Friday, July 29, 2016

3 Reasons To Take Care Of Your Smile

3 Reasons To Take Care Of Your Smile

Do you ever reflect on the knowledge that you can receive restorative dental care when something goes wrong? Does this lead you down a complex rabbit hole, leading you to the sudden thought that perhaps caring for your oral health is a complete waste of time? Why brush and floss when you can avoid dental hygiene sessions and then visit us for repairs? Actually – it’s a bit more complex than this.

Allow us to offer some helpful reasons to remain dedicated to preventive dental care

Reason #1: Daily Maintenance Yields Long-Term Results

As you likely know, we suggest that you brush your teeth every day (two times, that is), floss your smile once daily, and schedule a time to see us twice a year for an exam and cleaning. The more you remain consistent with this method, the longer your teeth remain whole and healthy.

Reason #2: Avoiding Problems Is More Comfortable

If your smile is free of problems like tooth decay or infection and your teeth are undamaged, your nerves will remain unexposed, calm, and comfortable. As a result, you won’t need to worry about problematic sensitivity or discomfort. Keeping your oral health in good shape means you will enjoy a smile that functions successfully and feels just fine.

Reason #3: A Healthy Smile Is A Budget-Friendly Smile

Let’s say you take great care of your oral health – you will need to spend money each year on toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, and two preventive care visits. Now, let’s say you avoid caring for your smile – the cost of your restorative care treatments will exceed the cost of prevention (which you will continue to require even if you receive restorations). Keep your wallet full by protecting the well being of your smile.

Do you have more questions?

Make an appointment by calling 0925-567-5329 • 0908-865-5662 • 0917-566-1932 • 458-0717 and schedule a consultation today.

Visit us at BRITANNIA MEDICAL CENTER - The Enclave
Enclave Complex, Fil-Am Friendship Road, Angeles City.
britanniamed@gmail.com || www.britanniamedicalcenter.ph || britanniamedicalcenter.blogspot.com

Sunday, July 17, 2016

Beauty marks, Moles or Skin Cancer?

Beauty marks, Moles or Skin Cancer?

Moles which are cancerous tend to pose a serious threat especially if diagnosed late without taking advantage of proper treatment options. It is however very important to understand the fact that not all moles are cancerous though all normal moles can turn to be cancerous in the long run especially when the skin is overly exposed to the UV rays from the sun.

As an adult, in the event that you notice that the number of moles on your skin is increasing, you should take precautions since moles rarely grow during adulthood. Failure to do might easily lead to cancer of the skin.

How to establish the cancerous nature of moles

First off, these type of moles are usually pink, brown and tan like. They also tend to appear flat and smooth sometimes raised. Some may look flat in the beginning and then elevate eventually. Take note, moles which are normal tend to be oval in shape or in some cases circular. Remember, cancer moles are completely different from normal moles both in terms of color, shape, size and appearance.

Symptoms of Cancer Moles

They include:

Height – these moles tend to be overly elevated and quick to change in size. Taking this into consideration, in the event that you start to notice any increase or decrease in the diameter, color or shape of the mole or in case it starts to bleed, you should immediately consult a medical specialist.

Size – the average size of any more is 6mm on average. You should therefore have your mole checked by a doctor in case it seems bigger than normal.

Asymmetry – moles tend to look alike even when they are divided. Picture this, you divide the mole into two equal parts and then make a comparison. In case you notice that the two look different. Consult your dermatologist immediately.

Shade – normal moles have the same color throughout. Taking this into consideration, any mole which has varied colors should be treated as very suspicious. Take note, a scalp of moles which is cancerous can easily have different shades such as brown, red, black etc. this symptom is quite striking hence should always be addressed immediately.

Precautionary steps for cancer moles

In case you have a history with moles then it is strongly advised that you carry out a monthly check on your body. Remember, moles on the back are very common amongst males while moles on the lower section of the body have been found to be common in women. It is however recommended that you check the whole body especially after taking a shower or whenever your skin gets wet. In the process of checking, it is strongly advised that you closely check on regions such as the armpits and neck as well as the back of the knees.

Treatment for cancerous moles

Removing a tissue is done for the purpose of testing. This is clearly evident from the fact that when a mole is detected as having been cancerous then the dermatologist would go ahead and get rid of the entire mole from the affected area.

Almost all skin cancers are curable if diagnosed early. So if you notice changes in your skin, it is worth looking into. You should be doing a monthly skin cancer self-exam, and better still you can always snap a pic of a mole or mark each month to note any changes.

You should be doing a monthly skin cancer self-exam, and better still you can always snap a pic of a mole or mark each month to note any changes.

Plan to make an appointment with a dermatologist and finally get these moles and marks checked out.

Do you have more questions?

Wednesday, June 8, 2016

9 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR CHILDREN’S TEETH HEALTHY

No kid enjoys sitting in a dentist’s chair with an adult’s latex-gloved hands in their tiny mouth. Cavities always prolong the experience, and often include some scary instruments that would make anyone cringe.

The best way to keep your child’s dental visits as quick and painless – and to keep their smiles healthy as they grow up – is to help your child to develop healthy habits early on. These 9 tips, along with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, will help you do just that.

Don’t share food and drink. Because cavities are caused by bacteria, they can actually be contagious! Not sharing food and drink will ensure that any cavity causing bacteria you or your child’s friends may have is not passed along to your child.
Avoid frequent snacking. A constant influx of foods, and especially sugary foods, creates the perfect environment for the growth of bacteria-causing cavities. Wherever possible, limit your child’s snacking to healthy foods only, and encourage them to brush their teeth or gargle with water whenever possible after they are finished.
Eat crisp, water-dense fruits. Fruits with high water content such as watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, and peaches can help keep your child’s mouth hydrated, and are particularly useful in a lunchbox meal.
Avoid unnecessary sugars. Ok, this one is a no-brainer, but especially where teeth are concerned. Soda, candies, and other high-sugar foods should be consumed in moderation, if at all.
Keep fruit juices to a minimum. While they are a much healthier alternative to sodas, fruit juices can be both acidic and sweet, two qualities that can wreak havoc on a child’s teeth. Encourage your child to consume them in moderation.
Drink lots of water. Water should always be the drink of choice. While bottled water is fine, drinking fluoridated tap water is best for your child’s dental health.
Consider a dental sealant. Talk to your dentist about placing dental sealants on your child’s teeth. These thin, plastic coatings on the chewing surface of your child’s teeth can protect them from tooth decay and prevent cavities down the line.
Avoid sticky foods. Foods that are sticky, such as fruit rollups, candies, and cookies can linger in the mouth and create growth opportunities for sugar-feeding bacteria that cause cavities.
Lean towards cheeses and nut butters. Nuts and cheeses have ingredients that can help remineralize a child’s teeth, and are great additions to any lunchbox. If your child has a nut allergy, soy nut butter may be an option. However, be sure to talk to your child’s allergist to determine if soy nut butter is safe for your child to consume.

Do you have more questions?

Make an appointment by calling 0925-567-5329 • 0908-865-5662 • 0917-566-1932 • 458-0717 and schedule a consultation today.

Visit us at BRITANNIA MEDICAL CENTER - The Enclave
Enclave Complex, Fil-Am Friendship Road, Angeles City.
britanniamed@gmail.com || www.britanniamedicalcenter.ph || britanniamedicalcenter.blogspot.com

Wednesday, June 1, 2016

HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD OVERCOME HIS FEAR OF DOCTORS

Be around your child

Having a parent around makes the child feel comfortable. Sometimes, you may have grandparents accompany them to the pediatrician’s. But thinking from a child’s perspective, they need to see their mommy or daddy around. The last thing a child wants to see is that he or she is around unfamiliar faces which may render another round of those unbearable tantrums.

Distraction is the remedy

This may not be a do-all but certainly assists in keeping your kid’s panic under control. Keep them distracted by reading them the ‘Goldilocks’ or buy them the doctor’s kit and coat so they can play and pretend what might happen in the doctor’s room. This may help take off the doctor’s fear from the child’s mind. Best would be to bring their favorite stuffed teddy or the miniature car along.
Avoid talks that confuse them

Let’s face it – we fear doctor shots as much as kids do. No matter what you say, your child is hardly going to be the obedient one about it. Better refrain from using words that may confuse them. ‘Don’t be afraid’, ‘It won’t hurt’, ‘Don’t cry’, ‘She won’t do anything to you’, are words that make kids’ minds think exact opposite. Try and be positive around them. Pacify them by saying, ‘You’re a strong kid’, ‘It will be over before you know’, etc.

Coat it up with sweets and candies

Provide your kid something to look forward to. This much is clear that nothing but how you wrap it up for your child can make the doctor’s visit pleasant. Praise them, hug them, and shower them with kisses. Try taking them to a candy or ice-cream shop to win them over. This might just make the next trip a lot easier.

Don’t feel terrible if your child is not a model patient. More importantly, never let your child feel guilty for being anxious. With careful guidance and enough patience, your kid will soon find trips to the pediatrician wonderful instead of frightening.

Do you have more questions?

Thursday, May 19, 2016

BLEEDING DURING PREGNANCY: NORMAL OR NOT?

It can be terrifying for a mom-to-be to experience bleeding during her pregnancy. However, bleeding does not always indicate a miscarriage. Studies show that 25-40 percent of women will experience some vaginal bleeding during the first trimester of their pregnancy.

Here are some reasons why a pregnant woman is experiencing bleeding during her pregnancy:

Implantation bleeding

This occurs about 4 weeks into your pregnancy as the fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine lining. It can result to a light spotting or streaking (streaks of blood). It usually lasts for one or two days around the time of implantation or when the period would have been due. Some women would think they simply had light period and don’t realize they are pregnant.

Bleeding after intercourse

This is one of the most common causes of bleeding during pregnancy. It is important to remember, though, that this is completely harmless and is caused by the increased blood supply and softening of the cervix. A cervical polyp (a benign growth on the cervix) can also cause spotting or bleeding after an intercourse

Pap smear or internal exam

A pregnant woman may experience spotting during a Pap smear or internal exam for the same reasons: greater blood flow in the cervix or a cervical polyp.

Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implanted itself outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. As the embryo keeps growing, it can cause the fallopian tube to burst, which can threaten the mother’s life. Although it is potentially dangerous, this happens to only about 2% of pregnancies. Other symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include sharp abdominal cramps, dizziness, and pain in the shoulder, neck or rectum.

Infection

Spotting may also be caused by conditions unrelated to pregnancy. A vaginal infection or sexually transmitted infection can cause the cervix to become inflamed or irritated. An inflamed cervix is prone to spotting after sex or a Pap smear.

Placental abruption

This happens when the placenta starts to come away from the inner wall of the womb before the baby is born. In most cases, the placenta just comes away at the edge and may cause a small amount of bleeding. But if there is a large amount of blood, the placenta may be partially or completely separated from the lining of the womb. This is a serious matter because the abruption can deprive oxygen and nutrients to the baby. It is best to call a doctor once the signs of placental abruption like tenderness on the belly,back pains, and frequent contractions are felt.

Threatened or Actual Miscarriage

Miscarriage, or spontaneous abortion, is most common during the first 12 weeks of the pregnancy. A miscarriage of this kind is often a result of a damaged fetus. The woman’s body is just doing its job to reject a pregnancy that is unable to survive its complications. Common signs of miscarriage include bleeding, cramping, stomach pains, and the signs of pregnancy (nausea, sore breasts, and bloated tummy) disappear.

No matter how light or heavy the bleeding is, it is advised for the mother to turn to her doctor for medical help, especially if she is more than 20 weeks pregnant. However, in most cases, bleeding (particularly in the early stage) settles spontaneously and the pregnancy continues unharmed.

Do you have more questions?

Tuesday, May 3, 2016

5 REASONS TO SCRAPE YOUR TONGUE EVERY DAY

#1 IMPROVES THE BREATH:

Removing the bacteria, food debris, fungi, and dead cells from the tongue significantly reduces the odor from the mouth. You may have been told to use your toothbrush for this purpose, but brushing the tongue does NOT efficiently remove all of the film that develops on the tongue. You will be blown away the first time you do this by the amount of gunk that comes off of the tongue.

#2 IMPROVES YOUR ABILITY TO TASTE:

Removing build-up from the surface of your tongue will better expose your taste buds. This will lead to better enjoyment of the flavors of your food. Ayurveda teaches that the better we enjoy and savor our food, the better our bodies digest and assimilate, leading to better over all health. Also, Ayurveda teaches that blocked taste buds and tongue receptors interferes with our body’s ability to communicate with our brain about what types of foods we need to maintain our health, leading to false cravings.

#3 AVOID TOXINS BEING REABSORBED INTO YOUR BODY:

As you sleep, your body is detoxifying. Much of the film on your tongue is toxins excreted from your body. You don’t want to re-ingest that do you? NO! Scraping your tongue first thing in the morning will remove this sludge from your tongue and from your body, improving your over all health and improving your immune system.

#4 IMPROVES DENTAL HEALTH:

By removing bacteria and toxins, you are also contributing to better dental health as well, leading to healthier teeth and gums. The bacteria that you remove from your tongue are responsible for things like periodontal problems, plaque build-up, tooth decay, gum infections, gum recession, and even loss of teeth.

#5 GET TO KNOW YOUR TONGUE:

Did you know your tongue is a mirror reflection of your internal organs? Just like with hand or foot mapping, the tongue is mapped out to reflect various parts of your internal body. You can learn so much about what is going on in particular areas just by looking at your tongue every morning. Also, by scraping your tongue, you are actually stimulating and massaging those corresponding internal organs, just like in acupressure or acupuncture. Pretty cool, huh?

WHERE TO BUY A TONGUE SCRAPER:

Bad-breath bacteria is hiding in the nooks and crannies at the back of your tongue.
What do you do? One quick spritz of the BreathRx Anti-Bacterial Tongue Spray immediately starts killing these nasty bacteria.
The spray offers added strength where you need it most - your tongue! Just think... all that power in a light, penetrating spray. Use BreathRx Anti-Bacterial Tongue Spray and the BreathRx Gentle Tongue Scraper for a clean sweep!

To avail this product,
Visit us at BRITANNIA MEDICAL CENTER - The Enclave
Enclave Complex, Fil-Am Friendship Road, Angeles City.
0925-567-5329 • 0908-865-5662 • 0917-566-1932 • 458-0717
britanniamed@gmail.com || www.britanniamedicalcenter.ph || britanniamedicalcenter.blogspot.com

Do you have more questions?

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

ARE DIABETICS MORE LIKELY TO ACQUIRE STDS?

When people talk about diabetes, the aspect of sex doesn’t often come up. The truth is, discussing health-related questions regarding sex is important and beneficial for those with diabetes. Rather than tagging this information as taboo, knowing more entails a more equipped mind and perception on this issue. So you take medicine for Diabetes, and it’s now time to talk about sex and how it is different or the same for those with this disease. One of the most important things to discuss is this question:

ARE DIABETICS MORE OR LESS LIKELY GET SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES THAN THOSE WHO ARE NOT?

Diabetes raises the risk of sexual dysfunction in both men and women. Because of this, many assume that risk of acquiring STD is far less than normal. After all, you’re not really prone to getting any STD if you’re not getting “it” right? This assumption is false.

First of all, there are optional treatments for those with sexual dysfunction affiliated with diabetes. A man with low testosterone can have testosterone replacement therapy, or possibly a much simpler solution such as losing weight. Other things that play an issue can be damage to the vascular system that can blood flow, nerve function, and low estrogen; these may be difficult to deal with but not impossible, as there are various treatment options available.

That aside, a diabetic who has sexual intercourse are more susceptible to acquiring sexually transmitted diseases. They are prone to dry, cracked skin, making them more vulnerable to acquiring STDs from an infected partner. As such, it is highly advisable to practice safe sex and to be aware of their partner’s sexual history and health status.

WHAT CAN I DO?

While diabetes does affect your sex life in some ways, this doesn’t mean you have to give it up completely. It may be difficult and frustrating at times, yes, but certainly not impossible. First of all, keep focusing on staying healthy overall; keep your sugar level down and maintain a healthy diet. Exercise regularly and be hydrated at all times. Get enough sleep!

When it comes to sex, be careful about who you sleep with. As previously mentioned, make sure you talk to your partner and that both of you have thoroughly discussed possible risks. Never forget to use a condom and other protection such as a dental dam if you are about to practice coitus. Do not hesitate to consult with a doctor and seek treatment right away if you suspect an STD. Lastly, know that sex is not the only way you can be intimate with your partner. There are lots of other ways to bond with each other that does not involve intercourse!

Diabetics may be more prone to acquiring STD but that doesn’t mean there is no way whatsoever to prevent this from happening. As mentioned above, there are plenty of ways to lower your risk. Above all, it is best to be well-informed about the topic. Although, for some people, sex talks might be a very touchy subject to talk about, this notion and perception should be towed away; especially if your health is on the line.

Do you have more questions?