You will rarely come across any physician who doesn’t carry a stethoscope with them. In fact, it is one of the most important devices of daily medical practice. A stethoscope is a medical device that every paramedic, nursing student, medical student, and the doctor should possess in person. Though the traditional stethoscope helped the doctor listen to the bodily functions like the heartbeat, the respiration, or the digestion, the modern day stethoscopes differ according to their application.
The function of a good stethoscope is to allow you to perform the fundamental tasks like auscultation with the intention of assessing the condition of the thoracic organs, abdomen, and blood vessels. However, one stethoscope cannot be used to check different conditions, which is why there are different types of stethoscopes. The different types of stethoscopes include:
Cardiology stethoscope
Though this stethoscope looks like a regular stethoscope, it has the ability to give excellent acoustic sound quality. Also, it is accompanied by the ability to hear both low- and high-frequency sounds from the diaphragm, and you wouldn’t have to use a bell, which is commonly found in dual-headed stethoscopes. Moreover, these stethoscopes have thicker earpieces that block out unwanted noise and prevent any interference with the auscultation, which is why it is used to listen to heartbeats, S2, and murmurs.
Infant stethoscope
This type of stethoscope is used for newborn babies and are the smallest of the kind. It has a very small diameter of about 2cm that ensures that the auscultation is accurate and the surrounding noise doesn’t interfere with it. These stethoscopes are available in non-latex forms to avoid allergic reaction in infants and have a non-chill ring as well.
Electronic stethoscope
These stethoscopes can help solve sound problems as they amplify the sound obtained from the chest-piece electronically and then convert it into electric waves that are transmitted through particular circuits. When the electric waves pass, they are processed for better listening. These stethoscopes are available in two categories, namely, the amplifying and the digitizing stethoscopes.
Teaching stethoscope
As the name suggests, this stethoscope is used primarily for teaching purposes. It features a single-lumen tubing that is highly durable and comes with solid stainless steel chest piece and has a dual headset. This feature allows the teacher and student to use the stethoscope at the same time and the students gain a better understanding of what’s happening to a patient.
Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes an interruption in breathing patterns when asleep. The condition, when untreated can become extremely serious as it cuts the supply of oxygen to the brain and other parts of the body. Sleep apnea is of two type i.e. Obstructive sleep apnea and Central sleep apnea. Anybody can be affected by the condition, including children.
A CPAP machine or Continuous Positive Pressure Machine is one that is employed to treat the condition of sleep apnea. The electronic devices work by drawing air from outside with an internal fan, humidify and pressurize the same before delivering it to the user. There are several factors that must be considered before purchasing a CPAP machine and here are the popular choices you can avail of:
Philips Respironics DreamStation – The Philips Respironics DreamStation is powered with the most high-tech features. With Bluetooth-compatibility and the ability to connect with the sleeping data track app, DreamMapper, this device is truly commendable. It comes in a compact and lightweight body that makes it a great option when traveling. This CPAP machine is backed by a two year warranty period.
ResMed AirSense 10 Elite – A product of ResMed, the AirSense 10 Elite is yet another high-tech CPAP machine on the market. The device enables for customization of the full humidifier and lets you choose from different levels of humidification. It’s ‘auto-ramp’ feature begins the pressurizing of air upon sensing that the owner is asleep. The model also comes with the unique feature of Expiratory Pressure Relief; which reduces the pressure and eases the breathing function when exhaling. The ResMed AirSense 10 Elite is priced at a higher cost and comes with two years of guarantee.
Fisher & Paykel ICON Premo – The Fisher & Paykel ICON Premo is a great CPAP machine as it has the advantage of convenience and ease of use. This machine embodies a built-in humidifier that can hold 420 mL of water, thus, increasing its average capacity. It comes with notable features such as an integrated alarm clock and the SmartStick Studio software which enables the user to even download songs. Just like the above CPAP machines, the Fisher & Paykel ICON Premo model is armed with a two-year warranty.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are lifesavers when it comes to treating people with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition that causes one’s breathing to stop and start repeatedly, and if this condition is left untreated, it can have serious life-threatening consequences like high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and depression. CPAP machines are instrumental in delivering constant and steady air pressure, thereby stabilizing the condition. Though CPAP machines are quite effective in treating sleep apnea, people face certain problems like a leaky mask, trouble falling asleep, stuffy nose, and a dry mouth. These problems create an obstacle in allowing people to make the most of CPAP machines. Here are a few tips on how you can deal with these common problems.
Leaky mask
One of the common problems people face while using a CPAP machine is that the air leaks from the mask. If this is the case, then the problem might be the size or the style of the CPAP mask. In such situations, you can try out a different mask as there is a wide range of CPAP masks available. Also, before you buy a CPAP mask, consult with your doctor or a CPAP supplier to demonstrate how to adjust the mask to get the best fit. You wouldn’t have to face problems like an air leak or discomfort if you opt for a properly-fitted mask.
Trouble sleeping
It is difficult to sleep with the CPAP mask on, and this is one of the common problems people face while using the CPAP machines. So, before wearing the mask throughout the night, start wearing it for short periods of time while you are awake. This will help you to get used to the mask, and then slowly start wearing it during your naps. After a few weeks when you are used to wearing the CPAP masks during naps, you can start wearing it throughout the night.
Dry and stuffy nose
A leaky mask is what causes the nose to dry out. Therefore, you need to ensure that the mask fits well. You might have to tighten the straps often to prevent air from leaking if the mask doesn’t fit you properly. Also, CPAP machines have a heated humidifier, and you can adjust the level of humidification to prevent the inside of the nose from drying.
Dry mouth
If you usually breathe through your mouth while sleeping, CPAP machines can lead to dry mouth. In such cases, you can opt for a chin strap that will keep your mouth closed and prevent air leakage from the mask. A CPAP-heated humidifier which attaches to the air pressure machine can also prevent a dry mouth helping you have a comfortable night’s rest.
More and more people are waking up to the importance of fitness in their daily routine because the obesity rate in the country is increasing alarmingly. Fitness no longer takes a backseat when it comes to healthy living, and the proof is in the number of people signing up for gym sessions. However, gyms have multiple types of fitness equipment that work on specific parts of the body. The rowing machine is one such piece of fitness equipment that burns more calories as compared to running or cycling.
Here are a few known benefits of using the rowing machine.
Cardio session
Cycling and running will boost your cardiovascular activity, but rowing is specifically designed to keep your heart and lungs healthy. The rowing action helps pump more blood and fresh oxygen throughout your body while simultaneously burning calories faster than what you can achieve with running or cycling.
Complete body workout
Rowing is an exercise that engages most of the muscle groups in the body. It is one of the few fitness equipment that works on the upper back, shoulder, chest, arm muscles, lower quadriceps, glutes, calves, and hamstrings at the same time.
Endurance
If you are looking to prepare yourself for sporting and athletic events, a rowing machine will help you increase your stamina and endurance. Working out on this fitness equipment helps burn calories, builds muscle mass, and enhances your strength training.
A broad range of movements
Many fitness equipment limit your body’s motions, thereby failing to engage vital muscle groups. A rowing machine, however, has a broad range of movements that tone your muscles. Vigorous rowing not only strengthens the muscles but if done correctly, also enhance your form.
Better resistance training
Resistance training helps you increase your muscle mass, metabolic rate, improve insulin sensitivity, prevent weight gain, and increase bone mineral content. A rowing machine mimics the continuous pull-and-push motion of rowing to increase resistance in the workout. Thus, this fitness equipment aids in the overall development of your upper and lower body muscles.
Most of the gyms are closed due to the ongoing pandemic. Hence, it is a great idea to set up a home gym with the required equipment to maintain your fitness regime. Regardless of your living situation or budget, some fitness equipment can still be accommodated in the house.
Here is a list of some fitness equipment that you can invest in.
Peloton Bike+
This is the newest bike from the brand and comes with an array of additional features from its predecessor. It comes with a large screen, which rotates 360-degree. So, it is convenient for you to follow other workouts off the bike. Further, the Bike+ also allows complete integration with the Apple Watch, and its auto resistance adjustments make it easy for you to keep in sync with the instructor’s program.
Xterra Fitness TR200 Folding Treadmill
In addition to an exercise bike, you also need a treadmill if you intend to start your home gym. Even though treadmills are not the most affordable fitness equipment, you can conveniently look for a reliable, affordable, and good treadmill that will cost you less than $300. However, the Xterra Fitness TR200 Folding Treadmill is pocket-friendly. It comes with a 50 X 16-inch running path, which works for people, regardless of their shapes and sizes. The cushioned deck technology accentuates impact absorption. Its speed goes from 0.5-10 mph. You can keep a tab on the distance, speed, time, and calories burnt from the LCD screen. In addition, its handlebar will track your heart rate. The treadmill comes with twelve preset programs.
Yoga Accessories Non-Slip Exercise Mat
Even though it is called a yoga mat, a yoga mat is used not just for yoga. A yoga mat can ensure that the bodyweight exercises, such as core work and stretching, are comfortable. It is also an excellent surface to carry out your strength training workout. Typically, a yoga mat is affordable, and regardless of the brand you shop for, you can conveniently find one that fits your budget.
Everlast Adjustable Speed Rope
If you are trying to lose weight and have limited space available, you can try one of the best forms of cardio, which is jumping rope. A skipping rope also helps better your hand-eye coordination and adds agility to the body. The one mentioned here is a product by Everlast. It has a flexible format and comes with removable handle weights if you need to add more challenges to your workout.
For the past few decades, the sports and fitness industry has been on an all-time high in the country. Not just for athletes, even the common consumers have become extremely brand-conscious, and demand the best for their fitness endeavors. Fortunately, various sports and fitness brands were able to create products that were comfortable, durable, stylish and most importantly functional. Here are a few of the most popular labels you should consider shopping from!
Nike
Apart from their eternally inspiring tagline, Nike is renowned for their quality athletic footwear across the world. Aside from footwear, they manufacture a number of sports and fitness products including clothing, accessories, and equipment for men, women, and children. At the moment, Nike is flourishing in China, amplifying their overall brand reach internationally.
Adidas
The ace competitor of Nike, this German-based multinational is one of the oldest sports and fitness brands known for its athletic shoes and clothing. In 2017, Adidas observed a sales growth of 30% in the country alone. Recently, they have successfully revived their classic collection of sneakers, bringing the retro chic vibe back in trend.
New Balance
Like Adidas, New Balance has a legacy of over a century and has been extremely popular for its creative sneaker designs. It is the only brand to produce over 4 million pairs of sports shoes annually. Moreover, they have made their customization process easier and quicker by digitalizing it on their website, a feat that no other athletic footwear brand has delivered yet.
Under Armour
A much younger brand in comparison, Under Armour, offers a range of casual and athletic wear as well as shoes. In a short span of time, it has managed to become the third best sports and fitness brand in the country. An eco-friendly approach and innovative utilization of fabric technology are two main reasons why Under Armour has gained recognition on an international scale.
Sketchers
Like Under Armour, Sketchers is a fairly new contender in the sports and fitness market. However, within 36 years, the label has succeeded in creating a loyal customer base for itself. One of the biggest reasons for Sketchers’ success is tapping into the athleisure retail trend, where customers use sports shoes as well as athletic clothing, whether they work out or not. In a nutshell, their sports and fitness products are not restricted to athletic use and can be worn in school, at work or even on social occasions.
Let’s face it, hitting the gym day after day can turn into a rather dreary commitment! The same old equipment and boxy interiors can ultimately rob you of your motivation. If you can totally relate to this, we suggest you try something new and fun. If you are wondering what could that be, the answer is sports! There are a variety of sports that can keep your workout hour interesting and body goals challenging. Read further to know about the most popular sports that can enhance your overall fitness.
Swimming
If you are looking for a low-intensity but effective workout, then try swimming. It not only involves minimal stress but also improves your cardiovascular and lung health. An hour or a half of swimming burns a considerable amount of calories as well as strengthens the muscles and endurance levels.
Running
Undoubtedly, running is the most popular choice to lose weight and tone every muscle of the body. Not just excellent for muscle and bone health, running keeps the heart strong and also keeps you psychologically healthy. Furthermore, regularly running can lower the risk of health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke.
Cycling
Like running, cycling outdoors can do wonders for your body. It is less strenuous, i.e., it causes minimal injuries as compared to other types of outdoor exercises. Cycling targets the major muscles in the abdomen and legs, making it a perfect exercise to tone the stubborn lower belly fat. Apart from fortifying the abdominal and leg muscles, cycling also boosts flexibility, heart health, and brain function.
Tennis
If jogging and cycling don’t excite you much, then give tennis a shot. An hour of tennis alone can burn 600 calories. This is because the small but agile movements like pivots, slams or sprints can help exert energy in a powerful manner. Tennis is ideal if you want to develop arm strength and boost heart health.
Rowing
A great aerobic exercise, rowing tones both the upper and lower body; encouraging weight loss and muscle strength. Moreover, it increases your endurance levels. Like cycling, rowing also carries a low risk of injury and is suitable if you are trying to get back to exercising after a long time.
Apart from above-stated 5 sports, one can also try activities such as dancing, basketball, surfing, and squash to lose weight and tone the body.
A healthy diet includes a variety and a balanced spread of fruits, vegetables, grains, lean meats, seafood, and poultry. Dieticians suggest curbing or exponentially reducing salt and sugar intake if a person is obese or is suffering from health conditions. Dieting does not only help you lose those extra pounds but also balances your physical and mental well-being. The following article sheds light upon some of the benefits of sticking to a healthy diet.
Weight loss
This is one of the most sought-after reason people opt for dieting. Switching to a healthy diet helps in reducing the risk of chronic conditions. An overweight person stands a greater risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes mellitus, heart diseases, poor bone density, and even cancer.
Improved gut health
Colon is the place where “good bacteria” occurs naturally. This good bacteria helps in proper digestion of food, thereby, improving body metabolism. A healthy diet rich in fiber is a healthy source of vitamins B and K, which also benefits the digestive tract. Fiber also promotes regular bowel movements that reduce the risk of bowel cancer and diverticulitis.
Improves sleep quality
A recent survey concluded that individuals on a high-fat diet suffered from sleep apnea and other sleep disorders when compared with people on a balanced diet. Reducing cholesterol, alcohol and caffeine intake in the daily diet can get you sound sleep, thereby, reducing several sleep disorders.
Improves mental health
A healthy diet may help in improving mental health and reducing the risk of disorders like cognitive decline and dementia. A diet rich in vitamin D, C, and E; omega-3 fatty acids; flavonoids; and polyphenols can help reduce the risk of several mental disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. Mediterranean and MIND diet are two diets that might help with the same. A healthy diet has also found to reduce symptoms of depression and mental fatigue.
Reduced cancer risk
Our body contains free radicals that increase the risk of various types of cancers. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps in reducing the risk of cancer as it contains phytochemicals that fight and reduce free radicals present in the body. Apart from this, legumes and nuts contain antioxidants rich in beta-carotene; lycopene; and vitamins A, C, and E, thereby, avoiding the formation of precancerous cells.