dclcd

Respiration is one of the important functions of man. Thus having a regular supply of oxygen in out body is vital. But for those who are having problems with their supply of oxygen making them dependent to outside source, they need oxygen regulators. These are valves that manipulate the in and out of oxygen from a tank to the outlet or any delivery tool. In the hospitals, it is important because it regulates the flow of oxygen preventing any occurrences of high-pressure oxygen which is generally fatal.

The regulator controls the pressure of oxygen gas which is contained in a compressed oxygen tank. It makes use of downstream gas pressure to manipulate the pressure of gas. A spring is in place to even out the force attaching itself to a valve that opens or closes according to the pressure of the gas. There is a diaphragm attached to the valve system and spring regulating the pressure of gas and allowing only a specific amount of gas to pass through the system.

This instrument is a gas-pressure regulator, not a gas flow control regulator. Its three parts include loading, sensing and control mechanisms. The first which is the loading mechanism recognized the setting of the pressure which is the allowed one the pass through the regulator often accomplished with the use of a pre-tensioned spring. The second part which is the sensing mechanism senses the amount of pressure and sets the pressure for delivery to the delivery instrument. This is often a diaphragm attached to a spring and valve system. And lastly, the control mechanism is the valve that opens and closes to avoid gases with excessive pressure to go through the delivery instrument.

This products have a number of uses in different fields, may it be in health or recreation such as scuba diving. They are vital in controlling the amount of oxygen reaching the body. Oxygen is an important gas but can also be fatal especially when it is at high pressure. These regulators are pressure regulators meaning they come under the type of pressure regulators called special service regulators. They are engineered to regulate the pressure of oxygen gas from oxygen tank instead of controlling the flow.

At Wheelchairs Abound, they cover a number or oxygen accessories including adult and child nebulizer, oxygen tank holder and oxygen regulators. Although they are dealers of wheelchairs, they included such items that can be attached to the wheelchairs to add to its other features. Some may opt to have oxygen tanks always with them thus they will be needing oxygen holders and regulators. They are committed to offering quality-tested regulators favored for their functional ability in a variety of conditions.

Whether a leg has been injured due to an accident or surgery, it’s important to be aware of the necessities to own while the leg is healing. First, when a leg is healing, it’s important to keep off it as much as possible. This doesn’t mean that walking around shouldn’t happen at all, but keeping off the leg will speed up the healing process. When walking, be sure to use underarm crutches, even if it feels like the leg is getting better and the crutches aren’t needed. Taking the weight of the leg will help it to heal faster until it is back up to 100%. For those who have undergone surgery, be sure to apply ice or heat to the leg on a regular basis. This will reduce the pain caused by the injury, and make it more bearable to sit for extended periods of time. Since there is a lot of sitting and resting involved with a leg injury, be sure to have activities to stay occupied.

Never remove bandages or stop taking medication unless confirmed first by a doctor. When patients go out and do their own thing without doctor permission, it often causes their injury to relapse.

Common microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi (mold, mildew) are found all around use and can cause a wide range of problems for almost any product. The AEGIS Microbe Shield controls these problems by providing odor protection in wheelchair upholstery, reduced bio-loading, and stain and deterioration control in linens and medical garments. All of these benefits come from the unique properties provided by the AEGIS Microbe Shield technology. Everything from socks to hospital linens and shirts to carpeting are protected by the AEGIS Microbe Shield technology. The AEGIS Microbe Shield successfully protects even high performance applications, such as surgical drapes where safety and performance are paramount. When a product displays the AEGIS Microbe Shield certification mark, it provides consumers with the confidence that the product is protected by the most advanced anti-microbial on the market today. Treating performance wear with the AEGIS Microbe Shield technology has many benefits. The AEGIS Microbe Shield technology controls the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungi, reducing odor, staining and deterioration which is the most common result of repeatedly using medical equipment. Freshness is assured with the AEGIS Microbe Shield technology:

• Protection against microbial growth without leaching onto the skin or crossing the skin barrier
• Controls or eliminates objectionable odors, unsightly stains, and product deterioration
• Ideal surface for prolonged sitting

Effective against a wide range of microorganisms from bacteria to fungal contamination like mold, mildew, algae and yeast; which helps to reduce the breakdown of skin.   

Abbreviated DVT, Deep Vein Thrombosis is a condition in which a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body. The leg is the most common origin. DVT is a serious condition. If fragments of a deep vein thrombosis break loose, they can be carried to the lungs, in doing so, they could block the flow of blood. This is called a pulmonary embolism; which can be fatal.
                                                                                                                                                                          

Common Symptoms – Leg pain is one of the symptoms; but DVT can and often does occur without any symptoms. This attributes to DVT being called a “silent killer.”                                                                         

Causes- Deep vein thrombosis can have many causes, such as prolonged sitting or an inherited blood-clotting disorder that increases your risk of DVT. Knowing the symptoms and risk factors for DVT can help you avoid serious complications of this disorder.                                                                                                                                                                                                   Risk Factors of DVT                                                                                                                                                                         Prolonged sitting, such as when driving long distances or flying.
The contraction of leg muscles facilitates the re-circulation of blood back to your heart. Although it is working against gravity, this process keeps the blood in your legs from clotting. Keeping your legs inert for long periods of time denies your body this circulation boost and can lead to a thrombus. In 2008 more than 2,000 Americans died from travel-related DVT strokes.                                                                                                          

 Inheriting a blood-clotting disorder.
Unfortunately, some people inherit a disorder that makes their blood clot more easily. This inherited condition is more likely to cause problems when combined with one or more other risk factors.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Surgery or Injury

Prolonged bedrest or hospital stay

Pregnancy.
Pregnancy increases the pressure in the veins in your legs and pelvis. In which case, women with an inherited clotting disorder are especially at risk. The risk of blood clots from pregnancy can continue for up to six weeks after you give birth.                                                                           Smoking.
Smoking affects blood cell reproduction, blood clotting and circulation.                                                                                                        

Overweight or obesity.
Being overweight increases the pressure in the veins in your legs and pelvis.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Ways to help prevent DVTTake Precautions when traveling:
Stay well hydrated, avoid alcohol beverages, and take hourly breaks from sitting by  walking around, where applicable. The extra legroom of an aisle or business-class seat may help with occasionally stretching legs. For those at a higher risk, below-the-knee compression stockings or medication may be needed. There are well-established guidelines for preventing DVT in many medical situations, particularly after surgery. Consult your physician. Making lifestyle changes may also be helpful:
Losing weight if you’re obese may help reduce your risk of DVT. 

Although it may seem carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition from long hours working on a computer keyboard, carpal tunnel syndrome actually has numerous causes.

Bound by bones and ligaments, the carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway — about as big around as your thumb — located on the palm side of your wrist. This tunnel protects a main nerve to your hand and nine tendons that bend your fingers. Pressure placed on the nerve produces the numbness, pain and, eventually, hand weakness that characterize carpal tunnel syndrome.

Fortunately, for most people who develop carpal tunnel syndrome, proper treatment usually can relieve the pain and numbness and restore normal use of their wrists and hands.

Carpal tunnel syndrome typically starts gradually with a vague aching in your wrist that can extend to your hand or forearm

Some people with mild symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can ease their discomfort by taking more-frequent breaks to rest their hands and applying cold packs to reduce occasional swelling. If these techniques don’t offer relief, carpal tunnel syndrome treatment options include wrist splinting, medications and surgery.

Yoga and other relaxation techniques may help with chronic pain that occurs with some muscle and joint conditions. Yoga postures designed for strengthening, stretching and balancing each joint in the upper body, as well as the upper body itself, may help reduce the pain and improve the grip strength of people with carpal tunnel syndrome.

You may have to experiment to find a treatment that works for you. Still, always check with your doctor before trying any complementary or alternative treatment.

 Our bodily function changes as we age. Eating problems caused by the decline of physiological functions are common among the elderly. This can result in an imbalanced diet that may subsequently affect nutritional status. With proper dietary modifications, these eating problems can be resolved.

1. Chewing difficulties

·         Cut food into smaller pieces by chopping or grinding, modify food texture by pureeing with blenders before eating, cook food thoroughly until tender, or add sauces.

·         Visit dentists regularly and wear well-fitted dentures.

2. Reduced taste

·         Encourage chewing and ensure proper dental hygiene.

·         Avoid cigarette smoking.

3. Dry mouth

·         Ensure adequate fluid intake.

·         Provide food with sauces, gravies or clear soup, or soften bread or crackers with milk or soup.

·         Drink some water to moisten the mouth before meals or chew on some pickles or fresh lemon slices to stimulate saliva secretion.

4. Poor appetite

·         Have small, frequent meals supplemented with nutrient dense snacks

·         Eating utensils, that are lightweight that will aide in the ability to eat

·         Food bumpers can be used to prevent spills

With age may come wisdom and, all too frequently, a fall. Falls are common causes of serious injuries. One out of every three people over 65 falls annually in the U.S.  Falls are the most common cause of injuries among senior citizens and the top reason for a hospital admission for trauma. Advanced age substantially increases the likelihood of hospitalization after a fall. Falls account for 87% of all fractures among people aged 65 years or older. For seniors, fractures are the most serious consequence of falls (short of death). The most common bones to fracture in falls are:   

• The hip, femur (thigh bone), pelvis, and vertebrae (spine);       
• The humerus (upper arm bone), forearm, and hand; and       
• The leg and ankle bones.

What medical factors increase the chance of a fall?      

• Visual impairment. Disorders of the nervous system. Joint and muscle problems. Difficulties in gait and balance. Medications which induce sleepiness.

How can falls be prevented?      

Physical activity to improve strength, mobility and flexibility in seniors; Limiting sleep-inducing medications whenever possible; Appropriate treatment of underlying medical conditions; Environmental modifications such as installing grab bars, removing tripping obstacles, and maintaining sufficient lighting; And some common sense doesn’t hurt.

Good eye health is important to our independence; but depending on someone else to administer your eye drops can be frustrating. There’s a nifty little item I found on WheelchairsAbound, that may make inserting your own eye drops a possibility.   

This inexpensive ($4.82) gadget holds the eye open and directs the drops, allowing for accurated eye drop installation! It conveniently clips into place and positions the bottle at the correct angle over the eye. There’s a special cup which prevents blinking by keeping the lower eyelid open while a small pinhole directs eyesight upward and away from the descending drops. Someone had everyone in mind when they designed this useful product!

Pressure Sore Risk Factors:

The elderly and people with mobility problems are at a greater risk for pressure sores.
Incontinence is also a contributor, along with malnutrition and dehydration.  Certain medications can also be an attributing factor.

Signs and Symptoms of Pressure Sore Development:

• Discoloration: In lighter-skin, the skin may turn red or dark purple.  Darker-skinned the area may become darker than normal.
• There may be a bad smell from the area
• Redness or warmth around the sore
• Swelling around the sore
• Tenderness, pain around the sore
• Thick yellow or green pus
• Size of pressure sores are variable, they can go down into the muscle, or even to the bone.
• Further reduction in mobility

 Pressure Sore Prevention:

Relieving pressure: Position must be changed on a regular basis, at least every two hours, and in the very frail at least every hour.
Good Diet: A good and balanced diet contributes to healing, as well as avoiding severe nutritional decline and loss of weight
Skin Care: Keep the skin clean. Moisture should be minimized. Skin care products should be used that moisturize the skin but do not make it wet or soggy.
Use continence aids if a person is unable to control their bladder or bowels. Pads, diapers, convenes or catheterizing.
Inspect the skin to see if any redness or breaks in the skin are developing.
Use products to relieve and treat pressure sores; airbeds, foam bed, bed and chair protectors, chair products, continence aids can all contribute to avoiding of bed sores.

The American Heart Association states the following:

Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for developing coronary artery disease and stroke. It also contributes to other risk factors, including obesity, high blood pressure, a low level of HDL (“good”) cholesterol and diabetes. Even modest levels of physical activity are beneficial.

The AHA says that older adults and those with disabilities can gain significant health benefits with a moderate amount of physical activity, preferably daily. Physical activity doesn’t need to be strenuous to bring health benefits. What’s important is to include physical activity as part of a regular routine.

For older adults, this moderate amount of activity can come from

• longer sessions of moderately intense activities such as walking or swimming
• shorter sessions of more vigorous activities such as fast walking, moon-rocking or stair-climbing

Greater amounts of physical activity can bring more benefits. But it shouldn’t be done excessively, or your risk of injury will increase.

People with disabilities are less likely to engage in regular moderate physical activity. Still, they can benefit from 

• moderately intense activities (such as 30–40 minutes of using a manual wheelchair)
• shorter sessions of more intense activity (such as 20 minutes of wheelchair basketball)