Health & Wellness Guide

A PUBLICATION OF MADISON MEDIA PARTNERS

TUESDAY,

OCTOBER 28, 2025

Wellness

2 HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY | OCTOBER 28, 2025

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OCTOBER 28,2025 | HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY 3

Planning for long-term care METRO CREATIVE

Long-term care is an important component of financial and personal wellness planning.

Planning for long-term-care can help aging individuals maintain their independence and quality of life into their golden years.

According to the National Institute on Aging, long-term care (LTC) involves a variety of services that accommodate a person’s health or personal care needs when they can no longer perform everyday tasks on their own. LTC can help people with chronic illnesses, disabilities or other conditions. LTC can be expensive, but planning for such needs can help families avoid financial strain and stress, and also provide peace of mind.

TYPES OF CARE

One of the initial steps when planning for LTC is to identify the available options. LTC is multi-faceted and can come in a variety of forms. LTC can involve in-home care, with a care provider coming into an individual’s home to offer services like housekeeping and assistance with personal care. In addition, LTC can take place in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Adult daycare facilities also may be considered part of LTC.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

It’s important that families recognize that traditional health insurance does not cover the costs associated with LTC. In addition, Medicare cannot be used for LTC in most cases in the United States. It is essential to earmark funds or find alternatives to cover these costs.

According to Medicare.gov, some insurance companies will enable people to use life insurance policies to pay for LTC. Long-term care insurance also merits consideration. This insurance may cover LTC facilities or even home care and medical equipment. Families can explore all their options and find a policy

that aligns with their needs and budgets.

Additional financial tools to consider are a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which allow for tax-advantaged savings specifically for health care expenses. Those with limited income can be eligible for Medicaid in the U.S., which can pay for nursing home care. However, it is important to research which homes accept Medicaid as a form of payment.

care wishes and other financial plans as they pertain to long-term care. Early planning can help fa-

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FURTHER ESTATE PLANNING

People can work with licensed professionals to solidify longterm care and financial plans. An estate attorney can help create a durable power of attorney and a living will to ensure that health care and financial decisions are managed according to a person’s wishes if he or she becomes unable to do so. An irrevocable trust also could be beneficial in managing assets and potentially shielding families from LTC costs.

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Food choices that can increase type 2 diabetes risk METRO CREATIVE

A healthy diet has been linked to a host of benefits that affect people every day. When people eat healthy, they can lower their risk for disease, maintain a healthy weight and benefit from improved energy levels that can help them get the recommended amounts of physical activity each day.

As beneficial as a healthy diet can be, a poor diet can have just as big an impact in the opposite direction. Poor diet is linked to a host of negative outcomes, including a greater risk for conditions like being overweight and obesity that increase the chances a person develops type 2 diabetes. People concerned by the effects their dietary decisions may have on their risk for diabetes can take note of various items that can make a type 2 diabetes diagnosis more likely.

SUGARY DRINKS

The United Kingdom-based Diabetes UK notes that sugary drinks, which include beverages

like soft drinks and sweetened tea, can increase a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes. In fact, a 2019 study from researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that increasing intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and 100 percent fruit juices by more than four ounces per day over a four-year period was associated with a 16 percent higher risk of diabetes. Studies have found that sugary drinks can quickly increase blood sugar levels, a spike that can lead to insulin resistance and the accumulation of fat in the liver, both of which are risk factors for type 2 diabetes.

SWEETS

“Sweets” is a broad and not easily defined term, but those concerned about food choices and diabetes should know that this category generally refers to candy, deep-fried desserts, cookies, and various baked goods. These foods tend to be high in sugar, and sugar consumption leads to the production of insulin. While that’s not necessarily bad, University Hos-

pitals notes that if the pancreas is continually producing insulin, the body may eventually become insulin-resistant. Insulin resistance can interrupt normal body system responses and contribute to nerve damage. Excess sugar not used as energy also is stored as fat, which can lead to weight gain, a known risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

REFINED CARBOHYDRATES

Diabetes UK notes that refined carbohydrates like white bread, white rice and sugar-heavy breakfast cereals also can elevate a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes.

These foods are digested rapidly, which can cause blood sugar levels to rise as the pancreas secretes insulin more quickly. When choosing carbs, individuals are urged to pick whole grains and fruits and vegetables, which take longer to digest and retain fiber and nutrients that are lost during the processing necessary to produce refined carbohydrates.

Diet can be a useful tool in the fight against type 2 diabetes when individuals make healthy choices regarding the foods and beverages they consume.

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OCTOBER 28,2025 | HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY 5

Issues that can arise from poor dental hygiene METRO CREATIVE

The importance of maintaining dental hygiene is emphasized from the time most people are small children. Indeed, parents start early by cleaning kids’ teeth the moment the first one pushes its way through a baby’s gums, and that hopefully kickstarts a lifelong devotion to dental care.

Appearance may be the main reason why many people prioritize dental hygiene, and few things set as strong an impression as a set of pearly whites. But health is another notable reason to make dental hygiene a priority.

It goes without saying that dental health is adversely affected by poor dental hygiene habits, but the rest of the body also can suffer when individuals don’t take time to care for their teeth. · Cardiovascular disease: The American Academy for Oral & Systemic Health reports that poor dental hygiene and inflammation of the arteries are directly linked. That’s because bacteria

from the mouth enters the bloodstream and causes the arteries to harden, thus increasing a person’s risk for stroke or heart attack. The AAOSH also notes that poor oral health has been linked to high blood pressure and elevated levels of “bad” cholesterol, each of which pose a threat to cardiovascular health. · Diabetes: The American Diabetes Association notes that

periodontal disease causes inflammation in the gums. That’s a notable link, as the ADA points out that inflammation in the body can cause high blood sugar levels, which is a known risk factor for diabetes. Simple oral hygiene practices like daily brushing and flossing can protect against gum disease that can increase the risk for diabetes. · High-risk pregnancy:

Women should know that taking care of their teeth could be a notable way to protect their unborn children. A 2021 study published in the journal BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth found that periodontal disease is strongly associated with premature birth. Authors of the study note that premature birth is associated with a host of negative outcomes, including perinatal mortality, immature lung development, reduced feeding ability, and inferior weight gain. · Respiratory issues: The mouth is vulnerable to bacteria growth, which is one reason why daily measures like brushing and flossing are so important. The AAOSH notes that once bacteria reaches the lungs, an individual’s risk for infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory issues increases.

Dental hygiene practices like brushing and flossing are simple measures, but they can have a profound effect on individuals’ overall health.

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6 HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY | OCTOBER 28, 2025

Effective ways to manage emotions METRO CREATIVE

Every person experiences different emotions at various points in their lives. Emotions can be fleeting or exhibit some staying power. Emotional reactions are part of being human, but sometimes people may have trouble managing their emotions, particularly those that are considered unsavory.

It’s possible to regulate emotions without suppressing them, and such an approach can positively affect mood, relationships and even decision-making. The following are some simple strategies to manage emotions. · Recognize that emotions develop for a reason. Before being too hard on oneself, PsychCentral says it is important to understand that emotions happen for a reason. There’s no such thing as a “bad” emotion, and it is important to find ways to accept your emotions when they come whether you like them or not. · Understand upbringing affects emotions. People begin to

learn how to manage their emotions during childhood, says Medical News Today. As babies are not able to self-regulate emotions, they learn from parents and other caregivers. Those who grew up in unsupportive environments during childhood may have difficulties managing their emotions and more issues with self-regulation than those who were reared in supportive homes. · Practice self-care. Self-care activities like exercising, getting adequate sleep, eating well, and

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engaging in hobbies can support emotional well-being and help tone down more intense emotions, says Verywell Mind. · Turn on some music or change scenery. Focusing attention outward is a way to tap into something tangible to help manage emotions, as emotions themselves are intangible. Often simply directing focus off of the emotions themselves and onto something else can help reduce the intensity of one’s feelings. · Employ deep breathing.

Breathing techniques can help restore balance to emotions. A 2018 systemic review published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found deep breathing activities activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body relax and restore balance. The “box breathing” method can help. Inhale slowly for four seconds. Hold your breath for four seconds, trying to avoid inhaling or exhaling. Then, slowly exhale through the mouth for four seconds. Hold your breath again for four seconds. · Keep a mood journal. Writing things down can help people identify patterns of behavior or triggers that heighten emotions.

Once triggers and patterns of emotions are established, people can take steps to elicit change, such as stepping away from hostile conversations.

Emotions are part of human behavior, and it is possible to better manage them for emotional and physical well-being.

OCTOBER 28,2025 | HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY 7

The basics of holistic therapy METRO CREATIVE

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to modern health care. In fact, it’s easy for individuals seeking to live healthier lives to feel overwhelmed when confronted with the various theories, practices and approaches to healthy living. Such individuals undoubtedly will encounter holistic therapy in their efforts to live healthier, and a rundown of the basics can help them decide if this approach is what they’re looking for.

WHAT IS HOLISTIC THERAPY?

Holistic therapy is an approach to health and healing that addresses the mind, body and spirit. The Oxford Treatment Center notes holistic therapy involves unconventional treatments that are beyond what many would consider mainstream. The goal of holistic therapy is to treat all aspects of a person’s life, including their mental and physical health.

A TEAM EFFORT

In a more traditional health care scenario, a doctor typically diagnoses what is necessary and devises a plan to treat a patient’s condition. Oxford Treatment Center notes holistic therapy is typically more collaborative and characterized by health care professionals and patients working together to develop an individualized treatment plan. That plan may include traditional approaches but also some alternative therapies that fall under the holistic therapy umbrella.

WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF HOLISTIC THERAPIES?

A range of treatments can be characterized as holistic therapy.

Some examples include: · Meditation: Meditation involves thinking deeply or focusing on one’s mind for a period of time, typically in silence or

with the aid of chanting. Devotees of meditation often note it helps them reduce stress and control anxiety. · Yoga: This Hindu spiritual and ascetic discipline incorporates various components, including breath control and meditation. Oxford Treatment Center notes yoga also employs physical poses that, when combined with controlled breathing and other components of the practice, aim to improve health of both the mind and body. · Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): The online medical resource Healthline characterizes CBT as a holistic therapy.

This approach aims to help patients identify negative or unhelpful thought and behavior patterns, as a core tenet of CBT is that thoughts, emotions and actions are connected. CBT practitioners believe learning to recognize unhelpful thoughts can help individuals de-escalate problems, successfully overcome fears and challenges and gain greater self-confidence, among other benefits.

Acupuncture, massage, tai chi, and even hypnosis are some additional approaches that fall under the holistic therapy umbrella.

Holistic therapy is an option individuals can discuss with their health care teams as they seek to improve their overall health.

Cosmetic concerns and weight loss medications METRO CREATIVE

The association of weight loss and use of medications originally targeted to treat diabetes has led to many of these drugs being exclusively developed and marketed to those eager to lose weight. According to a May 2024 KFF poll, approximately 12 percent of adults in the United States have used a GLP-1 agonist like Ozempic® (semiglutide), while another study from RAND found 11.8 percent had used them as of August 2025.

GLP-1 drugs have become popular weight loss management tools. But GLP-1 medications, which are often characterized as miracle drugs for people managing diabetes or obesity, are not without potential side effects. According to UCLA Health, these drugs trick the brain and stomach into making a person feel less hungry and fuller faster. However, these effects come at the price of the possibility of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues.

Another concern associated with GLP-1 drugs is something that has been dubbed “Ozempic face” after the most well-known GLP-1 agonist. This is not a medical term but a moniker that has sprung up to refer to changes in the face that can occur with rapid weight loss. The Cleveland Clinic and endocrinologist

Vinni Makin, M.D., says, “it’s characterized by gauntness, sunken cheeks, new wrinkles, and loose skin on the face and neck.”

While people are quick to pin blame for “Ozempic face” on these medications, it’s not necessarily a side effect of the medication. Rather, it’s a product of rapid weight loss facilitated by the medication. These same effects can happen if rapid weight loss occurs via other means, such as after bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes that cause rapid weight loss.

Doctors explain that these weight-loss drugs will help one lose a lot of weight in a relatively short period of time.

When that occurs, most people will see that initial weight loss in their faces first. The loss of fat can lead to sunken cheeks and temples, making the facial bones appear more prominent. Also, skin may lose elasticity and sag, accentuating fine lines and wrinkles that already exist, according to Northwell Health.

Gradual weight loss that is slower and more controlled allows the skin time to adjust, thus minimizing sagging. This may be achieved by adjusting the medication dosage when taking a drug like Ozempic to create more gradual weight loss. Some people also turn to injectable fillers to restore lost facial volume, creating a more youthful appearance.

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8 HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY | OCTOBER 28, 2025

What to know about celiac disease METRO CREATIVE

Approximately one in 100 people worldwide have celiac disease, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation. But medical professionals believe many cases of celiac disease go undiagnosed, so the actual prevalence may be higher. Learning about celiac disease can help keep more people safe and healthy and increase the chances that everyone with the condition is successfully diagnosed.

WHAT IS CELIAC DISEASE?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that is triggered by the consumption of gluten.

Beyond Celiac says when a person with celiac disease eats gluten, the immune system sees the gluten as a threat and mounts an attack. The attack damages the villi of the small intestines, which are responsible for helping to digest food. Without healthy villi, it is nearly impossible for the body to absorb nutrients. The good news is damaged villi can grow back over time.

WHAT HAPPENS IF CELIAC DISEASE IS NOT TREATED?

If left untreated, celiac disease can lead to malnourishment and many other issues, notably anemia, osteoporosis, increased risk of certain cancers, and even neurological problems. Celiac disease is a serious illness that should not be overlooked, and early diagnosis can help prevent cumulative damage.

HOW IS CELIAC DISEASE TREATED?

There are no medications spe-

cifically for celiac disease. Disease management comes down to avoiding all foods and beverages containing gluten. This means a lifelong adherence to a strict gluten-free diet, says the Celiac Disease Foundation®. Gluten can be found in wheat, rye and barley.

ARE THERE UNEXPECTED SOURCES OF GLUTEN?

People with celiac disease have to be diligent about reading labels.

Gluten can be found in foods and beverages that traditionally are gluten-free. For example, processed meats may use gluten as a binder or filler. Sauces like barbecue sauce, mustards and gravies often contain gluten. Some medications may use gluten as a binding ingredient. French fries may be battered or seasoned with gluten-containing ingredients. Although oats are naturally gluten-

free, they are often processed on the same equipment as wheat, leading to cross-contamination.

HOW MUCH GLUTEN IS DANGEROUS FOR THOSE WITH CELIAC DISEASE?

Though people’s reactions to gluten may vary, even small amounts of it can cause irreversible damage. Someone with celiac disease can be affected by crumbs of gluten-containing bread left on a cutting board.

Cross-contamination is a very real concern. Individuals may need to use separate cooking utensils to keep items completely glutenfree. It is recommended to use a separate toaster for gluten-free items. Beyond Celiac says gluten cannot be sanitized away, so any remaining gluten on sponges or dishrags (or other dinnerware) can be transferred to otherwise clean dishes. Gluten even can be

Did You Know?

Lung cancer can strike anyone, but the American Cancer Society indicates smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products is the primary risk factor for developing lung cancer, making smokers particularly vulnerable to the disease. About 80 percent of lung cancer deaths are thought to result from smoking. Exposure to secondhand smoke also can increase lung cancer risk. Exposure to radon and asbestos also are known risk factors for lung cancer.

transferred from the handle of the refrigerator. It’s recommended to store gluten-free items on higher shelves to help avoid crumbs from foods from falling on them.

CAN A PERSON EAT OUT WITH CELIAC DISEASE?

Although many restaurants have made great strides in offering gluten-free items, cross-contamination remains a big concern for those with celiac disease. Unless the diner can confirm that food was cooked in a separate pan, on a separate grill, or away from all other foods, most individuals with celiac disease may need to avoid dining out or arrange to bring their own “safe” food.

Celiac disease is gaining wider recognition, but there are still some things the public must learn about this common condition.

OCTOBER 28,2025 | HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY 9

Conditions that may benefit from chiropractic care METRO CREATIVE

Aches, pains and creaks are not uncommon among the aging population. A lifetime of living can take a toll on the human body, so it’s normal to experience some periodic side effects from all that wear and tear. But some issues may stem from more than normal wear and tear, and in such instances it can be useful to visit a chiropractor.

The Cleveland Clinic notes chiropractors treat an assortment of conditions that affect the nervous system and the musculoskeletal system. Many people prefer chiropractic care as an alternative to treatments that utilize prescription medication, and it’s worth noting the many conditions that may be treated and alleviated by chiropractic care. · Arthritis: Arthritis is a common condition, particularly among adults age 50 and older. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that one in five adults in the United States had arthritis in 2024, while the Global RA Network esti-

mates more than 350 million people have the condition across the globe. The Cleveland Clinic notes normal, lifelong wear and tear is often the cause of arthritis, and chiropractors can employ various techniques to alleviate the pain associated with this common condition. · Headaches: It might surprise people unfamiliar with chiropractic care to learn that it’s not uncommon for people with hea-

daches to seek the help of a chiropractor. The Canadian Chiropractic Association notes that chiropractic care has been found to be an effective means to treating cervicogenic and tension headaches. Chiropractors may employ various treatments, including soft tissue therapy and acupuncture, to alleviate headache pain. · Lower back pain: Chiropractic care has long been looked

to as a means to alleviating lower back pain. The experts at Duke Health note that chiropractors may employ spinal manipulation to treat back pain before offering additional advice, including selfcare recommendations, to help patients avoid recurrence. Manual manipulation to improve movement in the spine may be part of chiropractic treatment of lower back pain. · Neck pain: Chiropractors also can help treat neck pain.

Many people experience limited mobility in their neck and/or soreness or joint pain in this area. A subluxation is a slight misalignment of the vertebrae that can contribute to pain, stiffness and reduced function in the neck.

Chiropractic care works to restore vertebra to the correct position with the hopes that such a restoration will alleviate pain and improve mobility and function.

Chiropractic care can be an invaluable solution when individuals suffer from aches, pains and creaks that can affect the human body over time.

Clean teeth could translate to clean arteries METRO CREATIVE

The mouth and the heart are tied in a unique way. Good oral health that aims to prevent gum disease has the potential to positively impact heart health. The Cleveland Clinic points to research that brushing one’s teeth may promote a healthier heart as well as healthier teeth. Although taking care of oral health will not eliminate the risk for heart issues down the line, some studies have found that people with gum disease may be twice as likely to have a heart attack or a stroke.

But why? Gum disease is linked to increased inflammation in the entire body, according to the ex-

perts. When combined with factors like high cholesterol and diabetes, gum-related inflammation can contribute to the development of blockages in the arteries. Gum disease also serves as a portal to where bacteria can enter the bloodstream. Research has found the same bacteria from common oral infections in plaques and blockages in the heart arteries. Bacteria from the mouth also may enter and attack artificial heart valves. Brushing and flossing teeth at least twice a day and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups can safeguard teeth and the heart.

10 HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY | OCTOBER 28, 2025

Lifestyle choices that can affect liver health

METRO CREATIVE

The choices people make have a far-reaching impact. The consequences of some decisions are apparent almost immediately, while other choices may not produce noticeable results for years to come.

In regard to liver health, today’s choices may not have an immediate impact but will have a significant impact over the long haul. The American Liver Foundation notes the liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body, playing a notable role in natural detoxification and metabolism, among other important functions. With so much to gain from a healthy liver, it’s worthwhile for anyone to learn the lifestyle choices that can affect the long-term health of this highly important organ. · Excessive alcohol consumption: The ALF notes that excessive alcohol consumption can increase risk for a range of health conditions that can lead to liver damage. Hepatitis, cirrhosis and steatotic liver disease, which was once known as fatty liver disease, are all potential byproducts of overconsumption of alcohol. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that “heavy drinking” is characterized by four or more drinks on any day or eight or more per week for women, and five or more drinks on any day or 15 or more per week for men.

The NIAAA reports heavy drinking is more common than many people may realize, with studies from the group suggesting as many as 50 percent of adults who drink engage in binge drinking. · Movement: It’s easy to think of behaviors like excessive drinking that have a negative impact on liver health, but it’s equally important that people recognize the positive impact that certain lifestyle choices can have on their livers. The ALF notes that a physically active lifestyle in which adults get the recommended 150 minutes of mode-

rate aerobic activity each week can improve liver health over time. Walking and cycling are two examples of accessible aerobic activities that adults can engage in to promote long-term liver health. · Dietary decisions: The foods people eat have a profound effect on their short- and longterm health, and those choices affect the liver as well. When people consume an excessive amount of calories, the body converts some of those calories into fat, which might then be stored in the liver. When that occurs, a person’s risk for steatotic

Did You Know?

The popularity of vegan diets is on the rise as people increasingly turn to plant-based eating. According to Soylent, a soy-based meal replacement beverage company, the number of vegans exceeded 9.7 million in the United States in 2019. Projections estimate that by 2040, only 40 percent of the global population will continue to eat meat.

liver disease increases. The ALF urges individuals to choose healthy, liver-friendly fats when planning their diets. Fatty fish such as salmon, nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil contain liver-friendly fats, while foods such as red meat, dairy products like butter and cheese, and desserts like ice cream can compromise liver health.

Lifestyle choices go a long way toward determining liver health. Adults concerned about the health of their livers are urged to embrace various lifestyle choices that can have a positive impact on this vital organ.

OCTOBER 28,2025 | HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY 11

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Common health issues affecting women METRO CREATIVE

Preventive health care is a multifaceted approach that aims to keep people healthy and reduce their risk for various diseases and conditions. Health education is one facet of preventive health care that can be easily overlooked, particularly by busy adults juggling an assortment of responsibilities.

Health education includes recognition of various conditions that pose a threat to individuals.

Women can do their best to learn about issues that commonly affect them with a goal of taking steps to reduce their risk for various diseases and conditions.

Northwestern Medicine® reports that the following are some of the most common health issues affecting women today. · Heart disease: It’s common to view heart disease as a killer of men, but women should know it’s the No. 1 cause of death for women. Menopause does not cause heart disease, but certain risk factors for heart disease, including high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels and

lower levels of estrogen, are more common in post-menopausal women. · Stroke: Both men and women might be shocked to learn that more women die from stroke than men. Difficulty with speech and numbness of the arms and legs are prominent symptoms of stroke. · Diabetes: Women with diabetes have a four times greater risk for heart disease than women who do not have diabetes. Making an effort to maintain a healthy weight and committing to

routine exercise can lower risk for type 2 diabetes. Quitting smoking also lowers a woman’s risk for diabetes. · Urinary tract infections: Females have shorter urethra than males do at birth. A shorter urethra means bacteria does not have to travel as far to reach the bladder, and UTIs are caused by germs that enter the urethra and multiply. Frequent urination, painful urination and cloudy urine are common symptoms of UTIs.

· Breast cancer: Breast cancer is the most common form of the disease in women. Women in the United States have a 13 percent chance of developing breast cancer, and that risk may be even higher for women living outside the U.S. Age-based screening and healthy lifestyle choices like exercising and avoiding tobacco can help women in the fight against breast cancer. · Alzheimer’s disease: More than two-thirds of the six million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease are women.

Women historically have lived longer than men, but researchers are exploring if that is the only reason for the disparity between rates of Alzheimer’s in women compared to men. A healthy diet and routine physical activity are some of the ways to promote brain health and potentially reduce Alzheimer’s risk.

Recognition of risk for specific diseases can be a vital component of preventive health care that encourages women to take steps that can decrease the chances they develop various conditions.

Strategies to manage and tame stress METRO CREATIVE

Stress is a part of life. In small doses, stress can have a positive effect. But when stress is chronic, it can take its toll on the body and mind.

Stress can make people irritable and cause them to lash out at others. Stress also can contribute to high blood pressure and adversely affect sleep. When confronting chronic stress, individuals may have to take action to find relief. These stress-busting strategies can help. · Engage in physical activity.

The Mayo Clinic says any form of exercise can help relieve stress.

Physical activity boosts chemicals in the brain and endorphins

that help a person feel good.

Exercise also can refocus attention so a person is not preoccupied with a stressful thought or situation. · Listen to music. Music can be calming and serve as a distraction from stressful feelings. Simply listening to music can be a quick fix for a stressful situation and a bad mood. · Review your lifestyle. It’s easy to take on too much, but doing so can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, says the Mental Health Foundation. Prioritizing some things over others and delegating when possible can tame stress. · Practice mindfulness. Brea-

thing and mindfulness exercises can be practiced anywhere. Research has shown that mindfulness can reduce the effects of stress and anxiety. Deep breathing and being in a quiet moment when stress peaks may help to reduce stress. · Step away for a few minutes. If possible, step away from a stressful situation, whether it is a difficult project at work or a loud room with a lot of activity going on. Many people find commuting stressful. Changing the route to one that avoids busy roads, even if it takes a bit longer to get from point A to point B, might help. · Talk it out. Sometimes

connecting with others and sharing experiences can help to relieve stress. Keeping feelings in and fixating on a situation may exacerbate feelings of stress. Social situations that encourage talking and laughing can lighten a person’s mental load, says the Mayo Clinic. · Don’t turn to substances.

Alcohol and drugs may temporarily relieve stress, but this approach can lead to addiction and even worsen the physical and mental toll stress takes on the body.

Stress is a part of life, but finding ways to manage chronic stress is vital to long-term health.

OCTOBER 28,2025 | HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY 13

The truth on orthodontic care

Notable threats to longterm hearing METRO CREATIVE

METRO CREATIVE

Families often are introduced to orthodontic care when children are examined and then referred to an orthodontist by the family dentist. Orthodontics focuses on correcting misaligned jaws and teeth, known as malocclusion. This improves appearance and also is essential for health and proper oral function.

WHO NEEDS AN ORTHODONTIST?

The Cleveland Clinic says a person may have to see an orthodontist if they have crooked, overlapped, twisted, or gapped teeth. Misaligned teeth can have a significant effect on oral health. Teeth that are not straight can increase risk for cavities, gum disease and tooth erosion.

While many orthodontic issues are addressed in childhood, adults also can benefit from consultation with an orthodontist. Smile Central Dental says 50 to 70 percent of children and adolescents are expected to need orthodontic treatment. According to Humana, 25 percent of the more than four million Americans wearing braces are adults.

HOW ARE MISALIGNED TEETH FIXED?

Orthodontists employ various techniques to realign teeth. Although braces are the most familiar orthodontic appliances, retainers, clear aligners, elastics, and palate expanders also are used to move the teeth and jaw.

Braces and clear aligners gradually shift the teeth into desired positions over time using gentle force. Braces are not removable,

while aligners have a series of removable trays that are worn for one or two weeks before switching them out for the next set. Retainers are custom oral appliances designed to keep teeth from drifting out of proper position after braces or aligners are no longer needed. It is essential to wear a retainer religiously to prevent teeth from shifting back into the original position.

Palate expanders are used to widen a child’s upper jaw while they are still developing. These devices can create some extra space in the mouth without having to remove teeth or undergo other procedures.

WHEN SHOULD A CHILD SEE AN ORTHODONTIST?

Unless a dentist refers a child earlier, the American Association of Orthodontists says children should have their first orthodontic visit no later than age seven. Most will not need treatment at this age, but it’s often good for an early visit to understand if and when orthodontic care may be necessary.

WHAT ELSE CAN WE EXPECT?

In many cases, orthodontic care cannot commence until all permanent teeth are in place.

Orthodontists also may recommend having some tooth extractions done prior to braces placement to create more room to shift teeth. Therefore, a visit to an oral surgeon also may be part of a care plan.

Orthodontic care is required for a great number of people to help improve smiles, bites and general health.

Hearing is easily taken for granted. Many people never experience issues with their hearing until it begins to decline in their golden years. But no one is immune to hearing loss, and estimates indicate it could be come a significant issue over the next quarter century.

A 2025 report from the World Health Organization noted that nearly 2.5 billion people are projected to have some type of hearing loss by 2050, with more than 700 million requiring hearing rehabilitation. Perhaps the most troubling part of the WHO forecast is that more than one billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss. Though such projections are disconcerting, people are not helpless against hearing loss. In fact, recognition of various threats to long-term hearing can be a great first step toward protecting against hearing loss.

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

When engaging in recreational activities, it’s easy to forget cautionary measures, including the need to protect one’s hearing. But that can lead to irreparable hearing loss. Various recreational activities pose a threat to long-term hearing if the right safety measures are not taken before engaging in them. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders notes the following activities can threaten hearing if the proper safety precautions are not taken: · Target shooting · Hunting

· Snowmobile riding · Listening to music on high volume through earbuds and headphones · Playing in a band · Attending loud concerts

AROUND THE HOUSE

It’s also easy to encounter harmful noises around the home, and even brief or sporadic exposure to such noises can pose a threat to long-term hearing. The NIDCD reports that some common noises around a home that pose a threat to hearing include: · Lawnmowers · Leaf blowers · Power tools

AVOIDING HEARING LOSS

One potential motivator in relation to hearing loss prevention is recognition of the average decibel levels of everyday sounds compared to the decibel levels of less common noises. For example, listening to music through headphones at maximum volume can be as high as 110 A-weighted decibels (dBA), which is just 30 decibels lower than some fireworks shows and roughly the same as police sirens. The NIDCD also notes that an individual’s distance from the sound and the length of time they’re exposed to the sound are important variables to consider when trying to avoid hearing loss. The further away from a loud noise and the less a person is exposed to loud noises can protect hearing.

Individuals encounter threats to their long-term hearing every day. More information about protecting against hearing loss can be found at nidcd.nih.gov.

14 HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY | OCTOBER 28, 2025

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