Wellness Words September 2017 Posted on September 11, 2017 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health EducatorGuide To Protecting Kidney HealthChronic kidney disease (CDK) is a major public health concern, according to the National Diabetes, Digestive Disorders and Kidney Disease Office. CDK is more prevalent after age 60 and often goes undetected until it is very advanced. Regular testing is important especially for those at risk for CDK. Follow these steps to learn more about kidney disease, your risk and how to prevent CDK.STEP 1: KNOW THE FACTS6 things healthy kidneys do:Regulate fluid levelsFilter wastes from the bloodHelps to regulate blood pressureActivate Vitamin D for healthy bonesRelease hormone that regulates production of red blood cellsKeep blood minerals in balanceSTEP 2: ASSESS YOUR RISK FACTORSDiabetesHigh blood pressureCardiovascular diseaseAge 60 or olderObesityProlonged use of pain relievers, including high doses of acetaminophen (Tylenol)Chronic urinary tract infectionsSTEP 3: RECOGNIZE SYMPTOMSSymptoms may occur late and can be misleading. However, you should pay attention to these, especially if you are at risk:Fatigue, weaknessDifficult or painful urinationFoamy urinePink or very dark urineIncreased thirstPuffy eyesSwollen face, hands, abdomen, ankles and/or feetSTEP 4: STAY HEALTHY TO PREVENT KIDNEY DISEASE6 things people at high risk should do:Lower blood pressureKeep blood sugar under controlReduce salt intakeAvoid over-the-counter pain medicationsModerate protein consumptionGet an annual flu shotAdditional Health Activities To Prevent Kidney Disease For Everyone:Exercise regularlyControl weightStay hydratedEat a balanced dietQuit smokingDrink alcohol only in moderationShare your family medical history with your physiciansKeep cholesterol limits in a healthy rangeIf you or your family members should be in late stage CDK and require dialysis, Nathan Littauer Hospital’s new center will keep travel local and provide board certified care. For more information, attend a special program on ‘Kidney Health’ presented by Dr. Soo Gil Lee, Nephrologist of American Renal Associates, on September 27 in Littauer’s Auditorium.You are invited to join us for a buffet-style luncheon at 11:30 for $6 or attend Dr. Lee’s presentation only at 12 noon at no charge. To attend, call HealthLink Littauer at 518-736-1120.
Wellness Words August 2017 Posted on August 14, 2017 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health EducatorThe Sensitive GutWhen your digestive system, also known as your gut, is running smoothly, you tend not to think about it. Once trouble begins, your gut, like a squeaky wheel, suddenly demands your attention. According to the CDC, an estimated one in four people has frequent digestive issues. Additionally, aging takes a toll on the GI tract. Aging muscles, including digestive muscles, contract more slowly and move their contents at a more leisurely pace.A “sensitive stomach” is a term commonly used to describe a range of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. The actual stomach is a hollow sac and is only one part of the GI tract. Digestion in the upper gut actually starts in the mouth and proceeds through the esophagus to the stomach and then to the small intestine. The lower gut proceeds from the second part of the small intestine through the colon (bowel) to the anus. Digestive problems can be found in any of these organs.Some common digestive issues include but are not limited to:Acid Reflux or GERD: This commonly presents with heartburn. Symptoms worsen after eating certain foods or drinks or when lying flat.Gastritis: Symptoms may include gnawing stomach pain, indigestion, bloating, nausea and belching.Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A condition commonly marked by abnormal bowel habits (episodes of diarrhea or constipation) with abdominal bloating and pain.Diverticular Disease: Refers to diverticulosis and diverticulitis. Diverticulosis presents with bloating, lower abdominal discomfort and constipation. Diverticulitis symptoms include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, nausea, vomiting and fever.Food Intolerance: Some of the more common intolerances include…1. Lactose Intolerance – found in milk products.2. Gluten Intolerance – found in wheat and other grains.3. Fructose Malabsorption – found in fruits, fruit juices and some other drinks.4. Sorbitol Intolerance – a type of sugar found in diet foods and drinks and sugarless gum.5. Nut Intolerance – may include a specific nut or all nuts. Nuts are found in many products and are difficult to keep out of your diet.There are many other conditions that present in your gut. Sometimes they are called “functional” which means there is no disease or abnormal structural problem. But don’t be discouraged if your doctor can’t find anything wrong. Your symptoms are real and there are things you can do to improve your digestion.Eat smaller meals, but more often.Eat in a slow, relaxed manner.Remain upright after meals.Avoid bedtime snacks.Stay away from carbonated beverages.Learn the foods that trigger your symptoms and AVOID them.Lose weight if you need to.Check your medications with your physician or pharmacist. Ask if any of the medications could trigger or worsen your symptoms. Include all medications you take regularly, even over-the-counter medications.A sensitive gut can cause many unpleasant symptoms. If you have any questions, write your symptoms down and contact your health care provider.For more information, you may contact HealthLink Littauer at 518-736-1120. You can e-mail us at healthlink@nlh.org, see our website at nlh.org, or visit our new wellness center at 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
Wellness Words July 2017 Posted on July 24, 2017July 25, 2017 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health EducatorTicks: Summer Pests With Serious ConsequencesSummer has arrived in all its glory. We relish the warm weather and the many outdoor activities it allows. However, we must also contend with some of the pests of the season. Bugs and flying insects can become very annoying, bees and wasps are often frightening, and we won’t even talk about ants!There is another common summer pest than can be much more than a nuisance. Certain species of ticks found in our area can carry Lyme and other diseases. Cornell University researchers published a recent study that found Lyme disease in the Northeastern U.S. is rising at significant rates. This disease can be severe and sometimes fatal, but there are steps we can take to protect ourselves from coming into contact with these summer pests.Ticks live in shady, moist areas at ground level. They also cling to tall grasses, brush and shrubs no more than 12-18 inches off the ground. Ticks are most prevalent from April through September with August and September being peak season. There are many species of ticks but the black legged tick is the one that carries Lyme disease. These ticks are about the size of a poppy seeds to sesame seeds. They are much smaller than the also common dog-tick.In order to protect ourselves from ticks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends:Wear light colored long pants and long sleeved shirts, closed toe shoes, and tuck the legs of the pants into your socks.Use bug spray – 20% or greater DEET is recommended. Do not spray repellent under clothes.Treat clothing with a product containing permethrin. Do not spray it on your skin.Stay on cleared, well-traveled trails and avoid dense woods and bushy areas.Avoid sitting directly on the ground or stone walls.Keep long hair tied back.Check for ticks after being outdoors. Do a full body check (especially warm areas) and bathe as soon as possible.Check your animals for ticks.How to safely remove a tick:Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick.After removing it, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or warm, soapy water.Dispose of the tick by submersing it in alcohol, wrap it in tape or flush it. DO NOT crush the tick with your fingers.If you develop a rash or flu-like symptoms with a fever up to several weeks after being bitten, be sure to contact your physician. Tell your provider about your recent tick bite, when it occurred and where you most likely acquired the tick. It is important for you and your family to be tick-free to prevent Lyme disease. Being vigilant is your best prevention!For more information, contact your county health department, NYS Department of Health at nysdoh.gov, or HealthLink Littauer at 736-1120. You can e-mail us at healthlink@nlh.org, see our website at nlh.org, or visit our new wellness center at 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
Wellness Words June 2017 Posted on June 19, 2017 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health Educator Protect Your Heart In The HeatWhatever brings you outside this summer, it’s important to stay safe and healthy as the heat rises. According to the American Heart Association, heat can be hard on your heart. If you are a heart patient older than 55, overweight, have high blood pressure, or are on certain medications, you may need to take special precautions in the heat.Certain medications such as beta blockers, ace inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and diuretics can exaggerate the body’s response to the heat. Even if you are not on medications, seniors need to take extra precautions in the heat. When the temperature rises, getting enough to drink is important even if you are just sitting outside…and it is critical to heart health.Staying hydrated helps the heart more easily pump blood through vessels to the muscles. This helps the muscles work more efficiently. Remember, if you are well hydrated your heart doesn’t have to work as hard. Dehydration (lack of bodily fluids) can lead to problems ranging from swollen feet and ankles to headaches, and even life threatening illness such as heat stroke.A common misconception is that thirst is your best indicator that you need to drink. According to a study at the Mayo Clinic, if you are thirsty – you are already dehydrated. M. Batson, MD of this study says, “Drinking water before you go out in the heat is an important first step. Otherwise you are playing catch-up and your heart is straining to keep up.” It is also best to avoid drinks containing caffeine which is a known diuretic that can cause you to lose fluids.Think you’re ready to brave the heat? It is best to avoid the outdoors between 12-3 p.m. when the sun is usually the strongest. This time of day is the most likely to put you at risk for heat related illness.Remember to:Dress for the heat with lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics.Wear a hat and sunglasses.Choose well ventilated shoes and socks that repel perspiration.Take regular breaks in some shade or go inside.Whatever you decide to do in the heat, keep in mind these symptoms of serious heat related illnesses.Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:HeadachesHeavy sweatingCold, moist skin, chillsDizziness or faintingA weak or rapid pulseMuscle crampsFast, shallow breathingNausea, vomiting or bothIf you experience these symptoms, move to a cooler place and cool down as soon as possible by dousing yourself with cool water and rehydrating.Symptoms of Heat Stroke:Warm, dry skinStrong, rapid pulseConfusion and/or unconsciousnessHigh feverThrobbing headacheNausea and/or vomitingIf you experience these symptoms seek medical attention immediately!For more information, visit heart.org or mayoclinic.org, or call HealthLink Littauer at 518-736-1120. You can e-mail us at healthlink@nlh.org, see our website at nlh.org, or visit our wellness center at 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
Wellness Words May 2017 Posted on May 15, 2017 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health EducatorCan You Spot The Symptoms Of Stroke?According to the National Stroke Association, every 40 seconds someone has a stroke. Sadly, only about 30% recognize the symptoms and get to a hospital in time to prevent disability. In fact, stroke is the leading cause of disability in adults. Together let’s change that…read on!You lose approximately 2 million brain cells a minute during a stroke. Therefore, it is important that everyone become aware of stroke signs and be able to get help quickly.BE FASTYou may have seen the FAST acronym from the American Heart Association. FAST stands for:F=FACE Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?A=ARMS Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one drift down?S=SPEECH Ask the person to say a simple sentence such as, “The sky is blue.” Do the words sound slurred or incomprehensible?T=TIME If you observe any of these signs, it is time to call 911!Do not allow anyone, especially the person with stroke signs, to drive to the hospital. Ambulance personnel are equipped to recognize stroke symptoms and relay them to the hospital immediately. Care will be faster and the emergency department will be ready to work with the patient when they arrive.The National Stroke Association has also added BE to the acronym.B=BALANCE Some stroke victims don’t have weakness but they do have severe balance difficulties. Do they stand with difficulty or appear to walk with difficulty?E=EYES Some people present with vision loss in one or both eyes, or parts of the visual field are missing. Ask them to read a few words.Once in the hospital, there are a number of possible new interventions that could reverse symptoms and/or limit further brain damage. However, these interventions are severely time limited. So recognition and quick action are the key to good outcomes.Should a stroke survivor be left with disability, there are plenty of services available help to reduce and/or compensate for any deficits the stroke survivor has. A team approach is usually the treatment of choice. The patient may have physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and/or recreational therapy depending on the needs identified. Once again, the sooner therapy is started the better the outcomes.A stroke affects not only the stroke survivor, but also family members and other caregivers. Rehabilitation cannot reverse brain damage, but it can help the brain learn new ways of doing things so that people can achieve the best possible long-term outcomes.Nathan Littauer Hospital has a full complement of therapies. Research has shown that patients who receive occupational therapy interventions are significantly less likely to deteriorate and more likely to be independent in their ability to perform activities of daily living at the end of therapy.To learn more, attend this month’s Vitality Plus luncheon featuring a presentation on “Occupational Therapy” on May 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Littauer’s Auditorium. Shelly Coffin O.T. will discuss how occupational therapy can assist with decreases in strength, flexibility and movement. Reservations for the buffet-style luncheon are requested by calling HealthLink at 736-1120. There is a $6 fee payable at the door.
Wellness Words April 2017 Posted on April 11, 2017 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health Educator Maintaining Cognitive FlexibilityAccording to the National Council on Aging, one of the greatest fears for seniors is the loss of independence. This has been greatly enhanced by the reports of the levels of Alzheimer’s and other dementias that are among the top causes of reducing senior’s ability to enjoy life. While we cannot control how old we are or our genetic makeup, we can greatly enhance our chances for staying independent by increasing or at least maintaining our mental flexibility.Cognitive (thought processes) flexibility is a sign of healthy brain function – an indication that many parts of the brain are working in concert. It is the ability to shift your thinking from one area to another smoothly. The quicker you can transition the greater your flexibility. Another aspect of this flexibility is the ability to break down a complex thought into smaller chunks in order to find its meaning.Cognitive flexibility can also mean adapting quickly to new information or ideas even if the information challenges long-held attitudes and beliefs. Unfortunately, according to research it is common as we age to develop repetitive behaviors and thought processes that get our brain stuck in unhealthy patterns. Our crystallized knowledge remains intact but the ability to think fluidly declines.How can we boost this important brain function? As in many other areas, your lifestyle choices make the most significant differences. Studies by the American Psychological Association have shown some of the following maintain or improve brain plasticity. Move: Make time for exercise! Exercise makes our brains work better and improves our memory, thinking and learning. It also prompts the release of an element known as BDNF, which is essentially “Miracle Grow” for the brain. You don’t have to go to a gym or have equipment – regular walks will do just as well. You can try some of the many community exercise programs such as HealthLink’s gentle yoga, chair yoga or tai chi. You can also try line dancing or water exercises at local venues.Nourish: Food high in saturated fats like cheese and meats should be reduced to once or twice a week. Research has shown that foods high in saturated fat can actually cause cognitive decline. Instead try healthy foods rich in monounsaturated fats like olive oil and avocados which may actually be protective.Connect: Regularly getting together with family and friends can improve brain plasticity and preserve cognitive abilities, and even regular phone conversations can help.Relax: Did you know laughing can provide the kind of ‘relaxation’ your brain needs to stay healthy? Research has shown that a good belly laugh increases oxygen intake, relaxes muscles, lowers blood pressure and releases natural pain killers. You can even relax and experience mindfulness meditation while participating in a craft class.Discover: Staying curious, trying new things, or going new places positively impacts brain health and function. So try something new or do something old in a new way.Cognitive flexibility often decreases the older we become. However, the good news is that making healthy lifestyle choices can greatly influence how well our brain performs and how we enjoy life!For more information, call HealthLink Littauer at 518-736-1120. You can e-mail us at healthlink@nlh.org, see our website at nlh.org, or visit our wellness center at 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
