It is important to recognize the differences between heart attack and angina episodes. However, if you are not sure, do not hesitate in seeking medical help immediately.

What are the 3 main differences between a heart attack and angina?

1. The amount of blood flow/oxygen getting to the heart

A heart attack involves one or more coronary (heart) arteries becoming totally obstructed. This results in no blood flow and oxygen getting to the heart muscle and results in the death of the heart muscle and permanent damage to it.

With angina, the blood flow is temporarily reduced to the heart muscle. As a result, the heart receives less blood flow and oxygen. However, the heart does not die with angina, although it can become weakened over time with repeated angina episodes.

2. When they occur

With heart attacks, they can occur anytime and it does not have to be when your heart has been doing anything too much.

Angina, on the other hand, usually occurs when the heart is working hard and is under stress due to doing physical activity, being psychologically stressed, being in a very hot or cold environment, or after you have consumed a big meal.

3. Whether the pain goes away

In heart attacks, the pain or discomfort will not disappear with rest or medication that you have been prescribed for your angina.

With angina, once you rest or take your prescribed angina medication, the pain or discomfort should go away. If the pain does not go away after 10 minutes of doing this, then you need to call for an ambulance.

So as you can see, heart attacks and angina episodes are two different things.

If angina is not a heart attack, then is it something to be concerned about?

Even though angina is not a heart attack, you do need to pay attention to it as it is a warning sign that your heart is not working effectively. Sometimes, angina can lead to a heart attack.

When should you consult your doctor for angina?

Of course, if this is the first time that you are experiencing chest pain, and have never before received a diagnosis of angina, then you should seek immediate attention from your local emergency department.

If you have previously been diagnosed with angina, and you notice that it begins to occur more often, come on without the usual triggers (exertion, stress), or lasts longer than usual, then again you should see a doctor immediately.

In summary, it is very important to learn the differences between heart attacks and angina. If, at any time, you are not sure though what you are experiencing, always seek medical help right away!

In my post “Bartholin’s Cysts – The Rarely Discussed Nightmare“, I talk about my experience with one of the most uncomfortable vaginal problems, along with some of the self help remedies I, and others have tried.

There seems to be a huge lack of knowledge about these cysts which, when they abscess cause great pain and require immediate surgery to deal with them – unless you are brave enough to try to burst and drain them yourself at home.

Let’s just remind ourselves of what we are dealing with here.

The Bartholin’s Glands

Here’s what the NHS says:

The Bartholin’s glands are a pair of pea-sized glands found just behind and either side of the lips that surround the entrance to the vagina. The glands are not usually noticeable because they’re rarely larger than 1cm (0.4 inches) across. The Bartholin’s glands secrete fluid that acts as a lubricant during sex. The Bartholin’s Glands.  (Source).

Bartholin’s Cysts

Sometimes the openings of these glands become obstructed, causing fluid to back up into the gland. The result is relatively painless swelling called a Bartholin’s cyst. If the fluid within the cyst becomes infected, you may develop a collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue (abscess).

BUT if the cyst grows and becomes painful, in all likelihood it has become an abscess (or is infected)and will need medical treatment – antibiotics in the first instance and if it continues either marsupialisation or the insertion of a word catheter to help it drain.

I had a marsupialisation of a large Bartholin’s abscess about 10 years ago.

For those suffering persistent Bartholin’s cysts / abscesses, the last step is removal of the actual Bartholin’s Glands themselves.

What do you do if you have a cyst?

The problem for sufferers is knowing how their cyst is going to behave and whether it will develop into an abscess.

My GP prescribes antibiotics at the first twinge which seem to have prevented, if not swollen glands, then certainly another abscess.

Constantly taking antibiotics is not ideal so many sufferers try home remedies such as Phoebe’s Cure and a combination of sitz baths and various supplements.

I thought it would be useful to list some of the treatments that are used in case you would like to try them for yourself.

These are, of course, no substitute for seeking qualified medical advice but if you can head one of these evil things off at the pass, so to speak, that can only be a good thing.

Note, however, that if you have a temperature, are in pain or feel in any way unwell then you must seek medical advice.   I should also point out that these home remedies are undertaken at your own risk.

Home remedies for Bartholin’s Cysts and Abscesses

Before trying these, you need to decide whether, in the case of a small cyst that is not otherwise bothering you, it is better to leave it alone.  The vulval and vaginal skin is very delicate and applying things such as Tea Tree Oil may cause you some discomfort.  Proceed with caution.

Phoebe’s Cure

You’ll need:-

• 1 oz calamine lotion
• 1 tsp tea tree oil
• 1 tsp witch hazel

Put all these on a cotton pad or gauze and apply for one hour (or longer).  Other sufferers have had better results by increasing the ingredients to, for example, 6 oz of calamine and 2 teaspoons of tea tree oil and witch hazel.  You may need to play around with the ‘recipe’ to find what works best for you.

Sitz Bath

You can buy sitz baths from Amazon – a plastic bowl which fits over your toilet and allows you to ‘sit’ in it to bathe your nether regions in warm water. Otherwise just fill your bath tub with water up to your hips. Try adding Epsom Salts or some sea salt if you don’t have anything else to hand.  Soak for around 20 minutes 3-4 times a day – depending on how painful your cyst or abscess is.

Hot water bottle

You could try getting the cyst to ‘pop’ by sitting on a hot water bottle but make sure it is wrapped in a muslin cloth or tea towel to avoid burning yourself.

Hot compress

Alternatively, you could use a washcloth dipped in hot water and carefully wrung out. Apply the compress for 10 minutes and repeat 4 times each day.

Tea Tree Oil or Witch Hazel

Add a couple of drops to a cotton pad and apply.  Check first whether you need to dilute it.

Prid

This is a homoeopathic drawing salve that claims to ‘draw out’ the pus and infection. Its main ingredients are: carbolic acid, arnica, calendula, echinacea and sulphur in an ointment of beeswax, petrolatum and parabens.  Apply direct or on a gauze pad.

A much cheaper alternative would be Magnesium Sulphate Paste, a topical treatment for skin infections such as boils and carbuncles (so roughly similar). Prid is a US product which you may not be able to get hold of so easily in the UK.

Silica supplement

Silica is a trace mineral which is only required by the body in small amounts.  It is said to support joint structures, hair, skin and nail health whilst its efficacy for Bartholin’s Cysts seems to be anecdotal.

Silicea 10 homoeopathic remedy

There seems to be some confusion between silica and silicea 10, a homoeopathic remedy for cysts.  I have tried the latter on numerous occasions.  These are little sugar pills you place beneath your tongue until they dissolve.

Serrapeptase supplement

Serrapeptase is an enzyme which acts as an anti-inflammatory and an analgesic.  It is said to boost antibiotic activity and tackle bacterial resistance.  There are huge claims made for Serrapeptase but again, its reputation seems to be based on hearsay.  I have taken this supplement on many occasions but am not sure whether it made much difference.  You are advised to take these on an empty stomach so watch the dose as the stronger ones can upset your stomach a little.

Caster Oil

Caster Oil may help cysts in the same way as apple cider vinegar or tea tree. Research shows that this oil is antimicrobial making it effective at killing bacteria that live in the skin (causing, for example, cysts and acne).  Apply directly to the cyst on a gauze or cotton pad.

Calamine Lotion

The stuff we were slathered in as kids to treat chickenpox –  it helps to dry out oozing skin irritations and is one of the key ingredients in Phoebe’s Cure (see above).

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has confirmed anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and both may help with pain and irritation in cysts. It may also help reduce the appearance or get rid of certain cysts caused by bacteria or other pathogens.  You can find an aloe vera gel in your local pharmacy or online.

Those unfortunate enough to suffer these blighters repeatedly may use one or several of these remedies whilst waiting to get to their doctor.  It is a matter of trial and error.

When the abscess ‘pops’

Sufferers report that when their abscesses burst there will be quite a lot of unpleasant liquid which seeps from the cyst.  You may need to wear a sanitary pad.  The site of the cyst and the surrounding skin may be tender so you should make sure you gently wash it and then call your GP for a check up.

Have you suffered from a Bartholin’s Cyst or abscess?  What has worked for you?

If you’ve largely spent lockdown inhaling pizzas, crisps and chocolate biscuits to the extent that you’re not too sure you can squeeze out of your front door, don’t panic, because, with restrictions easing, more facilities are reopening every day that can help you get back to your svelte self.

And although we’re all praying this is the last pandemic ever, with evidence that keeping your weight under control might improve outcomes for those afflicted by Covid-19, there’s more motivation than ever to get fighting fit.

But if you’ve never trained before, or at least for a while, it’s tough knowing what type of exercise will suit you.

So I’ve saved you some head-scratching by collating three post-pandemic workouts for you to compare – all of which will keep you fit for the future!

Martial Arts

Perhaps watching a rerun of The Karate Kid during lockdown got you wondering whether the mixture of philosophical and physical training inherent in martial arts might be right for you, or maybe you’re simply perplexed about how old its star Ralph Macchio actually was when it was filmed?

If it’s the latter, he was 22, despite playing a high school student. If it’s the former, then you’ll be glad to know that across the country, dojos like Chockdee Martial Arts Academy in York will soon be back open and welcoming students of all ages and stages to their Thai Boxing and Jiu-Jitsu classes. Look out for a similar establishment in your local area and you’ll soon be frighteningly fit and able to handle yourself – an awesome double whammy!

Gym

If you’re not too fussy about learning a certain sport or activity, joining a gym is a great way of maintaining your general fitness and controlling your weight – provided you don’t spend your entire session strolling around listening to music and munching your way through protein bars from the vending machines!

Plus, another great benefit of joining a national gym like PureGym is that membership also includes a range of amazing free classes, so you can enjoy a more structured and disciplined weights or HIIT workout alongside other members and under the watchful eyes of instructors. The other advantage of many of these types of gym chains is that they’re often open 24/7, meaning you can fit your exercise regime around your lifestyle.

Yoga

Yoga might be sniffed at by muscle-bound gym freaks, but this ancient practice has been around for thousands of years and might be better at keeping your mind and body in great shape than just about anything else.

Yoga enthusiasts enjoy great flexibility and energy, improved strength and muscle tone and dramatically reduced levels of tension and stress, so what’s not to love? Furthermore, you can be confident that as dedicated yoga centres like Embody Wellness in South London open back up to the public, social distancing measures mean you can train as safely as possible.

Pick whichever of these post-pandemic workout best meets your needs and you’ll soon be fit for the future.

When you are due to set off on your holidays, the last thing you want to be thinking about is whether or not your ‘time of the month’ is going to affect your time away.

You want to be able to relax and feel good in your clothes, and instead, you are left worrying about whether you will be able to pack enough painkillers to overcome your discomfort as well as fighting the overriding angst which goes hand in hand with so many women’s experience of their periods.

These anxieties can ruin even the most relaxing break away; from stressing over whether you look bloated in your dress and unable to escape how much pain you are in, to worrying about whether or not you will be able to ‘get away’ with wearing a bikini or white skirt.

But what causes this pain and discomfort? The experts at Mayo Clinic, an international organization which works with over four thousand five hundred scientists, physicians and researchers in every medical speciality, explain it in this way:

A hormone-like substance known as prostaglandins causes the contractions of the uterus during your period.  This contracting movement helps to expel the womb lining which is the blood you release, but it is because of these prostaglandins that women experience pain during their monthly cycle, and unfortunately the higher the levels of prostaglandins, the worse the pain.

The NHS explains that as these contractions occur, the blood vessels within the womb lining are compressed.  This means that the blood supply to the womb is briefly and repeatedly cut off which results in another pain triggering chemical, alongside the prostaglandins, being released.

With one in ten women living with bouts of moderate to severe pain and cramping each month as part of their natural cycle, it is unsurprising that they have discovered and shared many natural remedies over the years.  But thankfully, science has also stepped in and found methods to ease and even delay your period, which could help you overcome menstrual pain when on holiday entirely! There are also tablets to stop periods.  Read on to learn more.

Ease The Pain Naturally

Even though you are most likely on holiday to relax, you may be surprised to hear that exercise can help to ease your pain.  As with any ache or pain, we can release a chemical in our brain which works as natural pain relief.

They are known as endorphins, and when partaking in any aerobic exercise, the additional pumping of blood around your body helps to release them.  They are known to counteract against the uncomfortable result of the aforementioned prostaglandins positively.

Any movement which gets your blood pumping faster around your body is fine, from a brisk swim or walk, to a light aerobic session on the beach, or even a few star jumps and lunges, depending on your current fitness level.

Reduce Monthly Worries

If you tend to book your holiday a year in advance and you have several months to prepare before you go away, then you could consider trying the combined contraceptive pill.

One result of this pill is that, over time, you will have lighter periods as the hormones in it thin the lining of the womb.  This leads to fewer contractions of the womb itself being required to shed each month and a lower amount of prostaglandin hormone being released.

It can be a highly effective way to learn to manage your monthly cycle before going away, and if the daily pill does not suit you or it feels like a significant responsibility to remember to take it each day, then, the contraceptive implant or injection may be a preferable option.

Pain Relief For Management

Depending on how badly you suffer from your monthly pain, over the counter pain relief options such as ibuprofen could help you to manage it over the week of your period, though they should not be taken if you suffer from kidney, stomach or liver issues, or asthma.

In this case, you could try paracetamol though this is has been shown to be less effective in reducing pain. If you require stronger relief, your doctor may prescribe higher strength painkillers such as codeine.

If you prefer, you can speak directly to the experts at Click Pharmacy on Skype or email.  They can advise you on some recommended next-steps such as which prescriptions or medications may be most beneficial to your monthly pain levels.  If in any doubt contact your GP.

A Warming Sensation

Since your muscles are contracting during your period, which is a form of squeezing and tightening, then it makes sense to try to relax them.  As such, applying heat to the area in the form of a hot bath, a hot water bottle, heat patches, or even warm water in a store-bought plastic drinking bottle can relax the squeezing, cramping pain which so many women suffer from.  Keep the heat on the area for as long as you feel it is helping you, or until the pain eases.

Delay Your Period

If you find that you are genuinely concerned about the pain you may experience from your period during your holiday then you could consider trying a prescription of Norethisterone, tablets to stop periods.

This medication, which you must start to take three days before jetting off, contains progesterone which causes the lining of the womb to be sustained until you stop taking the pills.  This means that your period will not begin until the additional progesterone has left your body, and you can use it for anywhere up to 17 days.

This kind of period control management could be the difference between you feeling uncomfortable and stressed out on your holiday and coming home feeling worse than when you left, and being able to let go and enjoy yourself.

To discuss trying Norethisterone before your next holiday, or to address any other pre-travel concerns about your period, ask your pharmacist who can help answer any questions you may have and give you the best advice on what to take to ease your pain.

If your tween or teen suffers from painful periods you will need to consult a GP for advice.

When you’re stressed out, the foods that you’re turning to are most likely going to be traditional ‘comfort’ foods – think big meals, take-out, fatty foods, sweet foods, and alcohol. Let’s face it – we’ve all found some comfort in a tasty meal and a bottle of beer or glass of wine when we’ve been stressed out or upset about something. However, this isn’t a good permanent solution.

When you’re turning to unhealthy foods you can feel better temporarily, but in the long run, you will feel worse. When your body isn’t getting the right nutrition, you can begin to feel less energetic, more lethargic, and in some cases less able to concentrate and focus. All of this can lead to even more stress.

Foods that Fight Stress

If you’ve been feeling more stressed out than usual lately, it’s important to know which foods are best to choose and which to avoid when it comes to combating stress and helping you to deal with feelings of stress and anxiety. The best way to fight stress is to have a healthy, balanced diet which includes a moderate amount of each of the different food groups.

Filling up on foods such as whole grains, leafy vegetables, and lean proteins as the basic staples of the diet is the best way to ensure that your body gets the optimum amounts of nutrients to fight both physical and mental health problems. When it comes to choosing the foods to eat, some have a range of great properties which help the body to combat stress. Choosing these stress-busting foods will help to heal and calm your mind permanently, rather than providing a temporary fix.

Some of the best stress-fighting foods include:

• Avocado – Avocados are a creamy and versatile fruit which can be eaten in a range of different ways whether you enjoy it raw, made into sauces, dressings and dips, or in a smoothie. These nutrient-dense fruits have the properties to stress-proof your body, thanks to their high glutathione content which specifically blocks the intestinal absorption of certain fats which cause oxidative damage. Avocados also contain higher levels of vitamin E, folate, and beta-carotene than any other fruit, which boosts their stress-busting properties. However, be careful with portion control when eating avocado, as it is high in fat.
• Blueberries – If you’re feeling stressed out and reaching for the snacks, swapping chocolate or chips for one of the best superfoods is a great way to help you deal with your stress levels and achieve a higher level of calm. Blueberries have some of the highest levels of antioxidants, especially anthocyanin, which means that this berry has been linked to a wide range of health benefits including sharper cognition, better focus, and a clearer mind – all of which can help you to better deal with stress.
• Chamomile Tea – Of course, it’s not all about what you’re eating when it comes to managing stress; what you’re drinking can also alleviate or worsen the stress you’re feeling. Drinking liquids which are high in sugars and caffeine, such as coffee, energy drinks or soda, can actually increase your stress levels if consumed regularly. Chamomile tea has long been used as a natural bedtime soother, and it has also been used in clinical trials, which determined that chamomile tea is effective in reducing the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.

• Chocolate – Although it’s usually seen as an unhealthy treat, there is an undeniable link between chocolate and our mood. Studies have shown that eating chocolate can actually make you happier. However, that doesn’t mean that you can start munching on chocolate bars every time you’re stressed out – chocolate works best as a de-stressor when eaten in moderation and as part of a healthy and balanced diet. Dark chocolate, in particular, is best for you, as it contains more flavonols and polyphenols, two hugely important antioxidants which can help combat stress, more than many fruit juices.
• Beef – Grass-fed beef is not only kinder to the planet and to animals, but it’s also good for people, too. Grass-fed beef has a huge range of antioxidants, including beta-carotene and Vitamins C and E, which can help your body to fight stress and anxiety. If you’re looking for more reasons to spend a little more money on organic, grass-fed beef, it’s also lower in fat than grain-fed beef whilst being higher in omega-3.
• Oatmeal – Oatmeal is great in that it can be a filling comfort food, but also has a large number of healthy properties to actually make you feel better from the inside out. A complex carbohydrate, eating oatmeal causes your brain to produce higher levels of the feel-good chemical serotonin, helping you to feel calmer and less stressed. Studies have shown that kids who choose oatmeal for breakfast tend to be much sharper throughout the morning in school compared to kids who had alternative morning meals.
• Walnuts – If you’re looking for a healthy snacking option which will help you to stay better in control of your stress levels, walnuts are a great choice. There is no denying the sweet, pleasant flavor of walnuts and they can be a tasty snack for in-between meals or as part of a desert. A versatile nut, walnuts are great for salads, or add them to a sweet treat such as coffee and walnut cake.
• Pistachios – another food which is great for snacking on and can also help to combat stress and anxiety in the long term is pistachios. Studies have found that simply eating two small, snack-size portions of pistachios per day can lower vascular constriction when you are stressed, putting less pressure on your heart by further dilating your arteries. Along with this, the rhythmic, repetitive act of shelling pistachios can actually be quite therapeutic!
• Green Leafy Vegetables – leafy, green vegetables should be a pivotal part of anyone’s diet. Along with helping to combat stress, leafy greens are full of nutrients and antioxidants which help to fight off disease and leave your body feeling healthier and more energized. Dark leafy greens, for example, spinach, are especially good for you since they are rich in folate, which helps your body to produce more mood-regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which is a ‘feel-good’ chemical. Making leafy greens a part of your diet will help you to feel happier and less stressed out overall.
• Fermented foods – last but not least, eating fermented foods such as yoghurt can help to keep your gut healthy, which actually, in turn, will help to improve your mental health and reduce stress levels. The beneficial bacteria which are found in fermented foods such as yoghurt actually have a direct effect on your brain chemistry and transmit positive mood and behaviour regulating signals to your brain via the vagus nerve.

Putting Together Your Diet Plan

Planning your meals wisely is key to not only staying physically fit and healthy but also to staying mentally strong and being able to best manage your levels of stress. Knowing which foods to avoid and which are the best to reach for to snack on when you’re feeling worried and anxious is important to helping you get control over your emotions and fears.

When you’re feeling stressed, you may be tempted to reach for classic ‘comfort foods’ – usually foods which are laden with sugar, very starchy, or greasy. However, although these foods can make you feel momentarily better, they will actually make you feel worse in the long run.

Having stress-busting snacks such as fresh berries, dark chocolate, yoghurt, walnuts or pistachios, or even a fruit smoothie with avocado and leafy greens in it can help you to feel better in both the short and long term when it comes to stress. When it comes to combating and dealing with stress in the long run, it’s important to make sure that for the most part, you are eating a diet which is healthy and balanced.

In order to stay on track, it’s a good idea to make a meal plan for your week and plan ahead to make sure that you have a good selection of these stress-busting foods in your kitchen to make meals and snacks from when you’re feeling like stress-eating. Making sure that the majority of your meals include foods such as lean proteins and leafy green vegetables will not only make you feel healthier overall but can improve your mental health and stress levels, too.

A good example of a healthy, stress-busting menu would be:

Breakfast: Oatmeal with berries or a fruit smoothie with avocado and berries

Mid-morning snack: Natural yoghurt with fruit or a handful of pistachio nuts

Lunch: A whole-grain pasta salad filled with plenty of leafy greens

Afternoon snack: Dark chocolate

Dinner: Grass-fed beef with vegetables

Before bed: Chamomile tea

Of course, you don’t need to stick to this menu – but it gives you a good idea! Remember to exercise good portion control when eating foods such as nuts, chocolate, yoghurt or avocado! As the saying goes, you are what you eat – so make sure that first and foremost, you’re filling yourself up with foods which are good for your mental health.

Disclaimer:

This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.

CBD products have become very popular in recent years. At least 30 million American adults report using CBD.

Many people prefer using CBD capsules over CBD oil.CBD capsules can be taken more discreetly. Another benefit is that they don’t tend to leak or lose quality as quickly. If you are looking to start using CBD, then there are a number of manufacturers worth looking into. They sell different types of CBD capsules to help with various medical issues.

Are you looking into purchasing CBD capsules? You are going to need to do your due diligence. There are a lot of options as the number of CBD companies continues to grow. Fortunately, you will have an easier time finding the best CBD capsules if you follow the right purchasing process.

Since there are so many different types of CBD capsules, it can be tricky to choose the ones that are best for you. Fortunately, the shopping process will be easier if you know what to look for. You should follow the guidelines listed below to choose the best CBD capsules.

Pay close attention to the strength

How much CBD will you need to take to treat your condition? There is, unfortunately, no universal answer to this question. Some people might only need 10 mg of CBD a day, while others might need up to 150 mg.

One of the most important factors to consider is the strength of the CBD capsules that you will be taking. The strength must align with your dosage requirements. If you have a more severe condition, then you will probably need to take a stronger dose to treat it. The dose that you will need to take will also be determined by your bodyweight.

Other factors might come in to play as well, such as your metabolism and tolerance for CBD. However, you can follow a couple of simple guidelines to determine the ideal long-term dose that you will need to take. Here are some general rules of thumb to help you choose the right dose:

• Someone that weighs 100 pounds and only needs a low strength treatment plan might only need 10 mg of CBD. They would need 30 mg a day if they needed a more moderate strength dose and 60 mg if they needed a higher strength dose.
• Someone that weighs 150 mg and needs a low dose will need approximately 15 mg of CBD. On the other hand, the same individual would need roughly 45 mg of CBD if they needed a moderate-strength treatment and 90 mg if they decided that they needed a high strength dose.
• An individual that weighs 225 pounds would most likely need 67 mg of CBD if they required a moderate strength dose. If they needed a low strength dose, then they would only need 22 mg. However, the same individual would need 135 mg of CBD a day if they needed a stronger dose.

You will need to find out how much CBD is in every capsule before taking them. You can find some capsules with as little as 5 mg of CBD, while other capsules have much higher doses. You need to calculate how many capsules you will need to consume in order to meet your therapeutic dosage.

Determine the quality and safety of the manufacturer before purchasing them

It is important to research the details of individual CBD capsules because they can differ even if they are made by the same manufacturer. However, it is also important to do your due diligence before choosing a manufacturer as well.

There are a couple of things that you should do when assessing the reputation of an individual manufacturer.

Make sure that their CBD capsules have been third-party tested

Any unverified claims from CBD manufacturers should be taken with a grain of salt. Even scrupulous manufacturers might unintentionally use inaccurate testing methodologies to determine the quality of their products. There are also some sketchy companies that misrepresent the safety and quality of CBD capsules that they produce.

You should look for companies that use third-party testing. You will have greater peace of mind knowing that the product claims are accurate.

Find out where the hemp was produced

You should pay close attention to the source of the hemp that was used to make CBD capsules. It is safest to purchase CBD capsules that were derived from hemp that was grown in the United States or Canada. Around 70% of the world’s hemp is grown in China, but we don’t have enough information on their regulations to assess its safety. A lot of other hemp products are imported from other countries with subpar safety regulations. This hemp might contain high levels of mercury and other harmful toxins.

The company should mention whether the CBD was produced with locally grown hemp. If the manufacturer is well established, then you can usually take their word for this. However, if the manufacturer is newer and you aren’t sure whether you should trust the website they use to sell their products, then you should try to get a Certificate of Analysis to authenticate their claim that the product originates in the United States.

Read consumer and expert reviews carefully

It is prudent to read consumer reviews before purchasing any product that is going to impact your health. Mainstream review sites such as consumer reviews and Healthline regularly review CBD products. You can also look at reviews on sites that specialize in analyzing CBD products, such as CBD Insider.

Look for CBD capsules with a reasonable return policy

Quality manufacturers offer a return policy for customers that are not satisfied with their purchase. Penguin offers a 30-day return policy to all customers. This is a sign that the company is dedicated to customer satisfaction.

Research your options carefully before choosing CBD capsules

There is no shortage of CBD capsules on the market. Unfortunately, not all CBD products are going to live up to your expectations. You will want to review your options carefully before making a purchase.

When going about your day to day routine, it’s so easy to become complacent about protecting yourself. Many of us deal with dangerous daily tasks that, if they went wrong, could lead to injuries to our bodies, faces, and even eyes. In fact, are you aware of just how many dangerous everyday items there are that could injure your eyes and leave them damaged?

It’s a good idea to take a look at the items you probably use every day without thinking that could permanently damage your eyes.  As ever, eye education is essential and so, based on research from www.contactlenses.co.uk, these are the things you should be cautious around:

6 everyday things that could damage your eyes

1.      Cleaning products

Ever noticed how many cleaning products you use in the course of your housework?  I have a cupboard full of sprays, creams and cloths. Whilst we all need to keep our homes clean, you need to make sure that none of that cleaning product goes in your eye. Always be mindful about what you are using and ensure that you are using cleaning products in an area that is well-ventilated. If possible, wear something to protect your eyes from physical damage.

Goggles can help to keep cleaning products away from your eyes, ensuring that they aren’t going to become as irritated by the presence of the numerous chemicals lingering in the air today.  Even better, investigate some eco-friendly cleaning products that you can make in your own home  – for example, lemon juice and white vinegar – but even then you still need to be careful.

2.      DIY tools

From hammers and screwdrivers to drills and saws, you need to be very wary when using these everyday items. It’s so easy to send debris flying into your eye so even if you’re just removing a few nails from the wall, you should wear something to protect your eyes and mouth.

The same applies to gardening jobs like hedge trimming and strimming overgrown grass and weeds.

Eye injuries from DIY are commonplace, so make sure you protect as much of your face as you can so that you can work freely without risking an injury.

3.      Kids toys

You should be mindful about the toys that your kids play with too. From Nerf guns to various little toys that come apart, especially if springs are involved, you need to stay alert to the potential risk to your kids’ health. Even basic household items your kids play with every day could pose a potential threat to their eyes.

It’s worth going through the kids’ toy box to see if you can identify any potentially dangerous toys and games. From things like the straws in that game of Kerplunk to the marbles in Hungry Hippo, there are plenty of toys you need to be cautious of letting your kids have without supervision. Do this and you’ll feel much safer – both for yourself and your child!

4.      Deodorant

Many of us use aerosols around the home and also where personal hygiene is concerned – for example, deodorants, body sprays and perfumes. If you tend to be rather liberal with these and use quite a bit when spraying, make sure you look away from the spray and close your eyes when spraying. Many people wind up with eye irritation and annoyance purely because they don’t pay attention to the deodorant and how strong it is.

This is why you should always look to spray deodorant in a well-ventilated room where you have enough room to make sure your eyes won’t be impacted.

5.      Eye drops

While using eye drops can be useful to help keep your eyes moist and comfortable, using them too much could create a problem for you. It’s best to avoid prolonged use of eye drops because your eyes can actually become dependent on them.

Obviously, you want to minimise the risk of any damage to your eyes as much as you can. A bit of vigilance goes a long way to make sure that, while you’re soothing the irritation, your eyes aren’t becoming dependent on drops.

6.      Your phone screen

While you might not like to hear it, excessive screen time on your TV, laptop, tablet and phone will lead to eye damage sooner rather than later – particularly where young eyes are concerned. This is known as ‘digital eye strain’ which can leave your eyes feeling burnt out and damaged. It’s a really debilitating problem and our screens are one of the most dangerous items we use every day without really thinking about this.

With people spending more time than ever looking at digital screens, it’s essential you remember to take 10-20 minute breaks regularly to protect your eyes.

Which of these common household products and issues might you be most used to dealing with?

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m sure that keeping your family safe from viral infections is at the forefront of many people’s minds, especially when it comes to caring for the elderly, the infirm and anyone who has had to shield themselves away from a disease which could be fatal.

Keeping everyone safe, however, is easier said than done when you are not a trained medical or health care worker and you don’t understand how viral illnesses can spread. In this post, you’ll find some basic, yet crucial tips, to help protect your family against viral infections. 

1. Observe proper respiratory hygiene

If you do not have a tissue, use your elbow to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. If you use your hands for cover, do not forget to wash them thoroughly using soap and water.

Wear your face mask all the time especially when you’re in a public place. You do not need to wear N-95 masks especially if you are not a health or medical worker. You can use cloth masks that you made on your own or you can view masks online and see which one will best suit your needs. However, keep in mind that a face mask does not serve as a substitute for physical distancing. 

2. Get everyone informed

As yet, while there is still no approved vaccine against Coronavirus, everyone is at risk.  It is important that everyone in the family understands how COVID-19 can be contracted – and how quickly it can spread. Your loved ones need to know what they should do to protect themselves – and others- from infection.

If you have young kids in the family, make sure that they understand the dangers of viral infections but make sure that you use words appropriate for their age when you talk to them and try not to scare them.

3. Practice frequent and proper handwashing

Everyone in the family must be encouraged to practise frequent and proper handwashing. Washing the hands should be done before eating, handling food in the kitchen, after using the lavatory and after having been in a public place.

Hand-washing should last for at least 20 seconds. Use soap and clean water and see to it that every part of the hands is washed thoroughly – including the backs of the hands and in between the fingers.

In the absence of soap and water, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. Pour enough amount of sanitizer across all surfaces of your hands and then rub thoroughly until your hands no longer feel wet. You may find your hands benefit from a hand cream if they become dry and sore from over-washing.

4. Improve everybody’s immune system

Boosting the immune system gives an individual a better fighting chance against viral infections, but this won’t necessarily give you 100% immunity from catching a virus. It does mean, though, that your body may be better placed to fight it off.

Good foods to boost your immunity include almonds, ginger, garlic, broccoli, spinach, red bell peppers, and yoghurt. Add exercise into your fitness regimen and steer clear of vices such as smoking and drinking too many alcoholic beverages as these may only weaken your body’s ability to fight off viral illnesses. 

5. Encourage physical distancing

Social distancing is a new phrase in everyone’s vocabulary now, isn’t it?  Observing social distancing rules in public, whether 2 metres apart or possibly 1 metre in the near future is going to be vital if we are to resume ‘normal’ living and get our beleaguered industries (for example the hospitality industry) off the ground again.

Physical distancing in public should be observed at all times and we should remember that a viral disease can easily be transmitted through respiratory droplets when a person sneezes, coughs, or talks. So, observing at least 2 metres (6 feet) of distance from other people makes sense.

We should also stay away from places that are known to be crowded and also avoid partying and engaging in public gatherings as much as possible. When you need to go out to shop or buy some essentials, it is best to wear a face mask and bring your hand sanitizer or alcohol with you so you can disinfect your hands as often as needed. 

6. Make it a habit to clean and disinfect 

Protecting your family against viral infections also involves regular cleaning and disinfecting at home. High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, electronic devices, countertops, desks, handles, sinks, faucets, light switches, etc. should be given extra attention. Use proper disinfectants for electronic devices. Consider the type of material for each surface that will be cleaned and disinfected to ensure that you will be able to use the right disinfectants. 

7. Regularly monitor your health 

This is important for all of us, not just those who are known to be highly vulnerable to viral infections such as the elderly, infants, and those with weakened and compromised immune systems. Even if you think you are healthy, you still need to monitor your health on a regular basis – whether that means a checkup or vaccination against viral infections – for example the flu jab.

Note that some viral diseases do not have obvious symptoms at all. The best thing you can do is to have yourself checked by a doctor. The earlier your viral disease gets spotted, the easier it will be for your doctor to find the most appropriate treatment. 

Remember that it is better to err on the side of caution and, besides, it never hurts to be prepared for every eventuality. In the midst of this global pandemic, every step you take to protect your family will increase your chances of staying fit and well and help everyone else to stay safe too.

With coronavirus still in the news daily, I am sure you have heard about personal protective equipment (PPE) over and over again. You know it’s important for protection and safety, but what is it exactly and when to use it?

As this article on Health mentions, PPE “stands for personal protective equipment, and it’s one crucial way to both stop the spread of COVID-19.” This type of equipment works as a barrier between a person’s skin, mouth, nose or eyes and viral and bacterial infections.

If you are looking for personal protective equipment to keep you and others safe, Aviation Spares & Repairs has a whole range of COVID-19 PPE available. You might even be looking to open your doors to the public soon and will need to be appropriately equipped, so head on over there to see what would be best suited for you and your business.

PPE equipment can include face protection, body protection, hand protection and foot protection equipment.

Face Protection

Items such as face masks, safety goggles and face shields will protect the wearer by catching airborne bacteria, dust and virus particles from entering their mouth and nose. Face masks and face coverings are recommended to be used in closed spaces and public transport.

Body Protection

From disposable aprons which can be used for a variety of applications, such as kitchen work and hairdressers, to full-body protective coveralls that are designed for healthcare workers.

Hand Protection

Safety work gloves, such as disposable gloves or chemical resistant gloves, are used in the workplace to protect the wearer’s hands from scratches, lacerations, blisters, contact with dirt and more.

Foot Protection

Footwear that protects the wearer from the hazards of the workplace. This includes waterproof shoes, winter boots and disposable shoe covers.

Personal protective equipment is essential for both personal and public health. For more information about the government’s guidelines regarding the use of PPE during the coronavirus outbreak, visit https://www.gov.uk.

This article was written by Carolina Neves, lead copywriter at eCommerce Magento website designers Ad Lab.