Ask MetaFilter

I'm getting orthodontics done now and I've been going through a TON of orthodontic wax since my fixed appliance was installed. Orthodontic wax typically comes in little plastic cases with 5 strips in each one Example on Amazon. I don't have a need for all these tiny cases and I doubt they can be properly recycled due to their small size. I want to find a way to buy orthodontic wax that comes in larger cases or uses more sustainable packaging. Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by dokodomo at 7:11 PM - 3 answers

Looking for recommendations for a pubic hair trimmer. [more inside]
posted by cozenedindigo at 4:52 PM - 6 answers

Are there physiological ways to relax after a fight-or-flight type experience? Details inside [more inside]
posted by throwitawayurthegarbageman at 3:36 PM - 22 answers

I have shingles. It's all over the left side of my face, neck, ear, and I believe my scalp. I'm taking antivirals and gabapentin. The rash itself doesn't feel too bad, but my neck is killing me. It's just like if I threw it out. Feels muscular, like my head is too heavy for my neck. I'm spending all my time trying ways to support it to let it relax, but nothing helps. Also, so, so tired and lousy feeling. [more inside]
posted by primate moon at 12:19 PM - 17 answers

Based on your experience, what's the best menstrual disc to use during PIV? [more inside]
posted by bookworm4125 at 1:51 PM - 4 answers

My 83-year-old mother, whose full-time caregiver is my father, has started experiencing hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions as a component of her dementia. We all understand this is common, and she is under medical care and following “sundowning” protocols. The issue is that when an episode comes on, her central focus is terror of her caregiver: my 84-year-old father and her husband of 60 years. I am looking for any suggestions to help them manage this stage of the disease and these episodes specifically. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:04 AM - 17 answers

My partner has a back injury diagnosed (via MRI) as L5/S1. He's been prescribed pain meds, but he only takes them sporadically because he's worried about his liver. [more inside]
posted by toucan at 12:19 AM - 21 answers

Recently switched from a lifetime of handwashing to using a dishwasher. But even with sani rinse option I’m convinced there’s still some residue that’s irritating my stomach. What detergent isn’t going to kill my precious bodily gut biome ? Cascade platinum pods are dead to me now. [more inside]
posted by St. Peepsburg at 12:08 PM - 13 answers

I learned this morning that I had my closest known Covid exposure yet on Tuesday night. I'm testing negative and have no symptoms. What can I do now that might help my husband and me keep it that way? I'd love specifics on whether and how to do DIY saline gargles/rinses, a reliable source for Enovid if it's advisable, scientifically-sound supplements or vitamins that at least don't hurt, etc. [more inside]
posted by daisyace at 7:35 AM - 20 answers

I had my first session with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner last week. Yay! What questions should I be asking her? [more inside]
posted by rabia.elizabeth at 4:21 AM - 9 answers

Hi! I’m looking for recommendations for an acupuncturist on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Thank you!
posted by DavidNYC at 11:24 AM - 0 answers

I'd appreciate being pointed to some non-crazy looks at some specific crazy covid theories, or just some basic facts that are fairly robust. Details inside! [more inside]
posted by Number Used Once at 9:03 AM - 18 answers

City kid here heading up to the Hudson Valley for Memorial Day, where I wanna frolic in the country. Gimme your best recs for tick repellant. [more inside]
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 11:37 AM - 22 answers

I’m scheduled for general anesthesia tomorrow and I made the mistake of looking up information on the web about it. I’m looking for help to decide whether to cancel it or not. [more inside]
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 11:38 AM - 16 answers

I'm not satisfied with the drug my doc's sub gave me. She is using it off-label, which I have no problem with. What are some alternatives? [more inside]
posted by intrepid_simpleton at 10:55 AM - 9 answers

I have a sensory processing disorder. I don’t have good aural and visual “filters”. Do you know of a good resource that I might give HR or possibly any others to briefly explain this disorder? I am thinking of one page or less. Ideally, the resource wouldn’t be focused on autism, but I am open.
posted by NotLost at 8:00 AM - 4 answers

I need to rip the mask off: I need a quick peace of mind (or not) on Covid risk and apparently remedial Covid education 2024 edition [more inside]
posted by floweredfish at 4:27 PM - 35 answers

The CDC recommends adults have a tetanus booster every 10 years. The NHS doesn't think adults need a tetanus booster if they were fully vaccinated as kids. As an oldish person working on a farm at high risk of small dirty wounds, I got the NHS to give me a tetanus booster 10 years ago but they seemed bemused that I wanted it. Do any medical MeFites know why the recommendations are so different?
posted by Rhedyn at 10:02 AM - 15 answers

My spouse’s grandmother lives with us, and will be entering hospice care at home soon. She’s 100 years old and has end-stage COPD. We have two young kids, and I need to figure out how to talk to them about what we are all about to experience. [more inside]
posted by hovey at 9:05 AM - 15 answers

This is, I believe, my fourth round in a boot. I was ok until I forgot to get new runners, whomp whomp. Sick of it though. How has your AT healed? [more inside]
posted by cotton dress sock at 9:28 PM - 3 answers