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A Complete Guide to Find the Best Hair Extension

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Scrubs

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March 3

A Complete Guide to Find the Best Hair Extension

Hair extensions have become a new craze among women all over the world. Doctors and medical professionals recommend using hair extensions to maintain hair density without chemical usage.

Finding the best hair extension can be a daunting task. It can be hard to determine which one is right for you with so many options available.

This guide will discuss the different hair extensions available and choose the right one for your needs. It will provide tips on caring for your hair extensions and keeping them looking their best. So whether you’re looking for clips extensions hair, tape-in extensions, or something else entirely, keep reading.

What are Hair Extensions?

Hair extensions add length, fullness, and even color to your natural hair. It is made from real human hair or synthetic fibers and are attached using various methods, including bonding, braiding, clip-in, and tape-in.

a) Bonding: Bonding is the most common method of hair extension attachment. It involves using a unique adhesive to attach extensions directly to your natural hair. The adhesive is made of keratin, a protein found in your hair, skin, and nails. It’s safe and non-toxic, but it can damage your natural hair if not applied correctly.

b) Braiding: Braiding is another popular attachment method, particularly for African American women. The hair extensions are braided into your natural hair and can last for several months.

c) Clip-in: Clip-in extensions are the most accessible type of extension to use. They clip onto your natural hair, and you can take them out whenever you want.
d) Tape-in: Tape-in extensions are a newer type of extension that uses double-sided tape to attach the extensions to your natural hair. They’re portable, lightweight, and comfy to wear. However, if they aren’t used correctly, they might harm your natural hair.

Benefits of Using Hair Extensions

Here are a few benefits of using these hair accessories:

1) Get A New Look Without Chopping Off Your Hair

If you’re looking for a way to change up your look without chopping off your hair, hair extensions are the way to go. Hair extensions can add length, volume, and fullness to your hair, giving you a whole new look in just a few minutes.

2) Add Length and Volume to Thin or Fine Hair

If you have thin or fine hair, adding length and volume with hair extensions can give your locks a much-needed boost. Clip-in extensions are a great option if you want to add some extra oomph for a special occasion or want to try out the look before committing to permanent extensions.

There are also many temporary methods of hair extensions, such as tape-in and halo extensions, which can last for several weeks at a time. If you’re considering buying them, research is essential to find the best type of extension and stylist for your needs.

3) Give Yourself the Look of Longer, Thicker Hair in Seconds

Whether you want some length, volume, or both, hair extensions are a great way to get the look you desire in seconds. Many hair extensions are available in the market, so it is essential to find the right type for your style and budget.

4) Feel More Confident When You Go Out On A Date With Your Partner

When you are out on a date with your partner, you will feel more confident if you know that your hair looks great. It is because you will not have to worry about your hair looking bad or out of place.

With the help of clips extensions for hair, you can achieve any hairstyle that you want. You can also look more professional at work and feel less self-conscious about your appearance during presentations.

How to Find the Best Hair Extensions?

1) Check the Quality

When looking for the best hair extensions, quality is critical. Make sure to check the quality of the hair before making your purchase. The best way to do this is to ask for samples. It will allow you to see and feel the quality of the hair before making your purchase.

2) Buy the Right Length and Type

Buying the right length and type is essential when choosing the best hair extensions. Not all hair extensions are created equal. For example, some extensions are made from human hair, while others are made from synthetic materials. The best way to find the right type and length is to consult a professional. Human hair is the best quality, but it is also the most expensive.

Conclusion

Hair extensions are a great way to add length, volume, and thickness to your hair. However, choosing the right type of hair extension can be tricky. You can find the best hair extension for your hair type and budget with the proper knowledge.

How a Direct-Entry MSN Degree Can Kickstart Your Nursing Career

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March 3

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How a Direct-Entry MSN Degree Can Kickstart Your Nursing Career

Does your current job situation have you considering a career change? In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, job-related burnout can be felt across many occupations. Over the last two years, millions of employees across a range of industries began reassessing their living and employment situations, many voluntarily leaving their jobs for better prospects, including better work-life balance and career development opportunities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 4.5 million Americans quit their jobs, leading to 10.6 million job openings by the end of November 2021. This “great resignation” movement has opened doors to many new career-advancing opportunities, especially in nursing.

Because of an industry-wide nursing shortage, individuals with undergraduate degrees in other fields are using this unique opportunity to leverage their education to break into a career in healthcare. While the healthcare system across the globe is still feeling the pressure of an on-going pandemic, it is an employee market as the demand for qualified nursing professionals continues to grow.

For Bachelor’s degree holders looking to use their existing non-nursing degree to change careers, a direct-entry Master’s of Science in Nursing (DE-MSN) program can get you educated and working as a nurse in as few as 20 months. There has never been a better time to take the plunge if embarking on a new career path is on your radar for 2022.

DE-MSN programs specifically appeal to degree holders who are looking for a career change and want to apply their existing baccalaureate degree toward a master’s in nursing. An accelerated program gives students the ability to transfer credits earned during their undergraduate studies, enabling them to obtain a nursing degree and an MSN faster than a traditional four-year program.

Since DE-MSNs are designed for individuals with no prior background in nursing, students receive a solid foundation in nursing concepts and practices and learn skills that prepare them for passing the NCLEX-RN while also earning an advanced nursing degree. Using a blended approach of both online and in-person experiential learning, students can pursue their degree through a program that better integrates with their lifestyles. DE-MSN students may sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) typically after 5 semesters of coursework. This allows qualifying students to work as an RN while earning their master’s degree.

Nurses at the master’s level can typically work in a variety of fields, from leadership and advanced clinical practice to research and academia, depending on their emphasis. General practice MSN graduates are prepared to lead in the delivery of competent, high-quality, outcome-focused patient care while leveraging technology, building upon research, and optimizing healthcare resources to serve diverse populations.

Master’s-prepared nurses who choose to specialize in non-direct patient care roles, such as research, writing, and legal consulting often experience more regular hours, giving specialized MSNs a better work-life balance. Outside of direct-patient care, jobs for master’s prepared nurses often bring more responsibility as well as higher earning potential and can include positions in hospital administration, healthcare management, clinical research, and higher education.

An increase in salary potential is another driving force for changing careers and advancing your degree. The BLS reports that, on average, MSN nurses make $117,670 per year, while RNs earn an average of $75,330 per year. While MSN-educated nurses tend to earn a higher salary, the range does vary widely depending on the specialty, scope of practice, and location where you practice.

Advanced practice nurses are strong contributors to the advancement of professional excellence through their ongoing preparation for licensure, certification, and continued education. Because of their dedication to life-long learning, advanced-practice nurses are instrumental in helping shape the future of nursing by informing policies, advancing technology, and raising the standards of quality care.

If you are considering a career change to a field in high demand, earning a DE-MSN degree can get you on the path to your dream career quickly.

Doctor or Drug Dealer: Supreme Court Debates When Mis-Prescribing Drugs Becomes Illegal

Nursing Blogs

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March 2

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Doctor or Drug Dealer: Supreme Court Debates When Mis-Prescribing Drugs Becomes Illegal

There have been dozens of stories of healthcare providers in the U.S. abusing their ability to prescribe medication over the past few years. The opioid crisis continues to devastate tens of thousands of American families every year.

The Supreme Court is now considering a case that involves two doctors accused of operating pill mills. The outcome could set a national legal precedent that would distinguish between unconventional medical practices and illegal drug operations.

When Is It Illegal to Mis-Prescribe Medication?

The justices are facing a complex legal dilemma: When should a doctor face legal consequences when they mis-prescribe medication? They discussed the language outlined in the Controlled Substances Act, while debating whether there is ever a good-faith exception for doctors prescribing the wrong medication. Some justices expressed concern with the idea of sending doctors to prison for years over a common medical error.

Both doctors involved in the case were accused of illegal drug distribution.

Dr. Xiulu Ruan was accused of running a clinic in Alabama with a business partner that issued nearly 300,000 prescriptions for controlled substances in just four years, making it one of the nation’s leading sources of prescriptions for some types of fentanyl drugs.

Dr. Ruan has been serving a 21-year sentence in federal prison after being convicted in 2017. He prescribed quick-release fentanyl drugs approved only for cancer patients to patients suffering from more common ailments, including neck, back, and joint pain. Prosecutors say he would often write prescriptions without even seeing patients.

Dr. Shakeel Kahn is serving 25 years and was accused of writing prescriptions in Arizona and Wyoming in exchange for payments based roughly on the current street value of the drugs. Prosecutors said he had accepted payment in cash as well as personal property, including firearms.

Lawyers for both doctors are asking the court to overturn their convictions, arguing that the criminal standard the physicians faced is applied inconsistently among the federal circuits. They want the court to establish a uniform standard that permits doctors to raise a “good faith” defense when mis-prescribing medications to patients.

During yesterday’s debate, the justices focused their attention on one particular line in the Controlled Substances Act. The law says prescriptions that were “issued for a legitimate medical purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of his professional practice,” may be exempt from legal penalties.

According to Eric J. Feigin, a lawyer for the federal government, the exemption represents an agreed-upon set of ethical norms in the medical profession, and both Kahn and Ruan violated these norms.

“They want to be free of any obligation even to undertake any minimal effort to act like doctors when they prescribe dangerous, highly addictive and, in one case, lethal dosages of drugs to trusting and vulnerable patients,” he said.

The lawyers for both doctors said the standard was a subjective one, based on whether the doctors had acted in good faith when they prescribed the drugs even though they acted outside of generally accepted medical practices.

“The problem is that medical standards evolve,” said Lawrence S. Robbins, a lawyer for Dr. Ruan. “It’s a constantly evolving matter. And that deference to patients and their illness and their doctors requires a subjective standard.”

Beau B. Brindley, a lawyer for Dr. Kahn, said limiting or getting rid of this exemption would have a “terrible chilling effect” on the medical industry, one that would effectively turn the Drug Enforcement Administration into “a de facto national medical board.”

Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. said that a subjective understanding of the law doesn’t excuse the defendants’ criminal behavior. He used the analogy of a motorist driving 70 mph in a 55-mph zone. Just because the motorist thought the speed limit was 70 mph doesn’t mean he wasn’t breaking the law.

Robbins responded by saying that different rules apply for serious criminal charges.

“You don’t get to defend the traffic violation based on your state of mind,” he said, adding that more consideration is required “when you’re talking about sending doctors, or anybody for that matter, to jail for mandatory minimums of decades in prison.”

Justice Amy Coney Barrett used a different analogy by supposing that the speed limit may not apply in certain situations. “Except as authorized by law, you must drive under 55 miles per hour,” she said.

For example, a motorist may drive above 55 mph in a 55-mph zone if they are rushing someone to the hospital in a medical emergency. They know in good faith that the speed limit doesn’t apply to them in this situation.

Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh agreed. “If the statute says, ‘except as authorized’ and you sincerely believe you’re authorized to drive 100 to get your child to the hospital, you should be acquitted, right?” he asked.

Kavanaugh then extended the same good-faith analogy to doctors Kahn and Ruan.

“The doctor may have violated that objective standard but might have legitimately thought that the standard was somewhat different and, therefore, in those circumstances should not be sent away for 20 years to prison, right?” he asked.

The debate then turned into something of a grade school grammar lesson.

Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. referenced what he learned from his “old English teacher” and said the placement of the phrase “knowingly and intentionally” in the statute, based on the exception on which the doctors relied, meant it did not apply to the exception, undercutting the doctors’ argument that subjective good faith matters.

Alito then added. “The problem is what an adverb can modify,” he said. “It can only modify a verb.”

Justice Stephen G. Breyer disagreed. “I had a different English teacher, Ms. Chichester,” he said, “who told us an adverb could modify a verb, an adjective or another adverb.”

The chances of these doctors being set free remain slim to none, but legal experts say the outcome could set a legal standard for doctors that mis-prescribe medication.

Medical experts say the case is not a question of whether Ruan and Khan are bad doctors.

“It’s about all the other doctors in the country who intend to do the right thing, but are dealing with difficult cases,” said Dr. Stefan Kertesz, a professor of medicine at the Heersink School of Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and an addiction researcher. “Are we all at risk of criminal investigation based on making decisions that involve difficult medical trade-offs?”

Kelly Dineen, who teaches health law at Creighton University School of Law in Nebraska, said the good-faith argument shouldn’t be read as a “get out of jail free” card. “The jury still has to assess their credibility,” she said. “But doctors should be allowed to bring that defense.”

Ukrainian Doctor Killed in Kyiv While Driving Nephew to the Hospital

Steven Briggs

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March 2

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Ukrainian Doctor Killed in Kyiv While Driving Nephew to the Hospital

It’s day seven of the Russian invasion of Ukraine as its residents continue to defend their homeland against military aggression. Ordinary citizens are picking up firearms and the country’s capital city has become a warzone.

Healthcare workers in Ukraine are trying to carry out their duties as their community descends in chaos. Marina Kalabina, a doctor at the Centre for Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, was shot by Russian soldiers while she was driving her nephew to a hospital in the village of Kukhari in Kyiv.

Ukraine’s Minister of Healthcare Viktor Liashko shared the news on Facebook. “Today Russian terrorists took the life of a doctor – Marina Kalabina,” he wrote next to a picture of her. “These are non-humans, terrorists, and this should definitely not go unpunished!” he added. “We will not forgive you.”

Laishko, who is a doctor himself, has been urging healthcare providers all over the world to condemn the violence in Ukraine as Russia begins to ramp up its assault against the capital city.

Ukrainian Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said the Russians are shifting away from ground-level combat to “heavy bombardments” with the potential “carpet-bombing of cities”.

Ukrainian government officials say more than 2,000 civilians have died in the week since Russia invaded the country, although independent sources have not been able to confirm these figures at this time.

Protecting Nurses in Ukraine

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) is raising the alarm over what’s happening in Ukraine. The organization recently put out a statement that says its more 130 members stand in solidarity with the people, nurses, and all healthcare workers caught up in the conflict in Ukraine.

The ICN says the protection of healthcare workers should be paramount during this time and any attack targeting health workers or health facilities goes against international regulations and the Geneva Convention and should be considered an affront against humanity.

The organization says it has been in contact with its colleagues on the ground in Ukraine.

ICN President Pamela Cipriano said, “We are extremely concerned about the situation in Ukraine and our hearts go out to all the people caught up in the conflict, including our nurses and all health workers who once again find themselves on the frontlines of another humanitarian crisis. Access to healthcare and the delivery of humanitarian assistance must remain a priority for all concerned as we see cities under attack and tens of thousands of people being displaced.”

National Nursing Associations from all over the world have sent messages of support to the nurses being affected by the conflict.

Valentina Sarkisova, President of the Russian Nurses Association, said, “Politics is far from nursing, and armed conflicts are opposite to the main designation of our profession. There are no other professions that cherish life and health as much as nurses. Together with the whole world, we hope for a rapid resolution of all conflicts and a return to a normal and peaceful life. We do believe that no political confrontation can affect the mission of nursing. With all the passion we wish no more lives be lost, and all nurses be back to their peaceful duties in safe and secure environment.”

Multiple countries along with the World Health Organization are sending supplies to the area to help the providers working on the ground. The WHO says its first shipment will arrive in neighboring Poland on Thursday. It is calling on officials to create a humanitarian corridor that can be used to send supplies to those in need.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the shipment includes 40 U.S. tons of supplies for trauma care and emergency surgery to help 1,000 patients as well as other supplies to meet the needs of 150,000 people.

“There is an urgent need to establish a corridor to ensure humanitarian workers and supplies have safe and continuous access to reach people in need,” Tedros said.

Getting supplies into Kyiv where most of the fighting is taking place has been difficult.

Dr. Jarno Habicht, the WHO representative in Ukraine, said it was “difficult to find drivers” to transport supplies. The agency said some of the supplies include treatment for noncommunicable diseases, insulin, and hypertension medication, as well as things like tetanus antitoxin.

WHO emergencies chief, Dr. Michael Ryan, said other supplies included sutures, skin graft equipment, and “equipment for doing amputations, for bone grafting, for bone wiring…”

“I think this gives you the graphic nature of what’s happening,” Ryan said. “These are ordinary civilians being broken and the health system is going to have to put them back together again.”

Anyone looking to donate to the people of Ukraine can visit WBUR to learn more about the organizations sending supplies.

How to Use Technology in Medicine to Improve Your Practice

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March 2

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How to Use Technology in Medicine to Improve Your Practice

Technology has permeated every aspect of our lives. Some cutting-edge technologies, on the other hand, are radically transforming the way healthcare is done today. Healthcare practitioners are now able to utilize computers, software applications, and digital devices to manage patient information, collect real-time data, and communicate with patients and colleagues.

Even though technology has improved almost every area of our lives from Zodiac Casino Canada to sport, to science, to healthcare, many professionals still hesitate to use it in their everyday lives. This is quite understandable but sometimes not justified.

Digital devices can be used to monitor patient vital signs, review diagnostic images, and even provide treatments. In fact, many medical procedures that were once only possible in a hospital setting can now be performed in an outpatient setting or even at home.

Some of the most common medical procedures that are now being performed using technology include:

Colonoscopies
Cataract surgery
Knee and hip replacements
Arthroscopic surgery
Mammograms
Vaccinations

This has led to better services and results of treatment.

Technology in Medical Practice

Technology has revolutionized the medical field, and there is a multitude of ways that it can be used to improve your practice. Here are some ways that you can use technology in medicine to improve your practice:

1. Electronic Health Records (EHRs)

EHRs are a great way to keep track of patient information. They can store everything from test results to medication allergies, and they are accessible from any computer or device with internet access. This makes it easy to share information with other healthcare professionals as needed.

2. Medical Apps

There are a number of medical apps available for smartphones and tablets. These apps can be used to track symptoms, monitor vital signs, and even provide information on medical conditions. There are also apps available that can be used to schedule appointments and find nearby pharmacies.

3. Telemedicine

Telemedicine is a great way to provide care to patients who live in remote areas or who have difficulty traveling to see a doctor. With telemedicine, you can consult with patients by phone or video chat. This allows you to provide care without the need for an in-person visit.

4. Patient Portals

Patient portals are a great way to stay connected with your patients. They allow patients to view their medical records, schedule appointments, and even message you directly. This helps to keep patients informed and engaged in their care.

5. Medical Devices Connected to the Internet

There are a number of medical devices that connect to the internet. These devices can be used to monitor vital signs, track physical activity, and even diagnose conditions. By using these devices, you can keep track of your patients’ health remotely.

By using technology in medicine, you can provide better care for your patients and improve their quality of life. Implementing these ideas can help you to save time, money, and resources as well as help people in a better way.

Nurse Sews Over 200 Pillowcases for Sick Children in the Hospital

Nursing Blogs

Steven Briggs

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February 28

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Nurse Sews Over 200 Pillowcases for Sick Children in the Hospital

Phyllis Cayer, of Rhode Island, cares about her community. She’s been sewing up a storm since the start of the pandemic, making hundreds of face masks for those in need. She ended up earning $10,000 in donations, which she gave to her local food pantry in North Kingston. But now she’s back at it again, sewing pillowcases for the children at Hasbro Children’s Hospital.

As a nurse, she has to juggle her time between sewing and caring for patients, which doesn’t leave a lot of room for anything else.

“All my stash. I’m down here from the minute I get home from work hahaha until wee hours of the night,” said Cayer.

As a sewer on a mission, she’s had to rely on donations from the community. “I still will find bags on my front doorstep of yarn or fabric, and I greatly appreciate it. Sewing is not cheap these days,” she said.

She’s been sewing for the kids since the fall and has already made over 200 pillowcases. She thinks of the young ones in need with every stitch.

“While I’m making the stuff, I’m hoping I’m sending good vibes with it to whoever gets these little treasures. I wish them well and hope it puts a smile on their face” Cayer added.

Each pillowcase is unique with a special embroidery pattern, so the kids have something to look at when they go to sleep at night. It also makes the hospital feel more like their room at home.

“They’re quick, they’re easy, and not every kid can get a quilt at the hospital — they could at least get a pillowcase,” said Cayer. “I wash all the fabric first. I make everything and then once everything is made, I wash everything again, steam press it and bag it, so it stays nice and clean.”

She’s enlisted her husband, who works at Lifespan, in the effort as well. He’s in charge of coordinating the drop-off with the hospital, so Cayer can focus on her work.

Having a handmade pillowcase in the hospital is no small thing. This small act of kindness can mean the world to the parents of sick children.

“I work as a pediatric nurse now doing home care and I sometimes see pillowcases or little quilts and stuff, and the moms tell me you know it seems like a little thing, but it means a lot to them that they know somebody cared and it makes it not so clinical,” Cayer explained.

Despite spending nearly all of her time and hundreds of hours sewing, she says the experience is all the reward she needs.

“It’s the best, it makes me feel really good, that’s why I continue to do it. I enjoy it, I thoroughly enjoy it,” Cayer said. “If anybody has any place that knows of a need, I will donate to whatever I’ll keep seeing and let me know who needs what.”

She added that she plans on doing this work for the rest of her life.

Doctors Discover Rouge Tooth Growing Inside Patient’s Nose

Nursing Blogs

Steven Briggs

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February 28

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Doctors Discover Rouge Tooth Growing Inside Patient’s Nose

A 38-year-old man sought medical attention after struggling to breathe through his right nostril for years. But the doctors at a Mount Sinai ear, nose, and throat clinic couldn’t find the source of the problem until they discovered a tooth growing inside his nose. Ectopic teeth have been known to grow in certain parts of the mouth but finding them in the nose is rare.

Growing Pains

The man’s case was recently documented in the New England Journal of Medicine. According to the doctors on staff at Mount Sinai, the man hadn’t suffered any blows to the face, and didn’t have any visible face or head abnormalities.

But he did appear to have a deviated septum, which is when the bone and cartilage that separates the nostrils is off-center or crooked, with bone-like growths protruding out of the back of his nose. The doctors found a 2 cm hole in his septum, which prompted them to perform a rhinoscopy exam.

During the exam, oral and maxillofacial surgeons Dr. Sagar Khanna and Dr. Michael Turner found “a hard, nontender, white mass” in the patient’s right nostril. It had all the qualities of an “inverted ectopic tooth,” an upside-down tooth in the wrong place.

“Computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses showed a well-defined, radiodense mass consistent with an inverted ectopic tooth in the nasal cavity, which was thought to explain the obstructive symptoms and septal perforation,” the study reads.

The patient “was shocked initially, and then happy to know that there was a solution to his issues,” said Khanna, who had never seen a case like this before. While blockages in the sinuses are usually related to the septum, “rarely do you find a foreign body causing obstructive symptoms,” he added.

The surgeons then removed the tooth, which turned out to be 4 millimeters long, without complications. The man started breathing normally again after just three months.

“Follow-up three months after surgery, the patient’s symptoms of nasal obstruction had resolved,” the study adds.

The report notes that most ectopic teeth grow inside the mouth, usually the roof or jawline, when there’s not enough room in the gumline. The condition affects anywhere from 0.1% to 1% of the population, per a 2019 study. Genetics tend to affect orthodontic issues. Women are also more likely to have ectopic teeth, which start growing in the utero.

However, it’s rare to find these rogue teeth affecting the sinuses. The phenomenon was previously documented by the National Health of Institute in 2013 when researchers discovered six cases of teeth growing in the maxilary sinus, or the cavities below the cheeks, above the teeth, and on the sides of the nose.

One patient, a 21-year-old woman, experienced pain and swelling over her cheek for a month, while another 48-year-old woman had heaviness and numbness near her left cheek and lip for months. The other patients included in the study didn’t have major symptoms, but their ectopic teeth were discovered during scans for other procedures.

Clinicians recommend removing stray teeth as quickly as possible even if they aren’t affecting the person’s breathing, as they could become cancerous.

“The main risk of this is that the tooth can bump into the roots of other adult teeth and cause damage, the authors wrote.

“Sometimes this can make them feel wobbly and eventually need to be removed. A cyst can also form around the buried tooth. Some people have a baby tooth left in their mouth, which has not been naturally pushed out by the buried adult tooth. This baby tooth over time may eventually be lost leaving a gap or require further dental treatment to replace it.”

Understanding How THC and THCA Work for Chronic Pain Relief

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February 28

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Chronic pain affects more than 20% of Americans, who often turn to addictive opiates and painkillers for relief. The good news is that research shows Delta-9 THC may be a promising therapeutic agent to relieve chronic pain as effectively as opioids and other commonly used treatments. THCA, another cannabinoid gaining popularity, also shows promise for chronic pain relief, and it might help with different forms of pain than THC.

Here we look at THC vs THCA for relieving chronic pain and its symptoms, including differences in their legality and best product types for pain relief.

How Does THC Work for Chronic Pain?

Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the active ingredient that gives marijuana its psychoactive effects. THC binds with natural cannabinoid receptors throughout the body, particularly CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system.

Many chronic conditions stem from neuropathic pain, which happens when various factors, such as trauma, infections, or inherited diseases, damage the nervous system. When Delta-9 THC binds to receptors related to the nervous system, several effects occur that can help relieve chronic pain:

Boosts happiness levels: THC causes brain cells to release dopamine, a feel-good brain chemical. The Annals of Internal Medicine reported that mood plays a significant role in treating chronic pain, and THC’s mood-boosting effects can significantly help patients reframe their relationship to discomfort.

Regulates pain signals: THC can affect receptors in the brain that interpret pain signals. By changing how our minds receive these signals, THC can control pain thresholds and possibly replace addictive opioid drugs.

Reduces inflammation: Chronic pain often relates to autoimmune disorders and diseases in which inflammation is out of control. THC has anti-inflammatory actions that can reduce inflammation and help people feel more comfortable.

A review of cannabis research gathered from 15,000 participants found that cannabis with higher THC ratios resulted in a “moderate improvement in pain severity.”

According to a NASEM report on randomized clinical trials, THC reduced pain by 40% in numerous health conditions, including:

Peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain from diabetes)
Spinal cord injury
HIV or complex regional pain syndrome
Cancer
Chemotherapy
Muscle and joint problems
Rheumatoid arthritis
Multiple sclerosis

What Is THCA?

THCA, short for tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is another naturally occurring cannabinoid in hemp and cannabis plants. Chemically, it is almost identical to THC, except it contains an extra carboxyl group. This additional ring causes the most significant difference between THC vs THCA. THCA won’t get you high. THCA has a different shape than THC, so it can’t bind to the brain’s receptors that produce marijuana’s euphoric, trippy effects.

Still, THCA and THC are closely related. You can think of THCA as the “precursor” to THC. It mainly exists in young, freshly harvested marijuana plants. As marijuana plants age, a chemical process called decarboxylation removes THCA’s extra molecular ring and converts it into THC.

Heat is the natural catalyst that decarboxylates, or “decarbs,” THCA into THC. Applying heat, such as smoking, vaping, dabbing, or cooking cannabis for edibles, converts nearly all THCA into the psychoactive version, THC.

How Does THCA Work for Chronic Pain?

THCA shares many of THC’s therapeutic qualities. However, its extra carboxyl group also results in different interactions with the human body. For instance, THCA displays some effects more in common with CBD, marijuana’s other widely known cannabinoid.

While THC binds with receptors in the brain to address neuropathic pain, THCA, and CBD seem to primarily affect neurotransmitters responsible for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.

Research shows that THCA has several benefits that can help those with different types of chronic pain:

Anti-Inflammatory: THCA may possess more anti-inflammatory properties than CBD and THC, reducing chronic pain and muscle spasms related to inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Anti-Seizure: Preliminary findings suggest that THCA may help with seizure disorders and spasms related to epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.

Relaxation: THCa can be calming and relaxing without psychoactive effects, similar to CBD products. It can serve as a sleep aid and help with insomnia, a common symptom of chronic pain.

THC vs. THCA: Differences in Legality

Depending on state laws where you live, THC and THCA legality may affect your pain management options.

Many states have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use. But the U.S. government still classifies Delta 9 THC as a Schedule I substance, making it federally illegal. On the other hand, THCA is federally legal.

Best THC Products for Chronic Pain

Many people with chronic pain prefer oral and sublingual extracts, along with smokeable flower.

Smokeable flower: Many users smoke Delta 9 THC directly from the source material, which quickly sends THC to the brain via the circulatory system and can relieve pain in minutes.
Oils, extracts, and tinctures: These versatile options are easy to add to food or beverages or place under the tongue.
Edibles, such as gummies and candies: THC edibles travel through the digestive system, which slows and intensifies their effects. They can relieve pain longer than smoked cannabis, often for four or more hours.

How to Consume THCA for Chronic Pain Relief

Heating cannabis, when smoking or making edibles, will convert THCA into regular Delta-9 THC. To avoid decarboxylation, chronic pain sufferers who want THCA should consume raw cannabis or cold-pressed extracts that don’t involve heating.

Raw cannabis juice: Raw cannabis might be the healthiest and most accessible way to consume THCA for its pure effects alone. Incorporating raw cannabis into a juicing routine and supplementing it with superfoods like dandelion greens, blueberries, or almond milk is popular for better THCA efficacy and taste.
Tinctures or drops: Raw cannabis tinctures have high levels of THCA and are easier to dose and travel with than juicing.
Topicals: Transdermal patches apply to the skin like nicotine patches and stay on for 8-12 hours for localized pain relief.

The Bottom Line

THC and THCA can be promising therapies for different types of chronic pain. Products with higher THC ratios are better for neuropathic pain because THC acts on receptors in our brains and central nervous system. THC’s psychoactive effects also provide an essential mood boost, which can significantly impact treatment.

In raw cannabis form, THCA offers users many therapeutic benefits in line with THC and CBD but without psychoactive effects. Like CBD, THCA can potentially better relieve inflammation, muscle spasms, and seizures. THCA is also federally legal, which can make it more accessible.

Nurses Deserve Better Pay, but Here’s How to Save on General Expenses

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February 27

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As nurses, we work harder than people in most other professions. We’re up at all hours of the day and night, taking care of patients and making sure they’re on the road to recovery. We’re the backbone of the healthcare industry, yet somehow, our pay doesn’t always reflect that. We deserve more, but until that happens, we need to find ways to save on general expenses to make our paychecks go a little further.

That’s where this article comes in. I want to share some tips and tricks for saving money that I’ve picked up over the years, and hopefully, they’ll be helpful for you too. We’ll talk about everything from budgeting to insurance, to shopping and entertainment.

We know the importance of taking care of our patients, but we also need to take care of ourselves. We need to make sure we’re financially secure and able to live comfortable lives without the stress of financial hardship. So, let’s dive in and see how we can make the most of our hard-earned money!

Budgeting

Okay, let’s start with the basics. Budgeting might not be the most exciting thing in the world, but it’s the foundation of saving money. Creating a budget helps you understand where your money is going and where you might be able to cut back. Take a look at your monthly expenses and income, including bills, rent, groceries, and any other costs you have.

Once you have a clear understanding of your finances, you can identify areas where you can cut back. For example, you might be able to save money on groceries by planning meals ahead of time or finding cheaper alternatives for certain items. You could also look at canceling subscriptions or memberships you don’t use.

Housing

Housing is one of the biggest expenses most people have, so finding ways to cut back here can make a big difference. If you’re renting, consider moving to a less expensive apartment or house. You might also think about getting a roommate to share costs. If you own your home, refinancing your mortgage could lower your monthly payments. Alternatively, you could rent out a spare room to generate some extra income.

Transportation

Transportation is another area where you can save money. Carpooling with coworkers or taking public transportation can significantly reduce your costs. If you need a car, consider buying a used one instead of a brand new one. You could also walk or bike to work if it’s feasible.

Insurance

When it comes to monthly costs, your instinct might be to cut back on things like life insurance. With finances so tight, you may ask yourself is term life insurance worth it? If you have any loved ones who are dependent on you, the answer is usually yes.

Term life insurance provides coverage for a specified period, such as 10 or 20 years, and is usually less expensive than permanent life insurance. If you die suddenly, it will cover the daily needs of your loved ones during the hardest time of their lives.

Shopping

Saving money while shopping can be easier than you think. Consider buying generic brands instead of name-brand products. You might also look for sales and coupons to save money on your purchases. Shopping at thrift stores and consignment shops for clothing and other items can save a lot of money. You could even borrow items from friends or family members.

Entertainment

We all need to have some fun, but entertainment expenses can add up quickly. Rather than going out to eat or to the movies, consider having a potluck dinner with friends or hosting a game night at home. You could also explore free activities in your community, such as visiting museums, parks, or attending concerts in the park.

Conclusion

Saving money might not be the most exciting thing in the world, but it’s important for our financial security. As nurses, we deserve to be paid more, but until that happens, we need to make the most of our hard-earned money. By budgeting, cutting back on housing and transportation costs, shopping smarter, and cutting back on entertainment expenses, we can stretch our budgets a little further.

CDC Relaxes COVID Guidance Allowing Most People to Forgo Masks if Hospitalizations Remain Low

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February 25

0

CDC Relaxes COVID Guidance Allowing Most People to Forgo Masks if Hospitalizations Remain Low

The CDC is relaxing its COVID-19 prevention guidelines. Healthy individuals living in areas where transmission do not need to wear masks indoors, a significant change from previous recommendations.

According to new CDC data, approximately 28% of people in the United States live in a county where they must wear masks indoors.

Previously, the CDC cited levels of coronavirus transmission within communities as a key metric for restrictions, recommending that people living in areas with high or substantial levels of transmission (roughly 99% of the population) wear masks indoors.

The CDC’s “Covid-19 community level” metrics are now based in a community on three pieces of data: new Covid-19 hospitalizations, hospital capacity, and new Covid-19 cases.

On the CDC’s website, you can find a list of US counties and their current Covid-19 levels. According to the revised guidelines, more than 70% of the US population lives in a community with low or medium Covid-19 levels. There I s no recommendation for indoor masking in those areas unless you are at potential “increased risk” for Covid-19, in which case the CDC recommends speaking with your health care provider about wearing a mask.

“We’re in a better place today than we were six months ago, six weeks ago, six days ago,” US Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.

“Now it’s time to focus on severity, not just cases, of COVID. Because of all the hard work that’s been done and the many tools we’ve developed to tackle COVID, we can ease the guidance on mask use — not everyone in every place needs to wear a mask.”

The CDC recommends that people get vaccinated and boosted, as well as tested if they have symptoms, at all levels.

In “high”-level areas, the CDC also recommends wearing a mask in public indoor settings, including schools.

If you live in an area with “medium” levels, the CDC recommends speaking with your doctor about wearing a mask if you are at high risk for Covid-19.

There is no recommendation for mask use in areas with “low” Covid-19 community levels.

The CDC advises that anyone who wishes to wear a mask should do so.

“This new framework moves beyond just looking at cases and test positivity, to evaluate factors that reflect the severity of disease — including hospitalizations and hospital capacity — and helps to determine whether the level of Covid-19 and severe disease are low, medium or high in a community,” CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky told reporters during a telebriefing call Friday.

“The Covid-19 community level we are releasing today will inform CDC recommendations on prevention measures, like masking, and CDC recommendations for layered prevention measures will depend on the Covid-19 level in the community,” Walensky said. “This updated approach focuses on directing our prevention efforts towards protecting people at high risk for severe illness and preventing hospitals and health care systems from being overwhelmed.”

Counties with fewer than 200 new Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people in the previous week are considered to have “low” Covid-19 community levels if they have fewer than 10 new Covid-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 or less than 10% of staffed hospital beds occupied by Covid-19 patients on average in the previous week.

Levels are considered “medium” if counties have 10 to nearly 20 new Covid-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 people, or if Covid-19 patients occupy between 10% and 14.9 percent of staffed hospital beds on average in the previous week.

Levels are considered “high” if counties have 20 or more new Covid-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 people, or if Covid-19 patients occupy at least 15% of staffed hospital beds on average in the previous week.

Counties that had 200 or more new Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people in the previous week are not considered to have “low” Covid-19 levels.

They are classified as “medium” if they have fewer than 10 new Covid-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 people or fewer than 10% of staffed hospital beds occupied by Covid-19 patients on average in the previous week.

They are considered “high” if they have 10 or more new Covid-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 people, or if Covid-19 patients occupy at least 10% of staffed hospital beds on average.

The CDC guidance update comes as daily Covid-19 cases in the United States have dropped to a tenth of what they were at their peak last month, according to Johns Hopkins University data.

The 90 percent drop occurred over the course of about six weeks, from an average of more than 802,000 cases per day on January 15 to less than 75,000 now.

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How Does THC Work for Chronic Pain?

What Is THCA?

How Does THCA Work for Chronic Pain?

THC vs. THCA: Differences in Legality

Best THC Products for Chronic Pain

How to Consume THCA for Chronic Pain Relief

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