Monday, April 26, 2010

Jaw Pain


Jaw pain is a common ailment and has many causes. Injury, bruxism, or even tooth pain can all trigger jaw pain. To relieve jaw pain, do the following:

1. Apply moist heat or cold packs.
Apply a moist heat or cold pack on the side of your face. A warm washcloth applied to the side of your face can stimulate blood flow and soothe the nerves on your jaw. The warm heat can also relax the muscles on your face to ease the pain. On the other hand, ice packs numb the area so you do not feel the pain in your jaw.

2. Go on a liquid or soft diet.
By going on a soft but nutritious diet, you limit the chewing process. You can also make eating easier by cutting your food up in smaller pieces.

3. Wear splints or night guards.
Splints and night guards are plastic mouthpieces that fit over the upper and lower teeth. They keep the upper and lower teeth from coming together, hence, lessening the effects of clenching or grinding the teeth. They also correct the bite by positioning the teeth in their most correct and least traumatic position.


By: Kristine Gonzaga

Monday, April 19, 2010

Labor Pain Relief for First-Time Mothers


Relief from labor pain is the fruit of careful preparation both from the new mothers and those that support and care for them. Below are some tips to minimize labor pain:

1. Entrust the birth to a considerate practitioner. New moms can choose between midwives and doctors, but the bottom line is that the practitioner they chose to assist them in giving birth must be supportive of their want to experience a natural birth and has the expertise to provide them with the necessary care.

2. Get the services of a professional doula. If a new mom can afford it, hiring a professional doula during the pregnancy term, labor, and postpartum period to provide physical and emotional support. Although family and friends can serve the same purpose, a doula is knowledgeable and experienced in childbirth so she can give new moms professional and expert help.

3. Study labor positioning and other labor techniques. There are several positions new moms can choose to assume during labor. Standing and walking or simply sitting are just some of the positions new moms can try during labor. These positions help mothers to tolerate the contractions and align babies so they can be delivered easily.

Author: Kristine Gonzaga