This is where dermal fillers come to help.

As time goes on we suffer age-related bone loss in the face, which further leads to the retraction of the jawline, and descent of the nose, along with a gradual suppression of the cheekbones. The facial muscles would also decrease immensely when it comes to volume and elasticity, we would witness a deflation of facial fat that gives us our youthful look. The skin starts to lose elasticity and stretches, and then you have a loss of plumpness provided by the far which leads to the formation of wrinkles and sagging skin. This is where dermal filler comes in to help.

These are injectable treatments that are performed in the doctor’s office, which can help smooth out the lines and add in lost volume helping restore a more youthful appearance.

What are dermal fillers?

These are soft gel-like substances injected into our skin. They tend to cater to several frequently occurring concerns that include smoothening of deep dark circles under the eyes, adding volume to the lips, lifting cheekbones, smoothing lip lines, and nasolabial folds (these are the creases that run from the side of the nose to the corners of the mouth). They also play a role in the rejuvenation of the hands. Dermal fillers are usually composed of various elements some of which occur normally, and some are produced synthetically. Hyaluronic acid is the most commonly found component within dermal fillers.

It is a substance that is naturally found within our skin, and it plays an important role in hydrating our skin and giving it volume. Hyaluronic acid fillers, depending on their specific chemical development tend to last somewhere between six to twelve months before they get gradually absorbed into the body.

The reason why hyaluronic acid fillers are so famous is not only because of their natural appearance but they can also be dissolved in case you do not like the results of the treatment.

Nasolabial Folds

Generally known as laughter or smile lines, these are the two skin folds that go from each side of the nose to the different corners of your mouth. Dermal fillers are excellent at helping in filling out these folds and giving you the appearance of younger-looking skin.

Cheeks

You tend to lose a good amount of subcutaneous fat as you age which tends to result in your cheeks looking hollow and losing elasticity in your face. This in turn will highlight the shallow cheekbones, and also make them look sunken. This will give off a tired and gaunt look. You can get dermal filler injected into this area so that you can plump them up and add a gentle lift.

Lips

This is not only a favorite amongst the average population but a celeb favorite too. More and more people have been getting dermal filler for lip injections to enjoy the look of fuller and more seductive-looking lips. This treatment is great for those with thin lips, but it can also help with several types of lip conditions.

Chin implants

This is perfect when you don’t want to get any chin implants surgically added. This is a non-surgical chin augmentation that can easily be achieved through dermal fillers. They will help in defining your jawline, although you might have to visit the doctor’s office after a while, they are an excellent way to experiment with chin augmentation before you them permanently done.

Nose

If you are not a fan of nose surgeries, then dermal fillers are a great option. Also if you wish to experiment a little before getting the permanent thing done, then you can use dermal fillers to help straighten out any lumps or bumps on the nose without going under the knife. The best part about fillers is that you need minimal downtime and the results show up quicker. It will just take 15 minutes for the procedure and you can enjoy your brand new nose!

However, we highly suggest that you first get a consultation from your doctor before proceeding.

This is because we are always in danger of going overboard with the dermal fillers and though there is a solution that will help you terminate the filler, why waste money?

Make sure that you do your research well when picking out the right doctor for yourself. This is extremely important because the right doctor with adequate training will be able to give you the best advice when it comes to the right dermal fillers, and the amount to be used.

According to some people when you’re diagnosed with diabetes, you can’t have a flexible lifestyle. But it’s not quite true! Doctor’s recommendations and dietary changes can help you achieve it. Keeping diabetes under control can be challenging but these lifestyle changes can make it easier to manage. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes needs adhering to a recommended schedule to attain a flexible lifestyle. In this article, we’ll try to explain what is type 1 diabetes and how to manage it. So, let’s look at what causes type 1 diabetes.

Insulin is produced by the pancreas that helps regulate your blood sugar levels. When there’s a lack of insulin in the body, the chances of being diagnosed with diabetes are high. Depending on your symptoms and the type of diabetes, your doctor will suggest a management plan accordingly. In type 1 diabetes, your immune system mistakes your pancreas beta cells as harmful and destroys them. When this happens, your body gives out a few type 1 diabetes symptoms which are as follows.

Frequent hunger
Frequent thirst
Frequent urination
If you do experience any of these type 1 diabetes symptoms, please consult a doctor for a management plan. Your doctor might suggest some tests to help determine the type of diabetes. If your doctor suspects you’re showing the signs of type 1 diabetes, they may suggest the following tests.

Glycated haemoglobin (A1C) test
Random blood sugar test
Fasting blood sugar test
The tests are recommended by the doctors under different circumstances if the results are unclear, your doctor may also suggest other tests to check for autoantibodies. This is usually done in type 1 diabetes. The medications and management plan will be suggested by your doctor depending on the severity of your condition and the type of diabetes. Usually, the doctors recommend insulin doses to control your blood sugar levels. Adhering to regular check-ups and sticking to your diabetes management plan is necessary if you plan to lead a flexible lifestyle during diabetes. The following insulin types are usually recommended according to the severity of your condition.

Rapid-acting insulin
Short-acting insulin
Intermediate-acting insulin
Long-acting insulin
As mentioned above, if you wish to lead a flexible lifestyle, you’ll need to make certain lifestyle changes alongside medications to keep type 1 diabetes symptoms under control. For instance, dietary changes and simple fitness routines can go a long way in diabetes management. We’ve mentioned below a few common steps for you to undertake and lead a flexible lifestyle during diabetes.

Make a workout routine plan and stick to it. Exercises as simple as walking or cycling are great to maintain your blood sugar levels.
Saturated and trans fats, along with refined carbohydrates are not considered good during diabetes. So, it’s best to switch to more natural alternatives such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Break your meals down throughout the day. Consuming 5-6 small meals helps you keep the blood sugar levels in control.
Diabetes can be challenging but with proper care, you can lead a flexible lifestyle. Medications alongside lifestyle changes make managing diabetes easier. If you experience any type 1 diabetes symptoms, please consult a doctor right away for a proper diagnosis of the condition. Work out a management plan and stick to it for better results.

Understanding Ankle Injury Symptoms
The foot and ankle are intricate structures that bear the body’s weight, making them susceptible to a range of injuries. Pain can occur in various parts of the foot, such as the arch, outer side, underside, toes, heels, or ligaments. The nature of the pain—whether it’s an ache, throbbing, inflammation, tenderness, or sharp pain—often depends on the underlying cause.

Recognizing the symptoms of an ankle injury is the first step toward recovery. Athletes deserve to regain their well-being and return to their sport, and with a tailored treatment plan from a specialized ankle injury doctor, this is achievable.

Types of Ankle and Foot Injuries in Sports
Osteoarthritis
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Osteoarthritis involves the degeneration of cartilage within a joint, often affecting the ankle, subtalar joint, and big toe. Symptoms include pain, a grinding sensation, and stiffness, which typically worsen with activity. Diagnosis is usually made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests like X-rays.

Treatment Strategies
Initial management includes lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss and low-impact exercises. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and physical therapy are also common treatments. For persistent pain or significant functional impairment, surgical options like arthroscopy or joint fusion may be considered.

Ingrown Toenails
Symptoms and Causes
Ingrown toenails, particularly of the big toe, cause pain and inflammation at the nail edge. They often result from improper nail trimming or tight footwear. A simple visual examination is sufficient for diagnosis.

Effective Remedies
Mild cases may be treated with warm soaks and cotton wedging under the nail. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if there is discharge, medical intervention may be necessary, including antibiotics or partial nail removal.

Corns and Calluses
Symptoms and Identification
Corns and calluses are thickened skin areas resulting from pressure or friction, often due to ill-fitting shoes. While calluses are generally not painful, corns can be tender, especially at their central core. Diagnosis is typically made through visual inspection.

Home Care and Medical Interventions
Home remedies include foot soaks, pumice stones, and protective pads. Persistent issues may require professional removal of dead skin or the use of salicylic acid plasters. Custom foot orthotics may also be recommended.

Bunions
Symptoms and Progression
Bunions are bony protrusions at the base of the big toe, causing pain and difficulty with footwear and walking. They develop over time as the big toe shifts position. Symptoms include soreness, redness, swelling, and stiffness.

Causes and Treatment
Bunions are often hereditary and exacerbated by wearing high heels. Conservative treatments include ice application, stretches, NSAIDs, and proper footwear. Severe cases might necessitate surgery.

Hammertoe
Symptoms and Causes
Hammertoe affects the second, third, or fourth toes, causing a bent appearance. Symptoms include pain at the top of the toe and ball of the foot, redness, and swelling. Tight shoes and underlying conditions like arthritis can contribute to its development.

Management Techniques
Home exercises, hammertoe pads, and roomy shoes can alleviate symptoms. In cases of acute inflammation, ice application may be beneficial.

Seeking Professional Care
For any foot or ankle pain, it’s crucial to consult with a specialist. Early intervention can prevent further complications and expedite the healing process. If you’re experiencing discomfort or suspect an injury, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Reputable clinics like Optimal Ankle offer comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs.

The Unspoken Reality of Ankle Injuries
While much attention is given to the immediate impact of ankle injuries, the long-term effects are often overlooked. According to a study published in the Journal of Athletic Training, nearly 72% of athletes with a history of ankle injuries reported residual symptoms affecting their performance and quality of life. This highlights the importance of thorough rehabilitation and the potential need for ongoing management strategies to ensure complete recovery and prevent recurrence.

For athletes and active individuals, understanding the intricacies of ankle injuries is essential for maintaining optimal performance and ensuring a swift return to their sport following an injury. With the right knowledge and care, the journey to recovery can be a smooth and successful one.

Everyone wishes to have a smile that they love but what options do you have if you have damaged a tooth or have a missing tooth?

Visually Repairing Teeth

The easiest way to repair a small chip in a tooth or to fill teeth after decay has been removed is with white composite fillings.

If a large area of your tooth is missing, your dentist may recommend an Inlay. The inlay is usually made from porcelain and is bonded to your tooth.

Crowns are used to protect teeth that have heavily broken down. The crown is a tooth coloured cap that is placed over the remaining natural tooth.

Replacing Teeth

When you have missing teeth or your dentist can no longer repair your tooth and has to remove it, there are options to fill the space.

Until fairly recently, the only option would be to replace teeth with dentures. A denture is a removable appliance with a plate that fits a false tooth into your mouth. They are still a good option and they also provide support to your lips and cheeks.

A dental bridge is another way of replacing a small number of missing teeth. Artificial teeth are cemented into your mouth.

As the process has become cheaper, it is becoming more popular to choose dental implants. Dental implants can be used for 1 tooth or a large gap of missing teeth. With this process, a titanium implant replaces the root of your tooth and provides a stable support for the new artificial tooth.

As you can see dentists have many options to choose from and will advise you of the options available to you. Don’t put up with a smile you aren’t happy with. Instead, make an appointment to speak with your dentist.