Health & Wellness - August 2017

August 2017 A Special Supplement to

media solutions

Health Education What are biologic medicines?

Solving the Puzzle Myths and misconceptions

about autism spectrum disorder

Snore Z Z Z Relief Breathing easier about Z

Z

CPAP treatment

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August 2017 • theintelligencer.com

A Supplement of

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Did you know?

Outdoor exercise can benefit both the planet and the people doing the exercising. By exercising outdoors instead of at home or at indoor fitness centers, men and women can reduce their carbon footprints. Exercising in the great outdoors does not require the use of energy-consuming fitness machines. In addition, when exercising outdoors during daylight hours, nature provides all the light men and women will need for their workouts, further reducing the average person’s energy consumption. And it’s not just adults who can benefit from spending more time outdoors. According to the Harvard Medical School, children are likely to get more exercise if they spend time outdoors than they are if they spend time indoors. A study from researchers in England used GPS devices and accelerometers to track the activity of 1,000 children. The children were more than twice as active when they were outside than they were when they were in inside.

When children spend ample time outdoors, that, too, can benefit the environment. According to the National Institutes of Health, the average youngster spends three hours per day watching television and gets as much as seven hours of screen time each day. When kids are outdoors, they are less likely to be staring at energy-consuming screens and devices than they are when they’re indoors.

3 Protect eyes from ultraviolet rays 4 Minimize dark circles under the eyes 6 What are biologic medicines?

7 Safeguard your eyes against computer vision syndrome 8 How common is carpal tunnel?

10 Myths and misconceptions about autism spectrum disorder 11 Arthritis linked to another condition 12 Treatments for Alzheimer’s disease continue to evolve 14 Breathing easier about CPAP treatment 15 Signs of stress that must be addressed

Theintelligencer.com • August 2017

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Protect eyes from ultraviolet rays A wide array of sunglasses can protect eyes from potentially damaging ultraviolet radiation.

T

hanks to increased awareness about the perils of exposure to ultraviolet rays and skin damage, a greater number of people routinely apply sunscreen before spending time outdoors. But while people take steps to prevent sunburns, skin cancer and premature aging, they may fail to consider that UV rays also can damage their eyes.

Just as people protect their skin from the sun, so, too, should they safeguard their eyes. Prevent Blindness America warns that the sun is comprised of UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays may hurt central vision by damaging the macula, or a part of the retina at the back of the eye. UVB rays typically affect the front part of the eye or the lens and cornea. The following are some common eye conditions that can be linked to exposure to UV rays.

Photokeratitis Excessive amounts of UV radiation over a short period of time can cause photokeratitis, which is equivalent to a sunburn of the eye. Photokeratitis may occur after spending long hours at the beach or skiing without proper eye protection. UVB rays cause photokeratitis, and these rays can burn the cornea, potentially causing pain and temporary vision loss.

Macular degeneration

According to the American Optometric Association, macular degeneration is a deterioration of the part of the retina that is responsible for sharp, central vision. In addition to UV rays, chronic exposure to shorter-wavelength visible blue and violet light can be harmful to the retina. The sun and many artificial light sources, such as LEDs and smartphones, emit blue light.

Some blue light can be beneficial, but some can be harmful to the eyes. Lenses that absorb harmful blue light or block it can prevent retinal damage.

Pterygium Pterygium is a growth that forms on the outer portion of the eye, or the cornea and conjunctiva. The World Health Organization says that prolonged UV exposure can contribute to this condition. Pterygium may extend over the cornea and reduce vision, requiring surgical removal.

Cataracts UV exposure also can contribute to the formation of cataracts. Prevent Blindness America says a cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, the part of the eye that focuses the light people see.

Sun protection Sunglasses should completely cover the eyes, including the skin on the eyelids and under the eye, to provide adequate protection for the eyes. Wraparound frames will offer additional protection to those who spend a lot of time outdoors in bright sunlight. The AOA says sunglasses should also do the following.

• Block out 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation.

• Screen out between 75 and 90 percent of visible light.

• Have lenses that are perfectly matched in color and free of distortion and imperfection.

• Have lenses that are gray for proper color recognition.

Consumers should speak with an eye doctor if they have additional questions about eye protection.

Prescription lenses can be tinted and treated to offer UV protection.

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August 2017 • theintelligencer.com

Minimize dark circles under the eyes byproduct of various circumstances.

Getting to the root of the problem can help women (and men) look more awake and fresh.

Accept genetics

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acoon eyes may be a side effect of forgetting to remove mascara and other eye makeup before retiring for bed. In such instances, dark eye circles are easily remedied with cleaning pads. For those whose dark circles can’t be swept away with soap and water, dark, puffy eyes can be a cause for embarrassment or concern.

Dark circles under the eyes may be a

Genetics may be the biggest culprit in undereye circles. Some people simply inherit fair or thin skin around the eyes.

This can make blood that pools in these areas (from stretched or broken capillaries) more visible. While a person cannot change his or her skin tone, gently washing one’s face — paying careful attention to the sensitive eye area — can help reduce damage. Also, getting more sleep can increase circulation to this area and prevent blood pooling.

Treat allergies and sinus issues According to Allergy & Asthma Care of New York, allergies and other sinus issues can cause puffiness and dark eye circles. Histamines, which are released when an allergen is present,

can cause blood vessels to swell and inflame. Getting tested for seasonal allergies can help people identify some possible triggers. Alleviating allergy symptoms can reduce the appearance of dark circles in some cases.

Reduce swelling Undereye bags can cause shadows to form and increase the appearance of dark circles. To remedy this, try to reduce fluid pooling in the face. Sleep elevated on a few pillows so that fluid flows away from the eyes. Reduce consumption of alcohol and salty foods, which can exacerbate fluid retention.

Cool compresses can be used to massage fluid gently away from the eyes as well.

Apply sunscreen

eyes, may be able to reduce or prevent pigment changes.

Rely on concealer Makeup can help counter the look of dark shadows and pigmentation around the eyes. Use a shade that is opposite the color of the circles to camouflage them. For example, use orange-yellow tones to combat blue-purple shading under the eyes. Makeup artists also advise applying concealer in the shape of a triangle. That way a person is creating a light arrow that draws attention to the bright part of her eyes.

Undereye circles and swelling can be alleviated when people get to the source of the problem. A combination of treating the sources and masking the issue can help. In severe cases, individuals should visit their dermatologists.

Dark circles may result from pigmentation changes that occur after exposure to the sun or some other type of UV light. Individuals who apply sunscreen on their faces, including around their

Did you know?

Individuals visit the doctor for many different reasons. Although serious illnesses or acute medical care may be seen as the primary reasons behind doctor visits, a relatively recent study from The Mayo Clinic suggests otherwise. In 2013, data published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings uncovered that most people visit the doctor for skin disorders, such as acne or dermitis. In the United States, 42.7 percent of the doctor visits studied were for skin ailments. Skin ailments were followed by joint disorders, back problems, cholesterol, and upper respiratory conditions. The group BackCareCanada says 80 percent of individuals experience pain in their spine at some point in their lives, and medical expenditures with respect to lower back pain are estimated at between

$6 and 12 billion annually in Canada.

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What are biologic medicines?

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relatively recent wave of medications has provided significant advances in treating a wide range of illnesses, particularly those that are linked to auto-immune dysfunction or chronic ailments. Many people may be prescribed a biologic response modifier medicine at some point in their lives, and those who understand when and why such medications are prescribed may find such knowledge calms their nerves and reduces any confusion they might have about their conditions.

What are biologic response modifiers?

Biologics are derived from animal products. First-generation biologic products included things like vaccines and blood components. However, a newer wave of biologic medicines has come to market over the last decade or so.

These medications are manufactured through biotechnology and are complex proteins, sugars, nucleic acids, or a combination of these substances that are created from living cells. Cells may include yeast, bacteria or a widely used cell called CHO, which originated from hamsters in China. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration says biologics

are often at the forefront of biomedical research and are continually evolving.

Why biologics are different Unlike traditional medicines, which are largely made from chemical components that follow a strict recipe for manufacture, many biologics are complex mixtures that are not easily replicated.

According to the resource Everyday Health, when biologics are made, a specific gene is isolated and inserted into the host cell’s DNA, where it will become permanent. The cell follows the instructions of the gene and how it was programmed and becomes a specifically functioning cell. This one reprogrammed cell is combined with others that have been made the same way.

The entire process of biologic manufacturing is complex, requiring state-of-theart knowledge. It also requires entirely new biotechnology facilities and laboratories that employ top-notch scientists.

These factors combine to contribute to the generally high price tag of biologic medications.

How biologics work According to WebMD, biologics are

designed to inhibit specific components of the immune system that may cause a symptom of a disease. For example, in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, the medication would suppress inflammation, which is a central feature of the disease. Biologics target specific parts of the immune system rather than broadly treating the body.

Diseases that may be treated by biologics include rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis/ psoriatic arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and even certain cancers.

Side effects of biologic medicines

Because most biologics are administered intravenously, injection-site irritation can be a common side effect.

Biologics also carry a risk of infection.

According to the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, because biologics target the immune system, there is a risk for serious infection or disease.

Biologic medicines continue to evolve and can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions for which no other

treatments are available or effective.

Theintelligencer.com • August 2017

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Safeguard your eyes against computer vision syndrome

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echnology has simplified life in a myriad of ways. Thanks to their tablets and smartphones, many people now have a wealth of information at their disposal 24 hours a day, seven days week.

Computers, tablets and smartphones can now be seen just about everywhere, so it’s no wonder that studies have shown that as much as 90 percent of computer users have reported symptoms of computer vision syndrome, or CVS. Sometimes referred to as “digital eye strain,” CVS is, according to the American Optometric Association, an umbrella term used to describe a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use. Manhattan Vision Associates notes that such problems can arise in people who spend two or more hours daily in front of a screen, a qualifier that means just about anyone, from working professionals to children, is susceptible to CVS.

What are the symptoms of CVS?

No two individuals are the same, and some people who spend significant amounts of time may never develop CVS. But those that do may experience the following symptoms.

Eyestrain: When people spend ample time staring at screens, the muscles of their inner eyes can strain and tighten and cause eye irritation. This can result in fatigue and pain.

Blurred vision: Blurred vision can compromise a person’s ability to see small details. That loss of sharpness can make it hard to focus on a screen for a significant amount of time. In addition, vision can blur as people go back and forth between their keyboards and screens or multiple screens, as many people do while simultaneously working on a computer and using their smartphones.

Headaches: Many people develop headaches after staring at screens for prolonged periods of time. That’s because the brightness and contrast of a screen can produce an indirect glare that’s especially hard on the eyes.

Dry eyes: People do not blink as often

when staring at screens as they do when they are not looking at screens.

As a result, people are vulnerable to dry eyes when staring at screens, as blinking is one of the ways the eyes replenish moisture.

Can CVS be prevented?

While some people may be inclined to accept CVS as a side effect of living in the 21st century, there are ways to prevent CVS. Take frequent breaks. The AOA recommend that people alleviate digital eye strain by following the 20-20-20 rule. This rule advises taking 20 second breaks to stare at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes.

Reposition your computer screen.

The AOA notes that the optimal location for computer screens is between 15 and 20 degrees below eye level, or about four to five inches, as measured from the center of the screen.

In addition, position the screen so it is between 20 and 28 inches from your eyes.

Avoid glare. Computer screens also should be positioned to avoid glare

from lighting and windows. Draw blinds or drapes if sun is shining in on the screen, and opt for low wattage light bulbs in desk lamps.

Blink more. Make a concerted effort to blink more throughout the day so your eyes remain as moist as possible.

The average time people spend staring at screens continues to rise, making CVS a legitimate concern for adults and children alike. Learn more about CVS and how to prevent it at www.aoa.org.

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August 2017 • theintelligencer.com

How common is carpal tunnel?

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ncreased hours spent on computer keyboards and digital devices can put people at risk for a relatively common and oftentimes painful condition that affects mobility in the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS, can cause numbness, pain and tingling in the hand or arm as a result of one of the major nerves of the hand — the median nerve — being compressed in the wrist.

The American College of Rheumatology says that CTS may be the most common nerve disorder experienced today, affecting between four and 10 million people in the United States alone. Middle-aged to older individuals are more likely to develop CTS than younger persons, and females are diagnosed three times more frequently than males.

What is the carpal tunnel?

The carpal tunnel is a passage that forms in the wrist on the palm side of the hand. It is located just beneath the skin surface. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says the carpal tunnel is a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones. Eight small wrist bones form three sides of the tunnel. The width of the tunnel is only about an inch. Injury or inflammation to the tissues inside of the carpal tunnel can shrink the space of the tunnel, eventually press-

ing on the tendons and the median nerve that runs through this narrow area.

The role of the median nerve When compression occurs in this area of the wrist, a key nerve is affected. The median nerve originates in the neck and runs through the arm. The median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel at the wrist and goes into the hand, providing feeling to the palm side of the thumb and to the index, middle and part of the ring fingers (although not the little finger). It also controls some small muscles at the base of the thumb.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel Weakness of the hand as well as tingling and numbness are the two most common symptoms of CTS. The numbness particularly affects four of the fingers.

It can occur when holding a phone, book, newspaper or steering wheel or engaging in just about any activity that involves the hands. CTS also may wake a person up from sleep.

There are a number of other compression issues that can occur in the hand and arms, causing similar pain and tingling in other areas. Ulnar nerve compression in the elbow can cause part of the ring finger and pinky

finger to tingle and may be indicative of a different ailment.

That’s why a professional diagnosis must be sought when experiencing symptoms related to CTS. When to see a doctor If pain and tingling are affecting activities and sleeping patterns, individuals should see their doctors. Various nonsurgical remedies and therapies may help. If left untreated, any condition that affects nerve function may lead to permanent nerve and muscle damage.

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Myths and misconceptions about autism spectrum disorder to facilitate these engagements.

ASD does not produce carbon-copy symptoms

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utism spectrum disorder, or ASD, is a class of neurological conditions present from early childhood and is often identified through difficulty communicating, using language and understanding abstract concepts.

The organization Autism Speaks says that an estimated one out of 42 boys and one in 189 girls are diagnosed with autism in the United States. Autism is now diagnosed in roughly one out of every 68 children in Canada, and has become the fastest growing and most commonly diagnosed neurological disorder in that country.

ASD is estimated to affect tens of millions of people worldwide. But even though ASD is widely recognized, studied and discussed, myths and misconceptions about the disorder continue to circulate. Shedding light on how ASD can help caregivers, peers and anyone who routinely interacts with individuals who fall on the spectrum.

ASD is not a single disorder Although autism and ASD are often used interchangeably, these names do not define one specific disorder. ASD is now an umbrella term that includes autism, Asperger syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder, childhood

disintegrative disorder, and Rett syndrome, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder, 5th edition (DSM-5) revised in 2013.

ASD is often perceived through communication deficits that can include misinterpreted or nonverbal interactions.

Individuals also may have challenges in bonding/friendship development.

People with ASD can understand and express emotion Although communication troubles may be present, those with ASD can and do feel emotions. But they may not be able to express these emotions the same way as others do. Also, just because someone has ASD doesn’t mean he or she is unable to understand the emotions of others. Rather, the person may need firm and direct indications of how another person is feeling to understand. Reading body language or tone of voice alone may be inadequate to someone with ASD. Schoolaged children can learn from this, recognizing that someone with ASD may want to have friends and socialize, but he or she may not know how

Characteristics of ASD can vary widely from person to person. One person’s limitations may not be present in another.

ASD is not just a children’s disease There is no cure for ASD, and symptoms may not be reversible, which

means that autism is a lifelong condition. Children who are diagnosed will grow into young people and adults with autism. Many treatments and therapies are geared toward early intervention, but adults can benefit from continued work as well. Adults with ASD can be successful and live independent lives.

Autism spectrum disorder is more prevalent than ever. However, despite the recognition of ASD, many people do not understand the nuances involved with a diagnosis.

Theintelligencer.com • August 2017

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Arthritis linked to another condition Personalized medicine may be the future of healthcare

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hen a person feels ill, his or her doctor may assess any symptoms and then prescribe a particular medication to treat or alleviate those symptoms. Doctors prescribe medications hoping to treat sickness, but sometimes prescriptions fall short, leaving some to wonder if prescription medications could be customized more for individual needs?

The science is already here.

Making specialized drugs is not a new concept. Prior to the rise of drug manufacturing companies, early pharmacists routinely customized ingredients. According to Professional Compounding Centers of America, customized medications are created through a process known as pharmacy compounding, which is defined as the art and science of preparing personalized medications for patients.

Specialized pharmacists take a practitioner’s prescription and mix individual ingredients together in the exact dosage and strength required.

Compounding may be done to change the form of the medication from a pill to a liquid or to remove a certain additive or ingredient, such as gluten, that might cause an allergic reaction. The American Pharmacists Association says that compounding also can be used to flavor a medication in an effort to make it more palatable.

Compounded drugs can be just as safe as mass-produced prescriptions.

And thanks to their tailor-made formulas, compounded medications also may help people avoid side effects and other adverse reactions. Compounding gives physicians flexibility in regard to how to best help their patients.

Compounding is done in hospital pharmacies and other healthcare facilities.

There also are thousands of community-based pharmacies in the United States that specialize in compounding services. Pharmacists in these facilities spend all of their time making special preparations.

All pharmacists and pharmacies engaged in compounding are subject to oversight by both federal and state authorities. On November 27, 2013, Congress amended the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act by enacting the Drug Quality and Security Act to ensure that compounded drugs are produced in accordance with applicable federal requirements. The National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities helps to oversee compounding in Canada. Preparations of products are subject to the Food and Drug Act and Regulations, Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines, and inspection by Health Canada.

Pharmaceutical compounding may not be new, but it is increasingly relied on to create the best formulations for individual patients.

P

eople who see dermatologists for the skin condition psoriasis should not take the presence of joint aches and pains lightly, as the two things might be connected. The National Psoriasis Foundation notes that psoriasis is a precursor to psoriatic arthritis in 30 percent of patients.

and reactive arthritis. Doctors will rule out other symptoms that may be indicative of those conditions. The American College of Rheumatology also indicates that psoriatic arthritis is typically blood test negative. The diagnosis is typically made by a rheumatologist after reviewing a clinical history and performing a physical exam.

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Treatment

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that affects the rate of skin cell reproduction. People with psoriasis may experience redness, itchiness and raised bumps (plaques) of skin on various areas of their bodies. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic form of arthritis that typically occurs in people with skin psoriasis, but also can be present in those without the skin condition, but particularly among those who have relatives with psoriasis.

The American College of Rheumatology says that psoriatic arthritis typically affects the large joints, especially the lower extremities, distal joints of the fingers and toes and the back and sacroiliac joints of the pelvis. Early recognition, diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis are crucial to relieving inflammation and preventing permanent joint damage.

Doctors will need to assess symptoms before deciding on a course of treatment. Mild cases may respond to over-the-counter, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen. However, antirheumatic drugs and newer biologic drugs may be prescribed to treat more aggressive cases of psoriatic arthritis.

Corticosteroid injections can be useful for swollen joints, and surgery may be necessary to repair badly damaged joints.

Individuals who suspect their arthritis may be linked to psoriasis can first speak with a dermatologist or primary care physician. The NPF also offers a screening tool at www.psoriasis.org/ psa-screening.

Symptoms Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can develop gradually or quickly, and some symptoms can be severe. NPF indicates that common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include • morning stiffness and tiredness; • tenderness, pain and swelling over tendons; • swollen fingers and toes; • reduced range of motion; • nail changes, including pitting, and • redness and pain in the eyes.

Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are similar to rheumatoid arthritis, gout

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August 2017 • theintelligencer.com

Treatments for Alzheimer’s disease continue to evolve

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lzheimer’s disease is one of the most prevalent types of dementia in the world, affecting an estimated 35.6 million people all over the globe, and that number is expected to double in 20 years.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America estimates that as many as 5.1 million Americans may be living with Alzheimer’s disease. Australian company Actinogen Medical says Alzheimer’s is Australia’s second biggest killer. According to a 2012 study commissioned by the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, 747,000 Canadians were living with cognitive impairment, which included, but was not limited to, dementia.

People with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia may experience a decline in mental function severe enough to reduce their ability to perform everyday activities.

Some of the cognitive functions that may be impaired include memory, communication and language, ability to pay attention, reasoning and judgement, emotional control,

and social behavior.

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, nor is there an effective long-term way to prevent potential mental decline. However, that has not stopped scores of researchers and medical teams that continue to study the efficacy of different drugs and therapies.

The following are some of the more promising options in the works.

the plaque or amyloid along the outside of nerve cells in the brain of mice.

Researchers do not know the exact mechanism for removal, but the drug is working and working quickly. Leukine also may be helping the brain repair itself. The Alzheimer’s Association has donated $1 million toward financing the costs of the next phase of this trial.

Leukine A safety trial on the drug Leukine already is underway at the Colorado University Anschutz Medical Campus.

“We found so far that Leukine is safe in people with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Dr. Huntington Potter, the director of Alzheimer’s research at the university. “That means it doesn’t have the side effects that so many other Alzheimer’s drugs have had, which are swelling in the brain and bleeding into the brain.”

Leukine has been successful in removing

Insulin Neurologists at Rush University Medical Center are testing a type of insulin that is inhaled through a nasal spray to see if it improves cognition and memory function in people with mild cognitive impairment.

“There is growing evidence that insulin carries out multiple functions in the brain and that poor regulation of insulin may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease,” said Dr. Neelum Aggarwal, a neurologist at Rush and the lead investigator of the study.

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The 18-month clinical trial will study the nasal spray versus a placebo in 275 adults between the ages of 55 and 85.

Xanamem Australian researchers at Actinogen Medical have begun trials of a new drug called Xanamem. More than 170 patients with mild dementia in Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom will take part in the placebo-controlled 12-week trial. The medicine blocks the stress hormone cortisol in order to improve mental function for those with dementias. In 2015, an Edinburgh University study of mice showed reducing cortisol in the brain improved their memory and decreased the number of Alzheimer’sassociated amyloid plaques in the brain.

Researchers continue to work as they seek a successful, long-term option for treating or preventing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

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August 2017 • theintelligencer.com

Breathing easier about CPAP treatment Sleep apnea very often is treated successfully with the use of a continuous positive airway pressure

machine, often referred to as a CPAP.

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eople who routinely toss, turn, snore, and wake up feeling less than refreshed in the morning may have more to worry about than simply not getting a good’s night sleep.

They may be experiencing a relatively common yet largely undiagnosed condition that can contribute to long-term risk for various diseases.

Sleep disorders have become a significant health issue. Sleep apnea, which affects an estimated 22 million people in the United States, can contribute to difficulty sleeping. Sleep apnea causes periods defined by an inability to breathe. The American Sleep Apnea Association says sleep apnea comes in three types: obstructive, wherein a blockage of the airway is usually caused by the collapse of the tongue or soft palate; central, when the brain fails to signal muscles to breathe; and complex, which is a combination of the two conditions.

Over time, sleep apnea can be a risk factor for heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and other serious conditions, says the Cleveland Clinic. That is why symptoms

that may begin as mildly agitating snoring sessions should be brought to a doctor’s attention. When sleep apnea is identified, one of the more successful treatments is widely referred to as “CPAP.” According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, is a treatment that uses mild air pressure to keep breathing airways open. A CPAP machine includes a mask or other device that fits over the nose or nose and mouth. The mask is connected to a machine via a tube, through which humidified air is blown.

In cases of obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, CPAP can reverse the complete blockages or narrowing of upper airways. When used correctly, CPAP may be the only treatment necessary to address OSA. Sleep apnea is usually confirmed by an overnight sleep study known as a polysomnogram, or PSG, conducted in a lab or at home.

According to the American Sleep Apnea Society, a PSG is often followed by with a CPAP titration study.

Individuals who will require CPAP can choose among masks and equipment that meet the prescription and maximize comfort levels. Many people become accustomed to using CPAP devices right away, while others may need a month or more to transition.

Problems like uncomfortable masks or air leakage can be tweaked until users grow comfortable.

CPAP needs to be employed under the guidance of a sleep specialist. The mask and tube should be cleaned daily and be replaced when necessary for the treatment to work effectively. More information about sleep apnea and CPAP is available at www.amsleep.org.

Theintelligencer.com • August 2017

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Signs of stress that must be addressed

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he American Institute of Stress notes that various disorders, both emotional and physical, have been linked to stress. Such disorders include depression, stroke, hypertension, and anxiety, among others. In its 2015 Stress in AmericaTM survey, the American Psychological Association found that money, stress and family responsibilities are the three most common stressors. While the symptoms of stress are uncomfortable and potentially very dangerous, the APA notes that such indicators also serve as a warning from the body that it needs maintenance and extra care. The following are some of the ways the body might be telling adults to step back and make an effort to relieve stress.

Headaches, muscle tension, neck or back pain: Some headaches or aches and pains might be mere nuisances or indicative of issues unrelated to stress. But when such symptoms are accompanied by stress, this could be

the body’s way of alerting men and women that the stress is approaching unhealthy levels. The AIS notes that when a person is under stress, his or her muscles tense up. The contraction of these muscles for extended periods of time can trigger tension headaches and migraines, among other things.

Chest pains and/or rapid heartbeat: Chest pains and rapid heartbeat may indicate various problems, including stress. This happens when the body is stressed because stress causes the nervous system to signal the adrenal glands to release hormones that make the heart beat faster and increase blood pressure.

Difficulty falling or staying asleep: Men and women who are feeling stressed out and also experiencing difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep should consult their physicians about ways to alleviate that stress. When strategies to alleviate stress are successful, adults should be able to return

to normal, healthy sleeping patterns.

Increased frequency of colds: Stress can attack the body’s immune system, making it increasingly vulnerable to colds. The AIS also notes that a weakened immune system also makes the body more susceptible to additional viral disorders, including herpes, and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

Loss of appetite or overeating: Stress can affect the gastrointestinal system in various ways, including influencing appetite. While not all problems with appetite are indicative of a body that is overstressed, stress can prompt some people to eat much more than they normally do, while others may eat considerably less than they normally would.

Diarrhea or constipation: Another indicator that stress is compromising the gastrointestinal system is diarrhea or constipation. Again, while these problems are not exclusive to sufferers of

stress, when a person is under stress, this can affect which nutrients the body can successfully absorb and how quickly food is metabolized.

This can cause some people to experience diarrhea, while others may be constipated.

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August 2017 • theintelligencer.com