Major change to UK drivers licence to be introduced this year and will impact tens of millions

Major change to UK drivers licence to be introduced this year and will impact tens of millions

Major change to UK drivers licence to be introduced this year and will impact tens of millions

Plenty of Brits have been asking for this change

‘Phone, keys, ID’, the standard check of your bag and pat of your pockets is simply part of the routine before heading out the door.

Of course, the ID might be replaced by ‘cards’ or ‘wallet’ but either way, you’re probably not leaving the house without them. And for most of us, it’s our driving licence that we’re taking out to prove our age – something about a passport feels way too intense.

However, a major change to the UK driver’s licence is set to be introduced this year and it’s going to impact tens of millions of us. Yep, the check of your things might be getting cut down to just ‘phone and keys’ thanks to some new technology.

You might not need to carry it around for much longer. (Getty Stock)

You might not need to carry it around for much longer. (Getty Stock)

After you and your mates constantly banging on about how much easier it would be, driving licenses are finally going to be digitised and made available on smartphones.

A new government smartphone app will be home to these digital licenses and could end up being used when asked for ID to buy alcohol, vote or even board domestic flights.

The scheme will be voluntary and drivers will still be issued will both provisional and full photocard driving licenses, but there’s no denying this would make things a whole lot easier. Plus, ministers reckon this digital option will ‘drag government into the 2020s’ according to The Times.

Plans for this new app and scheme are due to be announced next week in a ‘product launch’ event.

A government spokesperson said to BBC News of the change: “This government is committed to using technology to make people’s lives easier and transform public services.

“Technology now makes it possible for digital identities to be more secure than physical ones, but we remain clear that they will not be made mandatory.”

Your phone may be used to both prove and pay. (Getty Stock)

Your phone may be used to both prove and pay. (Getty Stock)

One game-changing feature could be that supermarkets may link its self-checkout technology with the digital license, meaning customers can scan to prove their age rather than standing around waiting for a staff member to approve it.

The new app, called Gov.uk, will likely feature a ‘wallet’ with the digital licence in and is said to have security features similar to banking apps so only the genuine owner can access it.

It’s reported other forms of identification will also be added, like national insurance numbers. And while there’s about 50 million Brits with full or provisional driving licences, the digitised versions won’t fully replace the physical ones.

It’ll simply be an alternative and bring us up to speed with the likes of Australia and Norway where digital driving licences are already a thing.

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Book classified by CIA for more than 50 years explained how the world was going to end

Book classified by CIA for more than 50 years explained how the world was going to end

Book classified by CIA for more than 50 years explained how the world was going to end

Chan Thomas’ writing has now been made public nearly 60 years after he first penned it

A book which was kept a US state secret for more than five decades has now been declassified by the CIA.

The works of Chan Thomas – which details a shocking conspiracy theory about the planet’s supposedly impending demise – has now gone public nearly 60 years after he first penned it.

The late engineer, UFO researcher and self-proclaimed polymath is the author behind the infamous book titled The Adam and Eve Story.

Modern day conspiracy theorists have continued to pedal his beliefs long after his death in 1998, and now, the details of his concerning predictions have finally been laid bare.

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) put a stop to the book’s publication in 1966, for reasons that remain unknown to this day.

It is thought that the intelligence service might have been concerned that Thomas’ theories might have sparked mass panic or that he may have spilled the details of secret government research.

The CIA declassified parts of the book back in 2013, but kept the rest of the literature under wraps, until now.

Chan Thomas' 1966 book has now been declassified by the CIA (CIA)

Chan Thomas’ 1966 book has now been declassified by the CIA (CIA)

Thomas, who was a former US Air Force employee according to the Daily Mail, shared his interpretations on the Book of Genesis, several pre-Biblical stories, and historical geological phenomena in his writing.

The first chapter is titled ‘The Next Cataclysm’ and begins by saying: “Like Noah’s 6,500 years ago… Like Adam and Eve’s 11,500 years ago… This, too will come to pass…”

Essentially, Thomas believed that the world is rocked by a major disaster every 6,500 years, the damage of which is similar in scope to that of the ‘Biblical Great Flood’.

Although Noah’s Ark would have came long before us lot were born, experts aren’t exactly sure on which date he supposedly had to cram animals two by two on his vessel to escape the deluge.

But Thomas insisted that his calculations were correct, using archaeological and geological evidence to support his timeline.

If the American was as good at maths as he claimed to be, that would suggest that the world ought to be bracing itself for another disaster of epic proportions in another 1,000 plus years or so.

Thomas’ pole prediction

According to Thomas, these cataclysmic events are brought on by the Earth’s poles – the two points where the planet’s axis of rotation meets the surface – switching places, which is known as geomagnetic reversal.

Scientists say that this swap, which the author believed was responsible for earthquakes, tsunamis and severe weather which could wipe out the world, last occurred about 780,000 years ago.

“During a pole reversal, the magnetic field weakens, but it doesn’t completely disappear,” according to NASA. “The magnetosphere, together with Earth’s atmosphere, continue protecting Earth from cosmic rays and charged solar particles, though there may be a small amount of particulate radiation that makes it down to Earth’s surface.

“The magnetic field becomes jumbled, and multiple magnetic poles can emerge in unexpected places.”

In the The Adam and Eve Story, Thomas claims that this pole switch will ultimately be the downfall of human civilisation and spell the end of the world.

Thomas alleged that the Earth’s magnetic field – which is constantly shifting and occasionally reverses polarity – will be shunted, causing chaos for the Earth as we know it.

He kicked off the first chapter with a chilling warning about what was to come (CIA)

He kicked off the first chapter with a chilling warning about what was to come (CIA)

In one chilling passage, he wrote: “In California, the mountains shake like ferns in a breeze; the mighty Pacific rears back and piles up into a mountain of water more than two miles high, then starts its race eastward.

“In a fraction of a day all vestiges of civilisation are gone, and the great cities – Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Dallas, New York – are nothing but legends.

“Barely a stone is left where millions walked just a few hours before.”

He goes onto describe apocalyptic scenes taking hold of America’s tourist hotspots, with winds ‘with the force of a thousand armies’ wreaking havoc with ‘supersonic bombardment’.

Thomas then claimed that a tsunami stirred up in the Pacific would drown LA and San Francisco ‘as if they were but grains of sand’.

He believed that ‘within three hours’, the entirety of the North American continent would be engulfed by devastation, as an earthquake will also supposedly allow huge cracks to form in the ground and magma to flow out.

But the other six large landmasses on Earth won’t escape the wrath of the alleged cataclysm, either – as Thomas warned that each continent would also be annihilated.

He believed that they will all experience slightly differing versions of the same tragic end – with the ‘horrendous rampage’ only ceasing after seven days.

A new world

However, Thomas believes that the planet would be a lot different on the other side of things.

He wrote: “The Bay of Bengal basin, just east of India, is now at the North Pole. The Pacific Ocean, just west of Peru, is at the South Pole.”

Thomas said that Greenland and Antarctica were hurled toward the equators, only to ‘find their ice caps dissolving madly in the tropical heat’.

Let’s hope that he wasn’t as nifty with numbers as he thought then, eh?

According to Martin Mlynczak, a senior research scientist at the NASA Langley Research Center, we haven’t got anything to worry about.

“It’s just unfortunate that these things are being put out there,” he told The Verge. “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary proof.

“And there’s no proof and no science and no physics behind any of the claims about the magnetic field change being associated with climate change.”

He dubbed Thomas’ theory that the Earth’s magnetic field will make a 90-degree switch as ‘totally bogus’.

“If that’s what happened every 6,500 years, we would certainly see it; it would be in all the records,” Mlynczak added.

“The amount of energy to bring that about is tremendous. And you know, there’s nothing to initiate it.”

A NASA blog written by Alan Buis, who works in the space agency’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, also explains: “There’s no evidence that Earth’s climate has been significantly impacted by the last three magnetic field excursions, nor by any excursion event within at least the last 2.8 million years.”

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Expert shares true answer when asked how long sex should last for on average

Expert shares true answer when asked how long sex should last for on average

Expert shares true answer when asked how long sex should last for on average

Dr Reena Malik, a urologist and pelvic surgeon, shared the results of a 500 couple sex study

How long you think sex should last is obviously completely up to you and your partner.

But Dr Reena Malik, a urologist and pelvic surgeon, has decided to take a deeper look into what the average man and woman are thinking.

Taking to her YouTube channel (Rena Malik, M.D.), the Dr revealed what the average person thinks the total length of intercourse should be, based on data from 500 couples.

How long sex should last is ultimately up to you (Getty Stock Images)

How long sex should last is ultimately up to you (Getty Stock Images)

The study – which defines sex as penetration only – found the average intra-ejaculatory latency time (IELT) to be 5.7 minutes.

And even though men thought the estimated ideal length is about 16 minutes, the actual result was nine minutes long.

Women, on the other hand, desire an average of 25 minutes of sex.

“In modern society, we spend a lot of time glorifying what sex should look like, how long it should last, and putting a lot of value on this,” Dr Malik said.

Dr Reena Malik, a urologist and pelvic surgeon, shared the results of a 500 couple sex study (Getty Stock Images)

Dr Reena Malik, a urologist and pelvic surgeon, shared the results of a 500 couple sex study (Getty Stock Images)

“But ultimately, all this pressure can have a real detrimental impact on our lives.

“And what you hear about sex, is not always accurate, particularly how long someone lasts in bed.

“In this particular study, sex means penetration, so from the initial penetration to the end of penetration, it does not include foreplay,” she explained.

“That does not mean that’s what sex should mean for you, but that’s how they defined it in this study.

“In the data that I’m presenting, they are specifically talking about sex between men and women, but no matter what the data says, it’s important to communicate with your partner about what their expectations are and what they enjoy in a sexual relationship, during intercourse and outside of it, because it’s different for each and every person.

“And in order for you to have a fulfilling sex life, it’s important to communicate and always be open.”

Over in the comments, people were opening up about their preferences, as one person said: “The most important factor of sex duration, is frequency.

“For me…Once a week equals 3 to 5 minutes. Once a day, everyday is 10 to 15 minutes.

“Twice or three times a day, everyday equals 25 minutes+.

“If women want 25 minutes they must consider the frequency! You can’t expect long duration if frequency is low.”

Another also pointed out: “Timing depends on how your partner reacts in sex and also the privacy. For couples with young children the fear of getting caught in act acts as a distracting factor.”

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NHS doctor honestly breaks down payslip sharing full amount of money he makes per month

NHS doctor honestly breaks down payslip sharing full amount of money he makes per month

NHS doctor honestly breaks down payslip sharing full amount of money he makes per month

Abhinav Kumar revealed how much he takes home as a junior doctor in the NHS

An NHS junior doctor shared a breakdown of his monthly payslip while revealing how much he takes home each month.

Abhinav Kumar decided to do nosy parkers a solid and satisfy their curiosity by disclosing the sum he earns for saving lives and curing the sick.

Although medical professionals might find this aspect of their career extremely rewarding, sadly, they can’t live off of a sense of job satisfaction.

People often presume that doctors in the UK’s healthcare sector are raking in the big bucks, even with a junior status – and this prompted Kumar to pull out his payslip so we could see for ourselves.

He explained that he has not yet got his full license to practice independently after graduating from an Indian university in 2020, but said he had been working for the NHS since 2022.

According to his YouTube account, he is now working as a full-time doctor, while he continues to share online content about the medical world ‘on the side for fun’.

Leicester-based Kumar is currently employed as a Foundation Year Two (FY2) doctor, meaning he has completed his first year at an NHS teaching hospital and is fully registered with the General Medical Council (GMC).

So, now we’ve got his CV out of the way, let’s get onto what he revealed in his video which was initially shared in June 2023.

(YouTube/DrAbhinavKr)

(YouTube/DrAbhinavKr)

“The medical profession is all about saving lives and feeling good about it while avoiding the topic of money,” Kumar began.

Especially if you are in a country like UK, where most of your income is from the government salary and the private sector is not that dominant.”

He explained that he had raked in a grand total of £34,000 for his first year working as a junior doctor in the NHS, before getting into the nitty-gritty of his monthly payslip.

The content creator pointed out that his wages would look a lot different if he was a consultant of fully-qualified GP, who are on a significant amount more than juniors.

“We work normal 8-5 shift and also work anti-social shifts, which take you away from the time you’d have spent socialising or sleeping,” Kumar continued. “All this gives us basic income and then some more.

“Looking at the pay slip, you can see that it’s not as simple as: here is how much you’ve made per month, here is your taxes, take this as in your bank account and ta-ta, bye-bye.

“It’s got a lot more nuance than that. So, let’s have a look at the numbers.”

Dealing with his income first, he explained he had worked 173.81 hours at the standard rate for an FY2 doctor of £16.3071, meaning he had accumulated £2,834.33 in basic pay.

(YouTube/DrAbhinavKr)

(YouTube/DrAbhinavKr)

“Now, in most cases in your job you will not just be working 40 basic hours a week,” Kumar went on. “The European Working Time Directive (EWTD) allows for a little more higher number of hours, but 40 is that sweet spot which people have settled down on. We work four-and-a-half hours more per week than the 40 hours, which is 19.55 hours [in a month].

“And once again that is paid at my standard basic pay, which is £16.3071,” he said, while showing that he’d bagged another £318.86 for these ‘Additional Roster Hours’.

Kumar explained that he could also earn more by picking up shifts outside of the standard hours, such as during weekends – where he earned another £283.43 that month – or nights, which bumped up his payslip by £616.11.

Referring to his payslip, he said: “You can see that it says 102 hours were worked outside of the standard business day. Those 102 hours demand an extra pay, and of course I have been paid the basic salary for them.”

Kumar explained that for that month, he had made a total of £4,052.73 before deductions – and after everyone had taken their slice, Kumar was left with £2,914.86 for his net pay.

Totting this up for the year, Kumar said: “In summary, focusing on all the income I have made, my basic salary is £34,012.

“My extra hours worked, that attracted an annual salary increase of £3,826.25.

“Me working every one in two to every one in three weekends attracted an extra 10% income, which came up to £3,401.20,” the junior doctor said.

“And the nights that I work in a week that comes up to 23.3 hours, that gets me paid an extra £7,393.

“So in total, before taxes – my final salary comes up to £48,632.91.”

This number obviously takes a nosedive after the tax man has got his 20 percent, as well as after deductions for pensions, student loan repayments and national insurance are made.

Concluding the video, Kumar explained that all of this comes up to ‘roughly £35,000 a year, which he gets to take home after taxes’ after he’s also factored in his living expenses and saving.

He added: “If I were to just earn my basic salary of £34,000 a year, I would only be taking home around £24,000 a year.

“And right now I’m taking home £35,000 so these extra hours, night shifts and weekends add an extra £10,000, after taxes, to my take home salary.”

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TREATMENT OF Epidermal Cyst on Back IS COMMITTED TO NOT RECURRING, NOT LEAVING SCARS

TREATMENT OF Epidermal Cyst on Back IS COMMITTED TO NOT RECURRING, NOT LEAVING SCARS

TREATMENT OF Epidermal Cyst on Back IS COMMITTED TO NOT RECURRING, NOT LEAVING SCARS

The treatment of an epidermal cyst on the back involves several steps to minimize recurrence and scarring. Here’s an approach focused on ensuring effective removal while minimizing the chances of the cyst coming back and leaving visible scars:

1. Consultation and Diagnosis

  • Medical Evaluation: The first step is to consult a dermatologist or a healthcare professional to confirm that the cyst is an epidermal cyst (often caused by blocked hair follicles or oil glands).
  • Pre-treatment Assessment: The doctor may assess the size, location, and depth of the cyst to determine the most appropriate treatment method.

2. Minimizing Recurrence

  • Complete Excision: The most effective way to prevent recurrence is to completely remove the cyst wall along with the contents. If any part of the cyst wall remains, it can regrow over time.
  • Laser Treatment: Some patients opt for laser-assisted excision, which can be more precise and may help reduce the risk of recurrence.

3. Minimizing Scarring

  • Proper Technique: The surgeon or dermatologist should use a precise excision technique, ensuring that they cut along the natural skin lines to minimize visible scarring. A well-done excision will often result in a less noticeable scar.
  • Sterile Environment: Performing the procedure in a sterile environment reduces the risk of infection, which could worsen scarring.
  • Sutures: In some cases, suturing the wound with dissolvable or fine stitches can help the wound heal neatly, reducing scarring.
  • Post-Treatment Care: Proper aftercare is crucial to minimizing scarring:
    • Keep the wound clean and dry: Follow instructions for cleaning and changing the dressing to prevent infection.
    • Avoid sun exposure: Protect the healing area from direct sun exposure, which can lead to hyperpigmentation or darkening of the scar.
    • Use topical treatments: Products like silicone gel sheets or scar creams may be recommended to help reduce scarring. Some people use Vitamin E, though its effectiveness is debated.

4. Follow-up Care

  • Regular Check-ups: After removal, follow-up visits with the healthcare provider will help ensure proper healing and check for any signs of recurrence.
  • Monitor for Infection: Signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, should be treated promptly to avoid complications that can worsen scarring.

By carefully choosing a skilled provider and following these steps, it’s possible to effectively treat an epidermal cyst while minimizing both recurrence and scarring.

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‘Shameful’ Mel Gibson Shares Conspiracy Theory About LA Fires After His House Burns Down

‘Shameful’ Mel Gibson Shares Conspiracy Theory About LA Fires After His House Burns Down

‘Shameful’ Mel Gibson Shares Conspiracy Theory About LA Fires After His House Burns Down

Viewers reacted to ‘shameful’ Mel Gibson’s conspiracy theories about the LA fires after his home burned down.

While he was a guest on The Joe Rogan Experience, the 69-year-old lost his Malibu home to the blaze.

Speaking to Elizabeth Vargas Reports on NewsNation, the actor shared his mansion was “completely toaster” and the loss was “emotional” and “devastating”.

“I’ve never seen such a complete burn,” he said. “It is obviously devastating, it’s emotional. You live there for a long time, and you had all your stuff. I lived there for about 14, 15 years, so it was home to me.”

Then Gibson appeared on Fox News to speak on his conspiracy theory about the fires.

He said: “I know they were messing with the water, letting reserves go for one reason or another. They’ve been doing that a while. California has a lot of problems that sort of baffle the mind as far as why they do things.”

Gibson then asked, “Is it on purpose?” and “Do they want the state empty?”

“I can make all kinds of horrible theories up in my head, conspiracy theories and everything else, but it just seemed a little convenient that there was no water.”

“And that the wind conditions were right and that there are people ready and willing and able to start fires,” Gibson added. “And are they commissioned to do so or acting on their own volition? I don’t know. But they seem pretty well equipped these people that they are catching.”

Host Laura Ingraham replied: “Well, now there’s already talk. And we played a couple of soundbites. Of re-imagining the way rebuilding occurs.

“And obviously there’s a great need for high-density housing in California and across the country. That’s a big push by the climate folks. And you’re already hearing rumblings of that. In this case, like goodbye single-family homes. Hello high-density housing!”

Viewers took to X to share their thoughts on Gibsons comments: “Conspiracy theories are his last claims to fame,”. Another said: “The has been is now an expert on water reserves.”

A third said: “I will never watch another movie with him in it.”

“Mel needs a rest,” one viewer wrote, while another simply said “Shameful.”

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Tesla Driver Leaves People Shocked Revealing First Electricity Bill In 12 Months

Tesla Driver Leaves People Shocked Revealing First Electricity Bill In 12 Months

Tesla Driver Leaves People Shocked Revealing First Electricity Bill In 12 Months

A Tesla driver has left people shocked after revealing their first electricity bill in 1 year.

Energy supplier EDF has revealed that the cost of running your electric car depends on the make and model.

Overall, owning an electric vehicle is more than likely going to be more cost-effective in the long run and cost less in maintenance.

The cost of installing an outlet to charge your electric car at home is around $1090 (£900).

Octopus Energy claims that to charge your car at home, costs around 3p (less than 4 cents) per mile. While using public charging ports, around 18p per mile ($0.22).

Charging time vary depending on your make, model and mileage.

One American Tesla owner surprised followers after sharing their first bill after 12 months. @Tesla_GTownTX shared a screenshot to X. They wrote: “First time I’ve had a bill within the last 12 months. This sucks,”.

The bill came to just $2.37 and people were baffled as to why it was so low.

One person replied: “How much did you pay for the solar panels and wall battery?” while another said “Post your statement for your power wall/solar panel payments.”

Tesla_GTownTX went on to explain that they kept their bills down by using solar panels and a Tesla Powerwall, which is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery which stores power.

Tesla said: “Powerwall gives you the ability to store energy for later use and works with solar to provide key energy security and financial benefits,”.

“Each Powerwall system is equipped with energy monitoring, metering and smart controls for owner customisation using the Tesla app.”

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How to get earwax out of your ear

How to get earwax out of your ear

How to get earwax out of your ear

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People should not poke anything into the ear to remove earwax, but gently dripping hydrogen peroxide, ear drops, or baby oil into the ear will soften the wax, which may cause it to come out.

Earwax, also called cerumen, serves an essential function in the body. It helps remove dead skin cells, dirt, hair, and other debris from the ear canal. It lowers the risk of infection and prevents the ear canal from feeling uncomfortable and itchy. It also helps reduce the irritation that water causes when it enters the ear canal.

However, it is possible for the body to overproduce earwax, allowing it to build up and block the ear canal.

A blockage can occur if a person cleans their ears using a cotton swab, which can push the earwax further into the ear canal. This may also happen if a person is using a hearing aid.

The medical term for an earwax blockage is a “cerumen impaction.” People can usually treat this condition at home using simple household products.

Treatments and home remedies

There are several ways to deal with an earwax blockage at home, including:

Hydrogen peroxide

A common method for earwax removal is to add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to a damp cotton ball and apply it to the affected ear. Hydrogen peroxide is a commonTrusted Source antiseptic. A person can also use a clean eyedropper to drip the solution into the ear canal.

It is essential to tilt the head so that the affected ear is pointing upward for several minutes. This will allow the fluid to drip down into the ear canal to reach the blockage.

After a few minutes, tilting the head the other way will allow the fluid and earwax to drain until the ear canal is clear.

In one article, researchers noted that a person should apply hydrogen peroxide to the earwax about 30 minutesTrusted Source prior to ear irrigation. The solution can loosen up the earwax to make removal with water irrigation easier.

A person should use some caution when using pure solutions of hydrogen peroxide or drops made with the solution. At low concentrations typically found in readily available household products, hydrogen peroxide can cause skin irritation. At concentrations of 10% or higher, it can cause burns on the skin.

If irritation occurs, a person should discontinue use and talk with their doctor if their symptoms get worse.

A person should use hydrogen peroxide only if their eardrum is intact. If it is perforated or a person has had ear tubes inserted, this will cause pain.

Rubber ball syringe

A similar method is to use a rubber ball syringe with warm water. A person should have the affected ear pointing upward and use the syringe to drip warm water slowly into the ear canal.

It is vital to avoid forcefully flushing the water into the ear canal, as this can cause dizziness. The water must not be too hot or too cold.

After a minute, the person should tilt their head the other way so that the fluid and earwax can drip out. They may find that pulling up slightly on their ear may help with allowing the water to drain out.

It may be necessary to repeat this process multiple times. Anyone who has an ear injury, such as a ruptured eardrum, should not use this method. People who frequently get swimmer’s ear should not use this method.

Ear drops

It is possible to purchase ear drops over the counter (OTC) or online to treat an earwax blockage. These are usually water- or oil-based solutions that soften the earwax. They often contain carbamide peroxide, which is similar to hydrogen peroxide.

To use an OTC solution, people should follow the instructions on the packaging. Usually, they will need to apply between 5 to 10 drops of the solution to the affected ear twice per day for several days until the ear canal is clear.

If the ear drops do not completely remove the earwax, a person may need to combine the treatment with the warm water and rubber syringe to flush or irrigate the ear. If the problem persists past 4 days, a person should talk with their doctor.

Other household remedies

Using an eyedropper, it is also possible to apply other substances. According to a 2018 article, other products that can work to help clear wax include:

  • baby oil
  • saline
  • almond, arachis, or rectified camphor oil
  • almond or mineral oil
  • sodium bicarbonate, 10%
  • glycerin
  • acetic acid, 2.5%

The same article warns against using olive oil drops or sprays, cotton-tipped swabs, or ear candling.

Again, a person should apply one or two drops with the affected ear facing upward, wait a few minutes, then tilt the head the other way to allow the fluid to drain out. As with other remedies, a person should not put any of these in their ear unless their eardrum is intact or the treatment is approved by a doctor.

Should you use ear candles?

People should avoid using ear candles to treat earwax blockages.

Using ear candles is also known as ear coning or thermal-auricular therapy. It involves covering a hollow fabric cone in wax or paraffin, inserting it into the ear of a person lying on their side, and then lighting it. A paper plate protects the skin by catching any dripping wax.

The theory is that ear candling creates suction to pull the earwax out of the ear.

According to a 2016 study, a person should avoid ear candling and opt for safer methods to remove earwax buildup. The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation also warns against the use of ear candles, citing that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has removed several products from the market due to safety concerns.

There are safer and more effective methods of treating earwax blockages, so a person should not attempt to use ear candles.

Is it safe?

When done properly, following all instructions on home kits or from a doctor, a person can safely remove earwax at home.

However, several groups of people should avoid using any method to remove earwax at home. Some people who should not useTrusted Source home remedies or OTC kits include those who:

  • cannot sit upright or who are unable to sit still
  • have a foreign body stuck in the ear
  • have had ear surgery or inner ear issues
  • have a hole or tear in the ear drum
  • get swimmer’s ear
  • have severe swimmer’s ear
  • have a history of middle ear disease
  • have had radiation in the area

If a person has any doubts, they should talk with their doctor instead of attempting to clean out their earwax at home.

How to use an earwax removal kit

Earwax removal kits or irrigation systems can vary slightly, based on the active ingredients and the exact device used. A person should follow all instructions on the box and from their doctor before using the kit.

In general, a person will likely take these steps to clean their earwax using irrigation or a home kit system, per a 2021 articleTrusted Source:

  1. A person should find a comfortable chair to sit upright in and tilt their head to the side, then place a few drops of warm water, saline, hydrogen peroxide, or the provided solution in the kit into the ear.
  2. They should then sit with their head tilted to the side for about 15 to 30 minutes.
  3. After the solution has soaked into the earwax, the person should use the provided device to suck the solution into the bulb or flush the ear wax from the ear.
  4. When finished, the person should dry the surrounding area.

If any issues occur, a person should see their doctor as soon as possible.

Symptoms

The most commonTrusted Source symptom of earwax blockages is a temporary hearing problem or hearing loss. This may be worrying, but usual hearing should return upon removal of the blockage.

Other symptoms may include:

  • pain in the ear
  • tinnitus, or ringing in the ear
  • dizziness
  • a feeling of fullness in the ear
Prevention

Inserting cotton buds or other objects into the ear in an attempt to clean it can actually cause or worsen an earwax blockage. This is because the objects push the earwax further down into the ear canal.

To prevent earwax blockages, a person should avoid sticking anything into their ear. Earwax may seem unpleasant, but cleaning is not usually necessary. The ears are actually self-cleaning and should push most wax out.

If the body is producing excessive amounts of earwax, people can buy OTC ear drops to deal with the problem safely.

Another method of preventing earwax blockages involves a person placing drops of a solution into their ears a few times per month to help soften the earwax. People can choose from a range of products online, including:

  • earwax removal drops
  • mineral oil
  • hydrogen peroxide

Regularly irrigating the ear may help prevent earwax buildups, but it is usually best to save this for treating an actual blockage. A person should never irrigate the ears of young children without talking with a doctor first.

When to see a doctor

People can treat most earwax blockages at home. However, the ear canal and eardrum are delicate, so it can be safer to visit a doctor for earwax removal.

People should also see a doctor if they have bleeding or drainage from the ear or are in significant pain, as another issue may be causing the symptoms.

Anyone with concerns about impacted cerumen in a young child should make an appointment with a pediatrician. They will be able to check the child’s ears and recommend treatment options.

A doctor may remove the blockage using specialized ear instruments.

A person may need to see their doctor after a few days if symptoms persist or get worse with home treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about earwax removal.

Is it OK to put hydrogen peroxide in your ear?

Hydrogen peroxide may help with earwax removal. A person can apply the hydrogen peroxide to a cotton ball and then gently apply it to the ear. They may also apply the drops directly with a dropper.

What dissolves earwax fast?

A few drops of hydrogen peroxide can help soften earwax within 30 minutesTrusted Source. After applying the hydrogen peroxide, a person will need to tilt their head one way for several minutes and then tilt it the other way. This is to ensure that the fluid drips down into the ear canal to reach the blockage before draining it out.

How can I remove earwax at home?

Various home remedies can help remove earwax at home. These include hydrogen peroxide, warm water with a rubber ball syringe, and ear drops.

Will earwax go away on its own?

In most cases, earwax will fall out on its own. However, if a person has symptoms of an earwax blockage, such as hearing loss and ear pain, it may be necessaryTrusted Source to remove the earwax. It is best for a person to contact their doctor if the blockage persists after a few days, the ear becomes painful, or the person is a child.

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SHOCKING SCENES | DEEP AND TRAUMATED NAIL

SHOCKING SCENES | DEEP AND TRAUMATED NAIL

Nail Matrix Function and Anatomy

The nail matrix is the area where your fingernails and toenails start to grow. Located at the base of the nail, it creates new cells that allow your nail to grow. Your nail may stop growing if the nail bed is injured.

The matrix creates new skin cells, which pushes out the old, dead skin cells to make your nails. As a result, injuries to the nail bed or disorders that affect the matrix can affect your nail growth.

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Nail anatomy

Regarding the nail’s anatomy, it’s important to consider what you see and what you don’t. If you look at the top of the nail, you’re looking at the nail plate. Underneath the nail plate is the nail bed. The nail bed is where the nail adheres to the finger.

Other key elements of the nail include:

  • Lunula. The white, half-moon cells at the nail’s base. Some people can only see the lunula on their thumbs while others cannot see theirs at all.
  • Sterile matrix. This is the area of the nail above the lunula. The nail typically changes color beyond the germinal matrix (see below) as it extends to the sterile matrix because cells no longer have nuclei after that time, which makes the nail appear more transparent. This area is the next most common place where nail cells are made. Fingertip skin is connected to the sterile matrix.
  • Germinal matrix. This is the area of the nail below the lunula (closest to the knuckle). An estimated 90 percent of nail production comes from the germinal matrix. This gives a natural curvature to the nail.
  • Perionychium. The structures that surround the nail plate.
  • Cuticle. The area of skin where the nail grows out of the finger. It provides protection to the nail matrix.

Your nails typically grow around 3 to 4 millimeters a month. Some people’s nails grow faster, including younger people and those with longer fingernails.

Injuries and medical conditions impacting the nail matrix

The nails are intended to provide protection to fingers as well as aid in opening, scratching, and tearing. Just like other body areas, they’re subject to injury and disease. The following are some conditions that can affect the nail matrix.

Trauma

An estimated 50 percentTrusted Source of fingernail injuries are due to a broken finger. Trauma to the nail can cause the production of new nail cells to stop for as long as three weeks.

Nail growth will usually resume at a faster rate and steady after about 100 days. You may notice the nail appears thicker than usual.

The extent of the injury often depends on where it occurs. If you have a deep cut or trauma to the germinal matrix at the base of the nail, it’s possible the nail may never grow back.

Ingrown nail

An ingrown nail occurs when a nail grows into the skin of the finger or toe, usually due to being cut too short. However, trauma to the nail and wearing tight shoes can also cause ingrown nails.

Symptoms include a swollen and tender nail. Sometimes, this area can get infected and will be red, painful, and sore.

Melanonychia

Melanonychia is a condition that causes brown pigmentation irregularities in the nail. Those who have dark skin are more likely to have it. This irregularity appears as a brown or black vertical stripe up the nail plate.

Melanonychia is a broad descriptive term that can indicate a normal variation on nail color or something as serious as subungual melanoma (see below). Several conditions and events can cause melanonychia, including:

  • nail biting
  • psoriasis
  • pregnancy
  • Cushing syndrome
  • chemotherapy medications
  • nail infection

Subungual melanoma

Subungual melanoma (or nail matrix melanoma) is a condition where cancerous cells grow in the nail matrix. The cancerous cells can cause changes in pigments in the nail known as melanin. As a result, a distinct striped discoloration can grow from the nail matrix.

If you observe changes to your nail that aren’t explained by trauma, talk to a doctor to ensure they’re not due to subungual melanoma.

Pterygium

Pterygium unguis is a condition that causes scarring that extends to the nail matrix. It causes the nail fold where the fingernail usually goes over the fingertip to fuse to the nail matrix. The nails take on a ridged appearance on the nail plate.

Lichen planus, burns, and lupus erythematosus cause pterygium.

Nevomelanocytic nevus

A nevomelanocytic nevus is essentially a mole or collection of melanocytes under the nail matrix. It’s possible to have one from birth, or acquire one following nail trauma or due to aging.

The challenge with a nevomelanocytic nevus is that it’s hard to tell the difference between a non-harmful nevus and discoloration that indicates cancer.

Paronychia

Paronychia is an infection of the fingernails or toenails. This condition may be acute or chronic, which can lead to nail deformities. Paronychia symptoms include swelling, redness, pain, and pus-filled areas in or around the nail. Fungus or bacteria can cause paronychia.

Dystrophic onychomycosis

Dystrophic onychomycosis is a fungal skin infection that causes total destruction of the nail plate. The condition usually occurs when a person has had a severe fungal nail infection for some time and goes untreated or isn’t fully treated.

Some common causes of dystrophic onychomycosis include:

  • psoriasis
  • lichen planus
  • contact dermatitis
  • trauma
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Diagnosing issues

A doctor can diagnose some nail concerns by a visual examination and listening to a description of symptoms. This is true for many fungal nail infections with nail crumbling, itching, and redness around the nail.

However, some conditions may warrant further work-up. This includes obtaining a specimen of the nail, either by clipping a portion of the end or performing a nail matrix biopsy.

Nail matrix biopsy

In a nail matrix biopsy, a doctor takes a sample of a nail matrix to examine for irregular cells, such as cancer. Because the nail matrix is deep at the nail’s base, doctors usually perform this procedure under local anesthesia.

A doctor can strategically inject local anesthetic into the finger’s base, numbing the finger. You shouldn’t be able to feel pain, only pressure, when a doctor removes a portion of the nail’s matrix. The approach to the biopsy depends on what area the doctor is testing.

Takeaway

The nail matrix is responsible for nail growth. It can be vulnerable to damage and disease. Seeing a doctor as soon as discoloration, pain, swelling, or other symptoms occur can ideally ensure you are treated as quickly as possible.

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Beyoncé Praised For Donating Eye-Watering Amount To LA Wildfire Relief

Beyoncé Praised For Donating Eye-Watering Amount To LA Wildfire Relief

Beyoncé Praised For Donating Eye-Watering Amount To LA Wildfire Relief

 

Beyoncé has been praised after donating an eye-watering amount of money to victims to the LA wildfires.

It is now day seven since over 180,000 people had to abandon their homes in search of safety following the wildfires ravaging LA

The flames have destroyed thousands of acres of lands and thousands of buildings and homes.

At least 24 people have sadly been confirmed dead due to the fires while many more are missing and unaccounted for.

Governor Gavin Newsom decalred it ‘one of the worst natural natural disasters in US history’.

Firefighters have warned that the disaster is still very active, with fires Palisade, Easton and Hurst still actively ravaging the countryside.

Many celebs live in the Palisades area and have been doing what they can to help.

Paris Hilton, who lost her own home in Malibu, has pledged $100k to an emergency fund and Snoop Dogg has transformed his clothing store into a donation centre for victims.

Now, Beyoncé has also done her part by donating $2.5 million to the LA Fires relief fund.

The singer and her husband Jay-Z own multiple homes in LA, including a $200 million ‘mega mansion’ in Malibu and an $88 million mansion in Bel Air.

The singer, with a net worth of around $760 million, started her charity BeyGOOD in 2013 and uses it to support people with education programs, as well as providing housing, health and disaster relief.

The organization announced on Tuesday that it has opened its own relief line to aid those impacted by the fires and that the money would go to help families in Altadena and Pasadena.

“The fund is earmarked to aid families in the Altadena/Pasadena area who lost their homes, and to churches and community centers to address the immediate needs of those affected by the wildfires. To show your support for the impacted families and to learn more about BeyGOOD’s mission,

Fans shared their thoughts on social media, with many praising the millionaire. One wrote ‘wonderful’ while another noted ‘generous queen opening her bag’. Another said that she was a ‘real good person’.

Another penned: “Say what you want about Beyonce and [her] team, they’re doing amazing things that can save American lives.”

While another fan wrote: “Queen Bey making moves not just on stage but in real life too” and “2.5M to LA fire relief, this is what true impact looks like!”

Beyoncé Praised For Donating Eye-Watering Amount To LA Wildfire Relief Read More