When to Start Worrying About Your Moles

July 19, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Moles are something we pay little attention to unless they appear in large quantities or highly visible places, thus affecting your looks. In the majority of cases, this is perfectly fine because an average adult has about 40 moles on their body.

But the problem is that sometimes moles can be an indicator of skin cancer risk. They can also turn malignant, meaning the mole itself can become cancerous. Therefore, you should be paying attention to these common marks that might appear anywhere on the skin. You just need to understand when to get worried about them.

Types of Moles: Safe and Not So Much

There are three main types of moles you should be aware of:

  1. Birthmarks
  2. Common moles
  3. Atypical moles

First of all, none of these moles, even atypical ones, are dangerous by default. However, there are some risks associated with all of them.

Birthmarks are the moles that people are literally born with. They are generally harmless, but if the mark is big, it has a higher risk of turning cancerous. According to studies, 0.5-0.7% of patients with large birthmarks developed melanoma. Therefore, such marks should be under observation and parents will often need to confer with a dermatologist and decide whether removing the mark is needed to reduce the risks in a child.

Common, or typical, moles are safe if there are under 40 of them on your body. They have an even shape and a single color. They can have different textures but the evenness of the shape and color are the factors that mark them as “typical” and therefore “safe”. They usually appear in the times of hormonal fluctuations and remain unchanged as time goes. If you have over 50 of them, consult a dermatologist as this indicates a higher risk of skin cancer.

Atypical moles aren’t dangerous if they are benign, but they need to be watched closely. According to Dr. Flor Mayoral, who works as a dermatologist in Coral Gables and has experience in dealing with atypical moles, main markers for concern are:

  • Having more than four atypical moles
  • Having a family history of melanoma
  • Having had melanoma in the past

Atypical moles are irregular-shaped and usually have more than one color. And if such marks “run in the family” you might have Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma Syndrome. You’ll need to consult a dermatologist at once and go through regular checks if this is the case.

Can You Keep Your Moles Safe?

Researchers have yet to identify what causes moles to appear exactly. Therefore, it’s impossible to exert any measure of control over them. The few things that we know for sure are that fair-skinned people have more moles and that sun exposure is an important factor in the appearance of new moles in adulthood.

These marks upon your skin can also appear with age as well as during hormonal upheavals, like pregnancy. Note that once there, a mole will remain. If your moles start changing, it’s a definite warning sign that something might be wrong. Therefore, you should consult a dermatologist right away.

That’s why it’s important to make self-observations once a month and “document” all your moles. If some of them appear strange to you, seek professional advice or, at least, take pictures of them so you can get hard evidence of any change.

Moles are also known to appear in response to some drugs, especially ones that suppress the immune system. If you notice the increase in the number of moles after taking any medicine, even antibiotics, you should talk to both your doctor and a dermatologist.

Overall, moles are a warning sign that one should always keep an eye on. They might be completely harmless even if the moles themselves are atypical or numerous. However, it’s always best to be cautious.

Filed Under: health Tagged With: ,

3 Tips on Burglary Deterrence by Locksmith Bradford

July 17, 2019 by 1 Comment

A home burglary is costly and unsettling. You can prevent this loss and trauma, by applying these locksmith Bradford security enhancement tips below in your home

The deadbolt did bring a marked decrease in burglaries since its advent in the 60s. These crimes, however, are still uncomfortably common. As a locksmith in Bradford, I have noticed that a large number of these crimes are not forced entries. Sometimes all a burglar needs to do to access your home is crawl in almost as if you left them the front door key. To protect your house you do not need to build a suburban Fort Knox.

You just need to address the common security issues that most property owners and renters neglect. If you are familiar with the most common ways of home protection, you are halfway there.  When a home is burglarized, the loss of property is hurtful and costly. However, some of the stolen items are replaceable.

The high costs of break-ins

The most pervasive loss, nevertheless, is the loss of sense of security and peace you had in your house before the break-in. It can become mentally draining and stressful to live with the fear of a recurrence. There are also the insurance and police reports to address.

As per police data, most burglaries happen around the holidays between November till January. Most of them also occur during the day when everyone is away. Below are some of the best ways of not only controlling access to your home but maintaining your property as well to deter burglars.

The best burglary prevention tips from locksmith Bradford

  1. Lock up
    As obvious as this tip is, the neglect of it is the cause of easy, walk-in crimes. You have probably left home for work, only to come home later to find the door open. When in a hurry it is easy to forget to close that window or lock the door. Security experts say 23% of all break-ins occur through your first-floor windows.  A more substantial part of the burglaries, 34% to be precise, however, happen through the front door. Besides double-checking on the thumb latch and deadbolt locks, ensure that they are also solid. If they are too old, or lack maintenance, invest in robust and pick resistant locks. 
  2. Get a live-in furry friend
    Locksmith Bradford also recommends an alarm system. An 80 pound Bordeaux Mastiff can make a perfect living alarm and friend. While a sophisticated thief will get around an electronic alarm system, a dog is more unpredictable. The burglar might hesitate to get into the house because they do not if the dog will bite or not. Most burglars, therefore, avoid a home with a dog.  You will also be doing a good deed if you adopt from a pet shelter. You should keep it in mind, however, that a dog has its cost and responsibilities, but it pays back with love and security. Alternatively, a wireless alarm kit is much better than nothing at all.
  3. Hide your valuables
    Being a locksmith Bradford, I have to respond to my clients immediately after they discover a break in. Most are usually looking for enhanced door locks. At times all you need to do to keep these thieves out is to hide your valuables better. If your 60-inch flat screen TV is visible from the sidewalk, someone will want it. Use curtains for privacy. Hide the gifts during the holiday season to lower the temptation of a break in.

While this is not a comprehensive list, it is a start to a safer home. Try these tips, and you will not be sorry.

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Detecting Plumbing Issues that Call for an Emergency Plumber near Me

July 17, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Picture coming home to a flooded house, or flushing the toilet but then everything begins to rise slowly. There is nothing pleasant about such situations, and all you can do is dial an emergency plumber near me. 

What’s worse is that the signs of the impending disaster were probably there, but you were ignorant of the implications that the funny sounds, the rusted pipes, or weird odors would have.

7 Signs of Situations that Needs an Emergency Plumber near Me

Here are a few things you should never ignore.

1) Unpleasant smell

If there is the slightest hint of sewage or sulfur odor in your house, you should not expect it to go away. It only gets worse. The smell could be a sign of sewage backup, broken vents, or leaking pipes. Contact a plumber to investigate the problem.

2) Change in the speed of water as it drains

You do not have to wait until you have stagnant water on your kitchen or bathroom sinks before calling an emergency plumber near me. As soon as you notice slow draining, contact your plumber. 

3) Change in water pressure

A drop in the water pressure could be a sign of black sludge buildup in the faucet. Cleaning the aerator should solve the problem. If it doesn’t, you could be having a case of a broken pipe or water leakage in the water system.  A plumber can fix it.

4) A gurgling noise

A clogged drain can cause your toilet, dishwasher, or laundry to make gurgling noises as you use it. It could create a backup. Turn the water off and get a professional to fix it ASAP.

5) Wet or colored spots 

Leakage in your water line could cause wet or brown spots on your ceiling, wall, or floor. You can confirm if it is leakage and not someone who accidentally spilled water by checking the meter. If it moves when no water is in use, you have a plumbing problem.

6) Smell of gas

The scent in gas is meant to alert you in case there is a leak. No matter how faint, it is dangerous and could cause an explosion or injury. First, call your gas company and have them shut off your meter. Then contact a plumber to investigate and fix the source of the leak.

7) Sound of water running

A running water sound within your walls when no one is using the water is a sign of hidden leaks that could lead to severe damage and a large water bill.  Contact an emergency plumber.

Important tips

When you detect any of these problems, turn off the main water supply. 

Plan regular maintenance with your plumbing company; it reduces your chances of facing an emergency. 

Unless you are confident of what you are doing, don’t try to fix the problem. It could lead to a worse situation

 

Watch out for leaking gas and funny odors. Be keen about a change in water pressure, speed of water draining, or sudden wet spots on the floor, walls, and ceilings. 

Keep an ear out for gurgling or water running through the pipes. And always be quick to contact an emergency plumber near me.

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Going on a Cruise Out of Miami? Read This Guide!

July 17, 2019 by Leave a Comment

A cruise out of Miami is the most relaxing way to unwind during the spring or summer. When you step out on the deck during the cruise, you’ll feel ocean breezes as the ship sails to its destination. A good Miami cruise will give you endless attractions to enjoy, both on the ship and in various cities by its ports of call. If you’ve never been, you really are missing out because a good cruise is a vacation unlike any other. In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare for a short or long cruise after arriving in Miami.

 

Transportation Around Miami Before the Cruise

 

The best way to travel around Miami before a cruise is by using public transportation. When you need to visit a store or restaurant, hop on a bus. You get to see the city from a unique perspective, plus it’s only $2 to ride a bus in Miami. Miami can be an expensive place to visit, so this is definitely a win-win.

 

Thanks to the roads in Miami, the process of navigating the city by train is simple. The trains run through Miami to the north and south, and they have Wi-Fi. In order to ride the train, you’ll need an Easy Card since you can’t pay for a trip using cash.

 

Convenient Hotels Near Miami Port 

 

If you arrive in Miami ahead of time, consider staying at the Hyatt Regency Miami because it’s only 10 minutes away from the Port of Miami. Since cruises are notoriously indulgent affairs, you’ll benefit from working out at the hotel’s fitness center a bit beforehand. Or, just kick back and relax at the spa before your ocean trip.

 

The Holiday Inn is another ideal place to stay before taking a cruise since it’s only one mile from the Port of Miami. It also has a fitness center along with other features, such as free Wi-Fi and an outdoor swimming pool.

 

Food Worth Trying Before Boarding the Ship

 

There are several items that you must try before stepping on the ship. In Miami, the food scene attracts thousands of people. The city is known for its distinctive, fusion-heavy cuisine that includes fresh crab, fish tacos, bold Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

 

If you’re only going to spend one day in Miami, order a delicious Cuban sandwich for lunch from Las Olas Cafe. El Exquisito also sells Cuban sandwiches; however, they’re much larger. One sandwich has enough meat for two people!

 

Cruise Tactics

 

A cruise ship has many dining spots where passengers can order either quick snacks or elegant dishes. If you want to sample the fancy food, don’t just bring your swimsuit. You should pack formal clothing, too, because most places on a ship that provide elevated cuisine have a strict dress code.

 

While you’re on the deck, you’ll see landscapes and buildings from a distant. You can admire these sites easier if you use a pair of binoculars; photography buffs will want to pack that long prime or zoom lens to capture the perfect shot.

 

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Sailing in Dangerous Weather

July 17, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Sailing in dangerous weather tests your skills and guts, but with the right amount of knowledge of what you’re doing, having the right boat, backed by efficient preparation, a sudden weather change won’t cause you to fret.

 

Be Prepared

Apart from the usual mechanical and safety checks, a turbulent weather dictates wider planning and thought. For larger boats, keep loose objects secure inside the boat, make sure internal cupboards and doors are closed and objects inside are properly packed. Put off the water to the heads, then empty the bowl. 

 

Remove the bags from the bunks and put them on the floor, as long as they won’t be in the way. Secure mats on the deck because they can slip if not well fastened. Also secure fold-down tables and similar fittings. Make sure that potholes and windows are closed and rig deadlights. Do a swift check for security. In terrible situations, I have witnessed clears destroyed by the wind, so you should open your clears to allow the wind easily flow through. 

 

If you have a tender, check again that it is properly tied. Tie the anchor down, so it doesn’t become a missile, give the fenders a doubleknot, and secure any boat hooks, lines, and life rings. The engine room also requires a check-over. Examine fluid and oil levels and test bilge pumps for adequate operation. 

 

Know Your Boat

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about sailboats from https://www.marineservices.co.nz/sailboats, it’s that they are can by fully or partially propelled by sails. As such, being able to handle your boat in turbulent weather can be as personal as the skipper himself. No two boats respond the same way given the same sea conditions. For every hull design, there’s a different reaction to the sea-variables and even boats with the same design may act differently based on their trim and load. Every skipper must be fully aware of the distinguishing characteristics of his boat and know how it will react to specific changes in conditions.

 

Check the forecast before going out on your sail and be smart

A smart captain knows he should always look at the weather forecast before taking off from the dock. If you know how to read them, wind conditions and cloud formations also provide lots of information. 

 

In past times, all we had was the local radio and if you weren’t a constant listener, you would have found yourself in trouble. But now, we have smartphones which bell a push notification for serious weather alerts.

 

But what if you lose cell signal or your phone dies? Yes, a battery charger or a backup cell battery could come in handy, but even that’s not sufficient. Cell phones aren’t invulnerable. Anything could kill them, from overheating, to playing our music all day long. They even fall in water and we lose them occasionally.  Never depend on a smartphone!

 

Meeting Head Seas

You should have the ability of slowing down your speed so as to ride up and over the waves, instead of driving the bow right into them. You would also not like to get to the top of the wave and all from the backside, burying the bow. In worse situations, slow your speed until you’re making bare steerage way and keep your boat’s position at an angle of 45 degrees to the swells.

As you reduce your speed, the strain put on the hull and superstructure is lessened.  Continuous pounding can break windows and ports. You don’t want to know how much water can come in a 12″ porthole. 

 

Crossing Bars

Most of the general preparations and techniques handling heavy weather can be used for crossing ocean bars, only that bar crossings have to do with sharp, short pressure waves, which have to be carefully handled.  In addition, space to move is usually limited and the depths may differ. When making preparations to cross a bar, we make use of local knowledge, wear PFDs, and follow navigation marks.

 

Be careful when you outrun the swells

Sometimes you can run ahead of the waves by riding the crests. Never forget that what goes up, must come down, either the wave or your vessel. Outrunning the waves is tricky and usually leads to broaching. This means you crash into the wave in front, usually as a result of overspeeding on your part, which results into the waves behind pushing the boat sideways along the trough. A sharp and sudden turnabout of breaching can cause capsizing.

 

Enroll in a Boating Class and Practise

Sailing in turbulent seas depends on knowing how to operate your boat safely. You can practice with some of the above techniques which are manoeuvres, on calmer seas, to be well prepared. However, I can safely recommend signing up for a USCG Auxiliary Boating class, or even two, maybe on Weather& Boating or a well-rounded Seamanship course and Boating Skills. Majority of the accidents on water are usually caused by an error on the human part. It will be easier to handle boating in rough areas, if you’re really comfortable handling your boat.

 

Be calm and safe and you’ll have a smooth sail!

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Top Tips for Traveling With Your Dog

July 17, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Here are some top tips to consider when traveling with your dog 

Did you know that 85 million Americans own some type of pet? While there are all different kinds of pets out there, undoubtedly, the most popular pet is the dog. 

 

In fact, over 60 million households in the US have a dog. And it’s no wonder why so many people own dogs – they can be absolutely life-changing. 

 

However, with all the benefits that come with owning a dog, there are some drawbacks. For example, figuring out what to do with your dog when you’re on vacation can be a huge hassle. 

 

But we’ve got some good news for you. 

 

You no longer need to leave your pup behind and make accommodations for it. Instead, you can take your dog on vacation with you. But, before you travel with your dog, there are some things you need to know. 

 

Check out this guide to learn the top tips for traveling with your dog. 

1. Choose Dog-Friendly Locations 

First things first, you want to plan for traveling with your dog ahead of time by picking a location to travel to that is dog-friendly, starting with the country. 

 

It may come as a surprise to you, but many destinations around the world are not suitable for domesticated dogs. So, be sure to check the US travel site about your country of choice to find out how pet-friendly the location is, if your dog will need any shots, and any other precautions you need to take. 

 

In addition to the country, you should also make sure you choose a dog-friendly accommodation. Luckily, dog-friendly accommodations are wildly popular. For example, check out these dog-friendly cottages. 

 

Lastly, you want to make sure the airline or form of transportation you take is also dog-friendly. And, keep in mind that some airlines require your dog to sit below with the cargo. If you’re not comfortable with this, you’ll want to choose a different airline. 

2. Pack for Your Pet 

Just like humans, dogs also like to have some creature comforts with them when they travel.

 

Dogs love routine, so try to keep everything as close to their routine as possible by bringing all of their creature comforts from home. This includes food, treats, bowls, leashes, brushes, and medications. 

 

It’s also usually a good idea to bring your own water from home. While this may sound excessive, dogs can have major sensitivities to different water systems, so it’s best not to tempt it. 

With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to have a great vacation with your pooch

3. Be Prepared for Emergencies 

No matter how careful you are when traveling with your dog, emergencies can happen. For example, you can lose your dog or your dog can get sick. 

 

If you’re traveling in a country where you don’t speak the language, then make sure you can say some “dog-friendly” phrases in the local language. For example, “I lost my dog”, “Have you seen my dog?”, or “Is this place dog-friendly”?

 

Also, you want to be prepared in the event your dog gets sick. Talk to your veterinarian, and see if they can recommend a local vet in the area that you are traveling to. 

 

With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to have a great vacation with your pooch. Comment below if you have any questions about these dog-friendly travel tips.

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Compassion Matters: Differentiating Hospice and Palliative Care

July 16, 2019 by Leave a Comment

During illness, the needs of patients can go beyond medications and treatment. Sometimes, all they need is comfort, warmth, and compassionate care. This is what makes palliative and hospice care both essential aspects when delivering health care.

 

Certain health conditions may affect the patient in many ways. They don’t only limit one’s physical capacities; they also affect an individual’s emotional strength. And when all hope is lost, it’s easy for a person to find comfort and relief in the caregiver who provides true empathy and an understanding presence.

This is the core of both palliative and hospice care. While both work under the same purpose, they have differences that may confuse most people. In fact, palliative care is provided during hospice care, yet hospice care serves a more specific set of patients. To help you understand their nature further, check out this useful infographic by Cables and Sensors about hospice and palliative care.

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Sensory Overload: The Best San Francisco Sights, Smells, and Tastes

July 16, 2019 by Leave a Comment

In 2016, San Francisco welcomed 4.41 million overnight visitors, according to Statista. Despite the elusive fog, Pacific Coast sights and scents continue to make this hilly city a hot tourist destination. The suggestions below are sure to guide you through San Francisco’s bests.

Serenity in the Commotion of Visiting a Big City

Image via Flickr by Goodnight London

Want to escape some of the city crowds and spend time in some of the more tranquil parts of town? Be sure to book the ideal getaway using InterContinental Hotels Group to find San Francisco hotels with proximity to one of these harmonious corners of the city. 

If a pamper day is in your future, look no farther than Kabuki Springs for a relaxing spa experience followed by a serene experience in the communal baths. Once you’ve allowed Asian-style treatments to calm your senses, continue to indulge them throughout the city. Let nature spoil your senses with a stroll through San Francisco Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park. Fifty-five acres of an urban arborist oasis showcase over 8,500 different types of plants from around the globe. Raise your awareness of and appreciate the olfactory delights in the Garden of Fragrance, designed in 1965 as a garden experienced entirely by smell and touch.

Alluring Seaside Sights

For urban views with a coastal twist, be sure to scale the 210-foot tower in Telegraph Hill for 360-degree views of the city and bay. This fluted tower, funded by and named for Lillie Hitchcock Coit as a memorial to the city’s volunteer firefighters, has earned itself a spot on Foursquare’s The 15 Best Places with Scenic Views in San Francisco. If you’re looking for a more natural location for beautiful views, Corona Heights Park is the place to be in the city. The metropolitan skyline receding into the vast sea provides the ideal landscape to discover.

Venture out for some fitness with a view and take a walk or jog over the Golden Gate Bridge. At 1.7 miles one way, you’ll receive a great workout while gazing upon the San Francisco Bay, Gulf of the Farallones, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and the city of San Francisco itself.

Tempt the Palate

The restaurant possibilities in San Francisco are endless; however, some key establishments deserve your attention. Start your day with a classic American breakfast or brunch at Sweet Maple. With friendly, attentive service, and top-quality locally sourced organic ingredients, you won’t wonder why everyone raves about the Millionaire’s Bacon or the Big Hip deep-fried French toast. Any restaurant with a bottomless mimosa and bloody mary option is a great place to start your morning.

The El Techo is the one-spot stop for beautiful rooftop patio views, vibrant decor, street eats, and thirst-quenching cocktails. Line up early to gain a spot at this highly coveted eatery. If it’s stylish seafood you’re looking for, look no farther than Waterbar. If the spectacular water views and magnificent seafood alone don’t pull you in, then their high standards of sustainability, variety, and excellence for the sourcing, preparation, and presentation of food will.

Exploring this city is a way to overload the senses and create lasting memories embedded deep within your being.

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