Interesting Facts about WALKING PNEUMONIA

There are many forms of pneumonia and the disease generates different symptoms depending on its origin. Pneumonia generally affects both lungs and involves infection, irritation and swelling. Sometimes only one pulmonary lobe may be affected, in which case the disease is not very serious. Sometimes pneumonia affects only the upper pulmonary region (bronchial area), while in some cases the disease affects the entire region of the lungs. 

There can be many factors that contribute to the development of pneumonia. When the disease is caused by infectious agents, the disease is more serious and requires medical treatment. The forms of pneumonia that don’t involve infection (aspiration pneumonia) usually don’t require any medications and they clear up within a few days or weeks.

Pneumonia can be either typical or atypical. Typical pneumonia is caused by infection with common viruses (influenza, herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus), infection with gram-positive bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes) or infection with gram-negative bacteria (Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitides, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Sometimes typical pneumonia can be caused by a combination of these infectious agents.

Atypical pneumonia is caused by less common infectious agents, which have the traits of both viruses and bacteria. Atypical pneumonia is also called walking pneumonia. Walking pneumonia, as the name suggests it, usually doesn’t involve hospitalization o medical treatment. Walking pneumonia allows patients to carry on with their normal activities and they are free to leave the hospital right after they receive a physical examination. Although walking pneumonia isn’t always serious, the disease is still very contagious and it is important to take measures in preventing the spreading of the disease. Good personal hygiene is very important in preventing contamination. Although walking pneumonia can be also contracted through breathing, people who suffer from the disease need to avoid close physical contact with other people until they are fully recovered.

Walking pneumonia is common in children and teenagers. The disease is usually caused by microorganisms called Mycoplasma pneumoniae, in which case it doesn’t require medical treatment. Walking pneumonia resembles flu or cold and sometimes its symptoms are perceived at later stages of the disease. A person with walking pneumonia can experience the symptoms of the disease only after several weeks from contracting the microorganisms responsible for the infection. Walking pneumonia evolves slowly and it can be diagnosed long after a person has caught the disease, therefore allowing the infectious agents to be contacted by other people.

Although walking pneumonia is not always a serious disease, doctors may experience difficulties in diagnosing it. The symptoms of walking pneumonia are not specific and can point to flu or cold instead. After identifying the disease, doctors may recommend medical treatment with antibiotics in order to speed up the patients’ recovery and to prevent them from spreading walking pneumonia to other people.

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You Should Make WALKING An Every Day Priority

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

No one needs to be reminded that the fitness craze has arrived in full bloom and hints to us that it's not going away anytime soon.

For the more, shall we say, "leisurely" type of person, this can cause a lot of guilt? "I'm going to start walking -- next week." "How hard can it be to just walk for 30 minutes? I can do that. I just haven't had time." We've all heard (and sometimes used) one of these excuses.

The one reason people don't do what they don't absolutely have to do is simple: They don't want to, and they don't have to. We grow up learning that death and taxes are the only two inevitables. Now they want us to exercise?

Exercise is thought of by many people as a forced kind of event, and walking hovers near the top of the list in the "boring" category. "I don't want to just WALK! What's the point, where's the destination?" we ask.

Well, just like everything else, there are loopholes here aplenty; it's up to the individual to make something so intolerably "boring" pretty interesting. It's also imperative to your health that you rethink that statement and re-prioritize your life.

Just think of it this way: Do you place a high enough priority on yourself and your well-being? It never hurts to remind yourself of the health benefits you'd gain by walking regularly. It's true -- you will not notice these long-term benefits right away, you will notice these things: You'll have more energy. You'll sleep better. You'll be fitter. And you'll be happier.

Still not enough? OK. On those days you really can't seem to set aside a half-hour for a walk, you CAN walk. Find shorter segments of time where walking naturally fits into your schedule. If you're used to driving everywhere, this may take a little rethinking. But consider this: If you have a short errand to do, a meeting to attend, or a child to pick up, walk. If you're headed to see a movie, to worship, to a game, walk. Although it may take a few minutes longer than normal, remind yourself of your efficient use of time: you're actually accomplishing several things at once. (This is a mental trick, but it works.)

Look, if our ancestors survived the Ice Age, it won't kill you to walk in the rain. In our age of climate control and central air, we like our environment to remain comfortable at all times. But, come on, how "boring" is that?

Another trick is to think of walking as a basic human need, like sleep, shelter, and food. Then, after you complete your 30 minutes, reward yourself with any of the other three needs. Walk back home and go in the kitchen.

The key is to never demand too much from yourself. So what if the dishes aren't done? Do them later. You'll live longer and more healthfully if you walk instead of doing the dishes! And doctors don't prescribe doing the laundry a certain amount of times during the week. These are the "blocks" you put in front of yourself that keep you from walking.

It certainly isn't easy to change our priorities in today's hectic world, but it's harder to begin "getting healthy" when it's a little too late -- and the house is spotless.

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WALKING With Walking Aids

A walker in the folded position.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

For individuals with a disability, walking aids can help change their lives. These simple mobility walking aids can give them back the independence and mobility that they lost. In times when you want to get out of your wheelchair for a little exercise, walking aids can be used. Walking aids are likewise ideal when visiting a place that is not accessible by wheelchair.

Any disabled person who wishes to remain active and independent can gain a great deal by using walking aids. By having walking support, many are able to continue with many or more activities that they enjoy doing. Walking aids are also important to enhance safety when pain, balance, and fatigue are factors.

There are several types of walking aids such as canes, crutches, walkers, and rollators. These walking aids are fairly portable and lightweight. Canes come in various styles. Single-point canes offer some stability while quad canes give a more sturdy footing. If you intend to use the cane for the long term, it is better to purchase quad canes. Crutches are also available in several varieties. It is important though to pay attention to the height restrictions when purchasing a crutch. Walkers are suitable for persons who are easily fatigued or have poor balance. If the walker is not properly sized, you may have trouble moving it around. That is why it is important to carefully choose the walking aid that you will use.

Basically, the type of walking aid that you choose will depend largely on your disability and stamina. You may be able to use a walker but not a cane or crutch. You need to consider several factors before using your cane, walker, or crutches such as your body strength, fit, comfort, and body balance, and travel needs. It is important to learn how to safely use the walking aid when buying it or you might end up hurting yourself. Make sure that you have to right reasons for buying the walking aid. Don’t just go out and buy one and start using it. Perhaps it is a good idea to consult your doctor before deciding which walking aid to use.

Permanently disabled individuals are not the only persons who can use walking aids. Temporarily injured individuals often use walking aids during the rehabilitation process and physiotherapy. Most walking aids are adjustable to suit your height. They are also built to handle a certain weight capacity. When it comes to staying in style there are a lot of choices when it comes to size, shape, design, colors, and materials. So don’t buy anything you are not satisfied with. When it comes to walking and mobility, comfort is the most important.

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Canes And WALKING STICKS - An All-Essential Guide.

Walking stick made with bamboo cane

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Formerly canes and walking sticks were seen to be a sign of wisdom and dignity. In fact, old people used canes and walking sticks more regularly as compared to the young, and in precedent times, older people were more respected for their wisdom and age. Today’s culture gripped with youthfulness, canes and walking sticks mostly are seen to indicate senility or feebleness, though, the right cane or walking stick can add an air of dignity to one's declining years.

In my opinion, of all the best varieties of canes and walking sticks are the ornamental ones that are carved out of beautiful wood with some weight and heft. With intricate designs engraved on them, these tools of mobility are captivating to the eye and tell something of the tale of the life lived by the bearer of them. Though a number of people fancy plain, unadorned, functional canes, and walking sticks, I personally think it is a mistake. Despite the fact people will notice a cane whether or not it is fancy or ornamental, on the other hand, a functional one seems only to indicate frailty. Whereas a strong, ornate, captivating one indicates a sense of style and art which people will always remember.

For sure, the best canes and walking sticks depend on who is using them. Many a time a walking stick is often used by hikers in the woods to aid them to traverse arduous tracts of ground with ease, where otherwise they might slip. Lots of people, in these circumstances, rather prefer light, high-tech poles instead of the more classic wooden tree branch designs, and this is reasonable as the bearer has to walk several miles holding this walking stick. Though it would look silly in the city, it can be a practical part of being well prepared in the woods for a day hike or a more difficult multiple week journeys. Obviously, they make a valuable tool as well, as an emergency tent pull, or a way to poke at and tend the fire. Unlike at home, the hiker does not really have room for a large number of unnecessary tools like he could keep with him, so a multi-purpose stick sort of tool can come in useful much more often than you would think.

Though not many people would use one of these in the city, nevertheless if you are a cross-country backpacker, it might make some sense. Sure, it will help you pass the miles, or be handy as often as if you were in the woods, and can even be used in self-defense in an emergency. After all, who knows where you could end up, clearly anything that will make you more prepared in an emergency can't be a bad idea.

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9 Ways To Feed Your Soul By Simply WALKING

We live in a culture that honors Type A, driven behaviors. That includes exercise and for many people, it’s taken away the joy out of simply walking. Instead of seeing walking as something you must do to get in shape, see it as a gift of being alive and let yourself fully enjoy the experience.

1) Walk with a deep awareness of how it feels to move your body.

2) Experience the act of walking as if you've never, ever done it before.

3) Be aware. Be present at the moment. Really feel your body as you're moving.

4) Pay attention to how your feet feel with each rolling step on the earth.

5) Notice the strength and power of your muscles.

6) Feel yourself moving in space.

7) Observe the wind on your skin and the temperature of the air.

8) Have a beauty feast while you're out. Notice the light coming through the leaves. See the flowers with fresh eyes.

9) Take a fresh look at the world as you move through it. Assume nothing. Experience the wonder of life as if you've never seen anything before. Watch the people as if you'd never seen a human before.

Let walking become a cherished and enriching part of your life. Turn it into something wonderful that you look forward to with both body and soul.

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The Ever Anticipated Feat Of WALKING

Baby learning to walk (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

We make such a big deal out of when a baby takes his first steps. In fact, the age at which your child took his first steps will be ingrained in your Mommy memory forever, just like your child’s birth weight and time. Personally, I think walking is a bit overrated since you can’t manage to keep them out of trouble ever again once they start, but here are some things you might want to know, anyway.

For some reason, everyone seems to think that a baby should be walking by his first birthday, but the fact is that most babies don’t walk until after this time. There are a few who walk as early as nine months of age, but a great many who don’t take their first steps until fifteen months. And, if your child is a late walker, it has absolutely no bearing on his intelligence.

The age at which a baby walks is often genetic. Walking very early or very late often runs in the family. My husband walked at nine months, and I walked at ten months, so we were unlucky enough to have a daughter who also walked at ten months. She was very petite, so she looked like the world’s tiniest walking human. She also scaled the kitchen counters before she was a year old so you can see what I mean by “unlucky”.

When your baby walks is also often related to his size. Babies with short legs usually walk sooner than those with long legs (a balance issue) and thinner babies usually walk sooner than their more plump counterparts.

Pushing your baby to walk is not a good idea, but providing him the opportunity to learn is critical. If you force your child to endure daily practice sessions, he may just rebel and refuse to walk for quite a while. On the other hand, if you keep him in swing or playpen all day, he’ll never have the opportunity to try out his skills. Give him some supervised time on the floor, and he’ll figure the rest out with or without your help.

If by chance, your child is not walking by the age of eighteen months, it is best to have him checked out by a doctor. There is not necessarily anything wrong, but most babies are walking by this age, so have him examined as a precaution. But, don’t be too eager, because once he starts walking, all the rules change. Someone, though I don’t remember who, once said, - “We spend the first two years of our children’s lives teaching them to walk and talk, and then the next sixteen telling them to sit down and shut up.” It’s so true.

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Treadmills - WALKING Your Way To Better Health One Step At A Time

Walking is one of the most natural, everyday movements that an individual can make. For years, this simple act has been believed to help improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress and burn calories at the same time. Because not everyone has the convenience or the safety of walking outdoors, treadmills are designed to offer the same benefits without having to leave home.

Sailors exercise on treadmills (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

While there are different variations of each, there are basically two types of treadmills. The first is a manual treadmill, which is powered solely by the individual. This device is not programmable and, therefore, is designed to keep up with the speed of the individual rather than the other way around. An electronic treadmill, on the other hand, can be programmed for the individual to keep up with the pace of the machine. With varying speeds and positions, electric treadmills can be designed to provide a slow or brisk walk at a flat or sloped angle.

A recent study divided individuals into two different groups, one of which participated in 30 minutes of exercising on treadmills while the other group spent 30 minutes resting. Each of the two group's progress was monitored during the treatment which, at the conclusion, showed that both groups experienced a reduction in negative feelings, stress and tension. The group that spent 30 minutes training on the treadmills, however, also admitted to feeling an improvement in overall well-being. According to this study, walking is not only good for physical health, but proved to be beneficial for reducing stress and improving overall feelings of wellness.

While the study adds credence to the theory that walking is a positive exercise activity overall, it also lends truth to the idea that individuals do not have to walk outside in order to get the benefits of a regular walking routine. Treadmills are designed with indoor fitness in mind, which was the equipment of choice used in the aforementioned study. The use of a treadmill is especially beneficial during harsh winter months at times when walking outdoors may be slippery, in areas that are unsafe to walk or for individuals who simply prefer to exercise at home. Walking is believed to aid in the reduction of stress, the fight against obesity, cardiovascular disease and may be the most convenient exercise in existence.

The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice and/or recommendations. Before beginning any type of exercise regimen, including one that involves the use of treadmills, individuals should consult their physician.

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WALKING MEDITATION: A Simple Way To Meditate Almost Any Time

Most Westerners think of meditation as someone sitting down, cross legged with their eyes closed and probably chanting some kind of mantra over and over again.

But that is only one of the ways that people can practice meditation.

Meditating can also be performed standing up, lying down or walking.

A woman walking a prayer labyrinth (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Today, we're going to look at walking meditation. In this situation, the walking itself is the focus of your meditation, rather than a candle or a mantra or your breathing.

Obviously, depending on where the walking is taking place, you may also need to be aware of other external influences as well, such as joggers and cyclists.

In a walking meditation, you should concentrate on the actual experience of walking. Notice the pressure on each foot as it touches the ground and the relief of that pressure as your foot rises again. Take in the experience of the muscles in your legs. Notice when they tense up and when they relax. Feel the changes in your toes as they meet the ground. Recognize what is happening to your ankles as you walk along.

As well as the stress relief that a walking meditation naturally brings, you should also experience a feeling of energy and invigoration. Walking is a more active meditation than some other types (although breathing meditations can get pretty energetic as well, if you choose to let them). You also benefit from the exercise of walking, which is an aerobic exercise in itself. It follows that a walking meditation can be of overall benefit to your health and can even help keep you fit.

If the thought of sitting or lying down to meditate has put you off in the past, then taking the walking meditation course could be just the ticket. Give it a try and see how refreshed you feel afterwards!

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CANES And WALKING STICKS - An All-Essential Guide.

Walking stick made with bamboo cane
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Formerly canes and walking sticks were seen to be a sign of wisdom and dignity. In fact old people used canes and walking sticks more regularly as compared to the young, and in precedent times, older people were more respected for their wisdom and age. Today’s culture, gripped with youthfulness, canes and walking sticks mostly are seen to indicate senility or feebleness, though, the right cane or walking stick, can add an air of dignity to one's declining years.

In my opinion, of all the best varieties of canes and walking sticks are the ornamental ones that are carved out of beautiful wood with some weight and heft. With intricate designs engraved on them, these tools of mobility are captivating to the eye, and tell something of the tale of the life lived by the bearer of them. Though a number of people fancy plain, unadorned, functional canes and walking sticks, I personally think it is a mistake. Despite the fact people will notice a cane whether or not it is fancy or ornamental, on the other hand a functional one seems only to indicate frailty. Whereas a strong, ornate, captivating one indicates a sense of style and art which people will always remember.

For sure, the best canes and walking sticks depend on who is using them. Many a time a walking stick is often used by hikers in the woods to aid them traverse arduous tracts of ground with ease, where otherwise they might slip. Lots of people, in these circumstances, rather prefer light, high-tech poles instead of the more classic wooden tree branch designs, and this is reasonable as the bearer has to walk several miles holding this walking stick. Though it would look silly in the city, but it can be a practical part of being well prepared in the woods for a day hike or a more difficult multiple week journeys. Obviously, they make a valuable tool as well, as an emergency tent pull, or a way to poke at and tend the fire. Unlike at home the hiker does not really have room for a large number of unnecessary tools like he could keep with him, so a multi-purpose stick sort of tool can come in useful much more often than you would think.

Though not many people would use one of these in the city, nevertheless if you are a cross country backpacker, it might make some sense. Sure, it will help you pass the miles, or be handy as often as if you were in the woods, and can even be used in self defence in an emergency. After all, who knows where you could end up, clearly anything that will make you more prepared in an emergency can't be a bad idea.

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Activities Promoting Healthy Aging

Lack of activities can prevent you from living healthy. When you do not enjoy activities, you may feel fatigue or find it difficult to sleep at night. When you awake in the morning, you may feel tired until you finally fall asleep. As we, age our body change and we have to make changes to accommodate our lives.

Having a good night sleep makes the mind think more clearly. A good night sleep also boosts your energy while controlling your weight. You can also make decisions with less stress. Sleeping well at night makes our immune system stronger to keep us healthier.  Researchers have proved that a good nights sleep is necessary for our health.  Researchers have found that lack of sleep reduces the growth hormones in our bodies, since it changes muscles to fat. Sleep overall is most important, yet it stands behind activities. To improve your health, try walking each day.

Walking will help to loosen our muscles, reduces stress and depression along with anxiety. By reliving these things, it will help us to sleep for a longer and deeper period.  So, when we wake up in the morning we feel happier and more rested.

When you exercise, you get a good night sleep, which promotes metabolism. Without the right amount of sleep, our bodies crave energy. Our body will release insulin or glucose into the bloodstream, which slows down metabolism. This action causes the body to gain weight, rather than control weight.

When a person feels exhausted, they will feel weak and repressed from enjoying activities. This leads to additional problems. Sleeping right balances out our bodies giving us, more energy leading to more activities that will satisfy our sleep needs.

What to avoid:

To rest proper and feel active you must reduce your intake of caffeine, nicotine, harmful chemicals, such as over-the-counter meds that keep you awake, alcohol and so on. The chemicals and substances will keep you awake. Try to avoid drinking anything after 8 p.m. in the evening. Nicotine should be avoid if possible, yet if you must smoke try to avoid smoking after 8 p.m.

Start a walking program in the morning to help wake you up, while boosting your energy. You will feel better since the joints will feel flexible enough to move freely. In addition, walking will help you burn fat and calories. You’ll notice a big change in how you feel the rest of the day.  Start out walking at a slow steady pace for as far as your comfortable.  Each day pick up the pace a bit and walk further. Just remember when walking that you want to work up to a steady brisk walk to make you sweat but not out of breath. Take a short walk before and after meals to calm your nerves, and burn calories too, it will give you energy, relieve that stress from the long day and help you sleep.

If you start a walking program for yourself, it is a lot more fun if you have someone to go with you. Talk to that neighbor you don’t know and maybe they’ll walk with you. Just think about it; you’ll be acquainted with someone new, talk about new things will relieve stress and get in you exercise as well. This might help that neighbor too who maybe hasn’t seen or talked to anyone in a couple of days and than they can sleep better at night.

After walking that brisk walk your doing be sure to cool down. When walking at a vigorous pace your heart rate will go up and it needs to be back to normal. Just walk a bit slow and relaxing until you’ve cooled down.

If you can’t go to sleep at night instead of getting up and turning on the TV try pacing around the house. Do some stretching and shake your arms and legs. Even walking around the house can relax you especially when everyone else is in bed and you can relax more.

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You Should Make WALKING An Every Day Priority

No one needs to be reminded that the fitness craze has arrived in full bloom and hints to us that it's not going away anytime soon.

Walking for Health in Epsom, England. A group of walkers are following the walk leader, who is wearing a yellow jacket.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

For the more, shall we say, "leisurely" type of person, this can cause a lot of guilt. "I'm going to start walking -- next week." "How hard can it be to just walk for 30 minutes? I can do that. I just haven't had time." We've all heard (and sometimes used) one of these excuses.

The one reason people don't do what they don't absolutely have to do is simple: They don't want to, and they don't have to. We grow up learning that death and taxes are the only two inevitables. Now they want us to exercise?

Exercise is thought of by many people as a forced kind of event, and walking hovers near the top of the list in the "boring" category. "I don't want to just WALK! What's the point, where's the destination?" we ask.

Well, just like everything else, there are loopholes here aplenty; it's up to the individual to make something so intolerably "boring" pretty interesting. It's also imperative to your health that you rethink that statement and re-prioritize your life.

Just think of it this way: Do you place a high enough priority on yourself and your well-being? It never hurts to remind yourself of the health benefits you'd gain by walking regularly. It's true -- you will not notice these long-term benefits right away, you will notice these things: You'll have more energy. You'll sleep better. You'll be fitter. And you'll be happier.

Still not enough? OK. On those days you really can't seem to set aside a half hour for a walk, you CAN walk. Find shorter segments of time where walking naturally fits into your schedule. If you're used to driving everywhere, this may take a little rethinking. But consider this: If you have a short errand to do, a meeting to attend, or a child to pick up, walk. If you're headed to see a movie, to worship, to a game, walk. Although it may take a few minutes longer than normal, remind yourself of your efficient use of time: you're actually accomplishing several things at once. (This is a mental trick, but it works.)

Look, if our ancestors survived the Ice Age, it won't kill you to walk in the rain. In our age of climate control and central air, we like our environment to remain comfortable at all times. But, come on, how "boring" is that?

Another trick is to think of walking as a basic human need, like sleep, shelter, and food. Then, after you complete your 30 minutes, reward yourself with any of the other three needs. Walk back home and go in the kitchen.

The key is to never demand too much from yourself. So what if the dishes aren't done? Do them later. You'll live longer and more healthfully if you walk instead of do the dishes! And doctors don't prescribe doing the laundry a certain amount of times during the week. These are the "blocks" you put in front of yourself that keep you from walking.

It certainly isn't easy to change our priorities in today's hectic world, but it's harder to begin "getting healthy" when it's a little too late -- and the house is spotless.

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