• How to care for your teeth
• Is stress making you sick

 

How to care for your teeth

From Halloween through New Year’ Eve—the "sweet holidays" can be harmful to your teeth.  
So how can you protect your teeth when sweet treats are so tempting?

Avoid painful and expensive dental problems

Limit sugar and starch

Sugary and starchy foods cause bacteria to produce acids that break down tooth enamel and may cause decay. Starches are primarily foods made with wheat, rice, potatoes and corn and include items such as bread, pretzels or potato chips. To neutralize these acids, try eating Cheddar, Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese with your meal to stimulate saliva production.

Reduce snack attacks

With tempting leftovers in the refrigerator, willpower is important. If you must snack, eat fresh fruits, vegetables and whole-grain products. Avoid hard candy, mints and sticky sweets that stay in your mouth for a long time. Sticky sweets may damage fillings, caps or bridgework.

Floss your teeth daily before you brush

A toothbrush cannot clean between the teeth, so be sure to floss before you brush!

Use fluoride toothpaste

Brush for three minutes, at least twice a day and always at bedtime. During sleep, your mouth produces less saliva to dilute bacteria. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and change it at least every three to four months.

Visit the dentist regularly

Twice-a-year visits for dental cleanings will reduce tartar buildup. Start off the New Year by visiting your dentist. Identifying small problems early can prevent cavities and gum disease. Your dentist will also be able to check to make sure you’re brushing and flossing properly.

Why is basic dental care important?

• Saves money. By preventing tooth decay and gum disease, you can reduce the need
  for fillings and other costly procedures.
• Helps keep teeth white by preventing staining from food, drinks, and tobacco.
• Improves overall health.
• Prevents tooth decay.
• Prevents gum disease (which can damage gum tissue and the bones that
  support teeth and in the long term can lead to the loss of teeth).
• Helps prevent bad breath. Brushing and flossing rid your mouth of the bacteria
  that cause bad breath.
• Makes it possible for your teeth to last a lifetime.

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Is stress making you sick?

Stress is what you feel when you have to handle more than you are used to. When you’re stressed, your body responds as though you are in danger. It makes hormones that speed
up your heart, make you breathe faster and give you a burst of energy. This is called
the fight or- flight stress response.

Some stress is good.

• It can help if you need to work hard or react quickly.
• It can help you win a race or finish an important job on time. 

Some stress is bad.

• If stress happens too often or lasts too long, it can have bad effects.
• Linked to headaches, an upset stomach, back pain or trouble sleeping.
• Weakens your immune system, making it harder to fight off disease.
• If you already have a health problem, stress may make it worse.
• It can make you moody, tense or depressed.
• Your relationships may suffer.
• You may not do well at work or school.

Good news - You can manage stress

1 Find out what is causing stress in your life. Get a notebook and write down when something
makes you feel stressed.

2 Find ways to reduce stress in your life. A journal can help you find out what is causing stress and how much stress you feel.

3 Learn healthy ways to relieve stress.

10 ways to lower your stress

• Learn better ways to manage your time.  Make a schedule and think about which things are most important and do those first.
• Look at how you deal with stress.  Be honest about what works and what does not.  Think of other things that might work better.
• Ask for help.  People with a family and friends network can help you
  manage stress better.
• Change your thinking.  When you start to worry, stop the thoughts.  Work on letting go
  of things you cannot change. 
• Learn to say “no.”
• Exercise.  It may be easier to stay on a schedule with a friend.
• Write.  It can help to write about the things that are bothering you.
• Talk, laugh, cry and express your anger.
• Do something fun.  A hobby that you enjoy or volunteer work
  can be a great stress reliever.
• Focus on the present.  Listen to relaxing music.  Look for the humor in life.
• Remove the clutter in your life. Clean out your closet and get rid of times you haven’t worn it in years.

Are you under too much stress?

For more information, talk to your doctor or visit the American Institute of Stress at http://www.stress.org

• Do minor problems and disappointments upset you excessively?
• Do the small pleasures of life fail
  to satisfy you?
• Are you unable to stop thinking
  about your worries?
• Do you feel inadequate or
  suffer from self-doubt?
• Are you constantly tired?
• Do you experience flashes of anger over situations that never bothered you before?
• Have you noticed a change in your sleeping or eating patterns?
• Do you suffer from chronic pain, headaches or backaches not due to injury
  or physical illness?

If most of your answers are “Yes,” you may be under too much stress.  Stress can affect you physically and mentally and when stress goes unchecked, it can interfere with your relationships and daily activities. 

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Outsmart Your Back Condition

Back pain affects 80% of Americans at some time in their lives. It comes in many forms and
has many causes. 

Myths about back pain and problems

1 Lifting heavy objects will lead to back pain.

Most injuries are caused not by what you pick up, but how you do it. The proper form is to:

• Squat, keeping your back straight.
• Grab the object
• Bring it close to your body
• Then stand; your thigh and butt muscles should do the lifting.

2 Sit up straight and your spine will be straight.

• Sitting up too straight isn’t as good for your back as you may think.
• Adjust how you sit or stand a few times a day to avoid problems.

3 Exercise is bad for your back.

• Researchers have found that working out a few days a week actually reduces back pain.
• And exercise keeps your waistline in check, therefore, helping your back stay strong.
• Stick to low-impact exercise such as walking and don’t forget to stretch!

4 Back pain is caused by an injury.

Mental and physical stress can cause aches and pains all over your body.  It may be hard to take a few minutes each day for yourself to relax, but a busy schedule is not helping your back.

When pain strikes…

1. Ice, then heat.  When pain hits your back, ice to reduce swelling.  After a few days,
   turn to a heating pad.
2. Get moving.  Resting for too long will delay you getting better.

Did you know?

• 8 in 10 people will have a significant lower-back-pain episode at some point in their lives.
• Lower-back pain is among the most common types of pain, followed by headaches, neck pain and facial pain.

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Need quick relief after a minor injury?

Sprain your knee or ankle? You can relieve pain and swelling and promote healing with RICE.

Try some RICE

RICE - Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation

Rest

Rest and protect the injured or sore area.
Stop, change, or take a break from any activity that may be causing your pain or soreness.

Ice

Apply an ice or cold pack immediately to prevent or minimize swelling. Apply the ice or cold pack for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 or more times a day.

After 48-72 hours, if the swelling is gone, apply heat to the area that hurts. Do not apply ice or heat directly to the skin. Place a towel over the cold or heat pack before applying it to the skin.

Compression

Compression means wrapping the injured or sore area with an elastic bandage (such as an Ace wrap), which will help decrease swelling. Don't wrap it too tightly, since this can cause more swelling below the affected area.

Loosen the bandage if it gets too tight. Signs that the bandage is too tight include numbness, tingling, increased pain, coolness, or swelling in the area below the bandage. Talk to your health professional if you think you need to use a wrap for longer than 48-72 hours; a more serious problem may be present.

Elevate

Raise the injured or sore area on pillows while applying ice and anytime you are sitting or lying down. Try to keep the area at or above the level of your heart to help minimize swelling. Nonprescription anti-inflammatory drugs may also help relieve your pain and swelling.

When your soreness and pain are gone, begin stretching and strengthening exercises slowly,
then gradually increase these exercises.

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It’s Silent, It’s Serious, It’s Preventable

More than 20 million Americans are estimated to have diabetes—that’s 7% of the entire nation. While an estimated 14.6 million have been diagnosed, one-third are still unaware that they have the disease, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Know your risk and help prevent Type 2 diabetes

“People with diabetes are unable to make or use insulin properly,” said Jean Merkel, dietitian and diabetes educator. “Insulin is a hormone that is needed to turn the food we eat into energy the body can use.”

Type 2 diabetes is by far the most common form of diabetes and is largely preventable. It occurs when either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Type 2 diabetes usually affects people age 30 and older who have unhealthy lifestyles. For example,
a person who is overweight, inactive or using certain drugs or consuming too much alcohol will increase their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. 

Why is prevention so important?

Diabetes greatly affects the way you live your everyday life and can shorten your lifespan.
Any form of diabetes can lead to serious or even deadly complications, such as:

• heart disease
• stroke
• high blood pressure
• blindness
• kidney
• nervous system disease
• amputations

2 things to remember about preventing diabetes 

1. Diet

2. Exercise

According to the American Diabetes association, just 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity, along with some weight loss, produced a 58% reduction in diabetes. That means your risk factor could be cut in half just by losing a few pounds and increasing your activity!

Latinos, African Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are at an increasingly higher risk for developing diabetes along with those who have a family member with the disease. If you’re worried about your risk factors or want to know more,
log on to www.diabetes.org

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

The warning signs and symptoms associated with diabetes often develop gradually and a diabetic may have none, one or more of these warning signs.

• Excessive fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Extreme hunger
• Occasional blurry vision
• Cuts and sores that won’t heal

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What you need to know about allergies

How do allergies occur?

Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to particles in the air that you breathe.
Your immune system attacks the particles (or allergens) in your body. While most people usually have symptoms for many years, everyone’s reaction to allergies is different. You may have symptoms often during the year or just at certain times.

• You also may get other problems such as sinus and ear infections as a result
  of your allergies.
• Over time, allergens may begin to affect you less and your symptoms may not be as severe as they had been.
• However, some people will suffer from allergies for most of their life.

You can run but you can’t hide

Common causes of allergies:

• Trees
• Grass
• Weeds
• Dust mites
• Cockroaches
• Mold
• Cereal grain
• Wood
• Chemicals

Tips for treating allergies

• Avoid the things that cause your allergies. 
• Drink lots of water.
• Avoid smoke.
• Clean your house often to get rid of dust and molds.
• You may need to stay indoors when pollen counts are high. 
• Keep windows closed.  Use air conditioning when you can and change filters often.
• Vacuum often or use washable rugs on bare floors.
• If you have a pet, bathe them often because pollen stays on their fur.
• When you lie down, keep your head raise on pillows.  This will help sinuses drain.
• Ask your doctor about taking medicine. If it’s okay, take it when you first start to feel sick. Don’t wait until you feel really bad.
• Allergies can make you feel tired, so get your rest.

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If home treatments do not help or the over-the-counter medicines make you sleepy or cause other side effects that bother you, your doctor may prescribe medicines. These medicines can relieve your allergy symptoms with fewer side effects than over-the counter medicines.

Understanding different types of headaches

For the millions of Americans suffering from ongoing headaches, each day can bring pain and suffering. Nearly 36 million of these people, roughly 13% of the population suffers from migraines, the most painful and often misdiagnosed form of headaches, according to the National Headache Foundation. But there are other types of headaches that can cause you as much pain
as a migraine.

The mystery behind rebound headaches

What happens?

You feel a headache about to start so you reach for a nonprescription pain reliever such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Or, maybe you want to prevent headaches so you take the pain medication before you even get a headache. Because that is what pain relievers are for, right?

Although pain relievers might offer quick relief for occasional headaches, there is a health risk to taking nonprescription pain relievers more than three times a week. If you are doing so, you may be making your headaches worse. When the pain medication wears off, you get another headache and then you reach for the pain reliever again. This cycle is known as rebound headaches.

What is the solution?

However, there is an easy answer to this problem. Stop taking the pain medication that is causing your headaches and you will eventually stop getting rebound headaches. It may be difficult at first, but you will eventually stop getting rebound headaches. Ask your doctor for help.

What is a tension headache?

Depression, anxiety, stress and poor posture often cause tension headaches. There are two types of tension headaches, episodic and chronic. Episodic headaches occur randomly, whereas chronic headaches occur every day and tend to be more severe.  

Both types of tension headaches have the same symptoms, some of which include:

• Tightness in the neck
• Soreness, pressure or pulling sensations around the head
• Continuous, annoying pain in the forehead, temples or back of the head and/or neck

Is it a sinus headache?

These result from sinus pressure in the forehead, behind the nose or around the eyes and cheeks. Pressure can build up from allergies or a sinus infection following a cold or flu.  When sinuses are blocked or inflamed, mucus can’t drain and headaches may occur. These headaches often feel worse first thing in the morning. 

Cluster Headaches 101

Cluster headaches are the most severe and intense type. The pain strikes with little warning and the attacks come in groups or clusters.

• Cluster headaches occur on one side of the head and rarely switch
  sides between attacks.
• The pain begins as a stabbing sensation over one eye, then moves to the forehead, temple and cheek on the same side of the face.
• Many sufferers are smokers, but causes are unknown.
• Headaches last 30 to 45 minutes and most people suffer up to four a day.

Do I have a migraine?

Migraines are painful, severe headaches that are often accompanied by vomiting and sensitivity to light, noise, and smell. Migraines involve changes in chemicals and blood vessels in the brain, which trigger pain signals leading to headache. 

Migraines can affect people of all ages but they most often occur in people between ages 25 and 45. Women are three times more likely to have migraines, probably due to hormonal influences.

• Migraine headaches normally begin with a dull ache.
• 1/3 of people who have migraines also experience an “aura” (see wavy lines, dots, flashing lights or have tunnel vision or blind spots) prior to the beginning of the headache.
• These headaches then turn into a constant, throbbing pain at the temples or the front or back of one side of the head.
• Nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and noise may occur.
• Usually last from a few hours to a few days.

Common causes of headaches

• Alcohol and caffeine use or withdrawal
• Changes in sleep patterns (sleep too much or too little)
• Coughing or sneezing
• Dehydration
• Dental problems or procedures (pain from grinding your teeth or from a root canal)
• Eating or drinking cold foods and fluids
• Emotional stress
• Excessive use of non-prescription pain medications (Ibuprofen)
• Eyestrain
• Fever
• High altitude (lower oxygen levels at high altitudes)
• High blood pressure
• Infection in the sinuses
• Muscle strain in the neck, upper back or shoulder muscles
• Sensitivity to light (florescent)

 

How do I prevent headaches?

To learn more, talk to your doctor or visit www.headaches.org or www.migraines.org.

• Keep a headache diary and track your headaches for three months. Download a free headache diary at www.headaches.org and bring the results to your doctor.
• Eliminate alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes.
• Reduce stress.
• Eliminate florescent lighting.
• Get regular exercise.
• Maintain good posture to avoid muscle tension.
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
• Avoid foods that may cause your headaches.
• Some headaches can be triggered by intense physical activity.
• Avoid taking nonprescription pain relievers more than 3 times a week.

How do I manage a headache?

Stop what you are doing and begin treatment. Don't wait for the headache to get worse.

• Apply a cold, moist cloth or ice pack to your forehead and temples.
• Rest in a quiet, comfortable, dark room.
• Take drugs to stop your headache as needed.
• Take drugs exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Begin stress management therapy as soon as your headache starts.
• Have a massage to relax tense muscles in your head, neck, temples, face or jaw.

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• Alcohol abuse and dependence
• Drug abuse and addition - keep your family safe
• More the just the blues

 

Alcohol abuse and dependence

Quitting alcohol is often described by alcoholics as one of the most difficult but worthwhile challenges in life.

Alcohol abuse can harm your relationships, cause you to miss work, make it hard to do the things you need to do and even lead to legal problems. Over time, drinking too much alcohol can cause health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, liver disease, gallstones and certain types of cancer.

4 main symptoms of alcoholism

1 Craving: A strong need for alcohol—counting the hours or minutes until the next drink.

2 Loss of control: Being unable to limit your drinking on any given occasion.

3 Physical dependence: Having withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop drinking, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness and anxiety.

4 Tolerance: Needing to drink more and more alcohol to feel its effects.

Alcohol abuse

Alcohol abuse occurs when someone repeatedly has too much to drink, causing health or social problems. Alcohol abuse is different from alcoholism. Some signs of alcohol abuse to watch out for are:

• Ignoring major work, school or home duties.
• Drinking in dangerous situations, such as while driving.
• Repeated alcohol-related legal problems, such as being arrested for driving drunk or physically hurting someone while drunk.
• Continuing to drink even though problems are made worse by alcohol.

If you or someone you know might have a problem with alcohol, visit www.aa.org for a list of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in your area or call (212) 870-3400.

How much is too much?

Alcohol abuse can harm your relationships, cause you to miss work and make it hard to do things you need to do.

• A woman who has more than 3 drinks
  at one time or more than 7 standard
  drinks a week.
• A man who has more than 4 drinks
  at one time or more than 14 standard
  drinks a week.

A standard drink is:

• 1 can or bottle of beer [12 fl oz].
• 1 glass of wine [5 fl oz].
• 1 mixed drink containing 1.5 fl oz “shot” of hard liquor.

How are alcohol problems diagnosed and treated?

Admitting that you or someone you know needs help may not be easy. But, the sooner you get help, the better your chances are to fully recover. 

• If you are concerned that you or someone you know has an alcohol problem,
  discuss with your doctor.
• Once withdrawal symptoms have passed, the second step of treatment is to work on staying sober. Quitting alcohol is often described by alcoholics as one of the most difficult but worthwhile challenges in life.
• Most people need continuing support to help stay sober. This can come from counseling or a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Staying sober is a lifelong process that can greatly improve the quality of your life.

 

Drug abuse and addiction- keeping your family safe

While every parent fears their child’s use of illegal drugs, nonprescription and legal prescription drug abuse is rising among teens at an alarming rate. In addition to these drugs being addictive, teens and young adults increase their risk for becoming victims of sexual assault or violent behavior in situations where these drugs are used.

Types of drugs increasingly used by teenagers

Prescription Pain Relievers

Similar to heroin and morphine, prescription drugs like Vicodin and OxyContin block pain signals in the brain and trigger the release of dopamine (a chemical that provides the “rush” or feel-good effects of drugs.) The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that 10% of teenagers abuse Vicodin or OxyContin. This study also showed that 8th graders’ use of OxyContin has doubled from 2002 to 2006. While one in three teens doesn’t believe that prescription painkillers are addictive, research has shown that the brain quickly develops a tolerance to these drugs and creates a craving that grows stronger with each use. Overdoses on narcotic pain relievers can lead to impaired breathing, seizures, coma or death.

Other Prescription Drugs

There is a wide range of drugs easily found in a medicine cabinet that can attract teens looking for an easy high. Excessive use of sleeping pills (barbiturates) can lead to dependency, memory loss and life-threatening allergic reactions. A recent NIDA study reported that more than 15% of high school seniors abuse at least one non medical prescription drug within the past year. Other widely abused prescriptions are Valium and Xanax (also known as minor tranquilizers and are prescribed for anxiety and muscle tension).

Over-the-counter medication

Some nonprescription medicines, such as cold medicines are being abused by teens and young adults as a way to get a “high.” A dose of cough medicine contains enough of an addictive drug that is similar to codeine (a painkiller and anti-coughing medicine). However, abusers take up to 15 times the regular amount, which can lead to blurred vision, slurred speech, rapid heartbeat, seizures and coma.

Attention Deficit Medications

According to the NIDA, 5 million kids are prescribed drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These drugs may also be used to increase concentration when studying, lose weight or to get high. When taken in high doses, these drugs act as stimulants and have similar effects to cocaine, causing hallucinations and heart failure.

High-risk groups

Some groups of people are more likely than others to have problems related to alcohol or drug abuse. These groups include:

Teenagers and young adults

Approximately half of all high school seniors in the U.S. admit to having used alcohol or an illegal drug. Substance abuse in this age group increases the risk of involvement in crime, high-risk sexual behavior, accidents, and injuries. Also, teens that use alcohol and drugs are more likely to have poor school performance and have higher dropout rates.

Women

Women are more likely to abuse prescription medicines such as sedatives, tranquilizers and pain medication. More than two-thirds of all tranquilizers (Valium, Xanax) are prescribed for women. Drug abuse in women increases the risk of developing other health problems, such as osteoporosis or depression.

How are drugs and alcohol affecting your life or someone you know?

Ask the following questions

• Have you ever felt a need to cut down on your drinking or drug use?
• Does it bother you if someone says that you use too much alcohol or other drugs?
• Do you use alcohol or other drugs to build self-confidence?
• Do you ever drink or get high immediately after you have a problem at home, work or school?
• Have you ever missed work or school due to alcohol or other drugs?
• Do you borrow money or "do without" other things to buy alcohol and other drugs?
• Do you feel a sense of power when you use alcohol or other drugs?
• Have you ever felt guilty about something you’ve done when you’ve been drinking or high?
• Have you ever been arrested or hospitalized due to alcohol or use of illicit drugs?
• Have you ever take an early-morning drink or use drugs first thing in the morning to get the day started or eliminate the "shakes"?
• Has there ever been someone in your family with a drinking or other drug problem?
• Could you have a problem with alcohol or other drugs?

If you or someone you know answered YES to one or more

• Don’t ignore the issue.
• Call the doctor for an immediate appointment or call Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous for the times of scheduled meetings.
• Go to the appointment with the person and discuss recent and long-term drinking or drug use problems.
• Attend a few meetings of Al-Anon or Alateen, support groups for family members and friends. Visit http://www.al-anon.alateen.org for more information.

Keep your kids safe

• Watch for signs of drug abuse such as dilated pupils, dry mouth, sudden weight loss, rapid, extreme swings in mood and energy.
• Talk with your child.
• Do a quick inventory of what you have in your medicine cabinets or even lock up your prescription drugs.  Ask questions if items are frequently used.
• Help with decision-making. Many teenagers who have alcohol or substance abuse problems are unable to process information or effectively communicate their decisions.
• Be aware of extreme habits or lifestyle changes. Addiction occurs when you develop a physical or emotional “need” for the drug. You may not be aware that you have become dependent until you try to stop taking it. 
• For more information about treatment programs in your area, contact the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information at http://www.health.org

To learn more, visit the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s website at http://www.nida.nih.gov

More than Just the Blues

Clinical depression affects more than 19 million Americans each year and yet only 1/3 of these people seek help. The most common reasons for not getting help are not knowing what the symptoms are, thinking the feelings will go away and embarrassment talking about feelings, according to the National Mental Health Association (NMHA).

What is depression?

Depression is an illness that causes a person to feel sad and hopeless much of the time. It is different from normal feelings of sadness, grief or low energy.  Anyone can have depression. If you think you may be depressed, tell your doctor.  The sooner you get treatment, the sooner
you will feel better.

Signs of depression include:

• Sad or depressed mood for a length of time
• Change in usual sleep pattern
• Weight gain or loss
• Feeling tired or loss of energy
• Loss of pleasure and interest in activities once enjoyed
• Feeling irritable or restless
• Difficulty focusing or remembering or making decisions
• Feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless
• Frequently crying
• Thoughts of death or suicide

What can cause or add to depression?

• Social pressures - stress from work and family
• Difficult life events – death of a family member, divorce or financial problems
• Excessive drinking
• Gender – women are twice as likely to suffer from depression
• Family history of depression
• Changes in certain brain chemicals
• Negative thinking – people with low self-esteem or worry a lot
• Certain diseases or illnesses (heart disease, diabetes)

Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression, with one in every eight women developing clinical depression each year.

Link between Depression and Heart Disease

Stress from living with heart disease, fear about the possible problems and other lifestyle changes may trigger depression.  Being depressed may make it difficult to take your medication and follow your doctor’s plan for a healthier heart.  In addition, higher stress levels affect your body’s ability to repair damaged heart tissue.

What You Can Do

If your symptoms don’t go away or get worse, see a doctor. For serious cases, prescription medications can help. Talk with your doctor about what treatment options may be right for you.

For more information visit www.depression-screening.org or www.nmha.org

• Asthma and your child
• Avoid the flu bug

 

 

 

 

 

Asthma and your Child

Trouble breathing? It might be asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma causes swelling in the airways that lead to your lungs. When asthma starts, the airways tighten and become narrower. This keeps the air from passing through easily and makes it hard for you to breathe. These flare-ups are also called asthma attacks.

Do you have asthma? 
Symptoms of asthma can be mild or severe.  You may have mild asthma attacks now and then or you may have severe symptoms every day. 

When you have asthma, you may:

• Wheeze (make a loud or soft whistling noise that occurs when you breathe in and out)
• Cough a lot
• Feel tightness in your chest
• Feel short of breath
• Have trouble sleeping because of coughing or having a hard time breathing.
• Quickly get tired during exercise

What causes asthma? 

Common causes include:

• Pollen, mold and mildew
• Dust
• Strong odors
• Physical activity
• Cold air or a quick change in temperature
• Colds, flu or sinus infections
• Certain medications and foods
• Pollution
• Animal fur or feathers
• Tobacco or wood smoke
• Pollen, mold, mildew
• Foods or food preservatives such as sulfite
• Strong aromas such as perfume, potpourri, paint, fried cooking
• Pollutants
• Aspirin

For more information about asthma and your treatment options, visit the American Lung Association’s website at http://www.lungusa.org

Prevent attacks

Work with your child’s doctor and have a written plan for managing your child’s asthma. Make sure that there is a copy on file at their school. 

• Wash sheets and blankets often.  Use hot water to kill dust mites.
• Change air conditioner and furnace
  filters often.
• Dust, mop and vacuum often.
• Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Avoid foods that cause attacks.
• Keep children away from pets.
• Make sure your child’s shots are up to date.

Avoid the flu bug

When your child is sick, you want him or her to get the best care. Minor colds or flu usually can be treated at home and these tips can help.

Know what to look for

• Fever
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Red, watery eyes
• Headache
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Body aches and pains
• Feeling tired
• Not hungry

Reasons to call the doctor

When your child:

• Has a fever over 102°F that doesn’t get better in two days
• Has trouble breathing, but not severe
• Throws up two or more times a day
• Coughs a lot for more than 10 days
• Has swollen glands
• Has diarrhea
• Won't drink at all
• Has an earache
• Has dark green or yellow drainage coming from the nose

Call 911 if your child has severe trouble breathing and can’t speak.

Tips to avoid the flu

• Get enough sleep – between seven and eight hours a night.
• Drink at least eight, 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Eat a balanced diet including fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, as it can prevent airways from clearing bacteria and viruses from the lungs and body.
• Exercise daily.
• Stay home when you’re sick.
• Get a flu shot
• Don’t forget to wash your hands!

Proper hand-washing

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the following steps:

• Wash your hands with hot running water and soap. Children should use
  warm running water.
• Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds.  Sing a song like “Happy Birthday” twice.
• Pay special attention to your wrists, the backs of your hands, between your fingers,
  and under your fingernails.
• Use paper towel to turn off the faucet.
• Dry hands with paper towel or air dryer.

Wash your hands after:

• Using the bathroom.
• Coughing, sneezing, or using a handkerchief or disposable tissue.
• Eating, drinking or smoking.
• Using dirty kitchen utensils or equipment.
• Preparing foods, especially after touching raw meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, or eggs.
• Changing diapers, handling garbage, using the phone, shaking hands
  or playing with pets.

High risk individuals

Adults over age 65 and young children (age 6 to 23 months) are typically at higher risk. However, flu shots can prevent as much as 50-60% of flu-related hospital stays and 80% of deaths resulting from flu related complications in the elderly. The flu shot is also recommended for caregivers and family members of the young and old, people with certain health conditions and anyone else who wants to avoid the flu.

For more information about the flu, visit www.cdc.gov/nip/flu

• Planning ahead to prevent pregnancy
• Two must-take tests for women
• What is a clinical breast exam?
• When the stork arrives early

 

Planning ahead to prevent pregnancy

What are your options? Better safe than sorry

Each year, about 85 out of 100 women who don't use birth control have an unplanned pregnancy.  The only sure way to prevent pregnancy is to not have sex.  But finding a good method of birth control you can use every time can help you avoid an unplanned pregnancy.

What are the types of birth control?

• Hormonal methods include birth control pills, shots (Depo-Provera), the skin patch, the implant
  and the vaginal ring.  Birth control that uses hormones is very good at preventing pregnancy.
• Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are inserted into your uterus.  IUDs work very well for 5 to 10 years
  at a time and are very safe.
• Barrier methods include condoms, diaphragms, and sponges. In general, these do not prevent pregnancy as well as IUDs or hormonal methods do. To help a barrier work better, use it with
  a spermicide (chemical that kills sperm)
• Natural family planning (also called fertility awareness) can work if you and your partner are very careful. You will need to keep good records so you know when you are fertile.  And during times when you are fertile, you will need to skip sex or use a barrier method.
• Permanent birth control (sterilization) gives you lasting protection against pregnancy.  A man can have a vasectomy or a woman can have her tubes tied (tubal ligation) but this is only a good choice
  if you are sure that you don't want children.

For hormonal or barrier methods to work best, you have to use them exactly the way your doctor or the package instructions say. If you are interested in any of the above methods of birth control, talk to your doctor and find out which choice is right for you.

Remember that accidents happen.  There is no 100% foolproof way to prevent pregnancy unless you avoid sexual contact.

Choosing the best method of birth control

The best method of birth control is one that protects you every time you have sex. And with many types of birth control, that depends on how well you use it. To find a method that will work for you every time, some things to think about include:

How well it works

Think about how important it is to you to avoid pregnancy. Then look at how well each method works.  For example, if you plan to have a child soon anyway, you may not need a very reliable method. If you don't want children but feel it is wrong to end a pregnancy, choose a type of birth control that works very well.

How much effort it takes

For example, birth control pills may not be a good choice if you often forget to take medicine.
If you are not sure you will stop and use a barrier method each time you have sex,
pick another method.

When you want to have children?

For example, if you want to have children in the next year or two, hormone shots may not be a good choice. They can make it hard to get pregnant for several months after you stop them. If you never want to have children, natural family planning is not a good choice because it often fails.

To avoid both STDs and pregnancy, use condoms along with another type of birth control.

How much the method costs

• Condoms are cheap or free in some clinics. 
• Some insurance companies cover the cost of prescription birth control.  
• But cost can sometimes be misleading.  
  An IUD costs a lot up front.  But it works for years, making it low-cost over time.

Whether it protects you from infection

Latex condoms can help protect you from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as HIV. But they are not the best way to prevent pregnancy. To avoid both STDs and pregnancy, use condoms along with another type of birth control.

For more info visit http://www.americanpregnancy.org/preventingpregnancy/

 

2 must-take tests for women

With all the roles and responsibilities women have, it’s sometimes easy to get caught up in doing things for others and forgetting to take care of yourself.  When it comes to taking care of your health, though, there’s no better time than right now.

1 Detect Cervical Cancer Early - Get a Pap Test

Pap tests have helped doctors find and successfully treat cervical cell changes in thousands of women before they could become cervical cancer. The test is very simple. Your doctor will gently remove a small sample of cells from your cervix. The sample is then examined
under a microscope. 

Now that you know how important these tests are, take the time to schedule your appointments today!

It’s important to remember that an abnormal
Pap test result does not necessarily mean that
you have cancer. 

Women ages 19 to 64 who are sexually active should have this important test at least every three years. Women over age 65 should have a Pap test as often as their doctor advises.*

2 Detect Breast Cancer Early - Get a Mammogram

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women.  Your lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is 1 in 8. It is recommended that all women age 40 or older get a mammogram every year.*

* These preventive care guidelines are taken from recommendations of the U.S. Preventive Service Task Force.

 

What is a Clinical Breast Exam?

A clinical breast exam is a physical examination of the breast done by a health professional. This exam is done to find a lump or change in the breast that may mean a serious problem is present, such as breast cancer. It may be performed as part of a regular check-up or wellness exam. 

• First, your doctor will ask you questions about any problems you may have, your medical history, and your risk factors for breast cancer.  Be sure to talk to your doctor about any areas of your breasts you may be concerned about. 
• Your doctor will then examine each breast, underarm, and collarbone area for changes in breast size, skin changes, or signs of injury or infection, such as bruising or redness.
• You may be asked to lift your arms over your head, put your hands on your hips, or lean forward and press your hands together to tighten the muscle beneath each breast during this part of the examination.
• You may also lie flat on the table and put your arm behind your head while he or she checks your breast tissue. 
• Your doctor will also feel each breast for any unusual or painful areas or for a “dominant” lump.  A dominant lump in the breast is any lump that is new, larger, harder, or different in any other way from other lumps or the rest of the breast tissue.  
• After the examination, your doctor may teach you how to examine your own breasts (breast self-examination) and help you practice doing it.  Regular breast self-examination has been shown to be helpful in finding early breast cancers.

What your doctor needs to know

Before your Clinical Breast Exam, tell your health professional if you:

• Have a new lump or change in your breasts
• Are or might be pregnant
• Are breast-feeding
• Have breast implants
• Have had a breast biopsy (test involving the removal of tissues)
• Have completed menopause
• Are taking hormone replacement therapy
• Have a personal or family history of breast cancer

Early detection of breast cancer saves lives. Talk to your doctor about scheduling a clinical breast exam, or for more information about breast cancer, visit www.cancer.org

 

When the Stork Arrives Early

About 12.5% of all pregnancies in the United States are premature (before the 37th week of pregnancy), according to the March of Dimes.

Why does pre-term labor occur?  

There isn’t one easy answer.

• It could be stress, infection, smoking, drug use or something completely unknown.
• Half of all pre term births occur without explanation in women of all races and backgrounds.
• It is the cause of many infant deaths and serious health problems including mental retardation, lung and stomach problems and vision and hearing loss.

“People think pre term babies are just born small, but they don’t realize the health risks for the baby,” said Andrea Houfek, M.D., pediatric department specialist. “A normal pregnancy should last about 40 weeks to give the baby the time it needs to properly develop and have the best chance at being healthy.”

Warning symptoms

The March of Dimes encourages women who experience any of the following symptoms prior to the 37th week of pregnancy to call a health care provider or go to the hospital right away:

• Contractions every 10 minutes or more often
• Clear or bloody discharge
• Pelvic pressure - the feeling that your baby is pushing down
• Low, dull backache
• Cramps that feel like your period
• Stomach cramps, with or without diarrhea

For more information about premature birth, visit http://www.marchofdimes.com