Love having talks with my parents (/s) where they tell me I "need to stop living in fear and get back out in the world" and that they haven't stopped living because of COVID and they don't even mask and it's fine because they got it once and it was just like allergies to them and "it's not even that bad it's just like the flu or a cold", ignoring that I also have had COVID before and was in the most extreme all over pain I have been in EVER in my entire chronically ill chronic pain suffering life for over a week to the point that I was mentally begging the universe to just let me die toward the end of it so it would finally be over and am now left with significantly worse chronic fatigue, chronic pain, and heart issues than I had already before because of long COVID. Also my sense of taste and smell have still not fully recovered, which is a sign of lasting neurological damage.

But it's just fearmongering, clearly, and I'm just falling for government propaganda (even though the government has said COVID is over and that we don't need to take precautions anymore because they value profit over human lives). Sure. Makes sense.

'Diplomatic Immunity' --A Review

I know it's actually May, but a new year means that I am continuing ahead on the Honorverse Saga and now I'm dipping back into the Vorkosigan Saga as well with the 13th Book in the Series, Diplomatic Immunity.

The book opens with Miles and Ekaterin on their honeymoon, wrapping up an extensive tour of various galactic sites before heading back to Barrayar just in time to open the replicators and welcome their two new children to the world. This being the Vorkosigan Saga and Miles being a (relatively) new Imperial Auditor, they naturally get diverted to deal with a diplomatic crisis in Quaddiespace.

Quaddies- if you are not familiar with the series are genetically modified humans who traded out their legs for a second set of arms so they could live and move more easily in a zero gravity work environment (Falling Free, which Is set 200 years before the start of the main series is sort of their origin story-- I'll get to that eventually, I promise.). Anyway, as it turns out, a convoy of Komarran Merchant ships is prevented from leaving Graf Station thanks to the somewhat reckless behavior of their Barrayaran military escorts, and to top that mess off, a Barrayaran security officer is missing, presumed murdered and another Ensign has deserted: for love.

Miles and Ekaterin arrive and Miles begins the process of untangling the diplomatic mess, only to be reunited with an old friend: his former Dendarii colleague, the Betan hermaphrodite Bel Thorne (last seen in Mirror Dance or possibly Memory I think-- no longer with the Dendarii, but still working with Imperial Security.) Bel is happy to see Miles, but hints that they would like to be released from Imperial Service so they can settle down with Nicol (a Quaddie musician Miles met earlier in the series while in Jackson's Whole-- in 'Labyrinth') and Bel tells Miles that there is something strange about the missing security officer, but they can't quite figure out what it is.

In short order, Miles discovers that he's in the middle of a plot by a renegade Cetagandan Ba to kidnap what turns out to be an entire cargo of embryos stolen directly from the Star Creche itself that it hijacked near Rho Ceta. Miles instantly realizes that this spells big trouble and a potential war between Barrayar and Cetaganda-- but before he can put a stop to it himself both he and Bel are infected with the same highly lethal bioweapons that was used to murder the missing Barrayarn security officer and nearly die, but manage to reach the nearest Cetagandan world just in time. They cure both him and Bel- though not without both suffering some permanent side effects and he returns the embryos to Cetaganda, averting a war and managing to make it home with Ekaterin in time to meet their new children.

I switched from snagging these on Audible to getting them off Kindle around about Memory I think and that was, oddly enough, the perfect time in the series to do that because as Miles transitions away from the Dendarii and into the role of Imperial Auditor-- I don't want to say the quality of the writing improves, because that's not true, it's always been good-- let's just say that the series matures with its character and the writing reflects that.

Diplomatic Immunity might be the first in the series that has so many callbacks to prior volumes. I don't think you have to read other books in the series to understand this-- McMaster Bujold has always been good at providing context for readers, even if it's only a sentence or two-- but it does add an extra dollop of charm as you get to meet characters from prior novels. I don't know if we're scheduled to see Bel Thorne again in future novels, but if not, then I think this is a nice, (relatively) happy ending for them and I like that. I also enjoyed the fact that this tied back to the events that happened in Cetaganda quite nicely as well-- for all the talk of the war with Cetaganda and how it hangs over a lot of the Barryaran experience, this is only the third time that Miles has tangled with them directly.

(Also, am I the only one who thought that Dubauer being called Dubauer was going to be a callback to Shards of Honor?)

I saw a recent Reddit post proclaiming McMaster Bujold as 'the most underrated writer' in SF/F and while the comments were quick to point out that she's got plenty of Hugos and Nebulas that would indicate that she's very rated and appreciated and has commercial success to boot, I would characterize her as perhaps 'the most discoverable' writer in SF/F? At 74, her output is not what it was at the height of her run in the late 80s, and early 90s and I know damn well that if I had found these books as a kid, I would have eaten them up instantly. Finding them now, in adulthood-- I can't tell you just how happy these books make me and how much I love these characters, and how I desperately wish someone who treasures these books would work up a screen adaptation because they are RIPE for the taking.

Overall: Excellent, enjoyable, delightful, charming, a great addition to the series and I ran right through this book because I just didn't want to put it down. My Grade: **** out of ****

pls tell me ur gonna do a part 3 🥺👉🏼👈🏼 preferably with sum comfort

Oh dear god, now I have to. But yes, that was the plan. This one is rather long, but 🤷🏻. It’s not quite comfort yet, but almost there. It would be way too long to put everything in one. I’ll hopefully have the actual comfort soon.

Following this:

“Caretaker?”

The nurse looked up from her clipboard, then around the waiting room.

“Yes-yes, that’s me, is everything okay? Are they awake?” Caretaker tripped over both their feet and their words as they stood up.

“Yes,” she softened, lowering her clipboard, “They’re in a good bit of pain right now, but they pulled through. We’re doing all we can to keep them comfortable.”

They nodded, unable to speak.

They’re alive. They’re gonna be okay.

“Would you follow me this way please? There are some things we would need to speak about in private.” She gestures to the door behind her and they nod once more. They were barely hearing her honestly, focused completely on the news that Whumpee had made it.

They stepped behind the door, then along a hallway and into one of many little check in rooms.

She took a seat on the stool by the computer, and moved for them to sit as well.

“So, Caretaker, we’re in a bit of a unique situation. Normally, visiting hours are extremely limited, especially with patients like Whumpee. There’s police involved, as you’re aware, on top of Whumpee being incredibly fragile at the moment.”

“Are you saying that I can’t see them?”

“No, no, not at all,” she raised her hands, palms out, placating, “Quite the opposite.”

“Then why am I in here, and not with them?”

They were so sick of waiting, and it was almost worse knowing they were so close and yet seemingly so far.

“Paperwork. And going over some things that we feel you should know before moving forward.”

What?

“What things?”

“First, you are not family to Whumpee, correct?” She pulled out a form from a thick packet on the counter beside her and clicked her pen.

“Right.”

“On their medical paperwork, you are listed as an emergency contact, but the relationship is not filled in. What relationship do you have to Whumpee?”

Neighbor? Team mate? Friend?

“Friend, I suppose.”

She nods, jotting it down. “Have you been ill within the last 6 weeks, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, anything like that?”

“No, no, nothing. Why does this matter?” They we’re trying to be patient, they really were, but it was getting harder and harder.

Still, she had been nothing but considerate, and continued to be so. “I’m sorry, it’s just standard questions. Whumpee’s immune system is going to be very weak right now, and an infection could be dangerous.”

Their face turned beet red. How stupid could they be? No shit they have to check.

“I’m sorry, I see. I’ve had none of those in the past 6 weeks, I’m good.”

“I understand, you’re worried about them and it’s scary to not know what’s going on. I’m gonna get through this as fast as I can for you. Can I get your address and date of birth?”

Together, they did a kind of “speed round” of questions, filling form after form, till they got to the last one, and there were two piles aside, tagged with sticky notes.

“As you know, this is an ongoing police investigation to find out who did this to Whumpee. This form is an agreement that you will not intentionally hinder or disrupt their investigation, nor will you attempt to tamper with any answers Whumpee may give.”

“So what does that mean?”

“Well, there is an officer standing by, so they can assist with case by case questions, but basically it means not talking about the case, not providing any information, theories, or possibilities that might affect Whumpees testimony.”

“Okay…” they squint, trying to work this out in their mind, “What if they tell me things?”

“That’s fine, in fact, that could be helpful. There will be surveillance in the room for Whumpees safety, and so anything they say can be used to help investigate.”

They sighed. It was an investigation, yes, and they knew this was all for good reason, but still. They wished Whumpee could just be left alone… Let them rest and heal without someone recording or asking them questions.

“Okay, I understand.”

“Thank you,” she brushes some hair out of her face and passes the pen to them, “You’ll just need to sign or initial on the flagged lines, and then we can get you ready to go in.”

26 signatures and 41 sets of initials later, they were done and walking down the hall again to another room.

This one was lined with sinks on one side, and cabinets on the other, with nurses going in and out in various levels of protective suits.

They were handed a pair of scrubs, boot covers, and a cap to change into, then a bag for their old clothes. She pointed to a bathroom door so they could change, and they went.

This was definitely not normal procedure.

They got changed, carefully tying the cap into place, making sure every hair was tucked in, before returning. She helped them put their things into a locker, and then moved to the other wall.

“Now, we’ll wash, twice, with this,” she gestured to an orange pump bottle by the sink, “then use the sanitizer beside it.”

She started washing her hands, and Caretaker joined.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m very grateful, but if this isn’t normal procedure, why am I being allowed to see them?”

She sighed, focusing on her hands. “Well, it’s a bit complicated. Whumpee isn’t eating. Or sleeping, not without sedation. They won’t do anything meaningful to their recovery. But they have asked for you, and so I- The doctor has agreed to try bringing you in to see if that will help ease their mind enough to make progress.”

Asking for me?

“Okay… So we’d better hurry then, right?”

“Right, but not too fast, we still need to get you a mask and gloves and-“ she paused as she was pulling out a pair of gloves, “I’d like to warn you that Whumpee is in a rough place right now.”

“What do you mean?”

“They’re still very fearful, and that combined with being in pain can make people very agitated. They’re at risk of further injuries if they try to run off or stand. They’re currently in medical restraints, just until it’s safe-“

What?!

“You put them in restraints?! What the hell is wrong with you people?!”

“They would have-“

“No wonder their still ‘fearful’ and won’t do anything, what the fuck?!”

They snatched the gloves out of the box and pulled them on, then the mask from her hand.

“Where are they?”

“Caretaker, please, I can’t bring you in until you are calm. I know, I know, and that’s what I- we hoped to avoid by bringing you in. If you’re there, they won’t have a reason to look for you.”

This hospital is run by monsters… Whumpee is rescued just to be tied back down again and poked and prodded?

They took a deep breath, pinching their nose. “If they’re calm, the restraints come off, correct?”

Their voice wobbles with rage but only slightly.

“As soon as possible,” she paused, lowering her voice, “I will argue till I’m blue in the face. I promise.”

They force themselves to relax their shoulders.

She’s not the one in the wrong. She’s trying to help. And I need to see Whumpee right now.

“Okay. I’m calm.”

They wound their way through the hospital, passing room after room, and with every passing door, Caretaker snapped their neck back and forth, trying to catch a glimpse of Whumpee.

Finally, they come to the end of a hallway, to a door guarded by an officer in silver. “Hello officer, Caretaker is here to see Whumpee on Doctors orders.”

She shows the officer her key card and the paperwork, and Caretaker was curtly waved through.

“Just press the call button if you need. I’ll be right there.”

“Thank you,” they sighed, then turned back, “For everything.”

She just smiled sadly with a little shrug, before she seemed to be called back to the nurses station.

And they walked through the door into Whumpees room. Finally.

“Caretaker?”

Scourge Spotlight: Termagant

CR 17

Lawful Evil Large Outsider

Inner Sea Bestiary, pg. 24

These bloated, unsettling creatures frustrate me, because their lore section consists of literally 1 paragraph of vague details about monstrous progeny and an endless want for misshapen children, which doesn’t give me a lot to go off lorewise... and doesn’t even make sense with their powerset, which revolves ENTIRELY around killing people with poison. There’s also the demonization of pregnancy and the desire for children, which makes little sense for a velstrac and even less sense considering the niche of “grotesquely pregnant mother of malformed monsters” is a niche already plenty filled by the unholy belly of Lamashtu, the Demon Queen (and, to a lesser extend, the Drakaina and MAN that article is old).

Thus, to set the tone more in line with both their powerset and to expand into a previously unexplored niche of velstrac artistry, I will be changing the Termagant’s flavor in small ways!

Among the most grotesquely horrifying members of the velstrac race as a whole, the hovering Termagants are abominations even to their own kind, their presence so repulsive that their Unnerving Gaze can cause 1d4 rounds of helpless nausea in anyone who sees them. Their bloated bodies are laboratories for toxins they’re desperately eager to test out on others, even other velstrac should their own experimental subjects run out. Since not even the mightiest velstrac are immune to poison, a Termagant approaching with the intent to test their latest mixture is treated with hopeless resignation at best, and indignant “going down fighting” rage at worst. Why?

Because it’s a nasty, tenacious toxin that inflicts ability drain, another condition few-to-no velstrac are immune to, which--barring outside help--they also have no natural way to recover from. The stat corrosion caused by their delightfully named Flux Infusion is permanent, and the various mutations and deformities caused by exposure to it are so last century, so it’s just all-around no fun for anyone when one of these bloated un-beauties visits. Perhaps there are velstrac which love watching them work, but such fools risk becoming part of the Termagant’s gallery of mutilated victims, reduced to helpless, deformed ‘children’ they torment and care for in equal measure.

The delivery method for their Flux Infusion isn’t any fang or claw they have--though they DO have two claw attacks that deal 1d8+9 damage and a respectable 2d6 bleed--but rather by the cluster of writhing tendrils that dangle below their internal toxin factories. Each one deals a measly 1d6+4 damage... but they can lash with up to seven with a Full-Attack, and each of them can Grab any creature they strike. Any creature beginning its turn grappled by a Termagant must succeed a DC 28 Fortitude save or be afflicted with Flux Infusion, which pings them once a rounds for TEN ENTIRE ROUNDS unless it’s cured or shaken off. Each round they remain grappled, they must make another save to avoid getting afflicted by a second dosage, each adding +2 to the save DC to resist and +5 rounds to its duration... though, thankfully, it takes only 2 consecutive saves to shake off. ‘thankfully’ provided your Con isn’t getting shaved by it, though.

And it might not! The unstable Flux Infusion actually deals random ability score damage! It has an equal chance of eating 1d4 points of Con, Dex, or Str each time it ticks, so it may very well end up draining a stat you don’t care about and give you enough time to do something about the horrible situation you’ve found yourself in. Just know that if you don’t suit the Termagant’s tastes, it may just decide to beat you to death with its nine natural attacks each round, and if you die while infected with Flux Infusion, you explode. Any creature who dies with Flux Infusion in their system does, detonating in a nasty 10ft burst that exposes everyone around them to the toxin, albeit at only a DC 23 to resist instead of the normal 28. Because the AoE doesn’t change even if the creature’s own size does, a clever Termagant can create makeshift poison grenades by infesting small, disposable creatures and hurling them with enough force to kill them on impact. 

"Any creature that dies with the poison in them” includes the Termagant itself, by the way; killing the thing just causes it to pop like a pus-filled zit, spraying everything within 15ft with the full-powered poison. A Termagant at the end of its rope may just allow itself to die for this very reason, hoping that its beloved poison takes its foes down with it, rendering them weak, easy prey for the rest of their ‘brood’ or followers, making its mark upon the party forever in the most nightmarish way it can.

... side note, by the way: Termagants aren’t immune to poison or ability score drain themselves, and since their natural attacks only have a 10ft reach, there’s a very real possibility that their victims popping and dying while in melee with them will expose them to their own poison. Their immense Fortitude save (+20) makes it sticking unlikely, but it’s still amusing to point out. Technically, because of how Rupture (the velstrac itself exploding on death) and Shared Rupture (any creature that dies while poisoned explode) are worded, a Termagant that dies while infected with its own poison explodes twice.

You can read more about them here.

Greetings,

I am seeking a partner for a roleplay based on The Last of Us. I have played through both video games multiple times and I have watched the TV show through multiple times. I consider myself well-versed in the fandom. I do not require that my partner has the same knowledge of the world. I just simply wanted to explain that I am capable of writing content from both the game or the show. I am over the age of 18 and require that all partners will be the same. I am seeking something a little bit different here for this fandom. I am actually looking for someone to play as Anna, Ellie's mother. Before I get into my ideas, I wanted to include that I am willing to do doubles. I am willing to play Joel, Ellie, or anyone else that you desire from the fandom. All you have to do is ask! Now, onto my idea. I am hoping to play a male OC, who would be Ellie's father. There's a lot we can do here because limited information is provided about her parents. I always find it intriguing to play out character stories who did not have much screen time - plus, I adore Ashley Johnson (actress who plays Anna in the show).

Who exactly is my OC? Well, I tend to prefer happier romances. So the OC that I create would have a healthy romance with Anna. They could even be married. A lot of his creation is open-ended. I will even let you tell me if there's a specific face claim you wish to see and make it happen. I can provide more info about him when discussing this story. The most pertinent bit of information we have to deal with is Anna's infection. In the show/game, we know she dies shortly after giving birth to Ellie and that the bite itself is pivotal to Ellie's immunity. I will admit that this idea would end up twisting around some of the lore of The Last of Us and I hope that's okay. It'll be like a slight AU. But I have a couple of ideas on how to deal with this. Obviously, Marlene will have to opt out of shooting Anna for this to work, so that is a given. Option 1: What if Anna is immune as well? Ellie's immunity is simply passed down genetically from mother to daughter. Option 2: What if Anna's immunity is directly related to being pregnant while being bitten? I am not going to pretend to be an expert on human biology, but let's just say that the pregnancy allowed the cordyceps to grow inside of Anna just as it did for Ellie. So, where does the male OC come in? And if he's such a great guy, why isn't he beside Anna while she's giving birth? I figured that she was running in the beginning of episode nine because things have not gone according to plan. Maybe their settlement was decimated by raiders or FEDRA or infected. The OC had to go out to the frontlines to help defend his wife and unborn daughter, but the Fireflies were struggling mightily. The enemies manage to penetrate their safe zone and Anna is forced to flee on her own because staying put is not an option. The OC is separated from the group as well. Perhaps that house she ran to was a house where she and her husband had decided they would regroup if anything went wrong. And clearly things did. Days pass and he finally shows up at the house to find Anna bitten, but not turned. Obviously she's not in great shape, she's weak, and needs some help, so before they can even think about trying to find their daughter again, she needs some serious medical treatment and thus is our jumping off point for the story. I think it would be so much fun to write out. I'm also all about long-term roleplays, so once the story progresses into the future, we could absolutely look at having a family reunion with Ellie and her parents too! I know this post is running on quite extensively now so I will just wrap everything up. Apologies for the length, but I have tons of muse for this and can provide more information upon request. Please react if interested. Thank you!

-

Mastani's Guide to Monkeypox

Disclaimer: I'm not an epidemiologist or a physician - I'm just someone well versed with microbiology and diseases. That being said, here is what I know/what I'm doing about monkeypox. A big note beforehand though - this is not a queer disease. We must prevent spread to high risk populations. Even if you are not high risk, you are no more than two steps away from someone who is. This information was aggregated as of August 28th, 2022. Remember - science is always learning more, so some information may become outdated.

What is it? - a poxvirus. Similar to coxpox or variola/smallpox, monkeypox is a double stranded DNA virus. Double stranded DNA is stable genetic material (especially as compared to SARS-CoV-2, which is an RNA virus).

How does it infect? - Mechanistically, I can't find a consensus. However, this article (warning, it's written for immunologists, not for the general public) suggests poxviruses evades immune responses by modifying recognition proteins.

How does it spread? - Monkeypox is viable in rashes and bodily fluid. It can be spread through skin-to-infected skin contact, contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth, and vagina), and contact with bodily fluids, like breathing in/ingesting saliva. It can spread from humans to animals. Since this virus is stable, surfaces (especially soft and porous surfaces - like clothes and couches) can hold viable virus. To summarize, you can get monkeypox by: - skin to rash contact - skin to scab contact - skin to infected cloth contact (i.e. laundering soiled sheets) - sex with an infected person, regardless of sexuality or gender - skin to infected surface contact (i.e. frequently touched surfaces) - 3+ hours, no mask, within 6> feet (droplet spread)

How do you protect yourself? - Maintain your skin barrier as best you can. This means frequent moisturizing, covering injuries/broken skin (i.e. cuts, eczema). A solid skin barrier is an EXCELLENT defense. - Try to avoid extensive touching of folks you don't know/wear protective clothes if you must. This includes items that they spend a lot of time with. - Disinfect surfaces - refer to this list for disinfectants that work and follow instructions. Monkeypox does not survive at high humidity , sunlight, and high temperatures (think near tropic temperatures), but is stable at room temperature for a while (current estimates are at 15 days if undisturbed). - Wash/Sanitize (70% alcohol or more) your hands often. - Watch for symptoms and see a provider ASAP for unexplained rashes. - Get vaccinated if you can. The current guidelines are here (AUG/22/2022), but the next phase opens the vaccine up to anyone. Old smallpox vaccines do work, but talk to your provider about getting this one. If you have a immunocompromising condition (including eczema!), take the JYNNEOS vaccine over the ACAM2000. - Mask up. If you took off your mask for COVID-19, put it back on. - Do not touch your eyes, nose, mouth, or broken skin without washing your hands.

What do I do if I'm exposed? - Get vaccinated ASAP. The vaccine does work as post-exposure prophylaxis. - Communicate with your local health department. You may have to isolate for 21 days. - Watch for symptoms (they may be mild!) - Wear a mask around others and insist that others mask around you.

What are the symptoms? - There are a few stages for symptoms. Here is the most common presentation, but if you're ever unsure, see a physician. Keep in mind, monkeypox rash can range from 1 bump to 100s and last about a month. 1. Incubation (5 days - 3 weeks): Before symptoms starts. It is unclear if people are infective during this time. 2. Prodrome (1 - 2 days if at all): Fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, exhaustion, headache, cough. Think the flu, or a bad cold. People may be infective at this time, but it is unclear. 3. Enanthem (1 day): Sores inside the mouth or on the tongue. People are definitely infective at this time. From here on out, you may experience pain and itching. 4. Macules (1-2 days): Flat lesions (re: abnormal skin) spread across the face and to the limbs/other places. 5. Papules (1-2 days): The rash becomes rasied, easy to individually circle, and feel firm. 6. Vesicles (1-2 days): The bumps fill with clear fluid. 7. Pustules (5-7 days): The bumps become cloudy or pus filled. They may develop a spot or divot. 8. Scabs (~7 days): The bumps become crusty and scabby. They will fall off on their own and may leave scars. After all scabs are gone, people are not infective.

Can I recieve medication? - Yes, there are antivirals that help. However, even without medication, monkeypox usually resolves on its own after a month.

What do I do to clean my place after I/someone I live with gets infected: - Clean surfaces with the disinfectants from earlier. Pay close attention to the instructions. Bleach also works, but again, adhere to the instructions. - Launder soiled clothes and linens with extreme care. A wash cycle will render monkeypox dead, but the transfer of items to the washer can put you in contact with infective particles.

Mastani, what are YOU doing? - as someone who is often in the hospital, has to be in public, and lives with someone, this is what we do. Keep in mind, I'm a bit germ-sensitive, so some of this may be overkill. - Change clothes when we get home. I take a full shower, but my partner just changes since they work in a non-hospital setting and are rarely in contact with a lot of people. - Clean our home once a week with disinfectants listed in the link above. - Spray our phones when we get home with 70%+ isopropyl alochol (Note: make sure your phone is off while doing this!!) - Wipe down our electronics similarly (again, more for me than them) - Avoid touching folks we don't know well/ask our friends to keep a close eye on symptoms. - Double mask everywhere. I wear a KN95 + surgical mask, they wear a KN95 + cloth mask. - Wipe down public surfaces before sitting at them. We keep wipes in our bags. - Wipe down our groceries/wash the produce as soon as we get home. (we don't know transmission rates of public surfaces yet, so extra precaution) - Wash our hands as soon as we come in. - Take extra caution using public bathrooms (try to avoid too much butt to seat without a barrier/wiping it down). - Take off our shoes when we get home. - Sanitize/Wash our hands before eating anywhere, including home. - We have a quarantine room/pack ready to go on the chance one of us has to quarantine. Underlined phrases are links. If you have questions, I will answer them to the best of my ability. However, I am balancing school, new monkeypox information, and anxiety at all times. I may not have an answer. When in doubt, seek medical advice from an epidemiologist or physician. Knowledge is power. Be safe, be cautious.

Greetings, 🌝

I am seeking a partner for a roleplay based on The Last of Us. I have played through both video games multiple times and I have watched the TV show through multiple times. I consider myself well-versed in the fandom. I do not require that my partner has the same knowledge of the world. I just simply wanted to explain that I am capable of writing content from both the game or the show. I am over the age of 18 and require that all partners will be the same. I am seeking something a little bit different here for this fandom. I am actually looking for someone to play as Anna, Ellie's mother. Before I get into my ideas, I wanted to include that I am willing to do doubles. I am willing to play Joel, Ellie, or anyone else that you desire from the fandom. All you have to do is ask! Now, onto my idea. I am hoping to play a male OC, who would be Ellie's father. There's a lot we can do here because limited information is provided about her parents. I always find it intriguing to play out character stories who did not have much screen time - plus, I adore Ashley Johnson (actress who plays Anna in the show).

Who exactly is my OC? Well, I tend to prefer happier romances. So the OC that I create would have a healthy romance with Anna. They could even be married. A lot of his creation is open-ended. I will even let you tell me if there's a specific face claim you wish to see and make it happen. I can provide more info about him when discussing this story. The most pertinent bit of information we have to deal with is Anna's infection. In the show/game, we know she dies shortly after giving birth to Ellie and that the bite itself is pivotal to Ellie's immunity. I will admit that this idea would end up twisting around some of the lore of The Last of Us and I hope that's okay. It'll be like a slight AU. But I have a couple of ideas on how to deal with this. Obviously, Marlene will have to opt out of shooting Anna for this to work, so that is a given. Option 1: What if Anna is immune as well? Ellie's immunity is simply passed down genetically from mother to daughter. Option 2: What if Anna's immunity is directly related to being pregnant while being bitten? I am not going to pretend to be an expert on human biology, but let's just say that the pregnancy allowed the cordyceps to grow inside of Anna just as it did for Ellie. So, where does the male OC come in? And if he's such a great guy, why isn't he beside Anna while she's giving birth? I figured that she was running in the beginning of episode nine because things have not gone according to plan. Maybe their settlement was decimated by raiders or FEDRA or infected. The OC had to go out to the frontlines to help defend his wife and unborn daughter, but the Fireflies were struggling mightily. The enemies manage to penetrate their safe zone and Anna is forced to flee on her own because staying put is not an option. The OC is separated from the group as well. Perhaps that house she ran to was a house where she and her husband had decided they would regroup if anything went wrong. And clearly things did. Days pass and he finally shows up at the house to find Anna bitten, but not turned. Obviously she's not in great shape, she's weak, and needs some help, so before they can even think about trying to find their daughter again, she needs some serious medical treatment and thus is our jumping off point for the story. I think it would be so much fun to write out. I'm also all about long-term roleplays, so once the story progresses into the future, we could absolutely look at having a family reunion with Ellie and her parents too! I know this post is running on quite extensively now so I will just wrap everything up. Apologies for the length, but I have tons of muse for this and can provide more information upon request. Please react if interested. Thank you!

Leave a like, and anon will get back to you!

Greetings,

I am seeking a partner for a roleplay based on The Last of Us. I have played through both video games multiple times and I have watched the TV show through multiple times. I consider myself well-versed in the fandom. I do not require that my partner has the same knowledge of the world. I just simply wanted to explain that I am capable of writing content from both the game or the show. I am over the age of 18 and require that all partners will be the same. I am seeking something a little bit different here for this fandom. I am actually looking for someone to play as Anna, Ellie's mother. Before I get into my ideas, I wanted to include that I am willing to do doubles. I am willing to play Joel, Ellie, or anyone else that you desire from the fandom. All you have to do is ask! Now, onto my idea. I am hoping to play a male OC, who would be Ellie's father. There's a lot we can do here because limited information is provided about her parents. I always find it intriguing to play out character stories who did not have much screen time - plus, I adore Ashley Johnson (actress who plays Anna in the show).

Who exactly is my OC? Well, I tend to prefer happier romances. So the OC that I create would have a healthy romance with Anna. They could even be married. A lot of his creation is open-ended. I will even let you tell me if there's a specific face claim you wish to see and make it happen. I can provide more info about him when discussing this story. The most pertinent bit of information we have to deal with is Anna's infection. In the show/game, we know she dies shortly after giving birth to Ellie and that the bite itself is pivotal to Ellie's immunity. I will admit that this idea would end up twisting around some of the lore of The Last of Us and I hope that's okay. It'll be like a slight AU. But I have a couple of ideas on how to deal with this. Obviously, Marlene will have to opt out of shooting Anna for this to work, so that is a given. Option 1: What if Anna is immune as well? Ellie's immunity is simply passed down genetically from mother to daughter. Option 2: What if Anna's immunity is directly related to being pregnant while being bitten? I am not going to pretend to be an expert on human biology, but let's just say that the pregnancy allowed the cordyceps to grow inside of Anna just as it did for Ellie. So, where does the male OC come in? And if he's such a great guy, why isn't he beside Anna while she's giving birth? I figured that she was running in the beginning of episode nine because things have not gone according to plan. Maybe their settlement was decimated by raiders or FEDRA or infected. The OC had to go out to the frontlines to help defend his wife and unborn daughter, but the Fireflies were struggling mightily. The enemies manage to penetrate their safe zone and Anna is forced to flee on her own because staying put is not an option. The OC is separated from the group as well. Perhaps that house she ran to was a house where she and her husband had decided they would regroup if anything went wrong. And clearly things did. Days pass and he finally shows up at the house to find Anna bitten, but not turned. Obviously she's not in great shape, she's weak, and needs some help, so before they can even think about trying to find their daughter again, she needs some serious medical treatment and thus is our jumping off point for the story. I think it would be so much fun to write out. I'm also all about long-term roleplays, so once the story progresses into the future, we could absolutely look at having a family reunion with Ellie and her parents too! I know this post is running on quite extensively now so I will just wrap everything up. Apologies for the length, but I have tons of muse for this and can provide more information upon request. Please react if interested. Thank you!

interact if interested!

All Aboard the Train of Despair!

 It has been a while since I posted a spoonie rant on my blog. Here goes.

Long story short: I have been sick with a chronic illness for most of my life, which has steadily worsened over time. Recently, I saw a top-rated (and eye-wateringly expensive) specialist in Sydney who, after many blood tests, diagnosed me with a chronic gut infection (I lit up like a Christmas tree for inflection markers). We think we know the exact time and place I became sick, and it was in South Africa when I was aged 11. At that time, I accidentally drank borehole water from a rural area and became violently ill. My neglectful parents never took me to see a doctor about this, even after serious gut problems persisted for years after the initial infection. As the infection went untreated, I grew sicker with every passing year (with a 5 year period of remission when I moved to the UK, before contracting what we think was swine flu in 2009, which effectively restarted the illness as my immune system became overwhelmed). Anyway, in response to this chronic, 25-year-long infection, I have (as I have suspected for years!) developed a mast cell disorder which is wreaking absolute havoc in my body, including, most recently, gastrointestinal bleeding. The specialist decided it was best we treat the mast cell response with stabilizers and H1 and H2 blockers, because he cannot test for, and thus cannot treat, an infection I procured in another country. (He did test me for Australian bacteria, just in case, but unsurprisingly I did not test positive for those). He supported my suggestion that I reach out to South African specialists in the hopes they might provide me a list of microbes and viruses they would test for in their own patients if they shared the same history as me. I would also need to know what lab they’d send a patient’s blood samples to, so I could try to get my blood tests sent overseas to them for analysis. (This would cost me thousands of dollars to do, btw).

I have emailed an infectious disease specialist in S. Africa and had no reply, so I will try an integrative medicine specialist next. I will keep spamming SA experts until someone responds. In the meantime, I started the drug regime prescribed to me by my local specialist. He told me that because my body was so hyperactive (my gut has rejected numerous other MCAS drugs in the past) that it would not be surprising if I rejected one or more of the drugs he was going to trial me on. The first was a mast cell stabilizer which, in theory, should prevent my mast cells from getting all uppity, and thus make way for the H2 blocker and then Low Dose Naltrexone (both of which my body rejected last time).

It is day 5 and.... Guess who has developed diarrhoea in response to the drug that is supposed to stabilize my mast cells so I can eat a wider variety of foods so I can start getting well enough to fight the infection? :D

I have more food intolerances than you can shake a stick at, which has led to all manner of deficiencies and health issues. Chronic low grade infections leads to iron deficiency (I am very anaemic), and the doctor strongly reckons my MCAS is in my lower abdominal tract or even my large bowel, which explains nutrient malabsorption. For example, I have the early signs of osteoporosis as my body cannot seem to absorb calcium, no matter what supplements I throw at it.

I NEEDED the Sodium chromoglycate to work, not just for my physical health which is declining year on year, but also for my mental health. I NEEDED something to go right after so many things have gone wrong.  But it’s basically giving me IBS symptoms so far. I have not been on it a week, and perhaps he will just tell me to persevere and perhaps my body will get used to it and stop acting out, but based on my history? I doubt it. Generally, my body gets angrier and angrier the longer I stay on a medication it does not like, and I get sicker as a result. I was meant to trial out moderate trigger foods while on this drug, but I can’t because I won’t know if it is the drug or the food causing diarrhoea! I also cannot introduce the other 2 meds until such time as my body settles down (which it may never). And, TMI but fuck it, this is the reality of living with any IBS-like disease, I have chronic hemorrhoids and painful anal fissures which take WEEKS for me to get under control. I just managed to calm down my last bout when I started this drug, and guess who has a sore butt hole again as a result of constantly going to the toilet?

I am also recovering from the Covid booster shot I had on Monday, so have had extra Fibro pain and swollen lymph nodes to add to my suffering.

I have emailed the doctor to find out what to do next. Persist and hope for the best? Desist and then what? This bottle cost me $180 and the LDN another $270. I have not even tried the LDN! I was a fool to get both made up at the same time from the compounding pharmacist, because it is looking like I won’t be able to tolerate either. We are haemorrhaging money and cancelling days out, short holidays and basically any form of joy, to both afford and get through a treatment regime that so far is just making me miserable.

I fucking hate everything right now. It’s just an endless misery-go-round of exorbitant doctors, failed treatments, body horrors, financial distress, emotional distress and having to re-explain to my friends that no, sadly, the latest attempt at restoring my health also failed. 25 years of feeling like hell, and now there are grey hairs on my head and creases around my eyes. My youth has been lost in sickness, my opportunities robbed from me, and my life put on pause as I wait, endlessly, for the living part to actually start.

TLOU - QIHBATLTLIU

Questions I Have But Am Too Lazy To Look It Up

- How do clickers make the clicking noise? (I have this as a tic, it’s very fun to freak other TLOU fans out with)

- So if this whole thing started by some kind of flour/wheat contamination thing, does that mean celiacs/people who dont eat gluten/etc would be safe from the initial infection?

- Can other animals become infected?

- If so, do they have little masks provided to them too by the people they’re with?

- If you eat an animal that’s infected with the fungus unknowingly, would you also become infected? (probably, if the wheat/flour contamination HC is correct)

- Is water contaminated?

- In the games, the fungus/infection is spread via spores. But spores get everywhere, so the fungus/infection would therefore be everywhere. Why isn’t everyone infected all the time?

- Do you think people have a certain level of spores they can inhale/ingest/whatever before they turn? Like, how some people can be more resistant to flu/the cold/etc. Are there different resistance levels to the spores other than just immune and not immune?

- Do some people take longer or shorter to turn based on those resistance levels, if they do exist?

- What if someone unknowingly killed another immune person somewhere? (Surely there’s more immune people out there, other than just Ellie)

- If an immune person and an unimmune person had a baby together, would the baby be immune, unimmune, or a mix?

- Would that baby have a higher or lower resistance level to the spores?

- Would a creature like a shark be able to be infected, and if so, where’s the concept/official/fan art of it? I want to see (Not really a question, I just like sharks)

- Would the apocalypse last forever in the games, because spores spread so easily? Would it ever end? How long would it take, another twenty, thirty years? Maybe longer?

- We know the infected do eventually ‘die’ or ‘decompose’ as seen in the games/tv series/I think I saw concept art of it somewhere, I’d have to dig it up. Would a time come someday that, eventually, all of them (the infected) decompose? Would that be the end of the apocalypse?

- If there ever were an end to it, how would humanity progress? Would they rebuild? War endlessly with each other? Would they give up, and succumb to nature?

Yeah, I’m done for now. Maybe I’ll post more of these some other time, as I think of them

tlou 1x01

blinking and seeing shots from the video game at times, uncanny as hell (for joel and marlene especially).

Prologue

Incredibly rude of them to give us so much time with Sarah. When I first played the game, I have to admit the prologue didn't move me much. I'd already osmosised it and wanted to get to the next level.

But here? IDK if it was seeing a normal day for her, that I'm older, or that it was live-action, but this gutted me ;_; A+ acting all around

A particularly devastating change from the game is Joel crying for Tommy to help him while Tommy does nothing, because Tommy for once is the pragmatic sibling - he knows his niece is dying and that there is nothing he can do but watch

The way runners move is creepy in the best way, like they're marionettes being pulled along by the fungus in their brains and the body is barely keeping up

They faked out us game-players with the lack of a T-bone crash!! And while we're still confused, boom, here's a fucking plane.

The opening sequence is pretty. Wonder if the fungi growth will change as the season progresses if so, how. I'd love for a map of the journey.

I'm neutral on the shift from 2013 to 2003 but I did enjoy spotting all the pointers to it: Tommy as a Gulf War veteran, the Bush photo in the classroom, Joel's phone, and Sarah asking if the virus is from terrorists

Joel

"This has been construction corner with Joel Miller." I have never thought about Joel's pre-outbreak job in that context before

The only improvement I'd ever want to the original video game would be Joel providing construction commentary during gameplay, that'd be fantastic and educational ok

"If you tell me to look for the light I'll break your fucking jaw" <3 this is that grumpy guy who only looks out for him and his, no notes, same with the way he Does Not Care At All about anyone other than Tommy and Sarah during the outbreak scene, bye Denise, by random family, etc.

LMAO he sent Ellie right into that wall honestly surprised she didn't get more hurt from it. also loved the entire thing with the knife

I saw comments that Joel is softer here than in the games and I don't know if I quite agree. Any changes on that spectrum have more to do with the medium of live-action television versus the medium of shooter video games. Like, Joel killing thirty guys in a city feels very different in the latter than the former, but Joel in either canon is a very brutal dude. But more on that later.

Unlike at this point in the game, he seems to have been in recent contact with Tommy, even if he's accused Marlene of turning Tommy against him. Looking forward to seeing learning what exactly their last communication was about, especially since Joel going after Tommy shifts his motivation

Tommy in the show is also very much the younger brother in a way that's not as emphasized in the games. Joel jokes Tommy's dependent on him, and Tommy is used to his brother bailing him out of jail

Ellie

So, so good

The vulnerability with which she reacts to the mere mention of Riley's name versus the bravado with which she attacks Joel versus the mixture of both when she asks Marlene why she can't go home

“are you my fucking mom or something” / “do I look like your mom?” / “no” cracked up the entire theater at the screening I went to LOL, I love this kid

The fireflies locking her up and Marlene explaining to her the implications makes a lot of sense as an unseen prelude to the game's events

Perhaps am pre-emptively daydreaming about a Part II adaptation with her already

That final scene

The focus is not on the reveal of Ellie's infection/immunity (as much as poor Tess is freaking the fuck out about it) but on the brutality that Joel is capable of

Much like the end of the season, I suspect

And obviously Joel's reaction here has little to do with Ellie directly. She's cargo. Dude is just straight up triggered.

Even more intriguing to me than Joel's outsized attack is Ellie's reaction to it

In the game, Joel and Tess efficiently dispatch two soldiers after Ellie stabs one, and Ellie is freaked out by it, saying she thought they'd hold up the soldiers, not kill them

Here, on the other hand, Ellie's eyes frickin light up at Joel wailing on that FEDRA guard, she even shifts around to the side for a better look.

Earlier, she asked what Joel was capable of. She's neither horrified nor panicked by the answer, only transfixed.

I don't hate it as a change (the FEDRA school situation is defined vaguely enough that there's wide range of the answers for what kind of violence Ellie's observed imo, just that she's never killed anyone herself) so I'm curious to see if this is a throughline

Especially in contrast to Sarah's horror at Joel taking down the zombie in the prologue

Future Episodes

Joel and Tess discuss Bill and Frank. Looks like someone's alive! Am terrified of what the outcome is going to be for them though, given the Depeche Mode song playing at the end and their fates in the game

A little memory refresher.

There's nothing wrong with that, I understand Teemu's feelings in August -21. Yes, it was marketed to us from the beginning, that you take all this and two doses, because it prevents infections, you get herd protection and so on. They got pizza and gas if you took vaccine & +. And the thought of getting on the trip was perhaps the strongest influence of all. Even when at the end of the year it was forbidden to go to the theater, night club and restaurant without this, the rest of the sheep started to bend and some of the group were even ordered this to earn a living. Fortunately, not all of them fell for it either, since health is the number one priority for these guys.

👇🏻 Yes. That's how it was marketed to us, let's not forget that. A return to normal was just an arm's length away. And then there were "us idiots" who asked, for example, that:

👇🏻

How can it be guaranteed that the new mRNA technology is safe when the vaccine entered the market with a super-accelerated schedule?

How can a vaccine that produces herd protection be developed for a respiratory virus that typically mutates quickly, when it has not been successful before (cf. influenza vaccine, previous attempts to develop an mRNA vaccine)?

How can an experimental (the results of clinical trials must be delivered by the end of -23 and the product is still on the market with a conditional marketing authorization) medical procedure be a condition for things that are part of basic rights in people's lives?

Why should you protect yourself from a virus from which more than 99% of those who get it recover?

Isn't it important to have a healthy lifestyle and support your own immunity?

👇🏻 Well, in any case, already in December 2021 it became clear that the vaccine does not provide herd protection and does not prevent infections. The coronavirus is not going to disappear anywhere, which must have been completely clear to the experts (and to the rest of us) from the very beginning. That's when the story started to change on the fly: The vaccine is never intended to prevent infections, it only protects against a serious form of the disease (which is not a problem for healthy working-age and younger people in the first place, nor for many elderly people in good health, and especially not after the virus had already mutated for many viral generations) .

👇🏻 The next thing that happened was that those who took 2-4 vaccines started to rejoice that they didn't get the serious form of the disease, even though they got infected. After all, the purpose of the vaccine was specifically to prevent a serious form of the disease, like Teemu in his tweet. Only three weeks in the corona!!!

👇🏻 At the moment, we are in a situation where vaccinated people repeatedly get corona (or something) and suffer from long-lasting symptoms even in the middle of summer, while still enjoying the good effects of several vaccines.

👇🏻 At the same time, it is a completely clear phenomenon that unvaccinated people remain healthy, or after contracting the corona virus at some point with very mild symptoms, do not suffer from any other health problems afterwards. There is more and more research evidence on how the vaccinated are more likely to get sick and carry the virus longer with them, the more boosters are taken.

👇🏻 How will the story continue in the fall? It's interesting and quite sad to watch. Due to all the corona measures, several frequent vaccinations and constant illness, people's immunity is so weak that it can hardly withstand several new corona vaccines, especially if no attention is paid to strengthening immunity, e.g. in the form of sufficient vitamin D intake and lifestyle.

👇🏻 Let's hope that the scenarios of some experts will not come true any more, but that the epidemic will remain calm and people will start to heal by taking the reins into their own hands and really starting to act for their own good 🙏🏻 Fortunately, almost every one of us has this opportunity. You too can be! It's nice and safe 😁

Discover the Essential Impact of Nutrient-Rich Drinks in Children's Entire Development

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Whether these are fortified milk or fruit smoothies, green or vegetable-based juices or protein shakes, they provide a practical and tasty way for kids to make sure they take the required nutrients for a healthy physical and mental outlook.

Why does a child's entire growth depend on drinking rich in nutrients and healthy drinks?

Healthy drinks high in nutrients are essential for children's overall growth. These drinks offer more than just water; they also contain vital nutrients that support mental clarity, physical development, and general health.

Enhancing Cognitive Function

Brain development takes place at a faster rate during childhood, thus proper nutrition is important for both cognitive function and academic performance. Protein-packed health drinks, which are usually enriched with brain-stimulating nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and B vitamins, can improve memory, concentration and learning way better.

A nutritious protein shake gives young bodies the required energy for the brain to work at its highest potential, contributing to optimized brain development and cognitive skills.

Boosting Immune Health

A robust immune system is the hallmark of a healthy child able to resist diseases and infections. Energy drinks tagged with vitamins C, D, and zinc act as immunity builders by protecting against the common cold, influenza, and other disorders. Daily intake of such drinks contributes to the body's innate protection systems thereby lowering the chances of disease and supporting overall good health.

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Young children should get enough energy to fuel their lifestyles and stay in good physical condition which helps their active lifestyle. For instance, children often engage in sports activities. Healthy energy drinks provide the vital carbohydrates and proteins to replenish energy storage, and rebuild muscles; perfect for sustaining endurance. A premium nutritious drink in India designed to give children the ability to participate in sports and recreational activities with eagerness.

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Hives: How Long Do They Last & What Helps?

Hives, also known as urticaria, are raised, itchy welts that appear on the skin. They're a common skin reaction that can affect people of all ages. While hives often go away on their own within a few hours to a day or two, sometimes they stick around longer, becoming a frustrating, even alarming, chronic issue. Let's take a closer look at hives how long does it last, the typical causes behind these pesky welts, and some simple ways to get relief. So, how long do hives usually last? In many cases, a hives outbreak may last anywhere from a few hours to a couple days before fading away. This short-lived reaction is known as acute hives. It's often triggered by things like certain foods, medications, insect stings or bites, pollen, pet dander, or infections. However, for some folks, hives can persist or keep coming back for six weeks or more. If you're breaking out in hives almost daily for over six weeks, you may have chronic hives. What Causes Hives? Hives pop up when your immune system releases a substance called histamine. This can happen for several reasons: - Acute Hives: These are often caused by a specific trigger: - Allergies: Common culprits include foods (like peanuts or shellfish), medications (like penicillin), or insect bites. - Infections: Viral infections (like the common cold), bacterial infections, and even parasites can sometimes cause hives. - Physical Irritation: Scratching, tight clothes, or exposure to harsh chemicals can lead to hives. - Chronic Hives: Lasting more than six weeks, these hives often have less obvious causes: - Underlying Conditions: Autoimmune disorders (like thyroid issues or lupus) can trigger chronic hives. - Unexplained Reactions: Sometimes, your immune system just gets a little overzealous, leading to hives with no known trigger. - Inducible Hives: Less common, these are triggered by specific physical stimuli: - Cold temperatures - Sunlight - Pressure on the skin - Exercise How Long Do Hives Last? - One Hive at a Time: Each hive tends to fade away within a few hours, usually less than 24 hours. - Acute Cases: Hive outbreaks usually clear up completely within 2-6 weeks, especially if you can identify and avoid the trigger (like a food you're allergic to). - Chronic Hives: If you're stuck with hives for over 6 weeks, they're considered chronic. Some unlucky folks can have chronic hives for months or even years. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P2bFVGReRE&pp=ygUbaGl2ZXMgaG93IGxvbmcgZG9lcyBpdCBsYXN0 Diagnosing Hives Medical History and Exam: To figure out what's causing your hives, your doc will ask about your symptoms, when they started, how long they last, and what seems to trigger them. They'll also check your skin closely and ask about your overall health. Possible Tests: If needed, your doctor may order some tests to rule out specific causes: - Allergy Testing: Skin prick or blood tests to identify potential triggers. - Blood Work: To check for infections or signs of underlying thyroid problems. Treating Hives & Finding Relief The best way to treat hives depends on what's causing them and how severe they are. - Identifying Triggers: Especially for acute hives, figuring out what sets them off is key. Keep a "hive diary" to track when they appear – it might surprise you! - Antihistamines: These are the go-to for reducing itch and swelling: - Over-the-counter options: Loratadine (Claritin), Cetirizine (Zyrtec) - Stronger ones by prescription: Ask your doctor! - Severe Cases: Sometimes, short-term oral steroids (like prednisone) are needed. Just remember, these have potential side effects. - Chronic Hives: If over-the-counter medications aren't enough, your doctor may recommend specialized medications or refer you to an allergist or dermatologist. Treatment TypeProsConsOver-the-Counter AntihistaminesEasy to access, generally safe, provide quick reliefMay not be effective for severe or chronic hives, some cause drowsinessPrescription MedicationsStronger options available, can target specific causes of chronic hivesMay have potential side effects, require doctor's supervisionNatural RemediesCool compresses, loose clothing can sootheLimited effectiveness, don't address the root cause of hives Living with Hives While you work towards a longer-term solution, here's what helps ease the itch: - Cool Relief: Cool compresses, baths (not too hot!), or calamine lotion. - Loose Clothing: Breathable fabrics can help prevent irritation. - Stress Less: Stress can worsen hives. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga. - Emergency Care: If you have trouble breathing, throat swelling, or feel faint alongside your hives, get medical help immediately – this could be a sign of anaphylaxis. "Hives are incredibly common, but if they last for more than a few weeks, it's best to see a doctor. There are many effective treatment options available." Dr. Anne Davis, Board-Certified Dermatologist FAQs for Easy Answers - Are hives contagious? No! Hives themselves are not spread from person to person. However, if the hives are caused by a viral infection, that infection itself could be contagious. - Can I prevent hives? If you identify your triggers, you may be able to prevent acute hives by avoiding them. For chronic hives where the cause is unknown, prevention can be more difficult. - Will my hives go away on their own? Most of the time, yes. Individual hives fade quickly, and acute hives usually clear up in a few weeks. Chronic hives often need medical intervention to manage symptoms. - What's the difference between hives and eczema? While both can be itchy, hives are raised, red bumps that come and go quickly. Eczema usually causes dry, scaly patches that last longer. - Can stress cause hives? While stress doesn't directly cause hives, it can make existing hives worse or make you more prone to outbreaks. - I'm pregnant and have hives. What should I do? Talk to your doctor before taking any medication for hives. Some over-the-counter options may not be safe during pregnancy. Your doctor can guide you to safe choices for managing your symptoms. Key Takeaways - Hives are itchy, red bumps on the skin that usually go away on their own. - They can be caused by allergies, infections, physical triggers, or sometimes, unknown reasons. - Chronic hives last longer than six weeks and might need specialized treatment. Conclusion Hives might be annoying, but they're rarely a serious issue. If you're dealing with persistent or severe hives, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor. Together, you can find a treatment plan that works for you, so you can finally say goodbye to those itchy bumps! Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health. Read the full article

What are the most typical chemo side effects, and what are the best ways to handle them?

Cancer is a serious problem that is growing at a faster pace. There are many medical alternatives available to treat this disease depending upon the severity of the problem. This disease passes through multiple stages; initial stages may not be as serious as the later stages. If it is identified earlier it is curable to a great extent. In many types of cases patients are advised chemotherapy for treating the patients. Chemotherapy is nothing but a process of eliminating the bad cancer cells growing at a faster rate but this process do eliminates the good cells leading to decrease in the immunity and many prominent side effects. Some of these side effects may be temporary, some may be permanent, some may be transitory.

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is an effective treatment for quickly proliferating cells, such as cancer cells. It is a type of cancer treatment that employs medications to either kill or stop the growth of rapidly proliferating cells, including cancer cells. These medications target both malignant and quickly dividing normal cells throughout the body and can be given orally or intravenously. Regretfully, it may also have adverse impacts on healthy, normal cells during the process. The exact medications taken, the amount, and the general health of the person can all affect the negative effects. It's crucial to remember that different people may suffer different side effects, and that each person's experience with them may vary in intensity. Chemotherapy has potential side effects—from mild to severe, some short-term and long lasting. These are a few typical adverse effects of chemotherapy along with some general management techniques.

The adverse effects of chemotherapy include

Nausea and vomiting:

Management: Your physician may recommend antiemetics, or anti-nausea medications.

Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding strong odors may be helpful.

Exhaustion: A patient receiving chemotherapy may experience fatigue and a lack of motivation to work.  It can take some time to heal.

Management: Consuming nutritious food and getting enough sleep are the key to overcoming fatigue. Controlling fatigue can be achieved by maintaining a nutritious diet and obtaining adequate sleep. Mild activity, such as walking, may also be beneficial.

Chemotherapy weakens cells, which causes an excessive loss of hair.

Management: During therapy, wearing cold caps or scalp cooling devices can help reduce hair loss.

Wigs, scarves, and hats can provide comfort.

Anemia: A patient receiving chemotherapy may have fatigue and low energy as a result of anemia. Blood loss is reversible.

Management: Blood transfusions or iron supplements could be suggested. These help to increase the blood cells. Diet changes can play a pivotal role. Consuming meals high in iron, including red meat and leafy greens, can be beneficial.

Risk of infection (because of decreased white blood cell count):

Management: To prevent or treat infections, doctors may administer growth hormones or antibiotics. Maintaining proper hygiene and preventing illness.

Swelling and Hemorrhaging (caused by a decreased platelet count):

Generally, patients undergoing chemotherapy may confront problems like swelling and hemorrhage.

Management: Steer clear of behaviors that could hurt or bleed people.

Being cautious when handling sharp things and brushing with a soft toothbrush.

Lip Sores:

Lip sores are another problem confronted by the patients. Handle with a gentle toothbrush and light toothpaste. Using a mouthwash that has been prescribed or a saline solution to rinse the mouth can be a good solution for the same.

Diminished Appetite:

Chemotherapy hampers appetite and recovery.  A patient undergoing chemotherapy does not feel like eating anything. To recover the health, one must make take care of the diet and water.

Management: Drinking plenty of water and eating small, frequent meals.

Selecting nutrient-dense foods and experimenting with flavors and textures.

Extremity numbness or tingling due to peripheral neuropathy:

Management: Modifying potentially harmful behaviors, like wearing cushioned gloves.

Some drugs may be able to control neuropathic pain.

Changes in cognition (chemo brain):

A patient undergoing chemo may confront mental and physical challenges like Management: Using calendars and notes to keep things organized.

Getting enough sleep and partaking in mentally engaging activities.

It's critical that you discuss any adverse effects you encounter honestly with your healthcare staff. To reduce side effects, they can provide customized methods and, in certain situations, modify your treatment plan. Having the assistance of loved ones, friends, and support groups can also be beneficial when undergoing chemotherapy. For advice unique to your case, always speak with your healthcare practitioner.

Chemotherapy is a strong and successful treatment, but because it affects normal, healthy cells, it frequently has adverse effects. Nausea, exhaustion, hair loss, and a weakened immune system that leaves people more prone to infections are typical side effects. But in an effort to reduce side effects and enhance treatment outcomes, developments in medical science have produced more accurate chemotherapy regimens and tailored medicines.

It's crucial to remember that chemotherapy is only one kind of cancer treatment available. A multidisciplinary team of medical experts, including oncologists, decides on the exact treatment plan after considering the patient's preferences, general health, and the type and stage of the cancer.

Permanent toenail removal pros and cons

When it comes to foot health, toenail issues can be a persistent source of discomfort and frustration. For some individuals, the idea of permanent toenail removal might seem like an attractive solution. However, like any medical procedure, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of permanent toenail removal to help you make an informed decision about whether it's the right choice for you.

Pros of Permanent Toenail Removal

Elimination of Chronic Toenail Problems One of the primary benefits of permanent toenail removal is that it puts an end to chronic toenail problems. If you've been suffering from recurring ingrown toenails, fungal infections, or other persistent issues, removing the toenail might be the most effective solution.

Pain Relief Ingrown toenails can be excruciatingly painful. Permanent toenail removal can provide immediate and lasting relief from this pain. Say goodbye to throbbing and discomfort.

Improved Aesthetics For those with severely damaged or discolored toenails, permanent removal can lead to improved aesthetics. You won't have to worry about hiding your feet in embarrassment anymore.

Faster Healing Compared to some other treatments for toenail problems, permanent removal typically results in faster healing. This means you can get back to your normal activities sooner.

Reduced Risk of Infections Ingrown toenails and fungal infections can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Permanent toenail removal reduces the risk of these infections, which can be especially important for individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems.

Cons of Permanent Toenail Removal

Loss of Natural Protection Toenails serve as a natural barrier that protects the sensitive nail bed. Their removal can expose the nail bed to potential injuries and infections.

Long-Term Aesthetic Changes While some people appreciate the improved aesthetics, others might miss having toenails. It's essential to consider whether you're comfortable with the permanent changes in the appearance of your toes.

Surgical Risks Permanent toenail removal is a surgical procedure and, like all surgeries, carries some risks. These risks include infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia.

Post-Surgery Pain While the procedure can provide long-term pain relief, there can be discomfort and pain during the initial stages of recovery. You'll need to manage this pain as you heal.

Potential Regrowth In some cases, toenails can partially regrow after permanent removal. This might necessitate additional procedures or ongoing maintenance.

Conclusion The decision to undergo permanent toenail removal is a significant one that should not be taken lightly. It offers relief from chronic toenail problems, pain, and aesthetic concerns, but it also comes with potential downsides. Consult with a qualified podiatrist or healthcare professional to discuss your specific situation and determine if permanent toenail removal is the right choice for you.

FAQs

Is permanent toenail removal reversible? No, permanent toenail removal is typically irreversible, and the toenail will not grow back.

How long does it take to recover from permanent toenail removal? Recovery times vary, but most people can resume normal activities within a few weeks.

Can I paint my toenails after permanent toenail removal? Yes, you can paint your toenails if you're comfortable with the appearance of your nail bed.

Are there non-surgical alternatives for toenail problems? Yes, there are non-surgical treatments available, such as laser therapy and oral medications. Consult with a podiatrist to explore your options.

What should I expect during the permanent toenail removal procedure? The procedure typically involves local anesthesia, and the toenail is carefully removed. Your podiatrist will provide detailed instructions for post-operative care.

For those considering permanent toenail removal, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully and seek professional guidance to make an informed choice.