Morgan County Herald: Health & Wellness

4 Reasons Why Now is the Best Time Ever to Learn to Play Piano

Posted: November 24, 2020

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(StatePoint) As the weather grows cold and the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact communities nationwide, many people are spending more time at home.

5 expert tips to save money at the grocery store

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - Parents are struggling to provide for their families during these uncertain and challenging times. A recent survey conducted by the Brookings Institution finds 1 in 5 young children in the U.S. are not getting enough food during this pandemic, and food insecurity is rising at an unprecedented rate.

3 tips to boost eye health during virtual learning

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - Whether students are attending class in person, virtually or a hybrid version of both, there's one thing everyone has in common: A lot more education is happening digitally. Screens are a valuable tool in education, but they also can have health implications, including stress on the eyes.

Families face holiday humbug due to high medical costs

Posted: November 23, 2020

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(BPT) - Many Americans look to the holiday season as a time of carefree family fun and rest — especially in a year as tumultuous as 2020. But recent studies suggest some families’ budgets may be facing lumps of coal in their stockings this holiday season.

Supporting Children And Teens In Managing Their Diabetes

Posted: November 23, 2020

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(NAPSI)—Diabetes is not just an adult disease. It’s one of the most common chronic conditions affecting children and teens in the United States. Today, it affects about 193,000 youth under 20 years of age and rates of newly diagnosed cases in young people are increasing.

When a young person has diabetes, it can be difficult to determine whether the disorder is type 1 or type 2. In either case, managing the diabetes is very important for long-term health.

Children and teens need support from their parents or other adult caregivers to manage their diabetes. Research shows that managing diabetes best works when adults and youth work as a team. The young person can gradually take on more responsibility, with the adult monitoring from a distance and making changes as needed.

Here are the main tasks that need to be covered in a diabetes plan:

•Manage blood glucose levels. An important goal for youth with diabetes is to take medicines as prescribed, at the right time, and in the right dose—even when they feel good or have reached their suggested target for blood glucose goals. Research shows that health complications can be greatly reduced, delayed, or possibly prevented by keeping blood glucose levels near normal. It’s also important to consistently take prescribed blood pressure or cholesterol medicines.

•Adopt healthy habits. Youth with diabetes should follow a healthy eating plan that allows enough calories for growth but avoids added sugar and fat. Getting enough sleep is also important. Some strategies that parents and youth can negotiate are to turn off electronics before bedtime and to keep a regular sleep schedule. A third important healthy habit is regular physical activity. If possible, youth should check blood glucose levels before, during, and after a game or a sport, to help monitor blood glucose levels.

•Stay prepared for emergencies. A “go kit” that young people can assemble with help from adults includes at least a week’s worth of medical supplies and equipment, a three-day supply of food, emergency and health care professional contact lists, a medication list including doses and dosing schedules, and an allergy list. During the COVID-19 pandemic, face coverings, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes can be added to the go kit. Adults can reinforce with young people the value of social distancing, along with use of these go kit supplies, to prevent spread of infection.

•Monitor for diabetes complications. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce risk for heart disease, vision loss, nerve damage, and other related health problems.

•Seek mental health support. It can be very helpful for young people with diabetes to connect with others their own age who also have diabetes. This can help reduce stress and anxiety and boost motivation for sticking to a plan to manage their diabetes. The young person’s health care team should have information on youth support groups (online or in-person) and other mental health resources.

The National Institute on Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) spearheads research to help improve diabetes management and treatment in children and teens. “Our understanding of how type 2 diabetes affects youth is still maturing,” says NIDDK Director Dr. Griffin P. Rodgers. “We must continue to explore treatments to ensure that these young people can live long, healthy lives.”

For more information on managing diabetes, visit the NIDDK website, www.niddk.nih.gov.

The Importance of Targeted Treatments for Rare Forms of Lung Cancer [Infographic]

Posted: November 23, 2020

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(BPT) - November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month — a critical moment to reflect on the progress made for patients living with this disease. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers, impacting hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S. every year and appearing in many different forms. Check out the graphic below to learn more about a rare form of lung cancer called ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and a potential treatment option. Visit https://www.takedaoncology.com/patients/disease-education/ for more information.

Steps Everyone Can Take to Help Prevent a ‘Twindemic’

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(StatePoint) In the 2019-2020 flu season, influenza caused up to 22,000 deaths in the U.S. This year, with so many medical resources being used to care for COVID-19 patients, it’s especially important to protect yourself from the flu.

Living with recurrent C. diff? 5 tips to enjoying the holidays

Posted: November 20, 2020

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(BPT) - Just when we all thought it was still March, the holidays have crept up on us. Let’s face it, we could all use a little joy right now to brighten up our holidays. Although the holidays may look different this year, many of us are hoping to keep a few normal traditions. Whether it’s gathering safely with family or enjoying a special meal, if you’re suffering from a recurrent diarrheal condition like C. difficile infection, those things can be anything but normal. Here are 5 tips Dr. Paul Feuerstadt of the PACT Gastroenterology Center in Connecticut recommends to help people with C. diff enjoy the holiday season.

1) Try your best to decompress

The holidays come with their own set of stressors. Gathering for meals with loved ones shouldn’t be one of them. Feuerstadt explains that those living with recurrent C. diff often show greater signs of stress in general, and frequently when it comes to mealtime.

Many C. diff patients often suffer a range of increased emotions which can be further elevated during the holiday season. Whether it’s grief, anger, fear, depression or anxiety, remember the holidays are a time to be kind to one another, including yourself.¹

Take some time for yourself. Each day take 10 minutes to relax. Close your eyes and try your best to clear your mind.

Find outlets to help manage your stress and anxiety, such as through yoga, listening to music, reading a good book or just by getting enough sleep (7-8 hours per night).¹

Listen to your body. It will tell you when you may need to take a minute for yourself. If the feelings are more intense than you feel you can consistently handle, follow up with your healthcare provider.

2) Don’t try to do it all yourself

The holidays can be a busy time of year. From picking out gifts for loved ones, to decorating the house, those suffering from C. diff can feel overwhelmed easily.

Rather than trying to do everything this year, why not focus on a couple of fun holiday traditions you enjoy? Maybe your one big activity is family baking and you ask a family member to help you decorate cookies. Whatever it may be, remember you don’t need to do it all. Focus your attention on one or two holiday traditions so you’re able to enjoy them to the fullest.

3) Know what’s on the menu

Whether you’re the chef or guest at a holiday dinner, know what’s on the menu. If there are certain foods or ingredients you must avoid, let your host know.

Although no two people are alike, there are foods that C. diff patients should generally avoid, including dairy products with lactose, greasy foods and any foods that may cause bloating (e.g., broccoli, onions, beans).²

Knowing it’s never good to arrive at a holiday gathering empty-handed, consider bringing a dish that you know will keep your gut calm and that you can eat without repercussions.

Remember to consult your healthcare professional for more information on nutritional advice for foods that are best suited for your body type and C. diff infection.

4) Practice health and safety guidelines

Anyone living with recurrent C. diff knows how contagious it is. That’s why it’s important to ensure you maintain standard health and safety measures, such as frequent handwashing. When using the restroom, be sure to always wash your hands with soap and water before touching surfaces such as doorknobs. Please be aware that alcohol-based hand sanitizer will not kill C. diff spores.^3,4

Although already top of mind for most, COVID-19 is still on the rise in many parts of the country. Proper handwashing, social distancing and wearing of face coverings is essential for everyone. Many people living with C. diff have already been practicing many of these universal hygiene measures before COVID-19 so this will be less of an adjustment.

COVID-19 has opened the doors to telehealth, making it even easier and more common for people with C. diff to connect with both their local medical providers but also experts across the country who might be able to help. If you feel that you are not well, you should feel free to utilize these modern tools to communicate with providers to get the proper care you need, when you need it.

5) Try a new tradition

2020 has been a year unlike any other. We’ve all had to reimagine the expectation of being “together” and perhaps this year is the time to try a new tradition — like a virtual meal with family and friends who are far away. If you’re a big football fan, you may consider a Zoom football watch party. Or how about a recipe and meal prep virtual gathering? It’s normal for people with C. diff to feel isolated, so try turning social distancing into an opportunity to be more connected without the stress of, “What if I need to get to the bathroom quickly?" Embrace technologies like Zoom to safely connect with loved ones and take this opportunity to spin this constraint into a positive.

Get Educated During Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(NAPSI)—Over 61 million people are enrolled in Medicare. As of October 15, individuals age 65 and older can make changes to their coverage and enroll in a Medicare plan during the annual open enrollment period, which lasts until December 7.

During this time, consumers can change from one Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plan to another. If you’re already enrolled in original Medicare, you can switch to a private Medicare Advantage plan, or you can drop your existing Medicare Advantage plan to return to original Medicare.

Making sense of Medicare may not be easy for many and can often be overwhelming if you don’t know where to find information. In fact, nearly half (47%) of Americans don’t have familiarity with Medicare Advantage insurance, according to research from The Center for a Secure Retirement and Bankers Life.

How you enroll or switch Medicare plans may be different this year. Enrollment sometimes happens face-to-face where it’s easier to ask questions. However, whether you’re meeting in-person or virtually, you can familiarize yourself with the available options and make a more informed decision.

1.Get educated. Increase your confidence in your Medicare knowledge and decisions by getting educated. Boomers can view an interactive guide on myHealthPolicy.com to help them decide. This guide includes quizzes, infographics, and more to help consumers better understand Medicare and choose the best solutions for their needs.

2.Shop and Compare Plans. Review your current Medicare health and prescription drug coverage and make changes if it no longer meets your needs. There are a lot of resources on the Internet. You can check out myHealthPolicy.com, a new online health insurance marketplace, designed to help potential beneficiaries learn about and enroll in Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans. This site helps consumers compare, buy or switch plans easily with personal assistance and one-on-one consultation with a licensed insurance agent.

3.Get consultations. An important feature of myHealthPolicy.com is that consumers can be helped – virtually or in-person – by a licensed insurance agent in their community who is familiar with local provider networks and can bring that knowledge into the decision process. Or you can also quickly connect with a telesales agent who can answer immediate questions.

Medicare is always a major topic for Boomers, and this year’s concerns about COVID-19 may complicate things. By using the tools and assistance provided by myHealthPolicy.com, you can begin receiving answers to your questions, as well as guidance on selecting the Medicare option that works best for you.

myHealthPolicy.com is operated by K.F. Agency, Inc., which is a licensed and certified representative of Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organizations and stand-alone prescription drug plans with a Medicare contract. myHealthPolicy.com and K.F. Agency, Inc. are not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program.

Redefining Life to Tackle Heart Failure

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - Tammy, a mother and grandmother, who always led an active lifestyle — going to the gym several times a week — never thought she would be at risk for heart failure.

Use, Don't Lose Flexible Spending Account Funds

Posted: November 20, 2020

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(NewsUSA) - The end of the year is a scramble, and it's particularly stressful this year for the millions of Americans enrolled in flexible spending accounts (FSAs) who need to spend down account funds by December 31 or risk forfeiting those dollars back to their employers.

Doctor's insight: Debunking toddler nutrition myths

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - The transition from breast milk or formula to food can be a stressful one for parents of toddlers. Keeping track of the newest information about adequate nutrition is difficult enough, not to mention you're now dealing with toddler food preferences that can seemingly alter overnight.

Long-Term Care Planning Made Easy: Find A Plan That’s Right For You

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(NAPSI)—You may already be aware of what long-term care is, whether it’s through personal experience caregiving for a loved one who needs daily assistance, or knowing a family member or friend who requires more support as they age. As you learn more about long term care, consider the possibility that you may need this type of care in the future and start planning for it today.

Did you know that 70% percent¹ of Americans older than age 65 will need long term care at some point in their lives? This means personal care and other related services provided on an extended basis to people who need help with everyday activities or supervision due to a severe cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Because long term care is not typically covered by health or other types of traditional insurance, it’s most often provided at home by adult children, other family members, and friends. Caregiving can be stressful, and often takes a toll on a caregiver’s health and well-being.

For this reason, you may want to research standalone long term care insurance like the coverage that is offered under the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP). Designed specifically for the federal family, the FLTCIP provides insurance coverage that reimburses for long term care in places like a nursing home, an assisted living facility, or at home. Purchasing coverage under the FLTCIP may help to protect your savings and assets as well as remain independent in the event you ever need long term care.

Build a FLTCIP plan

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to long term care insurance, and it’s no secret that planning for your future care can be overwhelming. The FLTCIP’s new Guided Planner was designed to simplify the process of building a FLTCIP plan that’s right for you. When choosing a plan, consider the role your family may play in providing your care, the cost of care where you live or plan to retire, and how your coverage may contribute to your broader financial goals. The Guided Planner will guide you through these key considerations:

•Cost of care: Compare the national average cost of long term care with other locations in the United States. You can choose where you live, or plan to retire.

•Care options: Learn more about different care options, such as home care, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes, as well as the associated costs.

•Inflation protection: Understand the impact of inflation on the cost of care over time and see examples of how the FLTCIP’s inflation protection options can help.

The FLTCIP Guided Planner will help you build a plan based on three benefit choices. These, along with your age, will help you determine your coverage and premium:

•daily benefit amount

•benefit period

•inflation protection

Visit LTCFEDS.com to learn more about the Guided Planner and build a plan that’s right for you.

The Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program is sponsored by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, insured by John Hancock Life & Health Insurance Company, under a group long-term care insurance policy, and administered by Long Term Care Partners, LLC.

1 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “The Basics,” https://longtermcare.acl.gov/the-basics/ (accessed August 2020).

Milestone moments: Celebrating 25 years of Christopher Reeve’s legacy [infographic]

Posted: November 19, 2020

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(BPT) - On May 17, 1995, an equestrian accident left actor Christopher Reeve paralyzed from the neck down. Along with his wife, he created the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation to help all individuals living with paralysis reach their potential. As their legacy continues 25 years later, we celebrate key moments in the Foundation's history.

3 Ways to Treat Yourself With Self-Care This Holiday Season

Updated: November 20, 2020 - 2:30 am

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(StatePoint) 2020 has thrown us all a lot of curveballs, so it’s no surprise that the concept of self-care is getting a lot of traction in many health and wellness circles. Treating yourself with healthy activities can improve your mental and physical state and help you be more present with friends and family this holiday season.

Make the Most of Holiday Gatherings This Year

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) The holiday season may look different this year, but family, friends, gratitude and good food never go out of style. This year, you can make the most of your intimate holiday gatherings with new traditions, cooking shortcuts and creative ways to keep friends and family close, no matter how far apart you are. For more information and ideas to spice up your holiday meal this season, visit BobEvans.com.

Skip the Holi-daze

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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How to spend added time making memories

Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Before you can hang the stockings by the chimney with care, you have to figure out how you’re going to stuff them. Nearly every family has a different approach, but practical presents that match the personality of the recipient is almost always a winning strategy for filling out your loved ones’ stockings.

Help Others During the Holidays

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Giving during the holiday season can mean more than gifts. It’s the time of year when giving back to your community can make an even bigger impact – especially this year when so many need a helping hand.

Improve Your Mental Health with Better Sleep

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) For some, the holidays may be the happiest season of all, but for others the hectic pace and endless to-do lists can take a real toll on their mental health. This year, the impact is heightened by a global health pandemic.

Age with Style and Grace

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Aging may be inevitable, but with advancement in research and technology, there are plenty of ways you can slow, or even reverse, the hands of time to stay healthy and promote longevity.

Give the Gift of Practicality

Posted: November 19, 2020

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Holiday presents loved ones can put to work

4 Ways to Include Your Furry Friends in Holiday Festivities

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) The holidays are a time when many come together to celebrate loved ones, practice family traditions, express gratitude and share gifts. This year, many have leaned on close friends and family for support and relied on the companionship of their furry family members as well.

Reasons for New Hope in Lung Cancer

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Lung cancer is the second most common form of cancer diagnosed in both men and women. Among the different forms of the disease, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common, comprising 84% of all lung cancer cases, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology. NSCLC is most often diagnosed in the advanced stage when it can be difficult to treat.

Shop Small and Give Back This Holiday Season

Posted: November 19, 2020

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(Family Features) This year has been tough for many. Despite the challenges, acts of compassion and generosity can bring together the global community. With this holiday season different than those before, it is important to remember the world’s shared humanity and help make the season brighter.

Get Ready to Gift

Posted: November 19, 2020

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Holiday presents for every person (and pet) on your holiday list

Wellness Lifestyle Expert Shares Products to Help Us Prepare, Plan and Soothe As The Winter Woes Approach Us [Video]

Updated: November 20, 2020 - 2:30 am

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Clinical trials advance science for patients with melanoma

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - Your skin is the largest organ of your body. And, like other parts of the body, it can get cancer. Melanoma is a rare form of skin cancer, and if caught early is often treatable. When it spreads to other parts of the body, the cancer is advanced – stage III or IV. Advanced stages of melanoma are harder to treat.

The Most Common Symptom of Uterine Fibroids? Heavy Menstrual Bleeding. Learn More About An Oral Treatment Option.

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - Most women learn how to manage their periods beginning in their teenage years, often juggling work and school with an extra tampon or two on hand. However, for many women, managing a period often becomes a major burden due to symptoms stemming from uterine fibroids as they get into their 20s and 30s.^1,2 Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are the most common type of non-cancerous pelvic tumors in women affecting up to 80 percent of African American women and 70 percent of Caucasian women that can develop before the age of 50.^3-6

How Rosacea Patients Can Take Action Against the Threat of Antibiotic Resistance

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - With the COVID-19 pandemic on the minds of people worldwide, the spotlight on public health is more present than ever before. But before COVID-19 became a top public health concern, we were already in the throes of one of the biggest public health challenges of our time: antibiotic resistance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that annually at least 2.8 million people get an antibiotic-resistant infection in the United States, and more than 35,000 people die as a result.¹ The threat of antibiotic resistance grows stronger as more antibiotics are used, yet the CDC estimates 30 percent of all antibiotics prescribed in outpatient clinics are “unnecessary.”^2,³ Who are the top prescribers of antibiotics in the U.S.? Dermatologists.⁴

To treat chronic inflammatory skin conditions — like rosacea — dermatologists will often employ antibiotics because of their anti-inflammatory properties.⁵ The issue? While antibiotics are life-saving drugs used to treat infections caused by bacteria, rosacea is not a bacterial condition.^6,⁷

Once bacteria become resistant, antibiotics cannot fight the resistant infection and bacteria begin to multiply.⁸ Resistance doesn’t mean the body is becoming resistant to antibiotics; ultimately, the bacteria become resistant to the treatments designed to kill them.⁸ Infections then become longer lasting, surmounting to a public health concern of global scale.⁶ The threat has become so widespread that the CDC has identified 18 “urgent, serious and concerning” antibiotic resistant threats.⁹

As rosacea afflicts an estimated 16 million Americans, the treatment decisions rosacea sufferers make today can greatly impact the fight against antibiotic resistance.¹⁰ It’s important not to take antibiotic treatments unless a physician deems it necessary.

Thankfully, not all rosacea treatment options are created equally. There is a non-antibiotic dose option that can help reduce the symptoms of rosacea without contributing to antibiotic resistance, as seen in a long term study.^5[*] ORACEA^® (doxycycline, USP) 40mg* Capsules, a convenient, once-daily oral prescription treatment, combats inflammation from the inside out to reduce the bumps and blemishes of rosacea through its anti-inflammatory properties.^5,¹¹ ^,¹² The safety and efficacy of ORACEA Capsules in the treatment of bumps and blemishes of rosacea was evaluated in two randomized, placebo-controlled, multi-centered, double-blind, clinical trials which found many people taking ORACEA Capsules started to see significant improvements (reduction in inflammatory lesions) in as little as 3 weeks, and improvements continued through the full 16-week course of the study.^12,13[†] In controlled studies, the most commonly reported adverse events (>2%) in patients treated with ORACEA Capsules were nasopharyngitis, sinusitis, diarrhea, hypertension and aspartate aminotransferase increase.^[†]

Unlike the most commonly prescribed 100mg dose of doxycycline, which demonstrated microbial resistance as early as day seven, ORACEA Capsules’ formula proved to not contribute to antibiotic resistance, in a nine-month study.^12,¹³ The choices patients make today impact their health tomorrow. So, it’s important for people with rosacea to engage in the conversation with their dermatologists about an effective option to treat the bumps and blemishes of rosacea with a non-antibiotic dose.

Aside from safe and effective treatment options like ORACEA Capsules, people can join the fight against antibiotic resistance by following these tips:

Follow doctor’s orders: When prescribed, complete an antibiotic course as instructed. Unfinished antibiotic regimens can allow bacteria to survive (even if symptoms are relieved) and adapt to the treatment, increasing rates of resistance.¹⁴ If doctors don’t prescribe antibiotics, patients should not push for them. It’s important for patients to trust their doctor’s expertise when told that antibiotics won’t help.
Don’t save or share leftover antibiotics: Self-medicating may not treat the illness properly and could lead to adverse side effects.⁶^,¹⁵ Taking antibiotics when not required allows bacteria to grow stronger.⁶
Focus on the long-term: For rosacea patients, consider that a long-term action plan may be a better option to treat the bumps and blemishes of rosacea rather than a short-term course of antibiotics.¹¹

For more information about antibiotic resistance, connect with a dermatologist today. Visit Oracea.com to learn about rosacea and this non-antibiotic dose treatment option. With proper care, it’s possible to treat rosacea and help limit the risk of antibiotic resistance for a clearer and healthier future.

Important Safety Information

Indication: ORACEA Capsules are indicated for the treatment of only inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules) of rosacea in adult patients. ORACEA Capsules do not lessen the facial redness caused by rosacea. Adverse Events: In controlled clinical studies, the most commonly reported adverse events (>2%) in patients treated with ORACEA Capsules were nasopharyngitis, sinusitis, diarrhea, hypertension and aspartate aminotransferase increase. Warnings/Precautions: ORACEA Capsules should not be used to treat or prevent infections. ORACEA Capsules should not be taken by patients who have a known hypersensitivity to doxycycline or other tetracyclines. ORACEA Capsules should not be taken during pregnancy, by nursing mothers, or during tooth development (up to the age of 8 years). Although photosensitivity was not observed in clinical trials, ORACEA Capsules patients should minimize or avoid exposure to natural or artificial sunlight. The efficacy of ORACEA Capsules treatment beyond 16 weeks and safety beyond 9 months have not been established.

*30 mg immediate release & 10 mg delayed release beads

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

¹ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Antibiotic / Antimicrobial Resistance. https://www.cdc.gov/drugresistance/index.html. Accessed on October 8, 2020.

² Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Antibiotic use in the United States, 2018 update: progress and opportunities. Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services, CDC; 2019.

³ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Be antibiotics aware: smart use, best care. https://www.cdc.gov/features/antibioticuse/index.html. Accessed on October 8, 2020.

⁴ Penn Medicine News. Dermatologists prescribe the most antibiotics, but which uses are driving the trend? https://www.pennmedicine.org/news/news-releases/2019/january/dermatologists-prescribe-the-most-antibiotics-but-which-uses-are-driving-the-trend/. Accessed on October 8, 2020.

⁵ Del Rosso, J. and Zeichner, J. The clinical relevance of antibiotic resistance: thirteen principles that every dermatologist needs to consider when prescribing antibiotic therapy. Dermatology Clinics: 2016. 34, pp. 167-173.

⁶ World Health Organization. Antibiotic resistance. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antibiotic-resistance. Accessed on October 8, 2020.

⁷ National Rosacea Society. All About Rosacea. https://www.rosacea.org/patients/all-about-rosacea. Accessed on October 8, 2020.

⁸ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Antibiotic resistance questions and answers. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/about/antibiotic-resistance-faqs.html. Accessed on October 8, 2020.

⁹ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Antibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States. Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services, CDC; 2019.

¹⁰ National Rosacea Society. What is rosacea? https://www.rosacea.org/. Accessed on October 8, 2020.

¹¹ Oracea (doxycycline) capsules for oral use. Prescribing information. 2014.

¹² Valentin, Sheila, et al. Safety and efficacy of doxycycline in the treatment of rosacea. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology: CCID 2 (2009): 129.

Undaunted in the face of a challenging diagnosis

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - Todd and Iwona were experienced parents when their son Alek was born — they already had two children and felt as prepared as possible for their new addition. However, Alek’s diagnosis with a rare, genetic disease called spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) changed everything. The family’s days were soon filled with doctor’s appointments and navigating clinical trials.

Taking Action to Reduce Insulin Costs

Updated: November 19, 2020 - 2:30 am

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(StatePoint) A new campaign is encouraging people to take action during open enrollment to lower their insulin costs.

Help Families Struggling this Christmas Due to COVID-19

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Nearly half of low-income Americans reported that they or someone in their household experienced some type of income loss during the pandemic, according to information published by Pew Research Center. Because more people are facing hardship this year due to the impacts of COVID-19, more families in your community will likely be in need of assistance this holiday season and into 2021.

Safe Winter Driving: 4 tire tips for cold weather

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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4 tire tips for cold weather

Make Quality Time Thanksgiving's Secret Ingredient

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Perhaps more than usual, the centerpiece this Thanksgiving won’t be the turkey, the stuffing or even family-famous recipes for sweet potato casserole or pumpkin pie. Instead, when gathering around a table with loved ones, the precious moments of togetherness will be what many families treasure most.

4 Tire Tips for Safe Winter Driving

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Even the most experienced drivers can encounter challenges when driving on slick roads caused by ice and snow or dealing with the impact of colder temperatures during the winter months. In fact, inclement weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes each winter, according to research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

Get the Dish on Proper Nutrition for New Pets

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) As families continue to cope with changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, many are taking advantage of more time at home by welcoming a new puppy or kitten to their households.

Comparing Medicare Plans Can Save You Money

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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Medicare open enrollment is here. With plan premiums at historic lows, now’s the time to review your coverage options

What to Look for in an Infant Day Care

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) It can be challenging to raise a baby even in the best of times, but many parents need additional support for the education and care of their young children amid the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, both parents work in nearly two-thirds of families with children. The number of working single parents is even higher.

Sensible Solutions for Holiday Gifting

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Practically every year there’s at least one person on your holiday gift list that seems to have it all. One way to think outside the box is to sift through wants and needs to find something that can truly be put to use on an almost daily basis.

5 Tips for Your Next Snowmobile Adventure

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) As travel restrictions and popular trends like staycations have changed the way many people escape from their day-to-day lives, rediscovering classic, outdoor winter activities like snowmobiling can provide a simple way to spend time with loved ones.

Comparing Medicare Plans to Save You Money

Updated: November 23, 2020 - 2:31 am

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Medicare Open Enrollment is here. With plan premiums at historic lows, now's the time to review your coverage options

7 great reasons to eat more grapes

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - It’s possible that grapes are already high on your list of snackable foods, but there are so many reasons to eat grapes beyond just their irresistible juicy-sweet taste. You may not know that grapes also have many properties that can help you maintain a fresher, healthier diet. With the recent focus on plant-based foods, there’s nothing better than choosing produce that can work equally well as a vital ingredient for a sweet or savory part of your meal.

The Symptoms of UC May Impact People Both Physically and Emotionally: Here’s How to Begin Taking Back Some Control

Posted: November 17, 2020

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(BPT) - Imagine having the worst anxiety whenever you leave the house because you never know when you're going to be driving or walking and the urge to go to the bathroom is going to hit you. That is what it can be like for some people living with ulcerative colitis (UC), a disease that can cause abdominal pain, cramping and diarrhea.^1,2

Expand Your Self-Care Horizon with Quantum Energy

Updated: November 21, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(NewsUSA) - These days, stress seems to spike at every turn, especially in the wake of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, and stressed out individuals continue to seek strategies to improve health, wellbeing and harmony.

Working Daughters Deserve Support

Updated: November 20, 2020 - 2:30 am

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(NAPSI)—For the approximate 23 million women who balance caring for an aging parent with going to work, and often raising children of their own, there is little recognition and not enough support. These women themselves often don’t think of what they do as caregiving; they just consider themselves dutiful daughters. Yet they average 24.4 hours of unpaid care a week, from buying groceries, to managing medication, helping with household chores, assisting their parents with bathing and dressing, and driving to appointments. Many are even providing complex medical tasks, with little or no training, such as administering injections, monitoring vital signs, caring for wounds or cleaning feeding tubes. Collectively, they provide $470 billion in unpaid care, according to the AARP.

Often, these women provide this care at great cost to their careers. Working daughters, much like working mothers, may need to switch to a less demanding job, take time off or quit work altogether. They lose wages and job-related benefits costing them, on average, $304,000 in lost wages and benefits while spending nearly 20 percent of their own income on caregiving.

To give these unsung heroes recognition and much needed support, November 17 marks the first National Working Daughters Day. It’s important to make the care they give compatible with a career. With 10,000 people turning 65 every day in the United States, the caregiving workforce is only going to grow. Smart businesses must examine policies and corporate cultures to create environments where caregivers can thrive. Working daughters need flexibility, paid family leave policies and expanding eligibility requirements. They need affordable, quality eldercare options.

Learn more at www.workingdaughter.com.

Many Older Americans Heading Into The Holidays Feeling Depressed

Updated: November 22, 2020 - 2:33 am

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Nearly Two-Thirds Of Seniors Who Feel Depressed Won’t Seek Treatment

Your Ophthalmologist Is Ready To See You

Updated: November 18, 2020 - 2:33 am

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(NAPSI)—When ophthalmologist Ruth Williams, MD, opened her office after shutting down early in 2020 due to the pandemic, she was surprised to see how many people had developed serious eye problems in just a few months.

Preventive care is especially important in eye care because many common eye diseases can rob you of your good vision before you notice signs of trouble.

“Far too often, we witness the consequences of patients entering the ophthalmologist’s office too late to avoid severe vision loss,” said Dr. Williams, a glaucoma specialist at the Wheaton Eye Clinic in the Chicago suburbs. “Protecting vision is such a high value thing.”

The good news is ophthalmologists—medical and surgical physicians trained to recognize all the potential threats to vision—have figured out how to safely practice medicine in the era of COVID. Dr. Williams says most eye doctors hope not to shutter their offices again.

EyeCare America Can Help

If the cost of an eye exam is a concern, the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeCare America program may be able to help. This national public service program provides eyecare through thousands of volunteer ophthalmologists for eligible seniors 65 and older, and those at increased risk for eye disease, mostly at no out-of-pocket cost to the patient. As one EyeCare America patient said, “Because of your program, my vision will be saved. The doctor was professional, and the diagnosis was spot on. EyeCare America is a beautiful thing!”

Who Should See an Ophthalmologist?

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends all adults have a comprehensive eye exam by age 40, and every year or two after age 65.

Other reasons to see an ophthalmologist include:

1.If you are experiencing new symptoms, including blurry, wavy or blank spots in your field of vision.

2.If you injure your eye, even if it seems minor. Damage to the eye is not always obvious and may require treatment.

3.If you get eye injections for an existing eye disease and have not done so during COVID-19. You should contact your ophthalmologist now.

4.If you’ve put off surgery, such as cataract surgery, during COVID-19.You should contact your ophthalmologist.

Safety Procedures During COVID

Ophthalmologists have taken many steps to create a safe environment during the pandemic. Your ophthalmologist is probably ready for you. Here is what you should expect to see:

•The clinic is likely to restrict the number of people who enter. If you don’t need someone to be there with you, don’t bring anyone to your appointment.

•The clinic may ask you to wait outside or in your car, instead of in the normal waiting room.

•Expect to see hand sanitizer when you enter the building and in the waiting room and exam rooms.

•Expect to be asked to wear a mask.

•Chairs will be spaced out to accommodate social distancing.

•Cleaning will occur more frequently throughout the clinic.

•As usual, exam rooms and equipment will be thoroughly cleaned after every patient exits.

•Expect to be asked a series of questions to determine your risk profile.

•Expect someone will take your temperature.

•Your ophthalmologist may use a special plastic breath shield on the slit lamp machine they use to look into your eyes.

•Your eyecare professionals may ask you to wait to speak until after your eye exam is complete. Then they can talk with you and answer questions when they can be a safe distance from you.

Learn More

For more information regarding EyeCare America and to see if you or someone you care for qualify, visit www.aao.org/eyecare-america.

How Do Our Genes Affect Pancreatic Cancer? Five Things to Know

Updated: November 24, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - The statistics around pancreatic cancer are grim. In the US this year, more than 57,000 people will be diagnosed and approximately 47,000 will die from the disease. Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death, with a five-year survival rate of 10% across all stages.

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