This is one of the easiest places to measure your heartbeat because you have a large artery right below the skin. Each time your heartbeats, you will feel a pulse as the blood rushes through your artery.  Hold out one arm, palm up. Gently press your index finger and middle fingers to the inside of your wrist between the bone and tendon near your radial artery. This will be approximately one inch below your wrist on the same side as your thumb. You should feel soft tissue beneath your fingers, not bone. You may need to move your fingers around or press slightly harder until you feel it. Count the number of beats for 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to get the number of beats per minute. Use a clock to measure the 15 seconds rather than trying to simultaneously count your pulse and the seconds. This is another location where you should be able to easily and quickly find a strong pulse.  Put your index and middle finger to the left of your windpipe where your neck connects to the tissues underneath your jaw. You should be able to feel your pulse on either side of your windpipe, but it might be easier to find on the left side. You may need to move your fingers around and press a little harder until you feel it. Use a clock or stopwatch to keep track of 15 seconds, count the pulses you feel, and then multiply by four. You should get about the same result when you measure your pulse at your wrist or your neck. Your resting heart rate is the number of beats per minute when you are inactive for at least five minutes; however, if you were exercising, it may take longer for your heart rate to slow down. A person’s resting heart rate naturally varies based on how active you are, how fit you are, how warm or cold it is, whether you are standing, sitting, or lying down, your emotional state, your body size and what medications you are on. Consult a doctor if:  Your resting heart rate is usually over 100 beats per minute. This is called tachycardia. Your resting heart rate is below 60 beats per minute, if you are not an athlete. This is bradycardia. Other symptoms that may accompany this condition include fainting, dizziness, or being out of breath. If you are an athlete, a low heartbeat may mean you are in good shape. However, it should not be below 40.  Your heartbeat is irregular.

Summary: Check your pulse at your radial artery. Take your pulse underneath your jaw. See a doctor if you detect any abnormalities in your resting heart rate.


Red flushing on the skin is one of the most common signs of alcohol intolerance. It is also very common for those of Asian descent, and is often referred to ‘Asian flush.’ Sufferers will initially feel a hot or tingling sensation prior to the red flushing. In some cases, your eyes might become red as well. These symptoms may result from drinking just one beer or glass of wine, and you’ll quickly notice your face and neck getting red.  This reaction is caused by a mutation in the enzyme called acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is supposed to help metabolize alcohol.  Those who experience Asian flush are at greater risk for cancer. There are numerous advertised products that claim to get rid of Asian flush, such as Pepcid, but they do not protect you from long-term effects of drinking alcohol. So it’s best to stick to less than 5 alcoholic drinks per week if you experience these symptoms. Flushing may also be due to combining alcohol with a medication you are taking. Something that may accompany facial flushing is swelling around the red areas. The skin around the eyes, cheeks, and mouth may become visibly swollen after drinking alcohol. This is another sign of alcohol intolerance. Red, itchy bumps, called hives, are a common symptom of an allergic reaction. These bumps appear pale red, and may also burn or sting. They can appear anywhere on the body, but you’ll typically see them on the face, neck, or ears. Hives usually fade on their own but can last up to an hour or even days on your skin.  The appearance of hives typically means you are allergic to ingredients found in the alcohol. Stop drinking immediately and pick up a bottle of water instead. If you experience hives, apply cool compresses or wet cloths to the affected areas to reduce any itchiness or burning.

Summary: Look for red facial flushing on the face, neck, chest, or arms. Take note of swelling around the face and eyes. Feel your skin for hives.


Some of the chemical compounds in garlic help to counteract infections of the lymphatic system. Get 2-3 cloves of garlic and crush them. Spread this mixture on top of a piece of bread and eat it. Repeat this process daily and watch for the swelling to improve. Get a full glass of tap water and mix in 1 tablespoon (14.8 ml) of apple cider vinegar. Drink this mixture 2 times a day until you feel better. The acetic acid in the vinegar will help to rid your body of harmful bacteria that can abscess inside swollen nodes. If you are vitamin C deficient, then your body will not be able to fight off infection effectively. You can get additional vitamin C by taking a supplement or by eating the right foods, such as oranges and strawberries. If you decide to take a supplement, make sure to clear it with your doctor. Mix together 2-3 drops tea tree essential oil with 2-3 drops coconut oil. Use a cotton swab to apply this mixture on to the irritated nodes. Repeat this process a maximum of twice daily to avoid irritating your skin.
Summary: Eat raw garlic cloves. Drink an apple cider vinegar and water mixture. Get enough vitamin C. Rub tea tree oil into the swollen skin.