Why Gums Swell

Swollen gums are relatively common, but can signal an underlying health problem.
list of possible causes:

Having an inflamed gum condition called gingivitis.
Having a fungal or viral infection.
Being malnourished.
Wearing dentures that don't fit properly.
Being pregnant.
Being sensitive to a mouthwash or toothpaste.
Having scurvy.
Experiencing a side effect of certain medications.

Take Steps Toward a Healthier Lifestyle

These small steps toward a healthier you:

* Make just one change at a time, and only when you're ready. Reaching all of your goals may take months, even years.
* Acknowledge that you have some bad habits that you'll need to work hard to change.
* Decide why it's important for you to make these changes, whether it's for yourself or for your family or friends.
* Start with one simple change that will make a difference, such as taking a daily 15-minute walk instead of watching TV.
* Create realistic goals and set deadlines. Make sure you meet those goals, and reward yourself appropriately.

Recognize Symptoms of Hypotension

Hypotension is the medical term for low blood pressure, which means vital organs including the heart and brain may not get enough blood.
symptoms of low blood pressure may include:

* Blurred eyesight.
* Feeling confused or dizzy.
* Fainting.
* Feeling light-headed.
* Feeling sleepy.
* A general feeling of weakness.

If You Have Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion may affect people who spend hours in the sun or very hot weather without drinking enough fluids.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, pale skin, muscle cramps, fatigue and weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or fainting.
Suggests how to cool down when you have symptoms of heat exhaustion:

* Drink plenty cool, non-alcoholic beverages.
* Get enough rest.
* In cool water, take a sponge bath or shower.
* Stay inside in an air conditioned building.
* Wear lightweight clothing.

Coping With Stress

Who isn't stressed these days? Whether it's your job, family, finances, social life, or illness, no one is immune.

Learning to manage the stress in your life can help you live healthier and happier; enjoy your job, family and friends more; and focus your energies on things in life that really count.

These steps to less stress:

* Make a list of the things that cause you the most stress. Write them down, along with the level of stress they cause and how they affect you.
* Take control by deciding which things on the list you can do something about -- and do them.
* Unload and learn to say "no" (this might take some practice). Don't commit to new things because you feel you have to.
* Don't expect perfection from yourself or others.
* Set priorities. Decide what is most important for your family and you, and set time aside for those things, such as family meals, fun time or retirement planning.

At the Heart of a Stent

A coronary stent is a hollow tube-shaped device that is surgically inserted into a blood vessel to keep it open.

coronary stent may be used to treat the following conditions:

• Coronary heart disease.
  
• Peripheral artery disease.
• Renal artery stenosis, for a narrowing of the artery that provides blood to the kidneys.
• Carotid artery disease.
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm, for a bulging of the aorta near the abdomen.

Signs That You May Have Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine and rectum.

symptoms of ulcerative colitis:

• Pain in the abdomen, which often subsides after a bowel movement.
• Unusual gurgling sounds in the abdomen.
• Diarrhea and fever.
• Losing weight.
• Frequent feeling like you need to have a bowel movement.
• Vomiting and nausea.
• Pain in the joints.
• Gastrointestinal bleeding.

Help Control Constipation

Constipation occurs when it becomes difficult or painful to have regular bowel movements. What's "regular" varies by person, however.

Some people have three bowel movements per day, while others have three movements per week.

Here are the academy's suggestions for staying regular:

• When you feel the need to have a bowel movement, don't put it off.
• Schedule time each day to have a bowel movement, such as after a meal.
• Boost your fiber intake.
• Drink plenty of water -- aim for eight glasses each day.
• Don't rely on laxatives, as taking them too frequently can worsen constipation.
• Get regular exercise.
• Avoid sugary and high-fat foods that can contribute to constipation.

Help Prevent Childhood Migraines

Adults aren't the only ones affected by the often disabling pain of a migraine. Many children and teens also are prone to the intense pounding, occasional nausea and "aura" that warns some migraine sufferers.
While there's no sure way to prevent a migraine.
There are certain things that your child can do that may help:

• Eat regularly and don't skip any meals.
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
• Get frequent and consistent exercise.
• Recognize what triggers migraines (examples may include stress or overexertion) and try to avoid those triggers.
• Identify any foods that may trigger a migraine. Common examples are chocolate, caffeine, cheese and processed meats.
• Talk to your child's pediatrician about medication if migraines can't be controlled by other methods.

Understanding Gum Disease

Your risk of developing gum (periodontal) disease increases as you age. Over time, your gums may begin to detach from your teeth.
Left untreated, the supporting bone may dissolve, and when this happens, your teeth may become loose and fall out.
So if you notice that your gums are swollen, red, tender or bleed easily, or that your teeth feel loose, see your dentist as soon as possible. Meanwhile, don't forget to floss and brush your teeth after every meal using a fluoride toothpaste.