SheSue Experience

There are 2 types of noise that can cause damage to the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear as well as to the hearing nerve. One is loud impulse noise like an explosion. The other is loud continuous noise like a jackhammer. All it takes to get to this point of damage is repeated doses of noise at levels between 90 and 140 decibels.

These decibel levels are pretty common.
1. Crowded bar = 110-120 decibels
2. Rock concert = 120-130 decibels
3. Jet taking off = 125 decibels
4. Heavy traffic = 85 decibels
5. Firecracker = 135 decibels
6. Snowmobile = 100 decibels
7. Lawnmower = 90 decibels

Today, the worst threat to your hearing is the MP3 player. The sound they produce can be up to 100 decibels. But what makes them a real hazard is the tiny ear piece you insert in your ear to listen to them. Compared to larger headphones that cover the entire ear, these tiny ear pieces increase the decibels by 9. That might not seem like much, but it can mean the difference between an alarm clock and a chain saw. Also, these tiny ear pieces are not as efficient at blocking background noise as the bigger ones, which creates more incentive to turn up the volume even more.

Check out Overdrive.com. More than 8,000 library branches worldwide allow patrons to download audio books from home for free and without any late fees. You will need Overdrive media software, but it’s free. You will also need Windows Media Player on your computer, also a free download.

Here’s how it works: Click on the above link to Overdrive. Click on your country, then state to find out if your library offers this service. When you click on your library, there should be pretty detailed directions. I live in Clackamas County in Oregon and found good instructions in their FAQ section. Here you will find all the information about the software you need plus how to download it.

Once you download the software, it’s pretty easy. You find the book you want, click on the title and you will come to a link to download the book. You will be asked for your normal library card information before you actually “check” it out. At this point, the book is yours for a period of time (usually 2 weeks). Once the 2 weeks is up, the download disappears and is ready for somebody else to check out. You never have to worry about late fees because everything is automatic.

Since it was my first appointment, I had to go through the normal blood pressure (high), heart rate, and weight. Then the doctor listened to my heart and lungs. This was followed by going over the lengthy questionnaire I had filled out prior to the visit. I had answered questions about my health, daily habits, supplements and medications I take, symptoms I was experiencing and my family history.

The rheumatoid check included:
1. Checking all my joints for nodules
2. Squeezing my joints looking for pain and/or swelling
3. Moving my head, arms and legs to check for mobility
4. Finally I stood and did some stretching different ways
5. My supplements were checked for dosage

A blood test and x-rays were ordered, but my initial diagnosis was no rheumatoid arthritis. And with this doctor, I was done. I say this doctor because I was pretty disappointed in him. He made it obvious that he completely discounted alternative medicine and pretty much told me that everything I had been told about my ailments was wrong.

Many studies have not found any evidence linking varicose veins to leg crossing. Varicose veins are caused by blood pooling in the legs. It has been found that women who wear stilettos, have a lack of exercise, high blood pressure or obesity are more likely to have varicose veins. Men who are smokers or have lack of exercise are more prone. Those whose job entails standing for long periods of time are also at risk.

As gas prices soar, a group in southern California formed to create the Aptera. The Aptera team is composed of a collection of highly respected automotive experts and accomplished executives from Southern California’s high technology industries.

The skinny on the car:
1. It is made of composts that are light, yet tough enough to carry 4 times it’s weight
2. It weights only 1500 pounds (half the weight of a Honda Accord)
3. For safety it has 3-point seat belt harnesses, airbags and anti-lock brakes
4. It can travel about 100 miles per charge, the equivalent of about 300 miles per gallon
5. It’s top speed is around 90 mph
6. It has a solar panel on the roof which keeps the car cool in summer and warm in winter
7. The interior fabrics and plastics are made from recycled materials
8. It has smart key and solar glass
9. Rear backup camera and DVD based navigation system optional
10. It has a standard emergency tire inflation system
11. It has a roomy interior, even for a guy 6’3″
12. No special hook-up, you simply charge it on your home 110 voltage.