger happy in sending messages to our muscles. The result is constant muscle contraction, which explains many of the symptoms of restless legs syndrome.

In a small study involving patients with mild to moderate RLS, oral magnesium every evening for 4 to 6 weeks improved symptoms in all patients. Another study involving a pregnant woman given intravenous magnesium sulfate for 2 days indicated complete recovery from RLS symptoms. Magnesium is considered “investigational”  by a larger review study, but research is scant. 

Despite the apparent lack of research on the link between RLS and magnesium deficiency or supplementation, there’s still a decent amount of positive anecdotal evidence. If you’re magnesium deficient, it’s worthwhile trying a magnesium supplement given it’s support for other elements of health. Some people chose chelated forms like magnesium glycinate, but others swear by transdermal magnesium and magnesium citrate.

Iron

Unlike magnesium, the link between iron deficiency and RLS has received plenty of attention in the literature. This 2007 study showed that RLS sufferers with low serum ferritin were more likely to experience an iron deficiency in the central nervous system. This, in turn, impedes dopamine signaling, the result of which is greater risk of RLS. A 2013 study verified these findings by using MRI to show that RLS sufferers have significantly lower iron content within several areas of the brain.

Considering the importance of iron for healthy dopamine signaling, the results make sense. And several studies have shown that RLS patients with low serum ferritin (generally less than 75 mcg/L) have responded well to both oral and intravenous iron.

Of the two dosages, oral iron supplementation is by far the safest and easiest, especially when combined with vitamin C. That being said, it’s important to get your ferritin levels checked at least every 3 to 4 months during oral iron supplementation to ensure you don’t go overboard, since excess iron imposes health risks. 

Vitamin D

Like iron, vitamin D appears to play a key role in dopamine synthesis and metabolism, meaning those who are deficient are more likely to experience RLS symptoms. A 2014 study showed that presence of RLS was significantly higher in vitamin D-deficient patients, while a 2015 study found that certain variations in the vitamin D3 receptor gene were associated with an increased risk of RLS.

Luckily, vitamin D treatment is a fairly straightforward affair, and it seems to yield good results for those dealing with RLS. One recent study showed that vitamin D3 treatment (oral or intravenous) in those who were deficient was able to improve symptoms from a median RLS severity score of 26 down to 10. While this impressive result hasn’t necessarily been reflected across the board, it suggests that vitamin D supplementation is worth a shot if you suffer from RLS. For most people (particularly in winter), it’s worth upping your vitamin D levels whether you’ve got RLS or not.

Alcohol

There isn’t a lot of research to support the association between alcohol and RLS, but plenty of anecdotal evidence suggests it’s worth exploring. Alcohol can otherwise lower sleep quality and increase conditions of sleep apnea, which in turn can contribute to worsening of RLS symptoms. In a European study spanning close to 19,000 people, those who drank at least 3 alcoholic beverages a day were more likely to have RLS. Even if that tops your usual imbibing, alcohol probably isn’t helping your restless legs.

SIBO and Other Gut Disorders

Whether you’re low in iron or not, it’s worthwhile considering the link between gut conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and restless legs syndrome. A 2011 study of 32 RLS subjects found that 69% of RLS sufferers had SIBO, compared to only 28% of healthy controls. As part of the same study, another 28% of RLS subjects had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) compared with just 4% of controls. A Japanese study of 80 outpatients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) found that 20% of them also suffered from RLS. In another study involving 272 Crohn’s disease outpatients, RLS prevalence was 30%, and 43% had suffered from RLS at some point in the past. Celiac disease has much the same relationship with RLS, with 1 in 4 celiacs also reporting RLS symptoms.

Conventional treatments for IBS patients have shown dramatic improvements in RLS symptoms, but this generally involves a heady dose of antibiotics. A more Primal-friendly course of action would involve regular use of a good quality probiotic and a low-FODMAP diet until your RLS symptoms improve. Here’s what I use.

Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases

It might seem like highlighting the association between RLS and both autoimmune and inflammatory disease states is something of a catch-all, but the fact remains that people with conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Celiac disease, MS and rheumatoid arthritis are far more likely to suffer from RLS than healthy individuals. A literature review found that out of 47 RLS-associated conditions, 42 of them had an autoimmune or auto-inflammatory component. Another study published last year also found strong links between patients’ neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, a key marker of systemic inflammation, and RLS.

As far as specific treatments go, this is where things get tricky and individualized. How you approach the problem depends on your inflammatory or immune condition, but improvements can almost always be achieved by adopting an anti-inflammatory, Primal type of diet. You know, one loaded with nutrient-dense, whole foods and relatively devoid of inflammatory foods. Adjusting lifestyle factors to reduce stress and increase movement and sleep will also make a huge difference, but more on that next.

Other Factors For Treating RLS Stress

As far as nonpharmaceutical measures go, one of the most successful RLS treatments is simply to reduce stress. That means, of course, eliminating causes of stress in your life where possible, but healthy practices that ameliorate its impact are a good idea, too.

For example, in a 2012 study, 13 women with moderate to severe RLS were placed on an 8-week self-guided Iyengar yoga program. At the end of the 8 weeks, “participants demonstrated striking reductions in RLS symptoms and symptom severity, with symptoms decreasing to minimal/mild in all but 1 woman and no participant scoring in the severe range by week 8.” Another study published last year combined yoga with aerobic exercise for 12 weeks to see significant improvements in RLS symptoms—to the point where patients were able to reduce their dosages of the RLS drugs they were on.

If yoga isn’t your thing, there’s plenty of other stress-alleviating options. Getting out into nature, using guided meditation, trying an adaptogen supplement (with your doctor’s okay), and even watching a good comedy can all chip away at the stress we feel. 

Medications

Certain medications have been shown to contribute to higher risk and severity with restless legs syndrome. A literature review of applicable studies found that antidepressants, neuroleptic agents, dopamine-blocking antiemetics, and sedating antihistamines have a strong correlation to incidence and greater severity of RLS, and where possible should be avoided. Obviously, this isn’t always an option, but it’s worth exploring whether a substitution can be made. As always, discuss your concerns with your doctor before discontinuing any medication. 

Exercise

A 12 week trial involving 28 participants showed that aerobic and lower body resistance training produced significant improvements in RLS symptoms across the board. A smaller study found similar results, with aerobic exercise over the course of 16 weeks producing an average reduction in RLS severity of 42%.

Stretching has also been shown to improve RLS symptoms, so consider doing some light leg stretches before bed or when the restless legs hit.

Compression Devices

While a trifle inconvenient and decidedly uncomfortable, compression devices show some serious promise in treating RLS. A 2009 study had 35 subjects wearing either a therapeutic compression device or sham device for at least an hour a day for 1 month. After 1 month, the compression group saw significant reductions in RLS symptoms, with an almost 50% reduction in severity. Another study involving 10 RLS patients saw 1 patient pull out of the protocol due to discomfort, but the remaining 9 used a compression device for 1 to 3 months and saw either complete remission of RLS or a marked improvement in symptoms. Obviously, if the need is great, compression devices are worth considering.

Beyond traditional compression accessories, however, more comfortable measures like weighted blankets may offer relief for some people. Those without RLS may find they sleep better with them, too.

Pregnancy

An estimated 1 in 5 women experience RLS during pregnancy. And although RLS symptoms usually recede shortly after delivery, it can make sleep more difficult during pregnancy and even pose its own health risks.

Generally speaking, many of the non-pharmacological treatments outlined above are effective in reducing the symptoms of pregnancy-related RLS. It’s always a good idea to get regular blood tests, as low iron levels (a common contributor to RLS) are a common occurrence in pregnant women. Other risk factors for RLS during pregnancy include vitamin D deficiency, impaired calcium metabolism, and a lack of low-impact exercise. Address these factors, and you’re bound to see a difference.

Thanks for reading, folks. For those of you with RLS, what’s worked (and hasn’t worked) for you? Share your thoughts below. 

[milenasanchezmk]

Restless Legs Syndrome: Causes, Factors and Treatments

For anyone who’s experienced it, the frustration can be miserable. The countless tossing and turning, the minutes that tick by (turning into hours), and you STILL haven’t gotten a modicum of decent sleep. No matter how hard you try to ignore it, that urge to constantly move or stretch your legs just won’t let up.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), aka Willis-Ekbom disease, affects a decent chunk of the population: thought estimates vary wildly, this 2017 representative survey places its prevalence between 5.7 and 12.3% of the population. That’s up to around 40 million people in the U.S. alone who go to bed every night knowing they’ll likely be kept awake for hours with that unrelenting, restless sensation.

Conventional RLS Treatments

For people suffering from moderate to severe RLS, pharmaceuticals like dopamine agonists, Alpha-2-delta ligands, opioids, anticonvulsants, and benzodiazepines are often prescribed.

Dopamine agonists operate under the assumption that RLS is linked to impaired dopamine function in the brain. While they do tend to produce good results in the short term, even at low doses they’re also notorious for augmentation, a scenario in which RLS symptoms actually worsen from taking the drug. They’re also commonly associated with an increased risk of impulse control disorders, like pathologic gambling, compulsive eating, and compulsive shopping. Not ideal.

Other common first-line treatments include alpha-2-delta calcium channel ligands, and in some cases, opioids. Alpha-2-delta ligands are often effective in treating RLS that occurs in tandem with painful peripheral neuropathy, certain forms of chronic pain, and even Parkinson’s disease; however, they’re also linked to depression and suicidal tendencies. Also not ideal. And then there are opioids. Whether they’re a viable treatment for RLS or not, they may undoubtedly introduce more problematic side effects and addictions than they’re worth for many people.

Nutritional and Medical Factors Related to RLS  Magnesium

Magnesium, which most of us are seriously lacking, interacts with calcium in the body to help regulate the nerves and muscles. When serum magnesium levels are low, nerve cells become overactive and can get a bit trigger happy in sending messages to our muscles. The result is constant muscle contraction, which explains many of the symptoms of restless legs syndrome.

In a small study involving patients with mild to moderate RLS, oral magnesium every evening for 4 to 6 weeks improved symptoms in all patients. Another study involving a pregnant woman given intravenous magnesium sulfate for 2 days indicated complete recovery from RLS symptoms. Magnesium is considered “investigational”  by a larger review study, but research is scant. 

Despite the apparent lack of research on the link between RLS and magnesium deficiency or supplementation, there’s still a decent amount of positive anecdotal evidence. If you’re magnesium deficient, it’s worthwhile trying a magnesium supplement given it’s support for other elements of health. Some people chose chelated forms like magnesium glycinate, but others swear by transdermal magnesium and magnesium citrate.

Iron

Unlike magnesium, the link between iron deficiency and RLS has received plenty of attention in the literature. This 2007 study showed that RLS sufferers with low serum ferritin were more likely to experience an iron deficiency in the central nervous system. This, in turn, impedes dopamine signaling, the result of which is greater risk of RLS. A 2013 study verified these findings by using MRI to show that RLS sufferers have significantly lower iron content within several areas of the brain.

Considering the importance of iron for healthy dopamine signaling, the results make sense. And several studies have shown that RLS patients with low serum ferritin (generally less than 75 mcg/L) have responded well to both oral and intravenous iron.

Of the two dosages, oral iron supplementation is by far the safest and easiest, especially when combined with vitamin C. That being said, it’s important to get your ferritin levels checked at least every 3 to 4 months during oral iron supplementation to ensure you don’t go overboard, since excess iron imposes health risks. 

Vitamin D

Like iron, vitamin D appears to play a key role in dopamine synthesis and metabolism, meaning those who are deficient are more likely to experience RLS symptoms. A 2014 study showed that presence of RLS was significantly higher in vitamin D-deficient patients, while a 2015 study found that certain variations in the vitamin D3 receptor gene were associated with an increased risk of RLS.

Luckily, vitamin D treatment is a fairly straightforward affair, and it seems to yield good results for those dealing with RLS. One recent study showed that vitamin D3 treatment (oral or intravenous) in those who were deficient was able to improve symptoms from a median RLS severity score of 26 down to 10. While this impressive result hasn’t necessarily been reflected across the board, it suggests that vitamin D supplementation is worth a shot if you suffer from RLS. For most people (particularly in winter), it’s worth upping your vitamin D levels whether you’ve got RLS or not.

Alcohol

There isn’t a lot of research to support the association between alcohol and RLS, but plenty of anecdotal evidence suggests it’s worth exploring. Alcohol can otherwise lower sleep quality and increase conditions of sleep apnea, which in turn can contribute to worsening of RLS symptoms. In a European study spanning close to 19,000 people, those who drank at least 3 alcoholic beverages a day were more likely to have RLS. Even if that tops your usual imbibing, alcohol probably isn’t helping your restless legs.

SIBO and Other Gut Disorders

Whether you’re low in iron or not, it’s worthwhile considering the link between gut conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and restless legs syndrome. A 2011 study of 32 RLS subjects found that 69% of RLS sufferers had SIBO, compared to only 28% of healthy controls. As part of the same study, another 28% of RLS subjects had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) compared with just 4% of controls. A Japanese study of 80 outpatients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) found that 20% of them also suffered from RLS. In another study involving 272 Crohn’s disease outpatients, RLS prevalence was 30%, and 43% had suffered from RLS at some point in the past. Celiac disease has much the same relationship with RLS, with 1 in 4 celiacs also reporting RLS symptoms.

Conventional treatments for IBS patients have shown dramatic improvements in RLS symptoms, but this generally involves a heady dose of antibiotics. A more Primal-friendly course of action would involve regular use of a good quality probiotic and a low-FODMAP diet until your RLS symptoms improve. Here’s what I use.

Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases

It might seem like highlighting the association between RLS and both autoimmune and inflammatory disease states is something of a catch-all, but the fact remains that people with conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Celiac disease, MS and rheumatoid arthritis are far more likely to suffer from RLS than healthy individuals. A literature review found that out of 47 RLS-associated conditions, 42 of them had an autoimmune or auto-inflammatory component. Another study published last year also found strong links between patients’ neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, a key marker of systemic inflammation, and RLS.

As far as specific treatments go, this is where things get tricky and individualized. How you approach the problem depends on your inflammatory or immune condition, but improvements can almost always be achieved by adopting an anti-inflammatory, Primal type of diet. You know, one loaded with nutrient-dense, whole foods and relatively devoid of inflammatory foods. Adjusting lifestyle factors to reduce stress and increase movement and sleep will also make a huge difference, but more on that next.

Other Factors For Treating RLS Stress

As far as nonpharmaceutical measures go, one of the most successful RLS treatments is simply to reduce stress. That means, of course, eliminating causes of stress in your life where possible, but healthy practices that ameliorate its impact are a good idea, too.

For example, in a 2012 study, 13 women with moderate to severe RLS were placed on an 8-week self-guided Iyengar yoga program. At the end of the 8 weeks, “participants demonstrated striking reductions in RLS symptoms and symptom severity, with symptoms decreasing to minimal/mild in all but 1 woman and no participant scoring in the severe range by week 8.” Another study published last year combined yoga with aerobic exercise for 12 weeks to see significant improvements in RLS symptoms—to the point where patients were able to reduce their dosages of the RLS drugs they were on.

If yoga isn’t your thing, there’s plenty of other stress-alleviating options. Getting out into nature, using guided meditation, trying an adaptogen supplement (with your doctor’s okay), and even watching a good comedy can all chip away at the stress we feel. 

Medications

Certain medications have been shown to contribute to higher risk and severity with restless legs syndrome. A literature review of applicable studies found that antidepressants, neuroleptic agents, dopamine-blocking antiemetics, and sedating antihistamines have a strong correlation to incidence and greater severity of RLS, and where possible should be avoided. Obviously, this isn’t always an option, but it’s worth exploring whether a substitution can be made. As always, discuss your concerns with your doctor before discontinuing any medication. 

Exercise

A 12 week trial involving 28 participants showed that aerobic and lower body resistance training produced significant improvements in RLS symptoms across the board. A smaller study found similar results, with aerobic exercise over the course of 16 weeks producing an average reduction in RLS severity of 42%.

Stretching has also been shown to improve RLS symptoms, so consider doing some light leg stretches before bed or when the restless legs hit.

Compression Devices

While a trifle inconvenient and decidedly uncomfortable, compression devices show some serious promise in treating RLS. A 2009 study had 35 subjects wearing either a therapeutic compression device or sham device for at least an hour a day for 1 month. After 1 month, the compression group saw significant reductions in RLS symptoms, with an almost 50% reduction in severity. Another study involving 10 RLS patients saw 1 patient pull out of the protocol due to discomfort, but the remaining 9 used a compression device for 1 to 3 months and saw either complete remission of RLS or a marked improvement in symptoms. Obviously, if the need is great, compression devices are worth considering.

Beyond traditional compression accessories, however, more comfortable measures like weighted blankets may offer relief for some people. Those without RLS may find they sleep better with them, too.

Pregnancy

An estimated 1 in 5 women experience RLS during pregnancy. And although RLS symptoms usually recede shortly after delivery, it can make sleep more difficult during pregnancy and even pose its own health risks.

Generally speaking, many of the non-pharmacological treatments outlined above are effective in reducing the symptoms of pregnancy-related RLS. It’s always a good idea to get regular blood tests, as low iron levels (a common contributor to RLS) are a common occurrence in pregnant women. Other risk factors for RLS during pregnancy include vitamin D deficiency, impaired calcium metabolism, and a lack of low-impact exercise. Address these factors, and you’re bound to see a difference.

Thanks for reading, folks. For those of you with RLS, what’s worked (and hasn’t worked) for you? Share your thoughts below.