Friday, September 26, 2008

Health Tips for September 26

Health Tip: Keep Kidney Infections at Bay

Kidney infections are usually the result of a more common urinary tract infection that makes its way to a kidney.

You're at greater risk of contracting a kidney infection if you have a history of conditions including cystitis or kidney stones.

Your risk is also greater if you've had chronic or recurring urinary tract infections, and when the infection is caused by aggressive strains of bacteria.

Here are ways to help reduce your risk of a kidney infection, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* If you have a urinary tract infection, see your doctor and treat it promptly with antibiotics.
* After urinating, wipe from front to back to reduce the chances of rectal bacteria entering the urethra.
* Try to urinate right after sexual intercourse.
* Don't wait too long to use the bathroom.
* Drink plenty of fluids -- between 64 ounces and 128 ounces per day.
* Drink cranberry juice, as it can help control some bacteria that can cause an infection.

Health Tip: Choosing a Knee Brace

A knee brace can help protect an injured knee from further injury, or help prevent injury in a weakened or arthritic knee.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list of different types of knee braces:

* A prophylactic knee brace can protect knees from injury during contact sports, including football.
* Functional braces can help protect an already injured knee from further damage.
* Rehabilitative braces help stabilize and protect knees that are recovering from injury or surgery.
* Unloader or offloader braces offer support and protection to knees that are affected by arthritis.

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