Healt hy Lif Li f e
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aintaining good health is a key priority in today’s society. New medical research, various fitness programs and diets are introduced daily to help achieve those goals. Inside is information from area health care providers and other information designed to make a “Healthy Life” part of your everyday routine.
A special supplement to the
Journal-Times and the
The Morehead News Wednesday, June 27, 2018
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HEALTHY LIFE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 • JOURNAL-TIMES • THE MOREHEAD NEWS
OLBH Intr Introduces o oduc es Spiritual Car C e Care P artnerrs; Partners; E Enr ro ollment Op pen No w Enrollment Open Now
OLBH W Women’s om men’s C enter the e Firs Center Firstt in K entucky tto o Off er Kentucky Offer A utomated d Br east Automated Breast Ultr asound d Ultrasound The The Our Lady off Bellefonte Bellefonte Hospital (OLBH) Women’s (OLBH) Women’s Center Center has added autoautomated ma ted br breast east ultr ultrasound aso ound ssystem ystem (ABUS) tto o screen screen for for canc cancer er in women women with dense breast br east tissue. tissue. OLBH iss the first first in Kentucky Kentucky tto o offer offer ABUS, also known known as whole breast breast ultrasound. ultr asound. Annual scr screenings eenings are are the bes bestt way way to to diagnose br breast east can cancer ncer early, early, yet yet densdenser breast breast tis tissue sue can n hide cancer cancer during mammograms. mammogr ams. T The he pr problem oblem is two-fold two-fold as women women with denser densser breast breast tissue tissue have have an increased increased risk of breast breast cancer. cancer. Whole Whole breast br east ultrasound ultrasound utilizes utilizes hundreds hundreds of imimages tak taken en in slic slices es th that hat allo allow w a rradiologist adiologist tto o look ffor or canc cancers ers in la layers yers of dense tis tissue. sue. ABUS, in tandem with witth a mammogram, mammogram, ofofffers ers a better b tter chance bett chanc h e to to diagnose di cancer cancer in i its earliest, earliest, most most treatable treatable t sstage. tage. “We’re “W e’re all made diff different, fferent, and the same holds true ffor or breasts breasts as many many women women have have breasts br easts that that ar are ee extremely xtremely e dense and pose a challenge for for traditional traditional mammography,” mammography,” said OLBH Director Directorr of Radiology T Terri erri Hannon.. In the United percent Hannon United e States, States, 40 per cent of women women have have dense densse breasts. breasts. “For “For these women, ABUS is something som mething just just for for them women, that that only OLBH off offers erss in this ar area,” ea,” Hannon said. “The “The ultrasound ultrasound can be used in comcombination bination with mammo mammography ography tto o scr screen een the breast breast for for breast breast cancers can ncers that that cannot be felt felt on physical physical examination exam mination or cannot be seen with mammography mammograph a y alone alone.” .” The The new new ultrasound ultrasoun nd system system for for dense breast breast tissue tissue is just just the latest latest advanceadvancement available available at at the OLBH Women’s Women’s Center. Center. Recently, Recently, the e center center added both 3-D mammography mammography and patient-assisted patient-assisted compression. compression. Since Since opening opening a decade ago, ago, the OLBH Women’s Women’s Center, Center, located located on the ground ground floor of Bellefonte Belllefonte Centre Centre (1000 Ashland Drive), Drive), has combined combined o breast breast health services services in one location, loca ation, eliminating eliminating the necessity necessity for for multiple multiple appointments and prolonged prolonged waiting waiting for for o women. women. The The OLBH Women’s Women’s Center Center offers offers e both 2-D and 3-D mammography mammogr g aph p y with h same-day same-day rresults, esults,, breast breast ultrasound, ultrasound, minimally min nimally invasive invasive breast breast biopsy, biopsy, a DEXA DEXA densitometer densiitometer tto o scr screen een ffor or bone density, density, genetic testing, testing, clinical breast breast
ABUS Whole Wh hole Breast Breasst Ultrasound Ultrra asound exams, a women’s exams, women’s health h library, library, the OLBH Women’s W omen’s Center Center Boutique Boutique and a breast breast health navigator navigator tto o guide e patients patients and famfamilies through through the process. process. s T To o schedule an appointment appoin ntment at at the OLBH Women’s W omen’s Center Center call (606) 836-PINK (7465). (7 7465). 4 F For or mor more e inf information orm mation c concerning oncerning Bon Sec Secours ours or OLBH, visit BonSec BonSecours. ours. c com. om.
Our Lady of Bellefonte Bellefonte Hospital Ho ospital (OLBH) (OLBH) is introducing inttroducing a fr free ee spiritual training t aining program tr program for forr members of local congregations congreg gations int interested erested in providing providing emotional and spiritual support to to OLBH’ OLBH’ss pa patient tient popula population. tio on. T The he ffocus ocus of OLBH OL LBH Spiritual Care Care Partners Partne ers is to to develop develop bedside be edside ministry ministry skills and to to foster foster personal and an nd spiritual development. development. OLBH Spiritual Care Care Partners Partne ers is an int intensive ensive 10-week, 10-week, 80-hour course course that tha at will debut this fall. fall. The The program program requires requiress enrollees enrollees have have a flexible flexible schedule during the t 10 weeks weeks of training. training. a After After c completing ompleting the th he program program each participant pa articipant will be scheduled schedule ed for for four four hours per pe er week week of volunteer volunteer ministry miinistry to to OLBH patients pa atients and ffamily amily member members. rs. Enr Enrollment ollment ffor or the e ffall all class class is open. RSVPs RSVP Ps are are requested requested by by June 30. 30. To To RSVP, RSVP P, call (6 (606) 06) 833-3579 833-3579 or (606) (606) 833-3339. 833-3339.
OLBH H Women’s Women’s C Center en nter Adds Mammography; A dd 3 dds 3-D DM Mammogr a hy; aph New Offers Ne w System System Off ers Patient-Assisted Compression Patient-As A sisted C omp pression Bon Sec ours Kentucky Kentuc cky Health System System has Secours three-dimensiional mammography mammography added three-dimensional at the Our Ou ur Lady of Bellefonte Bellefonte capabilities at Hospital (OLBH) (OLBH) Women’s Women’ o s Center. Center. The The new new mammography mammography equipment fr from om GE also ffeatures eatures Pris Pristina stina Dueta, the firs firstt system system tha thatt allo allows ws ffor or pa patient-assisted tient-assisted compression compression during a mammogram. mammogram. The T he OLBH Women’s Wom men’s Center’s Center’s new new imaging system system creates creates a thr threeeedimensional picture picture of the breast breast using X-rays. X-rays. Low-doses Low-doses of of radiation radiation are are used to to capture capture images from frrom different different angles around around the br breast east tto o cr c create eate the 3-D image image.. A conventional conventional ti l mammogram mam mmogram creates creates a two-dimensional two-dimensional image imag ge of the breast breast from from two two X X-ray -ray images of each br breast. east. S Studies tudies have have indicated indicated 3-D mammograms mammograms find more more cancers cancers than the th he traditional traditional method while also reducing reducing the number of false false positives. positives. In addition to to supe superior erior imaging quality and diagnostic diagnostic capabilities, capab bilities, mammograms mammograms at at the OLBH W Women’s omen’s C Center enter ar are e no now we even ven more more comfortable comfortable thanks tha anks to to Pristina Pristina Dueta, a patient-assisted patient-assisted c compression ompression de device. vice.
Studies Studies rrevealed evealed that t t 80 per tha percent cent of women who utilized utilized women patient-assisted compression reported reported a more more comfortable comfortable exam exam because b of the sense of control control they they had over over their mammograms. mammograms. “When “When a woman woman has control control of her exam, exam, it leads to to less less anxiety for for the patient p tient and bett pa better er rresults esu ults because a more m e relaxed mor relaxed patient patient will provide provide us with more m e breast mor breast tissue tissue imaged,” imaged,” said OLBH Director Di ecttor off Radiology D Dir R di l Terri Ter errii Hannon. H “We “We receive receive comparable comparable images ima ages to to those mammograms m mammogr ams where where our ou ur technologists technologists are a e controlling ar controlling the entire entire exam, exam, with the t added-advantage added-advantage of o the patient patient minimizing m any any perceived perceived discomfort. discomfort. It’s It’s a real real game-changer in mammography.” mam mmography.” Women Women can schedule a mammogram mammogram at at the OLBH W Women’s omen’s C Center enter b by y calling (606) ( 836-PINK (7465) (7 74 465) or o online utilizing MyChart, M which can be be accessed accessed at at BonSecours.com. B BonSec ours.com.
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WAIT, W A AIT, WHAT? W AT? WHA T Forty rty per percent cent of w women omen ha have ve dense breasts, mostt don’t kno know br easts, but mos k w it. Unfortunately, dense breast tissue increases ly y, dens e br east tis sue incr e eases a woman’ss risk of breast cancer makes es of br east canc er and mak detection more difficult. early l de d etection i mor e difficu diffi ult. l Our O Lady off Bellef Bellefonte Hospital onte Hospita al is the only ffacility Kentucky offer a acility in K entucky tto o off er advanced cancer screening, adv anced e ABUS canc er scr eening, specifically designed specific cally ffor or women breasts. w omen with dense br b easts. To more, T o find out mo re, visit BonSecours.com BonSec ours.com m or call (606) 836-PINK (7 ((7465). 465).
OLBH Women’s O Women’s Center Center d Drive Drive 1000 Ashland
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HEALTHY LIFE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 • JOURNAL-TIMES • THE MOREHEAD NEWS
Take a proactive approach to relieving stress Stress affects people from all walks of life, and the causes of stress are as varied as the people it afflicts. In its 2017 Stress in AmericaTM survey, the American Psychological Association found that the three most common sources of stress were the future of the nation (63%), money (62%) and work (61%). According to the National Institute of Mental Health, routine stress that becomes chronic can result in a host of negative side effects. Such stress can suppress the immune system, disrupt digestion and have an adverse effect on sleep. But men and women who feel stressed at the end of each day need not resign themselves to sleepless nights and/or weakened immune systems. A proactive approach to alleviating stress during the day can help men and women reduce their stress levels and avoid the negative side effects associated with chronic stress. Taking a break from a stressor is one of a handful of healthy techniques that research has indicated is a successful way to reduce stress, both in the short and longterm. If a project at work is proving especially stressful, step away for a short period of time to do something else, whether it’s to go for a brief walk or converse with a coworker about something unrelated to the project.
Avoiding the stress entirely, especially if it’s a work project or a bill that must be paid, is not the answer. But a short break from the stressor and thinking about it can provide a new perspective and time to calm down. When stressed out, men and women should not discount the potential benefits of meditation. Researchers from Johns Hopkins University examined more than 19,000 meditation studies, ultimately concluding that mindful meditation can ease stresses like anxiety, depression and pain. The APA notes that such meditation has been found to reap immediate benefits, potentially helping people who can find time to meditate during the day to prevent their stress from accumulating throughout a hectic workday. Find time to exercise. The APA notes that research continues to support the notion that exercise is as beneficial to the mind as it is to the body. Exercising several days per week is especially beneficial to mind and body, but even 20-minute exercise sessions, including a walk around the grounds of an office complex or a quick swim during a lunch break, in the midst of stressful days can help people combat stress for several hours afterward. Delegate more during the day. As metioned above, work is the third-leading
source of stress among Americans. Men and women who feel overworked may benefit by delegating more tasks during their days or simply stepping back and taking on less work. The potential effects on your career of taking on less work will likely pale in comparison to the toll chronic stress,
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which can contribute to heart disease and stroke, takes on your body. Stress is a part of daily life for many people. But there are several simple and quick ways for stressed out men and women to reduce their stress during the day.
A proactive approach to alleviating stress during the day can help men and women reduce their stress levels and avoid the negative side effects associated with chronic stress.
Take a proactive approach to relieving stress Allergy symptoms are a result of a person’s immune system overreacting to something that is harmless to most people but sparks a reaction in
people sensitive to the trigger. Some symptoms of allergic reactions, such as sneezing, are widely known. But people may be surprised to discover
A proactive approach to alleviating stress during the day can help men and women reduce their stress levels and avoid the negative side effects associated with chronic stress.
some of the other common allergy symptoms. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) , a host of physical symptoms are indicative of allergic reactions. Wheezing, shortness of breath could indicate telltale signs of asthma, but such symptoms also may be indicative of an allergic reaction. The ACAAI recommends people see an allergist if they develop unexplained wheezing that keeps returning or if the wheezing occurs alongside symptoms like rapid breathing or difficulty taking in air. Wheezing that appears after a person is stung by an insect, takes a medication or eats something he or she is allergic to is symptomatic of an allergic reaction and requires immediate medical attention. The appearance of a dry, persistent cough may indicate an allergy. Coughs are often a byproduct of a cold or flu, but such coughs tend to taper off after a few days. Chronic dry coughs that linger for more than three weeks may indicate the presence of an allergy. Allergy-related coughs may be more prevalent during certain times of year or in certain environments. The ACAAI notes that chronic dry cough has been linked to allergies such as hay fever and may indicate an allergy to pet dander, dust, pollen, or mold. Though few people associate headaches with allergies, some headaches can be allergy-related. According to the ACAAI, sinus headaches and migraines have been linked to allergies. Sinus headaches may be characterized by localized pain over the sinus area and/or pain in the face that may or may not be accompanied by a headache. A throbbing pain on one side of the head indicates a migraine, the symptoms of which may worsen when exposed to light. Among the more painful allergy symptoms, headaches should be discussed with an allergist. Nausea and vomiting may be a byproduct of food allergies. Seasonal allergies rarely, if ever, lead to nausea or vomiting. However, when a person eats a food he or she is allergic to, the immune system reacts to this allergy in much the same way it does to allergies like hay fever, releasing a chemical called histamine. When a person is dealing with seasonal allergies, the histamine his or her body releases can cause sneezing, runny nose or other symptoms. Allergies affect people in every corner of the globe. But by recognizing symptoms of allergies willn help people combat them more effectively.
Summer’s heat can be dangerous For many people, summertime is synonymous with trips to the beach, water sports and recreation. Even though summer warmth is a welcome break from winter weather for many people, heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities, resulting in hundreds of deaths each year in the United States alone. Ensuring summer recreation plans remain enjoyable means keeping an eye out for heat-related illnesses and other dangers. Hot cars can be traps. It is never safe to leave a pet, child, elderly person, or disabled individual locked in a car. Temperatures can climb rapidly inside of a sealed vehicle, even if the windows are cracked. Pay attention and listen to or read weather forecasts to stay abreast of potential temperature changes as well
as the heat index. Discuss safety precautions with members of the family and make sure everyone knows what to do in an emergency. Stock up on fluids. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, even if you are not thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine. Make sure the elderly also get plenty of water, as they often do not recognize dehydration as readily as others. Limit strenuous activities and reschedule outdoor activities if there is a heat wave, or move them to cooler times of the day. Spend the hottest portion of the day, usually between noon and 3 p.m., in the shade or inside in the air conditioning. People on job sites should take more frequent breaks and find shade whenever possible during these hours. Change your clothes. Loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored cloth-
ing will help keep you cool. Avoid dark colors when spending time in the sun. Recognize distress signals. Heat stress, exhaustion and heat stroke progress as symptoms worsen. Nausea, weakness, elevated body temperature, clammy skin, confusion, and delirium are some of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Find ways to stay cool. Not everyone has air conditioning. On especially warm days, going to public places with air conditioning, such as libraries, can help. Be sure to check on the elderly or others who may have difficulty finding cool places to spend their day. Days in the sun are meant to be fun, but hot days also require extreme caution. Ensuring summer recreation plans remain enjoyable means keeping an eye out for heat-related illnesses and other dangers.
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HEALTHY LIFE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 • JOURNAL-TIMES • THE MOREHEAD NEWS
Herbal remedies can be viable health tool Herbal remedies may be used to treat symptoms of many conditions and can often be a viable tool in an overall health plan. But there is a dearth of research evaluating the use of herbal medicines, particularly in clinical trial. However, The Mayo Clinic says about one-half of adults in the United States reports having used at least one dietary supplement in the previous month, though research indicates that only about 34 percent of people who take herbal supplements tell their doctors about it, even those who are taking a prescription medication. Just because a substance is naturally derived does not make it entirely safe to use in all instances. In fact, many herbs can interact poorly with other drugs. According to an article titled “Use of Herbal Medicines and Implications for Conventional Drug Therapy Medical Sciences,” although many benefits can be derived from the use of herbs, potential areas of concern include possible product contamination and/or adulterations, potential toxicity and high potential of known and unknown drug/herb interactions. Herbal medicines are not standardized and monitored like prescription and overthe-counter medication, so safe use cannot be guaranteed. The information provided here should not replace the advice of a qualified physician. However, these are some known medication-herbal interactions that can occur. Heart health Several popular supplements, including Coenzyme Q-10, St. John’s Wort and Danshen, can interact with common heart medications. It is important to read how
these herbs can interact with Warfarin, cording to Drugs.com. calcium channel blockers, anticoagulants, and digoxin, among others. Interactions Colds and respiratory health can include everything from reductions in Historically, goldenseal has been used drug efficacy to increased risk of bleeding for various health conditions of the skin, to irregular heartbeat, states the Mayo ulcers and respiratory infections. Clinic. Goldenseal is a potent inhibitor of liver enzymes. A 2012 review from the Women’s health National Institutes of Health found that Women who are going through goldenseal has a high herb-drug interacmenopause and have experienced hot tion risk. flashes, painful menstruation and other Mental well-being vaginal conditions may take black cohosh. But there is concern that black cohosh Herbal remedies may help people treat may enhance liver toxicity when taken anxiety, insomnia and depression. Kava with certain medications, such as astorand St. John’s Wort are two herbs used vastatin, acetaminophen and alcohol, acfor these conditions.
There is some evidence that use of kava while taking CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines and sedation drugs, can increase risk of drowsiness and motor reflex depression, says NIH. St. John’s Wort has many documented significant interactions with oral contraceptives, coumadin, immunosuppressant drugs, and benzodiazepines, among others. Taking St. John’s Wort in conjunction with other antidepressants can lead to serotonin-related side effects. Although herbs can be used successfully, caution is needed when combining them with other medications. They should be treated just as any drug and discussed with a medical professional or pharmacist prior to use.
Herbal remedies may be used to treat symptoms of many conditions and can often be a viable tool in an overall health plan. But there is a dearth of research evaluating the use of herbal medicines, particularly in clinical trial.
Make sure you medicine cabinet is up to date Even though you may see your doctor or specialist on a regular basis to make sure your body stays healthy, your medicine cabinet needs the same regular check ups by deposing of expired or unsafe medicines. Even though people may be quick to toss out expired foods or even clean closets of ill-fitting clothing, few individuals exercise such diligence with their medicine cabinets. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says the medicine expiration date is critical when determining if a product is safe to use and will work as intended. Medications past their expira-
tion date may not be as strong as intended, and even their chemical composition may change, making them risky to keep Furthermore, keeping too many medications in a home particularly pain prescriptions can lead to misuse and abuse, as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration says that rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States have risen considerably in recent years. Some old medications, such as children’s cough and cold products, may no longer be recommended for certain ages. Having such medications in the house could prove harmful.
Taking inventory and cleaning out medicine cabinets frees up space and creates a safe home environment.
medicines. The best way to do so is to bring the medication to a pharmacy for disposal rather than throwing it in the garbage or flushing medicines down the toilet. Discard any unmarked containers or pill foils that are not in their original packaging. Test any medical devices, such as a nebulizer, blood pressure monitor and glucose testing equipment to ensure they are in working order. Replenish commonly used You should toss away any ex- items, such as fever reducers or pired products, whether they are headache medicines. Make sure prescription or over-the-counter there is a supply of bandages and
first aid equipment on hand at all times. Relocate medical supplies to an area that isn’t high in humidity, as steam from showers can speed up the expiration of medication. Storing medicines in the refrigerator won’t help, as that is a high-humidity area, too. Checking medications and removing expired products from the house can prevent accidents related to medications and ensure that all medicines in the house are as effective as possible.
Improving personal health starts with your digestive system You are what you eat is a familiar adage that bears some truth. Research consistently points to specific functional components of foods and beverages that may improve overall health. Eating a diet that includes foods from all the major food groups and maintaining an optimally functioning digestive system are keys to a healthy lifestyle. But people may be able to do even more. Digestive aids can provide the extra boost necessary to achieve a healthy gut and are supplements that can enhance the enzymes and functions of the body, aiding in the digestion of food. Some aids may help reduce gas, bloating and flatulence, while others may boost the health of digestive flora or reduce constipation. Here are some of the digestive helpers that people may consider.
Maintaining a healthy gut can improve an individual’s overall health.
essentially the food necessary for probiotics to thrive. Prebiotics are natural, nondigestible food components that help promote the growth of helpful gut bacteria. Prebiotics are different forms of fiber from foods like bananas, skins of apples, beans, chicory root, and more. The undigested prebiotic is fermented by the time it reaches the large intestine and colon and feeds the probiotics to increase the desireable bacteria in the gut.
Stomach soothers Certain foods and beverages are purported to help calm digestive problems like upset stomach, nausea and colic. Chamomile is widely used for multiple ailments, and ginger is used in a similar way and can be used to make teas or consumed after a meal to alleviate stomach ache. More research is needed, but there is evidence that the supplement L-glutamine Probiotics may help relieve diarrhea and help people The Mayo Clinic says that probiotics absorb nutrients more effectively. The reare a type of “good” bacteria that can help source Healthline also adds that L-glutawith digestion and offer protection from mine may help with irritable bowel harmful bacteria. Probiotics work in consyndrome, or IBS. Tissues in the intestine cert with other good bacteria already in the use this amino acid as a fuel source to body. function well. L-glutamine also appears to Probiotics are found in many fermented have a role in maintaining proper barriers foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut and kefir, within the intestine. and can be found in concentrated supplement form. Bulk fibers Two of the most common and wellIn addition to the fiber of prebiotics, known probiotics bacteria are lactobacillus bulk fibers such as psyllium and whole and bifidobacterium. According to Prebigrains can be key to healthy stools. Fiber otin, a prebiotic manufacturer, bifidobacte- absorbs water in the intestines and makes ria fight harmful bacteria in the intestines, stool bulky and easier to pass. prevent constipation and give the immune Individuals are urged to discuss any posystem a boost. tential plans to supplement their diets with digestive aids with a doctor before starting Prebiotics a new therapy. Prebiotics sound similar to probiotics, but they are quite different. Prebiotics are
HEALTHY LIFE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 • JOURNAL-TIMES • THE MOREHEAD NEWS
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Three simple ways to a healthier heart Heart disease is a formidable foe. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for approximately 800,000 deaths every year. Canada notes that heart disease is the second leading cause of death in that country, annually accounting for tens of thousands of deaths. Canada’s population is slightly more than one-tenth the population of the United States. While heart disease exacts a devastating toll on the United States and Canada, its reach extends far beyond North America, as the American College of Cardiology notes that cardiovascular disease accounts for 31 percent of all deaths across the globe. In spite of the prevalence of heart disease, men and women are not helpless against it. In fact, there are many ways for men and women to reduce their risk for heart disease. One is to maintain a healthy weight. The American Heart Association reports that between 60 and 70 percent of Americans are overweight or obese. Carrying around extra weight takes a toll on the body, increasing a person’s
risk for heart disease and stroke. Overweight or obese men and women can work with their physicians to develop a plan for effective, long-term weight loss, a plan that will likely include a combination of diet and routine exercise. Understand and manage blood pressure as the AHA notes that high blood pressure, a common condition affecting roughly one in three Americans. High blood pressure is often referred to as “the silent killer” because it does not necessarily produce symptoms. Blood pressure measures the force pushing outward on the walls of blood vessels as they carry blood oxygen to the body’s organs, and the force created as the heart rests between beats. Over time, the arterial walls of people with high blood pressure may become stressed and develop weak spots or scarring that makes them vulnerable to the buildup of plaque. Plaque buildup can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke. Blood pressure can rise as a person ages, so managing blood pressure involves routinely checking it and making certain changes, such as eating healthier foods and exercising more often, if it is high.
bat it can be found at vegetables and whole grains Control your cholesterol www.heart.org. and low in animal products levels as high levels of lowA more thorough and decan provide a simple way for density lipoprotein, often retailed plan to lower cholesferred to as “bad” cholesterol, men and women to lower terol levels should be their cholesterol. can increase a person’s risk discussed with a physician. More information about for heart disease. The AHA notes that excessive amounts heart disease and how to comof cholesterol can be deposited into the arteries as plaque. When that happens, it leads to a condition known as atherosclerosis, or a narrowing of the inside of the artery walls. That narrowing leads to an increased risk for heart attack and stroke. Men and women should get their cholesterol levels checked at least once every four to six years beginning at age 20. Men and women who have been diagnosed with high cholesterol should recognize that cholesterol is only found in animal products, so a diet that is In spite of the prevalence of heart disease, men and women are not helpless against it. In fact, checking your blood pressure regularly is one of many ways to reduce rich in fruits, the risk for heart disease.
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 • JOURNAL-TIMES • THE MOREHEAD NEWS
HEALTHY LIFE
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HEALTHY LIFE
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 • JOURNAL-TIMES • THE MOREHEAD NEWS
Preventing & Detecting Skin Cancer Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is the most important preventable risk factor for skin cancer. The following tips can help you protect yourself and your family from skin cancer. Seek Shade Find a shady spot while enjoying the great outdoors, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. No shade available? Create your own with an umbrella. Sunscreen You should use an SPF over 30. Look for the words “broad-spectrum protection” on the label. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Use at least one ounce of sunscreen to cover exposed areas of the body. Be sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Clothing Use a hat to protect your scalp, neck and face. Long sleeves and pants will also give you more pro-
How prepared are you for your child’s next ‘ouch’? From bike accidents to poison ivy, summer fun can mean more mishaps. Make sure you’re ready for emergencies by creating your own personalized first aid kit for your family. “Every parent knows that when their child is sick or hurt, the last thing you want is to be unprepared,” said St. Claire Pediatrics provider Tabitha Sims, APRN. Here are her recommendations on what you should keep in your personalized first aid kit to be prepared for the next ouch that occurs. “A kit that is tailored to your family’s needs can be a life-saver,” Sims said. “My suggestion would be to start with a store bought kit and add tools and med-
tection. Tight knit clothing is better a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses for blocking UV rays. with UV protection to shade your baby’s face and eyes. Sunscreen Avoid Tanning Beds should be avoided for babies under Tanning beds are no safer than 6 months old if possible. the sun. According to the Skin Children and teens need extra Cancer Foundation, more people sun protection. Just one blistering develop skin cancer because of in- burn as a child or teen nearly doudoor tanning than develop lung bles the risk of getting melanoma, cancer because of smoking. according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Monitor your child’s time in the sun and be sure they are using sunscreen regularly.
Tyler Elam, DO,
St. Claire Family Medicine Morehead – North.
Children Keep infants out of full sun. Dress your baby in lightweight, long sleeved shirts and pants. Use
ications based on the ages and health concerns of your kids.” Every personalized kit should contain the following items. Tools & Sterilizers Scissors, which can be used for cutting gauze or clothing in an emergency. Tweezers, to remove splinters or ticks. A thermometer, a non-glass version, to take a temperature. A flashlight for night time accidents or looking at a sore throat. Rubbing alcohol to sterilize tools and 2 Liter Bottle of Saline to flush debris out of wounds or eyes. A mild liquid soap is useful for cleaning around wounds and pre-made finger splints can be used when unsure if it’s a broken finger
Skin Cancer Detection “Melanoma accounts for about 1% of all skin cancers and it causes most skin cancer deaths. The vast majority of melanomas are caused by the sun,” says Tyler Elam, DO, St. Claire Family Medicine Morehead – North. “Early detection of skin cancer often means more successful treatment. Finding skin cancer early happens through regular skin exams. Have your healthcare provider check your skin annually and you should perform self-exams at home.” “Get to know the spots, freckles and moles on your body so you can note if they change over time,”
until you can get to your provider. Two instant cold packs which are great to use for bruises and sprains. Disposable gloves when dealing with blood. Use a clean towel to create your own triage on the go. Zip lock bags are ideal for holding teeth that fall out or are knocked out. They are also useful for keeping a tick that has been removed. Be sure to save it for identification. Medications & ointments. pain releivers - acetaminophen or ibuprofen and a antihistamine – Benadryl is your first defense against an allergic reaction. If allergies are severe pack a Epipen. To sooth itching from bug bites or rashes use hydrocortisone cream.
Elam suggests. If you have an increased risk of skin cancer, exams should happen more often. People who have had skin cancer before, have a family history of skin cancer or a weakened immune system have an increased risk of skin cancer. What to Look For: Use the ABCDE rule when checking moles:
Remember, only a healthcare provider can diagnose cancer. If you have a mole that displays one or more of the ABCDE characteristics, have it checked.
And rolls and pads of gauze are needed to dress wounds. Adhesive tape to attach the gauze and sterile cotton balls to clean or dry a wound before dressing, as tape won’t stick as well to wet skin. Cotton swabs in your first ad kit can be used to clean the area surrounding a wound, cleaning the external part of the ear or the nose. Pack those all important band-aids for small cuts, scrapes and scratches. An Ace bandage can be used for sprains, strains or to stop bleeding. Make sure to store your first aid kit out of your child’s reach and inform babysitters where you keep the kit. You may want to include contact information for your
family healthcare provider, your local hospital, the poison control centers’ national emergency hotline and local police and fire departments. Travel with your first aid kit or keep an extra kit in your car for injuries away from home. Remember, every situation is different. It is important to know how to treat minor injuries at home as well as when to seek medical attention from a healthcare provider. If you are concerned, call your child’s pediatrician. Looking for a pediatric healthcare provider for your child? Visit www.stclaire.org/appointment to schedule an appointment with a St. Claire Pediatrics.
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HEALTHY LIFE
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018 • JOURNAL-TIMES • THE MOREHEAD NEWS
“St. Claire Surgical Weight Loss has given me a
New Life!”
- Kristin Vinson
Mt. Sterling, KY
Kristin Before Surgery Only six months later, she has lost 72.6 pounds. “I get very emotional when I reflect on what this surgery has done for my life. Due to weight related health problems, I wasn’t able to be as active as I wanted to be as a mother. My son, Kaden, means the world to me and I wanted him to have the mother he deserved. That was my ultimate decision maker to proceed with surgery. Since my surgery, I am now free of hypertension, migraines and sleep apnea! My son and I get to enjoy playing soccer together, go hiking, and just have fun!”
Ready to change your life? Register for a FREE SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS SEMINAR! Visit www.st-claire.org/surgicalweightloss or call 606.356.4814.