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19 Nov 01:41

Man completely dissolves after falling into acidic hot spring in Yellowstone

by Medical Daily
An Oregon man who died this June in a hot spring at Yellowstone National Park actually dissolved when he fell into the spring’s boiling acidic water, according to a report released due to a Freedom of Information Act request from KULR. The death is just as gruesome as it sounds when you take a look...
18 Nov 14:12

Consumerist Friday Flickr Finds

by Laura Northrup

Here are thirteen of the best photos that readers added to the Consumerist Flickr Pool in the last week, picked for usability in a Consumerist post or for just plain neatness.

Karen Chappell
Debbie Mercer
George
John Hanley
Steve
Jason Cook
Renee Rendler-Kaplan
Debbie Mercer
Karen Chappell
Detroit Derek took me to this wonderful place in Detroit.  It's where they host the Theatre Bizarre.  We ran into David and Miss Rabbit who told us it would be ok if we went in and took some photos of the place.  Thanks to Derek for showing me this super cool carnival spot.
Caleb Sommerville
Steve

Want to see your pictures on our site? Our Flickr pool is the place where Consumerist readers upload photos for possible use in future Consumerist posts. Just be a registered Flickr user, go here, and click “Join Group?” up on the top right. Choose your best photos, then click “send to group” on the individual images you want to add to the pool.

17 Nov 15:41

No-Bake Baklava Bites Are the Perfect Party Dessert — Delicious Links

by Lauren Kodiak
Jim Paull

Mmm

(Image credit: Peas and Crayons)

Entertaining season is in full swing, and if you're hosting a gathering this fall or winter, you're going to want plenty of bite-sized snacks and treats to keep your guests happy. This no-bake take on baklava is the perfect way to end your night on a sweet note.

<p><a href='http://www.thekitchn.com/no-bake-baklava-bites-are-the-perfect-party-dessert-238670'><strong>READ MORE »</strong></a></p>
16 Nov 14:39

How to Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations

Answering essay questions on literature exams can be daunting, especially with timed exams. Before the test, you should have a full understanding of how the different parts of a classical argument fit together to make a whole. The best way to quickly write an organized essay is to outline your argument before you begin your answer. With a little bit of preparation, you can ensure a good grade on your exam.

EditSteps

EditStructuring Your Argument

  1. Learn the six basic parts of the classical oration model.[1] Classical oration survives today through Cicero’s (106 BC - 46 BC) De Inventione — a manual for how to argue. Cicero was a philosopher, a lawyer, a statesman — in short, a man who spent a lot of time arguing. Cicero's six-part structure still influences how we argue, whether we've heard of him or not. It’s engrained in our Western culture. The six parts of the classical oration model are:
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 1.jpg
    • Introduction (exordium)
    • Statement of Facts (narratio)
    • Thesis (partitio)
    • Proof (confirmatio)
    • Refutation (refutatio)
    • Conclusion (peroratio)
    • The introduction, statement of facts, and thesis are often grouped together in the first paragraph of the answer.
  2. Invite the reader into your argument in the introduction. Though we call it the introduction now, Cicero's Latin for this first section of the paper was "exordium." This ancient word shares a root with the modern word "exhort," which means "to urge forward."[2] To capture the spirit of what Cicero advised in opening an argument, you should use the introduction to urge the reader forward into your paper. Many arguments open with an interesting fact or quote — a "hook" to grab the reader's attention. Explain why the subject of this answer is so important. Your goal here is to make the reader care enough to want to keep reading.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 2.jpg
    • Another way to think of the exordium is to consider where the word "introduction" comes from. The prefix "intro" means "inward," as in introspection (looking inward). "Duction" comes from the latin root "ducere," which means "to lead." This is where we get the modern words duke (one who leads) and orchestra conductor (one who leads together).[3][4]
    • In the introduction, you want to intro + duce, or lead the reader inward, further into your argument.
  3. Provide background information in the statement of facts. In this section, you give readers all the information they need to understand the subject of your argument. For example, if your readers have never read To Kill a Mockingbird, they won't be able to follow your analysis of the mockingbird symbol. You must first provide a short summary of what the book's about, so they can follow your nuanced argument.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 3.jpg
    • If your reader already knows the background information, you may be able to skip this section.
    • In Cicero's Latin, this section was called the "narratio," which is where we get the modern word "narrator." The narrator is the voice in a book that gives readers information that can't be delivered through dialogue or action.
    • The word "knowledge" itself shares a root with narration: gnoscere.[5] In this section, you give the readers the knowledge they need to follow your argument.
  4. Break down your argument in your thesis.[6] Depending on how complex and long your argument is, your thesis might be one sentence or two to three sentences. If this is a short-answer question, the thesis should be a single sentence. If you have three hours to answer this question, it might be two or three sentences. A thesis statement does three things: 1) state your claim/stance; 2) state the key issues you will discuss to support that claim/stance; and 3) provide the order in which those issues will be covered. A good model for the thesis is: I will argue [claim/stance] through an analysis of X, Y, and Z. You must address points X, Y, and Z in this exact order.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 4.jpg
    • Cicero's Latin word, partitio, shares a root with the modern word "partition," which means division or separation. When Beyonce sings "Driver roll up the partition, please," she's asking the driver to roll up the window that separates him from the passengers in the back.
    • So the thesis is where you list out the different parts of your argument — your X, Y, and Z — in list form, separately.
  5. Show the readers the evidence for your claim in the proof.[7] These are the body paragraphs of your argument. In shorter answers, the number of body paragraphs can correspond with the number of points in your thesis. If you offered an X, a Y, and a Z, you can discuss each element in a single, brief paragraph. In longer, more advanced essay questions, though, you should feel free to spend as many paragraphs as you need on each point of analysis. If the question asks for external sources, you want to use them in your body paragraphs as the supporting evidence for your claim. Fill your body paragraphs with as many supporting quotes and statistics from credible sources as you need to prove your point.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 5.jpg
    • Note that it's not enough to just list a bunch of quotes and statistics from sources. That's not making an argument — it's restating someone else's information or argument.
    • The sources you use should only be used to support your own argument. Most of what you write in the body paragraphs should be your own thoughts on the subject.
  6. Refute the counterargument.[8] After you've laid out your own argument, you should address the opposition position. Doing so demonstrates that you're knowledgeable on the subject and you know what the people who disagree with you are arguing. It also shows that you're not scared of a fight: your argument is so strong that you can give dissents a voice in your paper without worrying they have a better argument than you. Most importantly, though, you want to demonstrate that you can dismantle the counterargument with your analysis and evidence.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 6.jpg
    • Don't include a counterargument without refuting it. To refute means to "beat back."[9] The only reason you include the opposing point of view is to beat it back and strengthen your own position.
  7. Synthesize your argument in the conclusion.[10] In the conclusion, you should transition back from your refutation of the counterargument into a restatement of your own argument. But you should do more than just reword your thesis. At this point, your readers will have read all the evidence you provided. Now, you can explain to them how X, Y, and Z work together to actually prove your claim/stance. You might note that in the thesis you state your points, and in the conclusion you explain how they fit together as a whole.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 7.jpg
    • Do not transition into your conclusion with a signal phrase like "in conclusion" or "in summary." Find a less obvious, more sophisticated transition.

EditWriting Your Essay

  1. Begin by outlining your essay. Now that you understand how the different parts of your argument work together, you can begin sketching out your ideas. You may be tempted to skip the work of outlining your paper and jumping right into the paper. You should know, though, that this doesn't save you any time. When you outline your ideas, you'll be able to actually write your essay much more quickly than you would without an outline.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 8.jpg
    • Create a bullet point for each point you choose to make in your paper.
    • Your first point should include the introduction, statement of facts, and thesis.
    • You should break up the “proof” or body paragraphs into however many points you laid out in your thesis. If you promised three points, create three bullet points. If you promised four points, create four bullet points. Remember that the body paragraphs must follow the exact order of the thesis.
    • Create a point for the statement of the counterargument. You can either create a new point/paragraph for your refutation of it, or keep it all in one paragraph by making the refutation a subpoint.
    • Create a point for the conclusion.
  2. Fill out your outline.[11] For each point in your outline, fill in the important information that will jog your memory when writing the essay. You don't have to write in full sentences or flesh ideas out in detail — just jot down whatever you need to keep you on track when you're lost in your sentences later.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 9.jpg
    • If you're using external sources, you should include them in your outline. You don't want to accidentally leave out a great source because you got caught up in the writing and forgot about it.
  3. Write your topic sentences into your outline.[12] The first sentence of each paragraph is called the "topic sentence," and it serves as a thesis for the paragraph. A thesis tells you the scope of what will be argued in the whole paper. A topic sentence tells you the scope of what will be argued in the paragraph. But the topic sentence does more than just point forward to what its paragraph will discuss. It also reaches back to create a smooth transition from the previous paragraph. Transitions can be difficult when you’re in the middle of the essay. When looking at an outline, you can see how all the pieces fit together.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 10.jpg
    • Use transition words like furthermore, similarly, or indeed to transition between agreeing ideas. [13]
    • Use "conflict" transition words and phrases to transition between conflicting ideas — like the counterargument and your refutation of it. Examples include however, in contrast, on the other hand, or conversely.
  4. Use the outline to write your essay. If you put some thought into your outline, you should be able to follow it line by line to create the content of your essay. Even with a strong outline, you may have trouble getting the writing process started. Especially if the exam is timed, just start writing, even if you think it's terrible.[14] If you just sat there staring into space, you wouldn't have anything down at all. This way, at least you have something to show, and you can always delete the bad material when you find your way to stronger language and points.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 11.jpg
    • Make sure to refer back to your outline repeatedly during the writing process. This is the roadmap of your answer. Don't wander away from it and get off-course.
  5. Decide when to correct errors. Think about what the exam is testing. Are you being tested on your analysis or on your ability to write? The answer to this question will determine how much effort you should put into editing your sentences as you go.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 12.jpg
    • If you're being graded primarily on the content of your argument, leave grammar and spelling editing for your last step.
    • If you're being graded primarily on your grammar and spelling, by all means, correct your errors as you go!
    • In most cases, you won't be graded on one or the other. Keep your specific teacher or standardized test in mind. Have a strategy for when you plan to correct your errors before you take the test.
  6. Proofread your essay before submitting it. Hopefully, you have time left over when you finish writing your essay, before you have to turn it in. Use this time wisely. Even if you're sick of working on the answer and you just want to be done with it, use this time to proofread your writing.
    Answer Essay Type Questions in Literature Examinations Step 13.jpg
    • If you're in an isolated room, read the essay aloud to yourself to look for grammar errors that sound wrong. It's easier to hear mistakes than see them on the page.[15]
    • Read your sentences backwards to look for spelling errors you might skim over if you were reading the sentences normally.[16]

EditWarnings

  • Never plagiarize another author's words or ideas. You can fail the assignment or even the entire course, or get suspended or expelled from school


EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found


14 Nov 13:14

The 3 Make-Ahead Breakfasts I Know by Heart — Breakfast Matters

by Faith Durand

How's your fall going? It's been hectic here, but I've been making an extra effort to reclaim breakfast as a make-ahead victory. And when it comes to breakfast plans, I find that it's best to keep it very simple.

We're in the business of recipes and cooking advice here at Kitchn, but I confess that even as I read recipe after wonderful recipe (and try them out frequently), I still return to just a few basics. Here are the three make-ahead breakfasts I know by heart.

<p><a href='http://www.thekitchn.com/the-3-make-ahead-breakfasts-i-know-by-heart-237540'><strong>READ MORE »</strong></a></p>
14 Nov 01:44

How to Make Egyptian Macaroni with Béchamel Sauce

Jim Paull

Pity all the carbs, looks good.

Have you ever tried Egyptian food? Do you want to learn how to cook delicious food? This article will teach you how to cook Egyptian macaroni with béchamel sauce. The macaroni serves 5-6 people.
CAM03851 1.jpg

EditIngredients

Minced Beef

  • 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 pounds of minced beef
  • 2 chopped onion
  • 1 chopped carrot
  • 1 chopped green pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce
  • 2 teaspoons of mixed spice (black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, cardamon, clove, cumin, paprika, ginger and you may add any other spice that you like)

Macaroni

  • 1 pack of penne rigate macaroni (1 pound)
  • 12 cups of water
  • 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt

Bechamel

  • 1/2 cup of butter
  • 1 cup of flour
  • 2 cups of milk
  • 2 cups of soup
  • 4 eggs
  • 3 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 3 tablespoons of whipping cream

EditSteps

EditMaking the Minced Beef

  1. Heat oil in a cooking pot on medium heat.
    CAM03757 1.jpg
  2. Add the minced beef. Cover the cooking pot and stir every minute.
    Step 2 MWB.gif
  3. When the beef color turns gray, add the onion, carrot, green pepper, tomato sauce, spices and the salt.
    Step 3 MWB.gif
  4. Leave the beef until all the water evaporates then turn off the heat.
    CAM03779.jpg

EditPreparing the Macaroni

  1. Add the 12 cups of water and the oil to a cooking pot. Bring to a boil.
    CAM03764.jpg
  2. Add the macaroni to the boiling water. Stir once or twice the first few minutes. Then leave it around 15-20 mins.
    Step 5 MWB.gif
  3. When the macaroni is cooked, drain it then add the salt, black pepper and 1 spoon of butter or oil.
    Step 6 MWB.gif

EditPreparing the Bechamel

  1. Heat butter in a saucepan on medium heat.
    CAM03794.jpg
  2. Add the flour and stir it till its color is golden.
    Step 8 MWB.gif
  3. Add the milk and the soup. Keep stirring till it starts to be heavy. Turn the heat off.
    Step 9 MWB.gif
  4. Add two eggs, one at a time and beat them well. Then add the mozzarella, the salt and black pepper.
    Step 10 MWB.gif

EditPreparing the Macaroni with Bechamel Tray

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Add half of the bechamel sauce to the macaroni.
    CAM03813.jpg
  2. Add half of the macaroni and bechamel mix to the tray.
    CAM03816.jpg
  3. Spread the minced beef on the tray.
    CAM03817.jpg
  4. Add the last half of the macaroni and bechamel mix to the tray.
    Step 14 MWB.gif
  5. Add two eggs (one at a time) and whipping cream to the rest of the bechamel. Put it on the top of the tray.
    Step 15 MWB.gif
  6. Spread on the top of the tray one tablespoon of bread crumbs and one tablespoon of melted butter.
    CAM03833.jpg
  7. Place the tray in the oven and leave it around 30-40 minutes till its top color changes to golden or brown.
    Step 17 MWB.gif
  8. Serve and enjoy!
    Step 18 MWB.gif


14 Nov 00:34

Dept: Need further studies on Malacca relics

Jim Paull

Haha, no no no, not so fast. We must study to see if it is true.

PETALING JAYA: The relics recently sighted in the Malacca River must be subjected to further studies before confirming their connection to the Majapahit Kingdom, says the National Heritage Department.
11 Nov 14:16

UMW Oil & Gas needs to improve fleet utilisation - AmInvestment Bank

by GANESHWARAN KANA
PETALING JAYA: UMW Oil & Gas Corp Bhd’s (UMW-OG) losses and negative cashflow are unlikely to abate in the near term unless there is a significant breakthrough in securing new charters, said AmInvestment Bank on Friday.
11 Nov 12:51

Consumerist Friday Flickr Finds

by Laura Northrup

Here are seven of the best photos that readers added to the Consumerist Flickr Pool in the last week, picked for usability in a Consumerist post or for just plain neatness.

(Xavier J. Peg)
(Patrick)
(Paul McCarthy)
(pjpink)
(Karen Chappell)
(Xavier J. Peg)
10 Nov 03:51

Travellers at a loss over rupee scrap

by By FATIMAH ZAINAL and CRYSTAL CHIAM SHIYING
Jim Paull

I don't understand. That like 32 & 64 myr. Not like 20 sen.

PETALING JAYA: The surprise announcement on Tuesday night by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to remove the 500 and 1,000 rupee notes from circulation has left things up in the air for moneychangers here and those planning to travel there.
10 Nov 00:36

Soros – I Was Having So Much Fun Toppling Najib I Forgot To Topple Trump

by Editor

WASHINGTON:  Today Malaysians blamed billionaire George Soros for being so distracted with his obsession with toppling Malaysia’s democratically elected government, that he completely forgot to rig the US election and save the planet from a Trump presidency. “I had it down in my diary to fix voting machines in US swing states,” a miserable Soros […]

The post Soros – I Was Having So Much Fun Toppling Najib I Forgot To Topple Trump appeared first on FMN.

10 Nov 00:18

Have You Tried Pumpkin Hummus Yet? — Delicious Links

by Lauren Kodiak
Jim Paull

Haha, don't tell Gordon.

(Image credit: Vegetarian Ventures)

This time of year, you'll find pumpkin in everything from cheesecake to beer to coffee creamer ... and now, hummus. If you think about it, adding pumpkin purée to hummus makes a lot of sense. Standing in for the traditional tahini, pumpkin lends a creamy, luscious texture, while also giving off a vibrant orange hue.

<p><a href='http://www.thekitchn.com/have-you-tried-pumpkin-hummus-yet-238451'><strong>READ MORE »</strong></a></p>
09 Nov 02:57

Choose the Best Soy Sauce by Looking for “Brewed” or “Fermented” on the Label

by Alan Henry
Jim Paull

Ours doesn't say, but I'm pretty sure that it's NOT:
Chemical soy sauces: These are made over the course of about two days by hydrolyzing soy protein and combining it with other flavorings.

So we're set.

Soy sauce is delicious, but choosing the best often comes down to “my brand versus your brand.” Ditch brand loyalty and look at the label instead: If yours has been brewed or fermented, and proudly states it, it will be better than sauce made using methods like hydrolysis, often used to keep costs low.

Read more...

08 Nov 08:16

How to Care for an Alzheimer’s Patient As a Family

Millions of people worldwide suffer from Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and the numbers will only keep growing as the average lifespan increases. Caring for Alzheimer’s patients can be incredibly challenging as the disease progresses, and the burden usually falls upon one or more family members. If you are trying to provide care as a family for a loved one with AD, the challenges of care can be compounded by disagreements, miscommunication, jealousy, anger, and a host of other issues that may erupt. In order to care for an Alzheimer’s patient as a family, you need to plan and work as a team, ensure that care needs are continually met, and understand that even a whole family of caregivers can be overwhelmed at times by this punishing disease.

EditSteps

EditWorking Together

  1. Hold a family meeting. If you are a family that communicates openly, honestly, and regularly, you will need to put those attributes to use to care for your loved one with AD. If you aren’t such a family, you’ll need to work on developing those skills as well. You have to have an open, frank, and ongoing discussion about your loved one’s care needs, plans, and wishes.[1]
    Make a Grandparent Happy Step 18.jpg
    • In the best case scenario, you will hold this discussion while the person diagnosed with AD can still be a full participant. He or she should be given the opportunity to express his or her care preferences, along with questions, concerns, and fears.
    • This is an important enough conversation that a separate, single focus family meeting should be scheduled. Don’t try to shoehorn it in before dessert at Thanksgiving dinner.
    • Have a calm discussion about what type of care is needed for both the present and future. Having this conversation will provide a base for avoiding confusion in the future.
    • Have your family think about their schedules, as well as how to adapt them and coordinate with the primary caregiver for holidays and vacations.
    • Each family member should consider their own strengths and skills that they can offer.
    • Be sure to show appreciation, reassurance, and positivity to the primary caregiver. This person needs a special amount of support.
    • Think about your family's current limits financially, emotionally, and personally.
    • Consider getting a professional care manager. These people are usually licensed nurses or social workers specializing in care for older adults.
  2. Divvy up responsibilities in a practical manner. Almost inevitably, one person (often a spouse or child) becomes the single primary caregiver for a loved one with AD, no matter how involved others intend to be. Try to divide responsibilities among family members fairly, but also accept that practical matters like available time, proximity, and individual skills must play key roles in the process.[2]
    Make a Grandparent Happy Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • For instance, a sister who lives 100 miles away should probably not be the day-to-day primary caregiver, while a brother who can’t balance his own checkbook probably shouldn’t be in charge of getting the financial, legal, and medical documents in order.
    • Create a “care notebook” that can be distributed and regularly updated. An actual, old-fashioned binder will do, but you'll probably find a virtual "notebook" that can be remotely accessed more practical. Regardless of format, it should include important information on the Alzheimer’s patient’s care (medications, doctor information, etc.) as well as an agreed-upon breakdown of individual care responsibilities among family members.[3]
    • If at any point you feel an overwhelmed, seek help from a friend or a professional, such as social worker or geriatric care manager. Your family and other geriatric care professionals should work together as a team to find solutions for taking care of your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.
  3. Address important legal, financial, and healthcare matters. In some respects, caring for a loved one with AD is similar to providing end-of-life care over what can be a significantly longer period. In either instance, dealing with lots of important paperwork (and making important decisions) is a component of the caregiving process. Make sure you discuss important legal, financial, and healthcare matters with the gathered family, and include the Alzheimer’s patient if his or her condition permits an active role.
    Survive a Personal Financial Crisis Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    [4]
    • Beyond issues like making sure bills are paid and various policies and plans are kept up-to-date, you should make sure your loved one has both a valid will and a living will (which designates healthcare wishes, among other things).
    • While it can sometimes cause disagreements and hard feelings, it is often best if an individual family member is granted a durable power of attorney (to make important legal and/or financial decisions), and that the same or another individual family member is appointed the AD patient’s healthcare proxy. All family caregivers should have input, but sometimes there needs to be a single “decider.”
    • Find resources in your area or online that will give you information about putting the important paperwork together and having a durable power of attorney for health care and asset management. You can look online at the websites of the Family Caregivers' Alliance and National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (for estate planning).
  4. Stick together in the face of changes and challenges. Even if your family gets along quite well, expect disagreements and arguments when caring for a loved one with AD. The realities of caregiving alter existing family dynamics, and can bring longstanding tensions or new disputes to the surface. When times get tough, keep the main goal in mind — providing the compassionate care that your loved one deserves after a lifetime of caring for you.[5]
    Make a Grandparent Happy Step 19.jpg
    • Express your feelings and opinions openly and honestly in regular gatherings, and respect the perspectives of other family caregivers. If there are differences that cannot be overcome, seek the assistance of an outside facilitator — such as a counselor, clergy member, or perhaps the AD patient’s doctor.[6]
    • As an example, deciding if and when an Alzheimer’s patient should leave home and move into some type of care facility can often cause family friction. Opinions among family members are bound to vary and be difficult to adjust. Seeking the counsel of someone with experience dealing with Alzheimer’s patients may help facilitate compromise.[7]
    • You can also find a support group for caregivers. Support groups can help you realize that you are not alone. Many other families are also going through similar experience. You can find both live and online supports groups; look at The Alzheimer's Association website to find one near you.
  5. Spend time together as a family. The constant care demands of advanced Alzheimer’s patients, in particular, may make your other family members feel more like fellow caregivers (working different shifts) than siblings, cousins, etc. Seize opportunities to spend time together under enjoyable circumstances like holiday gatherings or birthday parties. Leave your frustrations and disagreements as caregivers aside for a few hours.[8]
    Build Self Confidence in the Elderly Step 9.jpg
    • Involve your loved one with AD in these gatherings whenever possible. Make sure he or she is still treated as a living, breathing, full member of the family. Make practical adjustments when having gatherings at home (like perhaps limiting the number of visitors at any one time or scheduling events earlier in the day, when most AD patients do better) or in public places (like choosing a restaurant that is familiar and accessible to your loved one).
    • It is important to remind yourself that the disease, not the person with AD, presents challenges to your life and family. Keep things in perspective, and find humor when you can.

EditProviding Care

  1. Create a safe living environment for your Alzheimer’s patient. As the mental and physical decline associated with Alzheimer’s moves along its irregular but inevitable path, the risk of injuries due to accidents or confusion will continue to grow. Work as a family to identify and address safety concerns in your loved one’s home — or at whatever location it is that he or she now calls home.
    Give a Room a Tropical Theme Step 6.jpg
    • Make changes such as removing trip hazards, locking away sharp or dangerous objects, and adding bright colors and large-print signs (such as a “TOILET INSIDE” sign on the bathroom door) to make the residence safer and more suited to the AD patient’s needs and abilities.
    • Reassure your family member with AD that they are safe and that you are there to help. These reminders should be really kind and helpful, especially when the person is confused or upset.
    • Provide comfortable shoes with good traction. Clear out any walking spaces in the house that might cause your family member with AD to stumble or fall. Some potential hazards you might move are rugs and doormats.
  2. Stick to routines. Confusion is one of the hallmark symptoms of AD, and it can lead to fear, anger, and hostility on the part of the patient. Setting and keeping a regular daily routine helps keep things more familiar, and may help to limit confusion and anxiety at least to some degree.[9]
    Build Self Confidence in the Elderly Step 7.jpg
    • Keep things simple. You should map out a daily routine for you and your family. If it helps, create a schedule that outlines the entire day, with each family member's responsibilities marked clearly.
    • You can vary activities — a puzzle one day before lunch, looking at photo albums the next — but try to keep a consistent daily schedule (wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, take pills, do some light exercises, listen to some music together, etc.). Identify each activity in the daily routine for your loved one.
    • Make sure, in particular, that dressing, eating, and bathing times remain consistent. Changing these routines can be really challenging for someone with AD.
    • Be careful of "sundowning." Sundowning often occurs for AD patients at night and consists of the person experiencing restlessness and agitation as the sun goes down. Be prepared for this. In the evening, foster a calm and quiet atmosphere. Keep the lights low, reduce the noise level, and play soothing music. Try playing music from the time of your loved one's youth to help lessen confusion and agitation.
    • Try to minimize naps.
    • Make time for exercise, such as light walking, so that your loved one with AD can have a more restful night's sleep.
    • Try to ensure that all caregivers are following similar routines for the sake of consistency. Communicate with your other family members regularly on this topic.
  3. Encourage two-way communication. Each case of Alzheimer’s progresses differently, but patients eventually lose a significant amount of their communication skills, especially verbal ones. Even once it begins to be a challenge to understand what your loved one is trying to say, keep talking with — not at — him or her. Learn to pick up on non-verbal communication cues, like facial expressions and hand gestures, as well.[10]
    Make a Grandparent Happy Step 8.jpg
    • Tell family members and visitors to talk to your loved one with AD, even if a coherent conversation is impossible. Remind them not to speak as though the person isn’t there.
    • Be aware of the tone and pitch of your voice. Do your best to sound calm and respectful, even if you are frustrated.
    • Be patient with your loved one's angry outbursts. Remind yourself that this is the result of the disease.
    • Take a "timeout" if you get frustrated. Leave the room and sit outside for a few minutes. Do some deep breathing to calm yourself down.
    • Ask questions that require a "yes" or "no" answer.
    • Allow extra time for your loved one to listen to you.
    • Talk to your family member in a well-lit room.
    • Face the person as your are talking to them.
  4. Show and demand respect for your loved one as a person. In addition to talking as though an AD patient is not present in the room, people sometimes (and usually without any malicious intent) lose sight of treating AD patients with dignity and respect. They might, for instance, change soiled clothing in plain view of others. Remind yourself and others that no matter the progression of the disease, the patient is still a person — and a very important person to you.[11]
    Make a Grandparent Happy Step 11.jpg
    • Work together as a family of caregivers to ensure that basic hygiene and grooming efforts are kept up, especially if your loved one took special pride in his or her appearance. When it comes to clothing, for instance, emphasize comfort and simplicity in getting items on and off, but don’t allow your loved one to sit in the same dirty clothes for days.
  5. Accept that an irregular but ongoing decline will occur. Alzheimer’s at present cannot be cured, stopped, or substantially delayed, and your loved one’s condition will continue to worsen. The transition from mild to moderate to severe AD can happen quickly, or can take many years. Take measures recommended or approved by your loved one’s medical team to try to delay the worsening of symptoms, but accept that your primary goal as a caregiving family will inevitably be to create as comfortable and loving of an environment as possible.[12]
    Live Life With No Regrets Step 12 Version 2.jpg
    • Whether or not it can actually help delay the worsening of the disease, keeping an Alzheimer’s patient physically, mentally, and socially active as long as possible will provide benefits to your loved one and you as a caregiver. See How to Help Alzheimer’s Patients Stay Active for specific advice on this topic.
  6. Be aware of your loved one's needs. People with AD can often have bouts of aggression and irritation. Sometimes these are related to AD, but they could also stem from a range of other things. Keep an eye out for the following things that could be making your loved one upset:
    • Pain
    • Constipation
    • Excessive caffeine
    • Lack of sleep
    • Soiled hygiene pad

EditGetting More Help

  1. Don’t feel guilty about living your life. No matter how many family members are “pitching in,” caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. Some forty percent of people providing a loved one with AD care experience signs of depression at some point. Everyone needs a break sometimes, and everyone needs help sometimes.[13]
    Live Intentionally Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • Keep in regular contact with other caregiving family members, and let them know when it is all getting to be too much for you. See if someone else in the group can cover for you for a short period of time.
    • Also, don’t feel as though every free second you have beyond your own work, family, and other responsibilities must be dedicated to caregiving. You have to have some time for yourself and your life, or your caregiving for your loved one will suffer.[14]
    • Learn how to manage stress. Take five deep breaths. Learn to do yoga or meditate.
    • Take care of yourself. Make sure that you are on top of getting your regular checkups and are exercising, eating, and sleeping well.
    • Recognize signs of stress as a caregiver. These signs include denial, anger, social withdrawal, anxiety about the future, depression, exhaustion, sleeplessness, irritability, lack of concentration, and health problems. Burnout can damage the health of both yourself and your loved one with AD, so be sure to recognize these signs. If you are feeling burnout, communicate that feeling to your other family members so that they can give you a break for a day.
  2. Don’t wait to be asked to help a fellow caregiver who is struggling. When you need some help or time away, ask for it; when you sense that another caregiver needs the same, offer your help. Working as a team means anticipating needs and offering whatever contributions you can to support the larger goal.[15]
    Help Melancholic People Step 6.jpg
    • As members of the same family and caregivers for the same loved one, set aside petty differences whenever possible and approach each other with compassion and understanding. Do what you can to help each other, which is certainly what your loved one with AD would have wanted of you.
  3. Seek outside assistance with caregiving. No matter how good your intentions, how great your energy levels, and how determined you are to see things through as a family, the time may well come when caring for an Alzheimer’s patient is simply too much for your family group. There is absolutely no shame in this. Always focus on what is best for your loved one with AD, even if that means turning over some amount of care to trained professionals. Outside assistance options for AD patients include but are not limited to:[16]
    Cope With an Elderly Mother Who Has Recently Become Bedridden Step 1.jpg
    • Respite care providers, who will provide full-time care for your loved one for a predetermined (short) period of time, so that you and other family members can get some rest and energy.
    • Meal service providers, who bring prepared food to your loved one’s home on a regular schedule.
    • Adult day care programs, which supervise activities for AD patients according to an established schedule.
    • Home healthcare providers, who can provide services ranging from occasional home visits to 24/7 in-home care.
    • Geriatric care managers, who make regular home visits and offer care suggestions and assistance in coordinating needed services.
  4. Bring your family member with AD to the doctor regularly. Bring your loved one to the doctor every 2-4 weeks, especially in the early stages of treatment. In these sessions, the doctor may still be adjusting medication and answering your questions. After those initial stages, bring your loved one to the doctor ever 3-6 months. The doctor will be assessing your family member with AD in different areas: activities of daily living, cognition, comorbid medical and mood disorders, and caregiver status.
    • The doctor will also be assessing your family, helping you cope, and directing you to resources. They will do their best to help you cope with and manage your stress about your family member with AD.
  5. Find a caregivers’ support group. You can find comfort, support, and assistance within your family group of caregivers, but sometimes it may be easier to seek out these things from strangers going through the same type of thing as you. With the growing number of cases of AD, there is also a growing number of available AD caregiver support groups.[17]
    Get Support When Diagnosed with Breast Cancer Step 3.jpg
    • Don't wait to be asked to help. Try to help your family members whenever you can. Sometimes, even simple things, like helping with chores or taking a walk with your loved one, can make the burden of other caretakers feel much lighter. You want to give other caregivers time to recharge, too.
    • Talk to your loved one’s care team for advice on local caregiver support groups. You can also search for groups online and/or join online support groups. Start your search on recognized sites dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, such as http://www.alz.org/.

EditSources and Citations


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08 Nov 05:08

Fake Malaysia News: Malaysia’s answer to The Onion

by Mikha Chan
Jim Paull

Yup, it's on my feed.

fakemalaysianewsPETALING JAYA: Satire is a tricky subject to handle here in Malaysia, given the country’s wide range of sensitivities whether cultural or traditional – but local satire website Fake Malaysia News (FMN) has managed to handle it well, gaining a respectable following in the process.

Besides overly volatile topics such as royalty, racism, violence, or death, everything else is fair game for FMN as they take shots at both the government and society in general.

“We sometimes poke fun at religious authorities, but we won’t make fun of the religion itself,” the founders told FMT.

On the condition of anonymity, FMN agreed to be interviewed by FMT via e-mail, saying that the website was set up in June 2012, after its founders found themselves “so bored, we read several local newspapers from cover to cover”.

“It was then that a few silly headline ideas popped into our minds, and we wondered why there wasn’t a funny news website in Malaysia,”

Popular headlines by FMN include “Saudi Hotdog Chain Scraps Malaysian Expansion Plan”, which satirises the recent religious controversy over the naming of hot dogs, and “Blacklisted Pro-Bersih Companies Still Allowed To Pay Us Taxes, Govt Assures”, taking a shot at a tweet by Barisan Nasional (BN) minister Abdul Rahman Dahlan about electoral watchdog Bersih 2.0.

Their ideas come as they scan the major news sites for headlines several times daily and brainstorm funny headline ideas.

“Ideally we want to write topical jokes everyone is talking about, such as pretzel dogs, F1 Australians in their underwear, or ‘strengthening ties’ with China.

“Once we think we have a funny idea, we write up a short article for the headline and see how it flies on social media.

“For us, it’s always interesting to see what people will like and share on their newsfeeds,” FMN said.

Responses to their jokes range from flat to outright viral, and FMN takes the general approach of flinging everything they can at a wall and seeing what sticks.

“Some jokes we think are hilarious have bombed, others we initially thought almost too stupid to publish have shocked us by going viral, so we don’t really know what people will like, but we’ve gotten better at fake news over the years,” FMN said.

FMN follows in the footsteps of well-established satire news sites all over the world, the most well-known being American satire news site ‘The Onion’.

“The idea of a fake news website isn’t new. The most famous one is ‘The Onion’ in the US. In the UK they have ‘The Daily Mash’ and ‘News Thump’. India has ‘The Unreal Times’, Australia has ‘The Shovel’ and Singapore’s satire site is called ‘NewNation’. There are many more,” FMN said.

For exciting but fake news about all things Malaysian, visit: http://fakemalaysianews.com

08 Nov 02:08

Is It Really OK to Not Wash Your Coffee Cup? — Food News

by Ariel Knutson
Jim Paull

More flavor.

Do you wash your coffee cup every day after using it? You might be wasting your time. According to to The Wall Street Journal,you don't need to wash your coffee cup every day, unless you happen to share your coffee cup with someone else, or if you add cream and sugar to your coffee cup. Before your run away screaming from the germ-tastic idea, let's break this down to figure out if it's actually OK to do.

<p><a href='http://www.thekitchn.com/is-it-really-ok-to-not-wash-your-coffee-cup-238581'><strong>READ MORE »</strong></a></p>
07 Nov 00:44

PhD registry for all PhD holders in M’sia

by Bernama

mohe-PhD

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) will establish a registry under the Department of Higher Education for all PhD holders in the country.

MOHE in a statement Sunday said the registry would automatically register those who graduated with a PhD locally and as for overseas PhD graduates, verification would be sought from the respective universities.

“The setting up of the registry is to facilitate and complement existing laws in addition to the legal safeguards provided under the Penal Code, which allows for criminal action to be taken against the production and usage of fraudulent academic titles,” said the statement.

According to the MOHE, the registry falls under the University and University Colleges Act 1971 (Act 30), the Private Educational Institutions Act (Act 555) and existing guidelines on the use of academic titles.

“The ministry believes that this move will ensure credible use of academic titles, enable the public to verify information, and deter the bogus issuance of academic certificates,” according to the statement.

The MOHE said they are serious in taking action against the production and usage of fraudulent academic titles by individuals and organisations.

It added that the most common fraudulently used and produced academic title in Malaysia is “Dr.”, as in a PhD graduate.

05 Nov 15:45

Why the Person Who Cooks Should Also Do the Dishes

by Claire Lower on Skillet, shared by Alan Henry to Lifehacker
Jim Paull

The eating ones, not the cooking ones.

One of the advantages to living with another human is the division of household labor, but there may be a benefit to one person doing the cooking and after-meal cleaning.

Read more...

05 Nov 15:02

Bake Off Meets Downton Abbey in Mary Berry’s New Show for BBC — Food TV

by Ariel Knutson
(Image credit: BBC)

After what has been a couple months of sad news for Great British Bake Off fans, we finally got a glimpse of the glorious future to come. Yesterday the BBC announced that Mary Berry will be hosting her own TV series with the BBC called Mary Berry's Secrets from Britain's Great Houses. The new show is basically a cross between Great British Bake Off and Downton Abbey.

<p><a href='http://www.thekitchn.com/the-great-british-bakeoffs-mary-berry-to-star-in-a-new-bbc-show-238474'><strong>READ MORE »</strong></a></p>
05 Nov 14:52

Recipe: Cider-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Bacon — Recipes from The Kitchn

by Kelli Foster
Jim Paull

Mmmm

If there's one thing that makes a pan of roasted Brussels sprouts even better, it's bacon. Brussels sprouts pair well with its smoky flavor, and the fat rendered during roasting helps the leaves grow lacy and crisp.

This dish, made to feed a full Thanksgiving table, adds one more element to the mix: a sweet, slight tart, apple cider glaze that's drizzled over the still-warm sprouts.

<p><a href='http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-cider-glazed-brussels-sprouts-and-bacon-237209'><strong>READ MORE »</strong></a></p>
04 Nov 15:55

20 Ways to Eat More Brussels Sprouts Tonight — Recipes from The Kitchn

by Kelli Foster
Jim Paull

oooooo

Brussels sprouts have seen a major shift in status from the overcooked mini cabbage of our childhood to cool vegetable we just can't get enough of. A quick roast makes it a staple side for just about any dinner plate, but don't stop there — there's so much more these green globes can do.

From shredded salads, to creamy gratins, to a sheet pan miracle meal thrown in for those nights you don't feel like cooking, there are no shortage of ways to get Brussels sprouts on the table tonight.

<p><a href='http://www.thekitchn.com/20-ways-to-eat-more-brussels-sprouts-tonight-237484'><strong>READ MORE »</strong></a></p>
04 Nov 13:08

Consumerist Friday Flickr Finds

by Laura Northrup

Here are five of the best photos that readers added to the Consumerist Flickr Pool in the last week, picked for usability in a Consumerist post or for just plain neatness.

(andy briggs)
(Karen Chappell)
(Nic Rutterford)
(Joel Zimmer)

Want to see your pictures on our site? Our Flickr pool is the place where Consumerist readers upload photos for possible use in future Consumerist posts. Just be a registered Flickr user, go here, and click “Join Group?” up on the top right. Choose your best photos, then click “send to group” on the individual images you want to add to the pool.

03 Nov 01:08

A 30-Minute Yoga Routine You Can Do Anywhere, with No Special Equipment

by Heather Yamada-Hosley

Working out when you don’t have much room to move around or any exercise equipment can be tough, but here’s a yoga routine you can do just about anywhere without any special equipment.

Read more...

03 Nov 01:07

If You Still Don't Own a Philips Wake-Up Light, Today's the Day to Fix That

by Shep McAllister on Deals, shared by Shep McAllister to Lifehacker

If you still haven’t upgraded your morning routine up a life-changing wake-up light, Amazon’s deeply discounting several different models as part of a Gold Box deal today.

Read more...

03 Nov 01:06

Swiss police detain imam over call to kill Muslims

by AFP
Jim Paull

power corrupts et al

swiss-policeGENEVE: Swiss police arrested an imam at a controversial mosque near Zurich on Wednesday after he allegedly urged followers to kill fellow Muslims who refused to join communal prayers.

In a statement, the prosecutor in Zurich’s cantonal government said the imam at the An’Nur de Winterhour mosque, who is an Ethiopian national, had been detained for incitement to violence.

During an October 21 sermon, the imam “called for the assassination of Muslims who refuse to participate in communal prayers in the mosque,” the prosecutor’s statement said, adding that a criminal probe had been launched.

Three of the imam’s followers were also being held and investigated but the prosecutor said it was “unclear” what role they played in the alleged call to violence.

Separately, Zurich police raided the mosque early Monday and arrested three other men — aged 23 to 35 — over suspected immigration violations.

Swiss media have reported frequently on the An’Nur mosque, including on suggestions that it has played a part in radicalising young Muslims.

According to the news site 20min.ch, the Ethiopian cleric starting working at the mosque recently, replacing a predecessor who was forced to leave amid accusations that he was preaching extremism.

Swiss media have further reported that the compound’s landlords do not intend to extend the mosque’s lease, possibly forcing its closure by the of the year.

03 Nov 01:05

A humble approach to a PhD

A letter from MEGAWATI OMAR, Academy of Language Studies, UiTM, Shah Alam.
03 Nov 01:01

How to Heal Scalp Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition caused by a deficiency of oils and moisture in the skin. Healthy skin maintains its balance of these components, creating an effective barrier to environmental damage, irritation, and infection. Scalp eczema can be caused by either seborrheic or atopic (inherited) dermatitis. It is also known as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, seborrheic psoriasis, and (in infants) “cradle cap.” [1] These types of dermatitis may also cause eczema on the face, chest, back, under the arms, and in the groin region.[2] While they can cause discomfort and embarrassment, these types of dermatitis aren’t contagious, and they aren’t caused by poor hygiene.[3] If you understand the causes and symptoms of scalp eczema, you may be able to treat or heal your scalp.

EditSteps

EditRecognizing the Symptoms and Causes

  1. Look for common symptoms. Scalp eczema can cause problems for your scalp or any affected areas of your skin. Common symptoms include flaky skin (dandruff), itching, red skin, scaliness or crusting of the skin, greasy patches, and hair loss.[4]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 1 Version 3.jpg
    • Inflammation leads to red patches and high fatty acid content, which can make the skin greasy and yellow in some people.[5]
    • In infants, it is common in the scalp and can present as red, dry scaly plaques, or in more severe cases as thick white or greasy yellow scales.
    • Other skin diseases such as fungal infection, psoriasis, dermatitis, and lupus may resemble scalp eczema. However, these differ based on the location and layers of the skin involved.[6]
    • If you aren’t sure whether your symptoms match those of scalp eczema, see your doctor. S/he can help you determine the cause of your symptoms and whether they are severe enough to require treatment.
  2. Know the causes of eczema. In addition to decreased oils and moisture present, doctors believe that a certain kind of yeast, Malassezia furfur, has a role in causing seborrheic eczema.[7] Malassezia yeast is usually present on the outer surface of the skin. In those with scalp eczema, this yeast invades the superficial layers of skin and secretes substances that increase fatty acid production. This leads to inflammation and enhances production and dryness of skin, which causes the skin to flake.
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 2 Version 4.jpg
    • If your eczema is atopic, meaning that your family has a tendency to develop eczema, yeast may not be the culprit. Doctors believe that many people with atopic eczema have a faulty skin barrier due to a changed gene within the skin’s structural proteins.[8]
  3. Determine your risk factors. While doctors are not certain why some people develop seborrheic eczema, and others don’t, there do appear to be some factors that increase your risk, including:[9]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 3 Version 3.jpg
    • Being overweight or obese
    • Fatigue
    • Environmental factors (such as dry weather)
    • Stress
    • Other skin issues (such as acne)
    • Certain medical conditions, including stroke, HIV, Parkinson’s disease, or head injury
  4. Avoid hair and skin care products that contain alcohol. Alcohol removes protective oils from the skin surface, causing the scalp to dry out. This can make the flaking and itching worse and may be a contributing cause of seborrheic eczema.[10]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 4 Version 4.jpg
    • Be gentle with washing your skin and scalp. Do not scrub! Gently massage your skin with your fingers when washing your hair. The goal is to clean your hair without stripping the oils from your scalp.
  5. Do not scratch itchy patches. Though it can be difficult to avoid scratching when a part of your body feels dry and itchy, you should try not to scratch the affected areas because the skin can become irritated and bleed.
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 5 Version 3.jpg
    • You could even cause a secondary infection if you scratch excessively.
  6. Expect eczema to return. It is unlikely that you will be able to completely “cure” your disease with an effective treatment. Scalp eczema appears and then disappears when it is treated. However, it usually comes back and will require continuous treatment. Luckily, many of the treatments can be continued for long periods.[11][12]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 6 Version 3.jpg

EditTreating Scalp Eczema with Over-the-Counter Treatments (Adults)

  1. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist first. Even over-the-counter (OTC) treatments may interfere with certain health and medical conditions, so it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor or a pharmacist before using them.[13]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • If you have allergies, medical conditions, take medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, always consult your doctor before starting any treatment process.
    • Do not use treatments on children without consulting a pediatrician first. Treating scalp eczema in children is a different process and is covered in its section of this article.
  2. Use over the counter treatment. There are various over-the-counter shampoos and oils to treat scalp eczema. Over-the-counter treatments are natural first-line treatments that are used before seeking out prescribed shampoos. You can also use them daily over an extended period.
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 8 Version 3.jpg
    • These OTC shampoos are not approved for use on children! Use them only on adult scalp eczema.
  3. Wash your hair properly. Regardless of the kind of shampoo you use, there are some general instructions you can use to wash your hair with any of the shampoos or oils. Scrubbing your scalp too vigorously or using shampoos that contain alcohol can make your scalp eczema worse.[14]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 9 Version 4.jpg
    • First, rinse your hair with warm (not hot) water.
    • Apply the treatment shampoo thoroughly on your scalp and hair, massaging it gently into your scalp. Do not scrub or scratch your scalp. This could cause the scales to bleed or even become infected.
    • Leave the medication on for the amount of time recommended on the package. Typically, you need to keep it on for at least 5 minutes.
    • Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm (not hot) water and dry with a clean towel.
    • Coal tar shampoo can be harmful if swallowed. Avoid getting it into your eyes or mouth.
    • Some treatments, such as ketoconazole shampoo, may be more effective when you alternate them with a different scalp product twice a week.[15]
  4. Wash your hair with selenium sulfide shampoo. This shampoo kills the yeast that is potentially responsible for many cases of scalp eczema. If you kill the yeast, your skin will have a chance to heal without increased dryness, inflammation, or itchy scales.
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 10 Version 3.jpg
    • Common side effects include dryness or oiliness of the hair or scalp. Less common side effects can include hair discoloration, hair loss, and irritation.[16]
    • You must use this treatment at least two times a week for it to be effective.
  5. Apply a tea tree oil product to your hair. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) has natural antifungal properties that may help treat scalp eczema. One clinical study demonstrated some improvement when using shampoo with a 5% concentration of tea tree oil.[17]The only common side effect is scalp irritation.[18]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 11 Version 3.jpg
    • This product can be used daily.
    • Do not consume tea tree oil, as it is toxic. Avoid getting it in your eyes or mouth.
    • Tea tree oil has estrogenic and anti-androgenic properties that have been linked to conditions such as breast growth in prepubescent males.[19]
  6. Use a pyridine zinc shampoo. Most anti-dandruff shampoos use pyrithione zinc as their active ingredient. Scientists do not know exactly why it is helpful to treat scalp eczema, although it may have antifungal and anti-bacterial properties.[20] It also helps slow the production of skin cells, which helps reduce flaky skin. The only known side effect is scalp irritation.
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 12 Version 3.jpg
    • This method can be used three times a week.
    • Look for shampoos with a 1% or 2% concentration of pyridine zinc.[21] Pyrithione zinc is also available as a topical cream.[22]
  7. Try salicylic acid shampoo. This shampoo has exfoliation qualities and helps heal the peeling upper layers of skin on your scalp. It is effective in shampoo at concentrations of 1.8 to 3%. The only side effect is skin irritation.
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 13 Version 3.jpg
  8. Try a ketoconazole preparation. Ketoconazole is very effective in treating scalp eczema. It is available in several OTC preparations, including shampoos, foams, creams, and gels. It is also available in prescription treatments.[23]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 14 Version 3.jpg
    • Over-the-counter preparations are lower in strength than prescription shampoos or creams.[24]
    • Side effects may include unusual hair texture, discoloration, scalp irritation, or oiliness or dryness of the scalp or hair.[25]
    • 1% to 2% ketoconazole shampoo is effective and safe, including in infants. It can be used twice daily for two weeks.[26]
  9. Apply raw honey to your hair. Although it is not a shampoo, raw honey has antibacterial and antifungal properties.[27] It can be used to alleviate itching and loose skin flakes. It is not a cure for scalp eczema, although it may help heal scalp skin lesions.[28][29]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 15 Version 3.jpg
    • Dilute raw honey in warm water, using 90% honey and 10% water.[30]
    • Rub crude or raw honey into the scalp lesions for 2 to 3 minutes. Do not scrub or rub harshly. Rinse with warm water.
    • Every other day, rub the honey onto the itchy areas of your scalp and leave it on for 3 hours. Rinse your scalp after the 3 hours are up.[31] Continue this regimen for 4 weeks.[32]
  10. Try a coal tar shampoo. This shampoo helps by decreasing the rate at which skin cells are produced on your scalp. It also decreases fungus growth and loosens and softens the scales and crust on your scalp. However, it is not as safe to use as other OTC treatments, so it’s a good idea to try other options first.[33]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 16 Version 3.jpg
    • Use this shampoo twice daily for up to four weeks.
    • Possible side effects include itching of the scalp, localized hair loss, contact dermatitis in the fingers, and altered pigmentation in the skin.[34]
    • You should consult your doctor before using a coal tar shampoo. It should not be used with children or with pregnant or breastfeeding women. It may also cause harmful interactions with certain medications or cause allergic reactions.[35]

EditTreating Scalp Eczema in Infants and Children

  1. Wait for it to clear on its own. In many infants and young children, scalp eczema will clear up on its own within a few weeks. It could take a few months to clear in some cases.[36] Although it may look uncomfortable, most children are not bothered by the condition.[37]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 17 Version 3.jpg
    • If the condition does not clear up, consult with your pediatrician to discuss treatment options.
    • Like adult scalp eczema, the condition may clear up after treatment and reappear later.[38]
  2. Use different treatments for children. The treatments for infants and children younger than two years old differ from treatments for adults. Do not use even OTC treatments meant for adults on children under the age of 2.[39]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 18 Version 3.jpg
  3. Remove scales by massaging your child’s scalp. Most of the time, the scales that form on your child’s scalp can be removed with a gentle massage. Use your fingers or a soft washcloth. Wet the child’s hair with warm water and gently rub the scalp. Do not scrub the skin![40]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 19 Version 3.jpg
    • Avoid using sharp or exfoliating cleaning tools, such as scrubbers, loofahs, or harsh sponges on your child’s skin.[41]
  4. Use a mild baby shampoo. Shampoos meant for adult eczema can be too harsh for your child’s delicate skin. Use a regular mild baby shampoo, such as Johnson & Johnson’s or Aveeno Baby.[42]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 20 Version 3.jpg
    • Wash your child’s hair daily.
    • 1% to 2% ketoconazole shampoo is effective and safe for infants, although you should always talk with your pediatrician before starting treatment. It can be used twice daily for two weeks.[43]
  5. Rub oil on the scalp. If massage does not remove the scales, you can rub petroleum jelly or mineral oil on the areas of scaly skin.[44] Avoid using olive oil.[45]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 21 Version 3.jpg
    • Allow the oil to sink into the skin for a few minutes. Then shampoo with a gentle baby shampoo, rinse thoroughly with warm water and brush the child’s hair as usual.
    • Make sure to rinse thoroughly your child’s scalp after each oil treatment. Otherwise, the oil may build up and cause the condition to worsen.
  6. Bathe your child daily. Give your child a warm (not hot) bath every 2-3 day. Don’t bathe the child for more than 10 minutes.
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 22 Version 3.jpg
    • Avoid irritants such as harsh soaps, bubble bath, Epsom salts, or other bath additives. These can irritate your child’s skin and make eczema worse.[46]

EditTreating Scalp Eczema with Prescriptions

  1. Talk to your doctor about a prescription treatment. Patients who do not respond to over-the-counter treatments or who are unhappy with the results may need prescription medication. Doctors can prescribe stronger treatment regimens including creams, lotions, shampoos, and even oral medication if OTC shampoos are ineffective.[47] UV light treatments may also be an option.[48]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 23 Version 3.jpg
    • Prescribed antifungal shampoos and topical corticosteroids are beneficial, but can be expensive and may have adverse side effects with long-term use. These and other prescribed shampoos are only used when over-the-counter treatments are not effective.
  2. Use shampoos with antifungals. The most common type of prescription shampoo used for scalp eczema is antifungal shampoo. Most antifungal shampoos have a concentration of 1% ciclopirox and 2% ketoconazole.[49]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 24 Version 3.jpg
    • The most common side effects of these shampoos include irritation, burning sensations, dry skin, and itching.
    • These shampoos are used daily or at least twice weekly during the prescribed period. Always follow the directions on the package or prescription.
  3. Try shampoos with corticosteroids. These shampoos help reduce inflammation and decrease itching and flaking of the scalp. The common corticosteroids shampoos include ingredients such as 1.0% hydrocortisone, 0.1% betamethasone, 0.1% clobetasol, and 0.01% fluocinolone.[50]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 25 Version 3.jpg
    • Side effects usually occur after long-term use and may include thinning of the skin, itching, a stinging sensation, and skin hypopigmentation (the loss of the color pigments of your skin, which results in lightening of the skin). Most people who use these shampoos for only a short period should not experience negative side effects.[51]
    • These prescription shampoos contain steroids, and a little of the medication can be absorbed into the bloodstream. If you have diabetes or sensitivity to steroids, you should be sure to discuss these complications with your doctor.
    • Be aware that corticosteroid shampoos tend to be more expensive than other treatments.
    • These shampoos can be used daily or twice daily during the prescribed period.
    • The use of antifungal and corticosteroid shampoos at the same time may be safe and yield better results. Talk to your doctor about combining the two.[52]
  4. Take other prescription treatments. For scalp eczema, shampoos are the most commonly chosen form of treatment. You can also try creams, lotions, oils, or foams that contain one or more of the above medicinal ingredients.
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 26 Version 3.jpg
    • Prescription antifungal agents called azoles are a highly effective treatment for scalp eczema. Ketoconazole is the most commonly prescribed agent and has been proven effective in many clinical trials.[53]
    • Another common prescription treatment uses Ciclopirox, a type of hydroxy pyridine antifungal. It is available as a cream, gel, or solution.[54]
    • Corticosteroids may also be prescribed as a cream or topical ointment.[55]
  5. Try light therapy. Light therapy, or phototherapy, can sometimes help cases of scalp eczema.[56] It is commonly combined with medication such as a psoralen.[57]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 27 Version 3.jpg
    • Because Light therapy involves exposure to ultraviolet light, it carries an increased risk of skin cancer developing.[58]
    • This type of treatment is usually reserved for people whose scalp eczema is caused by atopic dermatitis, or whose seborrheic dermatitis is extensive.[59] It cannot be used on infants or young children.[60]
  6. Talk with your doctor about other treatment options. There are a few other ways of treating scalp eczema, but they are reserved as last-resort treatments as they can cause serious side effects. However, if no other treatments have worked, you may want to consult with your doctor about other treatment options.[61]
    Heal Scalp Eczema Step 28 Version 3.jpg
    • Creams or lotions containing tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel) may be effective for treating scalp eczema. However, they carry an increased risk of cancer and are more expensive than corticosteroids.[62]
    • Terbinafine (Lamisil) and butenafine (Mentax) are oral antifungal treatments for scalp eczema.[63] They can interfere with specific enzymes in the body or cause allergic reactions or liver problems.[64] This limits their use for the treatment of scalp eczema.[65]

EditWarnings

  • This information is not designed to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor before starting any treatment, including over-the-counter treatments.

EditSources and Citations


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03 Nov 00:57

‘No halal cert does not mean food is haram’

by Minderjeet Kaur
Jim Paull

Haha rural old people, gotta be really old since drinks similar to root beer have been around since the 16th and 17th centuries

jamil-khir-halal

KUALA LUMPUR: Minister in charge of Islamic Affairs Jamil Khir Baharom said today a food outlet without halal certification does not mean the outlet is haram.

He said it was just a perception that when an outlet did not have a halal certification, the food served was haram, he said at the Dewan Rakyat today.

The minister in the Prime Minister’s Department also clarified that halal certification for food outlets was done voluntarily by owners.

The certification, he said, helped patrons who are not familiar with non-local cuisine to erase any doubts they might have.

“There are some among the rural community, especially the old. When you mention root beer, the kampung people ask, ni bir ke rut ke (is it beer or a root)?”

He added it was not the ministry that declared any outlet non-halal.

“The only thing is if a restaurant has no halal certification, it creates doubts.”

Earlier, Ngeh Khoo Ham (DAP-Beruas) had said that there was a perception that food outlets without halal certificates should not be visited by Muslims.

Several weeks ago, Pretzel outlet Auntie Anne’s was reported to have been denied halal certification as one of their products was named “Pretzel Dog”.

02 Nov 14:41

Petronas Gas Q3 pre-tax profit rises to RM546.29mil

KUALA LUMPUR: Petronas Gas Bhd’s (PetGas) pre-tax profit for the third quarter ended Sept 30, 2016, rose to RM546.29mil from RM415.49mil posted in the same period last year.
02 Nov 00:22

Tim Gunn Challenges Fashion Designers To Evolve And Adapt

by Nicole Belle
Jim Paull

Make It Work

God bless Tim Gunn.

In the three decades of my adulthood, I've been many sizes. In my early 20s I was a size 00, which for a 5'6" woman, meant that I weighed 98 pounds. I also suffered significant health issues from being that size. At my most pregnant, I tipped the scales at 200 pounds, causing most people to ask me if I was carrying twins (I wasn't). I'm probably the heaviest I've ever been in my non-pregnant life right now, a combination of middle age, hormonal fluctuations and the auto-immune disorder I've been battling for the last five years. I watch my diet, I exercise daily, but I do not lose weight. But I still am just slightly smaller in size than the average American woman, who wears a size 16-18.

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