ALL OF US AT HARBOR HEALTH HOME CARE WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

ARE YOU AN ADHD ADULT?

 

Oops, forgot to let the dog out. Need to pick up the dry cleaning. Anyone seen my keys? If these scatterbrained thoughts sound like yours, you could be one of an estimated 6-15 million ADHD adults. Learn more about the symptoms of ADHD...

Your inattention and restlessness may not just be your quirky personality. You could have ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), a behavioral disorder that's mostly associated with unruly children. In fact, about 65% of children with ADHD carry the disorder into adulthood, making it an adult problem too. Although ADHD adults may have better coping skills than they had as children, it's still a struggle to get through the day.

Not only does ADHD interfere with organizing and completing daily tasks, but adults with the disorder are also prone to depression, anxiety, forgetfulness, even an increased risk of divorce and car accidents. Even simple duties may demand great concentration and effort. In part, that's because ADHD adults are easily distracted by sound, sight or touch. Whatever the stimulus, they are often knocked off course by even minor distractions.

 

SYMPTOMS OF ADHD: The three main symptoms of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.

 

The symptoms of INATTENTION include:

1. Losing track of thoughts or focus in the middle of tasks

2. Missing details or making careless mistakes

3. Inability to complete work assignments

4. Forgetfulness

5. Difficulty following instructions

 

HYPERACTIVITY symptoms in adults are similar to those in children, but more subtle:

1. Constantly shifting in a chair

2. Tapping your feet or a pencil

3. Playing or tugging at hair or clothing

 

Adults who act IMPULSIVELY can be even more annoying than kids - and potentially dangerous:

1. They ay interrupt constantly or blurt out inappropriate comments

2. They can't stand waiting in lines and may try to cut to the front

3. They also have trouble anticipating consequences of their actions. In children, it's disruptive, but in adults, it can threaten families, jobs and even safety.

DIAGNOSING THE ADHD ADULT: Unfortunately, scientists don't know ADHD's cause and laboratory tests can't confirm a diagnosis. They have found, however, that the disorder runs in families. Doctors diagnose ADHD based on family, developmental and childhood history, current signs and symptoms. Most workups for detecting ADHD include a physical exam. Some doctors may also request: EEG, CT, or MRI.

ADHD TREATMENT: ADHD has no cure. FOrtunately, several drug treatments - primarily stimulants - work for both children and adult ADHD patients. About two-thirds of ADHD adults taking stimulants experience significant improvements. The drugs take effect fast, a remarkable finding, because few medications have such a profound and immediate effect. Unfortunately, most stimulants wear off quickly, returing adults to their usual problems. Along with medications, a study showed that behavioral therapy can help adults with ADHD.

HOW TO COPE WITH ADULT ADHD: Doctors often recommend various coping strategies as an adjunct to drug therapy. These include: Taking medications as directed, Making lists of tasks and keeping them nearby, taking a deep breath or excusing yourself from situations when you're tempted to act out or interrupt, doing things that calm or comfor you - such as gardening, walking or cooking.

If any of this sounds familiar to you, please follow up with your doctor.

source: www.lifescript.com

 





DENTAL CARE FOR SENIORS

 

 

Advancing age puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health problems, such as:

 

1. DARKENED TEETH: Caused, to some extent, by changes in dentin - the bone like tissue that underlies the tooth enamel - and by a lifetime of consuming stain-causing foods and beverages.

2. DRY MOUTH: Dry mouth is caused by reduced saliva flow, which can be a result of cancer treatments that use radiation to the head and neck area, as well as certain diseases, such as Sjogren's syndrome, and medication side effects.

3. DIMINISHED SENSE OF TASTE: While advancing age impairs the sense of taste, diseases, medications, and dentures can also contribute to this sensory loss.

4. ROOT DECAY: This is caused by exposure of the tooth root to decay-causing acids. The tooth roots become exposed as gum tissue recedes from the tooth.

5. GUM DISEASE: Caused by plaque and made worse by food left in teeth, use of tobacco products, poor fitting bridges and dentures, poor diets, and certain diseases, this is often a problem for older adults.

6. TOOTH LOSS: Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.

7. UNEVEN JAWBONE: This is caused by tooth loss.

8. DENTURE-INDUCED STOMATITIS: Ill-fitting dentures, poor dental hygiene, or a buildup of the fungus Candida albicans (Thrush) cause this condition, which is inflammation of the tissue underlying a denture.

 

Age in and of itself is not a dominant or sole factor in determining oral health. However, certain medical conditions, such as arthritis in the hands and fingers, may make brushing or flossing teeth difficult to impossible to perform. Drugs can also affect oral health and may make a change in your dental treatment necessary.

 

Daily brushing and flossing of natural teeth is essential to keeping them in good oral health. Plaque can build up quickly on the teeth of seniors, especially if oral hygiene is neglected, and lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

 

To maintain good oral health, it's important for all individuals to:

1. Brush at least twice a day with a fluoride containing toothpaste

2. Floss at least once a day

3. Visit your dentist on a regular schedule for cleaning and an oral exam

 

If you're a senior headed for a check up, your dentist should conduct a thorough history and dental exam. During an oral exam, your dentist will check the following: your face and neck; your bite; your jaw; your lymph nodes and salivary glands; your inner cheeks; your tongue and other interior surfaces; and your teeth.

 

If you wear dentures or other appliances, your dentist will ask a few questions about when you wear your dentures and when you take them out. He or she will also look for any irritation or problems in the areas in the muth that the appliance touches, and examine the denture or appliance itself.

 

If you are a senior on a limited or fixed income and can't afford regular dental care, many dentists offer their services at reduced fees through dental society-sponsored assistance programs. Since aid varies from one community to another, call your local dental society for information about where you can find the nearest assistance programs and low-cost care locations. Also, check your local phone book, the internet, or your local dental society.

 

source: www.webmd.com 

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US AT HARBOR HEALTH HOME CARE

7 WAYS TO KEEP HANDS AND FEET HEALTHY

 

 

You probably have a daily regimen for keeping your face clean and moisturized. But what about your hard-working hands and feet? Hands are the most frequently used body part. They can become dry and ashy really fast. And feet take a beating from bearing your body weight all day. During winter months, hands and feet are both more likely to look dull, red or cracked. But don't just throw on mittens and boots to hide them until spring. Caring for them now can have long-lasting health benefits. Here's how to put your best foot - and hand - forward.

1. SCAN NAILS FOR DARK SPOTS: Small white spots on your nails (leukonychia) are usually nothing to worry about. They often arise from an injury to the base of the nail, such as picking or biting it. But if the spot or band is black, brown or purple, don't assume it's a bruise. It could mean melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. How do you tell the difference? Melanomas are usually different shades of brown or black, although any color is possible, and the discoloration extends to the cuticle. To be safe, always get a discolored nail checked by a dermatologist.
2. KEEP NAILS GROWING STRONG: New cells develop deep under cuticles and push out older, dead cells. That forms those flat, hard surfaces we love to pamper and polish. Their growth rate varies by person, but it can change based on hormones, temperature and aging. If you're always waiting for yours to grow out, try the b-complex vitamin biotin. This supplement has been shown to help with nail growth.
3. MAKE THE MOST OF A MANI-PEDI: All the polish in the world can't make ridged, scraggly tips look pretty. For that, you'll need nail products. If your nails have developed vertical ridges you can make them less noticeable with a ridge filler, available at drugstores, beauty supply shops and mass retailers. Buffing also smoothes the surface. The most important tip for healthy nails: don't share files and other nail tools, since germs and fungus can travel on them.
4. DON'T OVERLOOK CUTICLES: Cuticles may seem insignificant when they're healthy, but small tears, usually from hangnails or dryness, leave the area vulnerable to infections that may cause painful swelling. Hydrating that delicate area with a cuticle cream or hand moisturizer helps create a protective barrier against bacteria, fungus and yeast. Resist the urge to cut cuticles, which can break that barrier.
5. CHOOSE THE RIGHT MOISTURIZER: It's no secret that wind and cold temperatures dry out skin on hands and, in severe cases, cause chapping and painful cracks. And the sun, while it may warm hands, isn't much better for keeping skin smooth. When going outdoors, coat exposed hands in SPF 15 to protect against water loss and harmful rays. Although feet aren't as exposed ot the elements, being cooped up in socks and shoes and carrying body weight all day can dry them out. Moisturize, a lot and often. A water-based moisturizer works best for day. At night, opt for an oil-based version.
 6. WEAR THE RIGHT SHOE SIZE: Cramming feet into too-small or pointy shoes isn't only uncomfortable, it can make your toenail grow into the surrounding skin. That can lead to the dreaded ingrown nail, which causes pain, swelling and infection. Too long toenails can also cause problems. Avoid both types of pain by keeping toenails neatly trimmed straight across.
7. DON'T GO BAREFOOT IN PUBLIC: Keep your shoes on while at public places (swimming pools, locker rooms, shoe stores, etc.) to avoid nail fungal infections. These account for about half of all nail disorders. These warm, damp environments are a breeding ground for fungi and viruses. Fungus doesn't only travel from floors ot feet through small cuts or separations between the nail and nail bed. If you have a nail fungal infection, it can spread from one nail to another, and the skin. If left untreated, an infection can cause permanent nail damage or lead to serious infections in other parts of your body. Warning signs to watch for: a nail that's thickening, yellowing, crumbling or lifting from its bed. If you suspect that you have an infection, see a doctor.


source: www.lifescript.com
 

WHY IS IT SO HARD TO EXERCISE? FIVE STEPS TO GET YOU MOTIVATED

 

You know you should do it, and you know why: exercising is critical for safeguarding your health and setting a good example for your kids. So why does it seem so hard to get yourself moving? The truth is you CAN, but knowing how and why to exercise isn't enough. You need to develop the right mind-set to get and stay motivated. Here are five steps to get you moving in the right direction - and keep you going.

 

1. FIND PERSONAL MOTIVATION TO EXERCISE: What you need to get you up off the couch is a reason that's important to you. There are all kinds of benefits to getting fit. Which matters most to you? Something as simple as taking a walk after dinner every night helps to: control your weight, strengthen your bones, enhance your muscles, reduce your risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.

2. SET REALISTIC GOALS TO GET FIT: CDC guidelines call for adults to do 2 1/2 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise a week. That's a 30-minute walk five days a week. You can aim for these exercise guidelines, but don't try to meet them at the start. People lose their motivation to exercise when they try to do too much too soon. Set weekly goals, gradually adding more time and intensity.

3. STOP THINKING OF IT AS EXERCISE - DO SOMETHING YOU ENJOY: You don't have to go to the gym to get a good workout. It's all about moving more - however you do it. What else can you do? Almost anything that gets you and your family moving:

Walk the dog, or walk a neighnbo's dog

Have dance contests with the kids instead of watching TV

Go to the park and play hide-and-seek

Shoot hoops with the kids

Walk or bike to the store instead of driving

Get off the train a stop early and walk the rest of the way to your office

4. PLAN HOW TO FIT EXERCISE INTO A HECTIC SCHEDULE: For busy parents, a major obstacle to getting fit is lack of time. If you wait for time to open up, chances are you won't be able to squeeze in a walk or a dance class very often. If you plan ahead for potholes on the road to fitness, you're more likely to stay on course. When you think through solutions to problems in advance, you're less likely to give up when a pothole comes along.

5. BOUNCE BACK FROM SETBACKS: You've set a reasonable fitness goal. You've prepared for potential problems. Yet somehow you still didn't make it to the gym today as you had planned. Don't let that be your downfall. When this happens, it's time for an attitude adjustment so you don't completely lose your motivation to exercise. Start thinking of yourself as someone who exercises. Eventually, that will become your identity.

 

 

source: www.webmd.com

20 TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH DIABETES

 

Your bags are packed, and you're ready to go. The last thing you want to worry about is your diabetes. No matter how well you stick to a daily regimen at home, things are bound to change when you're away. You eat out, your activity level increases but also becomes less consistent, and unexpected stresses can push blood sugar levels up. We've assembled a quick guide to managing diabetes while traveling - whether locally or internationally, for business or for pleasure. Read on for 20 smart tips on how to prepare, pack and plan your days off:

 

1. CREATE A SUPPLY CHECKLIST: Write down everything you'll need to stay healthy to ensure that you don't forget important items, especially when you're in a rush to get out the door.

2. KEEP A SMALL TRAVEL BAG WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES: Stock it with Insulin and syringes, blood and urine testing supplies, oral medications with prescription labels attached, other medications such as antibiotic ointment and anti-nausea drugs, your ID and diabetes identity card as well as your doctor's emergency number, a well-wrapped snack pack to treat low blood sugar levels.

3. PACK WORKOUT CLOTHING: That way you'll be ready to exercise, wherever you are. Most hotels have facilities for guests but require proper clothing. Ask the hotel staff or locals about safe places to walk and other active pursuits in the area.

4. WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES: They'll help you walk briskly - and ach-free - through airports, train stations or cruise ships. Plus, once you reach your destination, use them for sightseeing on foot.

5. DON'T NEGLECT YOUR BLOOD-SUGAR MONITORING: No matter how long you'll be traveling, test your blood glucose as frequently as your doctor recommends.

6. KEEP ANYTHING VITAL IN YOUR CARRY-ON: More than two million bags were reported lost or mishandled by the airlines last year. If your checked luggage ends up lost, you don't want to be without important medications, syringes and blood-testing supplies.

7. TELL THE SECURITY SCREENER YOU HAVE DIABETES AND ARE CARRYING SUPPLIES: The TSA allows people with diabetes to carry insulin, unused syringes, langets, blood glucose meters, test strips, slcohol swaps, insulin pump and supplies, glucagon emergency kit, urine test strips, and used syringes when transported in Sharps disposal container.

8. IDENTIFY YOUR INSULIN AND SYRINGES WITH THE PROPER MANUFACTURER'S LABEL: You may need to prove that what you're carrying is insulin.

9. MAKE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS BEFORE YOUR FLIGHT: Ask for an aisle seat if you plan to use the restroom for insulin injections.

10. TELL THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT THAT YOU HAVE DIABETES, ESPECIALLY IF YOU'RE TRAVELING ALONE: You may need help if your blood glucose levels go too low.

11. DRINK PLENTY OF WATER: Dehydration is ocmmon because cabin air has a much lower humidity level than a typical indoor environment. It can cause mild discomfort, scratchy eyes, fatigue and breathing problems for people with respiratory conditions, such as asthma.

12. CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE YOU LEAVE ON YOUR TRIP: Ask your doctor for prescriptions and a letter that explains your diabetes medications, supplies, and allergies. This way, pharmacists or physicians in other countries can provide them for you in an emergency.

13. GET EXTRA SUPPLIES FROM YOUR PHARMACIST: Keep a two week supply of medications with you at all times, along with supplies you can store in a separate bag in case your luggage is lost or stolen.

14. STORE ALL MEDICATIONS IN AN AIR-TIGHT, INSULATED CASE: This will protect them from exposure to extremem temperatures or humidity.

15. WEAR AND ID BRACELET: Also, stash an ID card in your walled that identifies you as someone with diabetes. The identification should be written in the languages of the places you are visiting.

16. PLAN FOR TIME-ZONE CHANGES: Make sure you'll always know when to take your medicine, no matter where you are. If you wear a watch with two time displays, keep one set to your home time.

17. BE VOCAL: When dining out, ask about the ingredients of menu items to avoid post meal highs or lows that can ruin your day.

18. CHOOSE THE RIGHT RESTAURANT: Red the menu - it's often posted outside by the entrance - and decide if you have enough healthy, lower-fat choices before you sit down.

19. BALANCE YOUR RESTAURANT MEAL WITH FOOD CHOICES THE REST OF THE DAY: Save most of your calories and fat choices for when you're dining out.

20: LOOK FOR LOW-FAT WORDS: Fish that is baked or broiled usually has less than 5 grams of fat per ounce. Also good for you: "grilled, baked, braised, broiled, poached, roasted or steamed."

 

Make sure to discuss your travel plans with your doctor, and see if he has any other suggestions to make your trip a successful one.

 

source: www.lifescript.com 

TOP 10 QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FLU

 

 

Influenza, or flu, is a virus that targets the respiratory system. Find answers to the 10 most common questions about the flu:

 

1. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COLD AND THE FLU? The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Influenza or "the flu" develops when a flu virus infects your respiratory system, including your nose, throat, bronchial tubes, and possibly the lungs. A cold virus usually infects only your upper respiratory tract. The flu can bring on fever, body aches, and exhaustion, symptoms that are rarely caused by simple colds.

2. WHAT ARE FLU SYMPTOMS AND WHEN IS A PERSON CONTAGIOUS? Primary sumptoms of flu are fever, fatigue, aches and pins, chills, and cough. The cough is a bronchial tube irritation and is usually not productive. The flu is usually at its worst for three to four days. About 24 to 72 hours after you're infected, you become contagious. Yet you may not have symptoms, so you don't know you're sick. Stay at home while you've go the flu, and for at least 24 hours after you get over your symptoms.

3. WHAT'S THE BEST TREATMENT FOR FLU? There is no single "best" treatment for flu, but there are many ways you can ease symptoms. Prescription flu drugs can shorten the time you feel sick. Over the counter cold and flu medicines can offer some relief from fever, aches, stuffy nose, and cough. They don't "cure" the flu, but may help keep you more comfortable. Decongestants can help you breathe, saline nasal sprays can also help open breathing passages. Cough preparations, along with water and fruit juices, can help soothe a cough.

4. HOW DO PRESCRIPTION FLU MEDICATIONS WORK? The prescription drugs Tamiflu and Relenza were developed to cut short a bout with flu. They help shorten recovery time by one or two days.

5. SHOULD I GET AN ANTIBIOTIC? Antibiotics will not help treat the flu. Antibiotics kill bacteria, but they do not kill any viruses.

6. WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR? These symptoms are signs that flu may have developed into something serious like pneumonia. See a doctor if you have any of these symptoms:

- Difficulty Breathing

- Persistent Fever

- Vomiting or inability to keep fluids down

- Painful swallowing

- Persistent coughing

- Persistent congestion and headaches

7. WHY ARE PEOPLE SO CONCERNED ABOUT THE FLU? Because the flu virus can infect the lungs, it can cause a serious infection like pneumonia. That's what worries people. If the flu develops into pneumonia, it may require hospitalization and can even lead to death.

8. CAN FLU SHOTS CAUSE THE FLU? The flu shot is made from killed viruses and cannot "give" you the flu. However, the vaccine can trigger an immune response from your body, so you may have a few mild symptoms, like achy muscles or a low fever.

9. WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT THE FLU? Flu and cold viruses are transmitted the same way - from microscopic droplets from an infected person's respiratory system. To help protect yourself and prevent spread of cold an flu viruses:

- Wash your hands frequently.

- Cough and sneeze into a tissue or into your hands - wash your hands afterward.

- When you cough, turn your head away from others.

- If you have a sudden sneeze and no tissue, bend your arm and sneeze into it.

- Don't touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. This prevents germs from entering your body.

- Wash any shared surfaces frequently - viruses can live on surfaces for several hours.

- Stay away from crowds during cold and flu season.

- Get a flu vaccine every year.

- Eat healthy foods to nourish your immune system.

- Get regular exercise

10. IF I HAVE ALLERGIES, AM I MORE LIKELY TO GET THE FLU? No, allergies don't affect susceptibility to the flu. But people with asthma are more likely to have complications, such as pneumonia, when they get the flu. Also at risk of complications are infants under age 6 months, pregnant women, people with suppressed immune systems, people with diabetes, people with lung disease, people with neurologic disease, people with heart disease, and elderly people.

 

 

source: www.webmd.com 

 

 



HEART DEATHS SPIKE IN WINTER DESPITE TEMPERATURES

 

 

Winter can be deadly, at least when it comes to matters of the heart. Whether you live in a place that is hot year-round, like Arizona, or in a state with cold winters, like Pennsylvania, you're more likely to die of heart-related problems in the winter. Findings of previous studies found that heart deaths peak in winter, but there was no link to the cold. Previous research had linked lower temperatures to an increase in heart attacks and heart-related deaths. Instead, people were 26% to 36% more likely to die from a heart attack, heart failure, or other heart diseases in the winter than in the summer regardless of whether they lived in a cold, moderate, or hot climate.

 

So what is to blame for the rise in deaths in the winter months? For starters, people are not as healthy in winter as in the summer. their diet is not as good, they don't exercise as much, and they often gain weight. Flu, respiratory infections, and depression may also play a role. These factors may act in concert: for example, a person who is on cholesterol-lowering and high blood pressure medication might feel down, making them less likely to take their medication and more likely to reach for calorie and fat packed snacks.

 

One study found that people who suffer from depression and who also have heart disease are almost five times as likely to die as people who are mentally and physically healthy. Heart disease and depression so commonly go hand-in-hand that the American Heart Association recommends heart patients be routinely screened for depression. Depression may actually induce physiological changes in the body that can be damaging to the heart.

 

The bottom line: Take care of your health, no matter what the month and no matter what the temperature.

 

source:  www.webmd.com



 

 



WHY AM I SO TIRED? 10 POSSIBLE CAUSES OF FATIGUE

 

Do you feel tired all the time? Lots of people do. It's a sign of our overbooked times. You may wonder if you're doing too much. But surprise! The most likely answer is just the opposite: You're not doing enough. There are three key lifestyle changes that can make a big difference in your energy level - starting now:

 

1. WHAT YOU EAT: Reaching for caffeine and sugar can backfire, leaving you more fatigued as your blood sugar levels fluctuate wildly. Instead, go for a balanced, healthy diet replete with fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

2. HOW MUCH YOU SLEEP: You saw this one coming, right? Many people don't get enough sleep. If you're one of them, avoid caffeine and alcohol in the hours just before bedtime, turn off the TV before bed, and keep your bedroom quiet and restful.

3. HOW MUCH YOU EXERCISE: This is the biggie. A great prescription for plain old tiredness is regular, vigorous exercise. Finish at least three hours before bedtime, so you have time to wind down.

 

The most reasons for feeling so tired all the time are those we've just discussed. Don't start thinking that you've got a medical condition until you've tried those strategies and really given them a chance. If you still feel exhausted, you'll need to check with your health care provider to look into it. Chronic tiredness is linked to many different medical conditions, such as:

 

1. ANEMIA: This is a very common cause of fatigue and very easy to check with a simple blood test. It's particularly a problem for women. You can remedy anemia with an iron-rich diet, heavy in meats and dark, leafy greens, or supplements if you have a chronic iron deficiency.

2. DEFICIENCIES IN KEY NUTRIENTS: such as Potassium. Again, this is easily checked with blood testing.

3. THYROID PROBLEMS: Over and under active thyroids both can cause fatigue. A blood test for your level of thyroid-stimulating hormone can help evaluate your thyroid function.

4. DIABETES: People who have uncontrolled diabetes "just plain don't feel good." If you feel draggy and you're also having blurred vision or lots of urination, you should get that checked with a blood test.

5. DEPRESSION: If your feelings of exhaustion are accompanied by sadness and loss of appetite, and you just can't find any pleasure in things you once enjoyed, you may be depressed. Don't keep that to yourself. Your doctor, or a therapist, can start you on the path back to feeling better.

6. SLEEP PROBLEMS: If you never feel rested, and nothing seems to fix that, you might look into visiting a sleep lab, especially if you snore. Snoring can be part of obstructive sleep apnea, in which people briefly stop breathing several times a night. There are treatments for that.

7. UNDIAGNOSED HEART DISEASE: Tiredness can be a sign of heart trouble, particularly in women. If you have trouble with exercise you used to do easily, or if you start feeling worse when you exercise, this could be a red flag for heart trouble. If you have any doubts, see your doctor.

 

Again, start with the basics: your sleep, your diet, and your activity level. Sometimes the simplest fixes are all it takes.

 

source: www.webmd.com

ARE YOU MAKING YOUR COLD WORSE?

 

 

A lot of what we believe about the common cold is myth. No, you won't get a cold because you went outside with a wet head or slept in a drafty room. But here's what is true. When you're sick, some common mistakes can make your cold symptoms worse - or prevent you from getting better. If you're feeling crummy and stuffed up, here are 7 things that could make your cold worse:

 

1. PRETENDING YOU'RE NOT SICK: This never works. You can't ignore a cold. When you get sick, you need to take care of yourself. Your body needs extra energy when it's fighting an infection. If you try to push through a cold, especially if you have a fever, you'll exhaust yourself. That could make your cold worse.

2. NOT SLEEPING ENOUGH: Getting enough sleep is key for a healthy immune system. One study found that sleeping less than 7 hours a night almost triples your risk of getting a cold in the first place. If your cold symptoms keep you up at night, try to go to bed earlier or take naps during the day. You need extra rest, however you get it.

3. GETTING STRESSED: It turns out that stress - particularly chronic stress - can make colds worse. It can also make you more likely to get a cold. Over time, high levels of stress hormones can stop your immune system from working normally. The result? More sick days and a cold that lingers. So take it easy when you're sick. You'll lower your stress levels and recover faster.

4. DRINKING TOO LITTLE: You need to drink a lot of fluid when you're sick. Why? Fluids will help thin your mucus, making your sinuses drain better, Just about any fluid will help. Water, juice, hot tea, and soup are all good. Contrary to what you've heard, even milk is ok - the notion that it causes mucus build-up is a myth.

5. DRINKING TOO MUCH (alcohol): Too much alcohol can leave you dehydrated and worsen cold symptoms such as congestion. It can also suppress your immune system and - potentially - interact with cold medications you're taking. Until you're feeling better, it's best to lay off the booze.

6. OVERUSING DECONGESTANT SPRAYS: Be careful with decongestant sprays. They may work well at first. If you use them for more than three days, your stuffy nose will get worse when you stop.

7. SMOKING: Smokers get more colds than nonsmokers. Smokers also get worse colds that last longer. Smoking damages cells in the lungs, making it harder for you to fight off a cold. If you're sick with a cold, don't smoke - and don't let anyone around you smoke either.

 

 

source: www.webmd.com

RELIEVE HEARTBURN: 9 HINTS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

 

 

Nearly one in five Americans need frequent relief from heartburn. If you're among them, you're probably looking forward to the holidays with a mixture of anticipation and queasiness. The six weeks from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day often turn into a caloric free-for-all, and holiday menus are loaded with the foods that are on most heartburn sufferers' "danger" lists.

 

How can you enjoy the office holiday party, your Thanksgiving feast, Christmas at your in-laws, and the endless round of festive events without needing heartburn relief? Fear not - the holidays need not be a time when you're haunted by the Ghost of Dinner Immediagely Past. Just remember these holiday tips for relief from heartburn:

 

1. NIBBLE, DON'T GORGE: How much you eat makes a difference, so don't pile your plate too high. For sure relief from heartburn symptoms, just sample a few bites of everything. You can enjoy Mom's gravy and cranberry sauce, but skip the second (and third) helpings.

2. DON'T GET RICH: It's not just how much you eat, but what you eat, that provokes heartburn symptoms. You may already know that fat is a primary culprit, but so is sugar. If you're debating between simple roasted potatoes and potatoes au gratin, go for the roasted potatoes for less risk of heartburn.

3. FRONT-LOAD YOUR MEAL: Many of the dietary dangers of the holidays come with dessert. Especially problematic are heartburn-irritating treats that contain chocolate, peppermint, or citrus.

4. ORDER HORS D'OEUVRES: At many holiday parties, the light appetizers are a better bet to avoid heartburn. Look for things like steamed shrimp, salmon, and other protein-rich but volume-light nibbles. Veggie trays are always a good bet, but keep an eye on how much dip you're dousing that celery in.

5. ACCEPT SUBSTITUTES: Nobody expects you to skip dessert entirely, but go for angel food cake instead of a large piece of chocolate cake. Even better, try a fruit and yogurt parfait instead. You'll help curb heartburn and excess calories. Your whole body will thank you later.

6. TAKE YOUR TIME: If you wolf down your holiday ham so you can rush back to the big game, you'll likely be moaning later. Linger over dinner for relief from heartburn. People get more heartburn when they eat quickly, studies show. So slow down, and savor.

7. GET UP! After a big holiday meal, everyone's tempted to lie down on the couch to nap or watch football and parades. But that's the worst thing you can do for your heartburn. That food is still in your stomach for the next few hours, lying in wait to cause reflux. If you must go from mashed potatoes to couch potato, at least sit with your head higher than your stomach. Better yet, play football instead of watching it, or go for a walk to look at the neighborhood decorations.

8. TOAST-BUT DON'T GET TOASTY: A glass of wine or champagne to celebrate the holiday probably won't spur an attack of heartburn. But beware of finishing the bottle - the more you drink, the more likely you could experience heartburn.

9. PLAN AHEAD FOR RELIEF FROM HEARTBURN: If you know you are prone to heartburn, don't find yourself without heartburn relief at 10 a.m. on Dec. 25, hunting for an open pharmacy. Instead, keep your heartburn medication on hand when you're at home and traveling.

 

source: www.webmd.com  

OVERACTIVE BLADDER??

A coffee refill, another glass of wine - they're sure to send you to the ladies' room. Are you taking far more bathroom breaks than you used to without knowing why? What's considered normal anyway? Generally, 8 bathroom visits a day is typical. More breaks than that - especially if they disrupt your day or wake you at night - could mean you hav an overactive bladder (OAB). About 17 million people suffer from OAB, the often sudden and compelling urge to urinate - and an occasional inability to hold back until you rech the toilet. Although it's more common as we age, women in their 30s and 40s are at particular risk.

Why the waterworks? Essentially, something's wrong with how your bladder lets the brain know it's time to pee. It's not curable, but it is possible to get your life back. Here are doctor-recommended tips to bring you relief:

1. LIMIT YOUR LIQUIDS: The less you drink, the fewer times you'll have to go. While doctors generally recommend sipping 8-9 cups of water a day, how much to drink when you have OAB depends on the person. What you're drinking also affects your urge to pee. Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics, so they cause you to make more urine, and they also stimulate your bladder which causes extra irritation that the nerves sense, which makes you think you have to pee when you don't.

2. PUT THE SQUEEZE ON: If you've had children, you're probably familiar with Kegel exercises, the repeated squeezing of pelvic muscles that helps women push during childbirth. Those same muscles control the flow of urine. Kegels strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that affect bladder control. It is recommended to do at least 10-second squeezes three times a day to keep from leaking.

3. LOSE THE EXCESS WEIGHT: The heavier you are, the more weight you place on your pelvic floor muscles. Pressure on these muscles weakens them, meaning more little leaks.

4. FOCUS ON FIBER: Because the bladder and bowel are next to each other, constipation can be one of the causes of frequent urination. To stay more regular, add more fiber to your diet with foods like brown rice, whole wheat bread, fruits and vegetables.

5. KEEP YOUR COOL: Spicy foods like chili, taco sauces and wasabi can irritate the bladder lining, increasing your urge to go. Choose milder spices like cilantro, mint and oregano to flavor dishes.

6. TAKE TIME TO UNWIND: Mortgage payments, deadlines, crowded commutes - all that stress affects your bladder, making you have to go even more, although doctors are unclear why. So keep stress levels low - with relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation.

Knowing the causes and common triggers of OAB can help you stay dry and out of the bathroom. Check with your doctor if you have any questions.

source: www.lifescript.com