March 2016 - SWGA Health Beat

MARCH 2016 #1 Health Magazine in Southwest Georgia

THE FACTS ABOUT ZIKA COPING WITH CAREGIVER ANGER ALLERGY SEASON SOLUTIONS

Look Inside for Dr. Oz!

NATIONAL KIDNEY MONTH

Erin Cannington, M.D. Allergy and Asthma Clinics of Georgia

El-Roy Dixon, M.D. Dixon Eye Care

Dr. Hans Chang Albany Diagnostics

James Palazzolo, M.D. Sleep Apnea Centers of America

Dr. Rex Ajayi South Georgia Urology

Kelly Miller, FNP-BC Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center

TIFTON ALBANY AMERICUS BAINBRIDGE SYLVESTER THOMASVILLE VALDOSTA CORDELE MOULTRIE AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Features 3

Tips to Cope with Caregiver Anger

8

Spotlight on: Anemia

12

The Facts about Zika Virus

14

Cold vs Flu: The Differences

18

Allergies Anyone?

21

Joe Nichols: Lung Disease Awareness

22

Top Reasons People Fail at Fitness

EVENT CALENDAR Email upcoming events to: swgahealthbeat@gmail.com

Each Wednesday Free Lung Cancer Screenings 8:00 am - 11:00 am Lewis Hall Singletary Oncology Center 919 S Broad St, Thomasville Our providers will offer free, low-dose CT scans to screen for lung cancer.

Screenings are available to individuals ages 55–74 who are current smokers or who have quit smoking within the last 15 years. *Screenings by appointment only. Please call 229.584.5454 to schedule your appointment today.

March 8 Breastfeeding Class 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm OB Classroom (2nd floor) Tift Regional Medical Center This class everything you need to know about breastfeeding including preparation, instruction and helpful tips. The class is held from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Registration is required. Please call 229-353-7605 or register below. Please include number of guests in the required field.

March 8 Stroke and Head Injury Support Group 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm South Georgia Medical Center Pearlman Cancer Center Conference Room, 209 Pendleton Drive, Valdosta

March 2016

You are not alone.

Join us for a time of fellowship and refreshments with others who understand what you are going through. Recieve education from experienced professionals.

For more information, please call 229-2594292.

March 19 Prepared Childbirth 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Meeting Room 3 (first floor at Tift Regional Medical Center) The Prepared Childbirth Classes will cover general topics relating to labor, delivery, and basic care of your baby. We do suggest that you bring a partner with you for class.

Registration required.

(229) 353-7605 March 21 Life with Diabetes Support Group 6:00 pm SGMC Diabetes Management Center, 3018 North Patterson Street, Valdosta Join us for a time of learning about life with diabetes. This support group is open to the public.

For more information, please call 229-4337200.

April 2 2016 Tifton Fitness Challenge 8:00 am - 11:00 am YMCA Hunt Park

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823 Westover Road, Tifton 229-402-1821 or 229-848-3367 $150 per team (four challengers per team) Calling all athletes and fitness buffs: we have a team challenge for you. The Tiftarea YMCA and the Tift Regional Dialysis Center are teaming to present the 2016 Tifton Fitness Challenge on Saturday, April 2 at the YMCA’s Hunt Park located in Tifton at 1823 Westover Road. The team competition will include an obstacle course and exercise challenges, including push-ups, sit-ups, rowing, a tire tower climb and more.

Recurring Events Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital Diabetes Support Group Third Tuesday each month | 3 pm at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center cafeteria private dining room Chair Yoga Sowega Council On Aging Wednesdays | 11 - 11:45 am at Senior Life Enrichment Center Call 435-6789 to register • FREE • Age 60+ Line Dancing Sowega Council On Aging Mondays | 11 am Advanced, Wednesdays | 3 pm at Senior Life enrichment Center Call 435-6789 to register • FREE • Age 60+

5 Tips to Cope with Caregiver Anger

By Jack Hartley www.caregiverstress.com

How do you react when your senior parent or spouse asks you what day it is for the thousandth time that morning?

Do you sometimes feel like screaming?

Or what about when your formerly sweet wife suddenly hits you in the face with her fist as you are trying to dry her off after a shower? If it’s the first time she’s done this, you might shrug it off. But what about the tenth time? Or the twentieth?

Do you feel like shouting “stop that!” at her?

In a best-case scenario, caring for a senior loved one would bring the two of you together in an intimate bond, providing memories you could cherish long after they’re gone.

But all too frequently, the rigors of caregiving combined with the erratic behaviors exhibited by seniors with dementia or other health issues can lead caregivers to feel rage and other so-called “negative” emotions.

One member of the Remember for Alzheimer’s Facebook community put it this way: “I hope and wish that my wife’s dementia had brought us closer together. It hasn’t. In fact, she blames me for her present limitations, weeps, complains, hits me and does little (in my opinion) to help herself. While I realize this behavior is all disease-inspired, it has become increasingly hard for me not to feel anger, disgust and resentment. I have become a full-time caregiver to a person who looks like my wife but has become an angry, disgruntled stranger.”

Dementia is not the only condition that can cause changes in a senior’s behavior.

Medical conditions like stroke— or even the side effects of a medication—can alter a senior family member’s personality and ability to reason.

Stubbornness and irrationality on the part of a senior can create a perfect storm of impatience and anger in a family caregiver. When you spend all your energy getting your loved one to shower and use the bathroom, only to find feces smeared on the walls later that evening, you might feel like blowing your stack in fury. “Just when I thought my day was finally over, now I get to spend another hour cleaning

up this disgusting mess!”

When family caregivers open up about their emotions, they are quick to talk about their feelings of stress, sadness and depression. But they don’t often talk about the anger, impatience and even rage that can flare in an instant. Who hasn’t snapped once or twice during their caregiving journey and then relentlessly beat themselves up for it later?

If you have ever felt like clenching your fists and screaming in frustration, you are not alone. Most caregivers probably experience these strong emotions from time to time. The key lies in coping with them.

thought of dealing with a small child who is having a tantrum than you can muster for coping with an adult displaying the same behavior.

Tip Three: Get Something to Eat

Don’t expect yourself to maintain a perfectly patient attitude at all times. This is unrealistic. Human beings are not perfect.

If you experience an episode of impatience or anger, forgive yourself. Try to give yourself credit for the thousands of times you have exhibited great patience—and for the hours and hours of loving care you provide to your senior family member.

Speaking of tantrums, anyone who has raised children knows the highest probability for a meltdown occurs in the late afternoon, when a child is hungry. This is partly due to a natural drop in blood sugar levels that occurs when a person hasn’t eaten for a few hours. Low blood glucose levels can impair your coping ability.

You can help yourself and your senior family member avoid a potential afternoon meltdown by eating a healthy snack together.

Ideally, aim to eat something every three hours to maintain your blood sugar levels. You might find your ability to cope with the stress of caregiving improves considerably.

Tip Two: Think Like a Toddler

Tip Four: Go Ahead— Punch a Pillow

If you are caring for a threeyear-old, you probably do not shout angrily at them because they cannot comprehend the concept of waiting another two hours for dinner. Instead, you likely re-direct their attention and give them a snack.

Toddlers display very little self-regulation, and they can’t follow any sort of complex logic. Seniors with cognitive issues can exhibit this type of behavior, too.

Your parent, spouse or other senior family member obviously is not a child—and you should always strive to treat them with the dignity and respect you reserve for adults. But their cognitive function may correlate more closely to that of a toddler than an adult.

If your senior loved one is driving you crazy in the moment, ask yourself how you would treat a toddler in the same situation. You may find you have more patience at the

Sometimes, physically ventilating your rage can be very therapeutic. If you’re “having a moment,” feel free to excuse yourself and go scream into a pillow. Or punch the pillow, if it makes you feel better.

As a longer-term strategy, consider increasing the amount of exercise you get. Physical activity is a well-known mood booster, so any time you can get some exercise it should help reduce your overall stress level-and possibly your anger, too.

Tip One: Forgive Yourself

Jack Hartley is the owner of JWH Service Partners, Inc. d.b.a.

Home Instead Senior Care #585.

Home Instead Senior Care provides seniors with Companionship, Light Housekeeping, Medication Reminders, Meal Preparation, Errands, Doctor Visits and more.

For information go to www.homeinstead.com/585.

Tip Five: Take Time Off Easier said than done, right?

Remember: you can’t draw from an empty well. Often, impatience and anger stem from exhaustion. Caregiving can sap your strength mentally, and it can have negative effects on your physical health if it disrupts your sleep or eating

habits.

If you cannot tap other family members to take over the caregiving duties for a day or more, consider hiring a professional caregiver . For a small fee, you can recoup some peace of mind, regain your perspective and fill up your well of patience. Taking time away from caregiving benefits both you and your senior loved one.

Lastly, don’t feel guilty if you experience anger, impatience, disgust or any of the other “negative” emotions during your caregiving journey.

Sometimes, just acknowledging these feelings can dissipate them. Enlist a trusted confidante who is willing to hear your frustration and anger without judging you or trying to fix the problem. You might find this strategy alone allows you to cope much better with the unpleasant emotions that can accompany caregiving.

Beyond anger, you probably deal with a wide variety of emotions, including fear and grief. Get tips for managing the emotional fallout of caregiving at www.caregiverstress.com.

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Don’t Pop Your Top: Managing High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy of delivery to ensure the best outcome for mother and baby.

Enlightenment High blood pressure is one of the most common issues that may affect pregnant women. It may occur before, during, or after pregnancy and needs special attention at each stage to prevent poor results. It can have significant short-term and long-term effects on the health of mother and baby, and therefore, should be carefully managed with directions from a doctor and the compliance of the patient. Your doctor may request help from a high-risk pregnancy doctor to help take care of you and your baby.

Education Effect on Mother: although some symptoms may happen just because you are pregnant, high blood pressures may come along with changes in vision, stomach pains, change in reflexes (automatic actions that the body does to protect itself), sudden change in leg swelling, rapid weight gain, seizures, and significant changes in results from blood and urine tests. Effect on Baby: the baby will be watched regularly to look for low levels of amniotic fluid, poor growth, and changes in heart rate. It may be necessary to change the timing and route

Empowerment You and your doctor should discuss a plan to manage your blood pressure that may include medications, a special diet (avoid foods high in salt), and additional ultrasounds and regular fetal monitoring to check on baby. Please take this plan seriously and learn the signs that your blood pressure may out of control (severe headache, “seeing spots”, pain in the middle or right upper part of the stomach), and signs that your baby may be in distress (not feeling the baby move or sudden onset of vaginal bleeding).

Encouragement Health mom = Healthy baby. Please listen to your doctor and pay attention to your body and your baby. Don’t ignore the signs and symptoms that may come with uncontrolled blood pressures.

Quote Of The Month: “Hate, it has caused a lot of problems in the world, but has not solved one yet” ~ Maya Angelou ~

Cosmetologists sought for Look Good Feel Better program Volunteers are needed to teach female cancer patients how to disguise appearance-related effects of treatment

ALBANY, GA (Feb. 26, 2016) – The American Cancer Society will offer a Look Good Feel Better facilitator training class for licensed cosmetologists and estheticians on Monday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the American Cancer Society office, 507 W. Third Avenue, #4, Albany.

Look Good Feel Better is a free program for women who are undergoing cancer treatment.

Volunteer facilitators teach women to improve their appearance and selfimage through beauty techniques designed to overcome the side-effects of chemotherapy and radiation. During the sessions, licensed beauty professionals present make-up, skin and nail care tips. They also demonstrate how to disguise hair loss using wigs, turbans and scarves.

The program is a collaboration of the American Cancer Society, the Personal Care Products Council Foundation and the Professional Beauty Association.

“Look Good Feel Better is as much about improving and maintaining selfimage and confidence as it is about appearance,” says Pam Ashman,

Mission Delivery program manager for the American Cancer Society.

“Patients appreciate the free make-up and instruction from professionals while having the opportunity to spend time in a relaxed, non-medical setting with others who are in the same situation. The class allows them to regain control of their lives.”

According to the American Cancer Society, there are a number of anticancer drugs in use today, each with its own set of possible side effects.

Possible appearance-related effects of chemotherapy and radiation include: hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows or lashes; weight gain or loss; changes in skin pigmentation and texture; skin oiliness, itchiness or peeling; and alterations in nail texture and growth rate.

On top of the very real physical and emotional concerns of the disease itself, the side-effects of cancer treatment can be devastating to a woman’s self-esteem. In her mirror she sees someone she doesn’t even recognize – tired and discolored, with thinning hair and no eyelashes.

Patients who have participated in Look Good Feel Better call the program an emotional lifesaver because it returns them to a sense of normalcy.

Ashman says women who participate in the class receive tremendous physical and emotional support, while the volunteer facilitators are able to work with a special group of women and make a difference in their lives when they were going

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through a very challenging time.

“It’s a great way for cancer patients to take a break from treatment and build new friendships. Some women have found themselves laughing for the first time in weeks and walking away feeling refreshed and renewed not only about their appearance, but also about their outlook on life.”

For details about becoming a Look Good Feel Better volunteer or to register for the training, please contact Pam Ashman at (404) 582-6120 or pam.ashman@cancer.org. For more information about the American Cancer Society, call (800) 227-2345 or visit cancer.org. ### Look Good Feel Better is a free public service program that helps individuals with cancer improve their self-esteem, appearance and confidence by helping them to deal with the appearance side effects of cancer treatment. The program offers free workshops, and online and virtual support that include lessons on skin and nail care, cosmetics, wigs and turbans, accessories and styling… helping people with cancer to find some normalcy in a life that is by no means normal. It is offered through a collaborative effort of the Personal Care Products Council Foundation, the charitable arm of the trade group representing the cosmetics and beauty industry; the American Cancer Society, the nation’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to saving lives from cancer; and the

Professional Beauty Association, the largest organization of salon professionals with members representing salons/spas, distributors, manufacturers and beauty professionals. For more information, visit the website at www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org or call 1800-395-LOOK. Look Good Feel Better is a registered trademark of the Personal Care Products Council Foundation.

About The American Cancer Society The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 2.5 million volunteers saving lives and fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society's efforts have contributed to a 22 percent decline in cancer death rates in the US during the past two decades, and a 50 percent drop in smoking rates. Thanks in part to our progress nearly 14.5 million Americans who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will celebrate more birthdays this year.

We're determined to finish the fight against cancer. As the nation's largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, we're finding cures and ensuring people facing cancer have the help they need and continuing the fight for access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air, and more. For more information, to get help, or to join the fight, visit cancer.org or call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345.

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Established in Albany since 1985, Dr. Rex Ajayi, board certified in both adult and pediatric urology, offers diagnostic services and a broad spectrum of surgical and non-surgical treatments for male and female patients of all ages who suffer from urinary tract problems.

SOME OF THESE CONDITIONS ARE: ~ Benign and Malignant Disorders of the Prostate, Bladder and Kidney ~ Erectile Dysfunction ~ Impotence ~ Vasectomy ~ Female Stress Urinary Incontinence ~ Hematuria (Blood in the urine) ~ Male Incontinence ~ Male Infertility ~ Kidney Stones ~ Overactive Bladder ~ Pelvic Pain (Interstitial Cystitis) ~ Prostatitis ~ Scrotal Masses ~ Testicular Cancer ~ Urinary Tract Infections

In our new surgery center, we also perform minimally invasive surgeries for a variety of urological problems. These surgeries provide excellent results, cost less money and require a much shorter recovery time.

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Call Us Today To Make An Appointment 1257+ -$&.621 67 Â&#x2021; $/%$1< *$ Â&#x2021;

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From the Desk of the President The last two weeks have been very exciting for the Phoebe Family – after more than 25 years we unveiled a new look and brand for our health system.

During a press conference held last week at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, I introduced the core elements of the new Phoebe brand, including the completely redesigned logo and our new tag line: “a better way.”

Joel Wernick, FACHE The Phoebe brand has President always been a cornerstone of Chief Executive Officer the Albany community, standing for healthcare excellence. As we grow, we continue to evolve into a broader, more patient-centric system of care that delivers both expertise and compassion. This evolution gives us the perfect opportunity to elevate how we communicate the spirit of Phoebe in a new campaign that we’re calling: “be better.”

In recent years, there’s been tremendous change in healthcare – both in our community and across the nation.

As the local leader in healthcare, it's time to re-emphasize our commitment and compassion and re-invigorate dialogue when it comes to the health and wellness of our community. Our commitment to our patients will never change, but the way we deliver that care is always evolving – we continue to become a more comprehensive system of care, finding new ways to put patients first and exceed expectations. It's our responsibility to show our patients how the Phoebe way is a better way – a fresh approach to healthcare that will keep our communities we serve healthy and happy for years to come.

Our new logo is the result of months of collaboration and research conducted with members across the Phoebe Family and over 100 community representatives. Our new tagline speaks to Phoebe’s vision and promise to create new, smarter pathways towards quality, compassionate healthcare.

Now, the logo and tagline are the visual representations of our new brand. However, healthcare is deeply personal and at Phoebe, we believe that “a better way” means creating an emotional and lifelong connection to our brand and the excellent service that it represents. As part of our new brand, we have developed The Phoebe Promise.

Derived from our corporate Pledge of Professionalism, these Promise statements are adopted by each and every member of the Phoebe Family and represent our commitment to delivering the best care possible but also to making every interaction with Phoebe a positive and memorable experience.

If you haven’t already, over the coming weeks you will see the new face of Phoebe in and around the communities where you live, work and play. We are excited about our new brand image as well as the promise of patient-centered care and customer-focused service that it represents. And, we are grateful for the continued trust that we receive from our communities and hope that you will share in our excitement during this historic time at Phoebe. As always, we hope you will stay in touch. Visit our new website launching in just a few weeks at phoebehealth.com.

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March 12 is World Kidney Day, a day to raise awareness of kidney disease for prevention and early detection.

COURTESY OF CDC.GOV

Most people with kidney disease aren't aware of it. Get diagnosed early.

Kidney disease damages your kidneys, preventing them from cleaning your blood as well as they should.

This damage can cause waste to build up in your body and lead to other health problems, including heart disease and weak bones. It can cause anemia, which makes you feel tired and weak as the number of red blood cells becomes low. Chronic kidney disease eventually can eventually cause kidney failure if not treated.

If you have kidney disease, it's important to be diagnosed early. Treatment can slow down the disease and prevent or delay kidney failure. Because chronic kidney disease often develops slowly and with few symptoms, many people don't realize they're sick until the disease is advanced. Blood must then be cleaned by a machine; this is called dialysis.

Or, they might need to have a kidney transplant. Blood and urine tests are the only ways to tell if you have chronic kidney disease.

twice a year, but ideally up to four times a year. An A1c test measures the average level of blood sugar over the past three months.

If your blood pressure is high, check it regularly and get it under control to make sure your kidneys remain healthy.

Talk to your doctor about medicines and other ways to lower your blood pressure.

Preventing type 2 diabetes is another important step in preventing kidney disease.

Studies have shown that overweight people at higher risk for type 2 diabetes can prevent or delay the disease by losing 5 to 7 percent of their body weight, or 10 to 14 pounds for a 200-pound person. You can do that by eating healthier and getting 150 minutes of physical activity each week.

Who is More Likely to Develop Kidney Disease?

Approximately 1 of 3 adults with diabetes and 1 of 5 adults with high blood pressure has chronic kidney disease. In addition to diabetes and high blood pressure, other conditions that increase the risk

of kidney disease include heart disease, obesity, older age, high cholesterol, and a family history of chronic kidney disease. A physical injury can also cause kidney disease.

Kidney disease is the ninth leading cause of death in the United States. More than 20 million U.S. adults have chronic kidney disease and most of them are not aware of their condition.

Injuries and Infections Can Damage Your Kidneys Infections can damage your kidneys and bladder, too. Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these signs of bladder infection: • Cloudy or bloody urine.

• Pain or burning when you urinate.

• An urgent need to urinate often.

Also, speak with your health care provider if you have any of these signs of kidney infections: • Back pain.

• Chills.

• Fever.

Chronic Kidney Disease Could Lead to Dialysis or a Transplant The final stage of chronic kidney disease is kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). People with kidney failure need dialysis, where blood is cleaned by a machine, or a new, healthy kidney through a transplant.

African Americans are more than three times as likely to develop ESRD than whites.

Hispanics are about one and a half times more likely to develop ESRD than nonHispanics.

In 2012, more than 112,000 people in the United States began treatment for kidney failure. For every ten new cases, seven had diabetes or hypertension (high blood pressure) listed as the primary cause of kidney failure. In that same year, more than 600,000 people in the United States were living on chronic dialysis or with a kidney transplant.

Take steps to keep your kidneys healthy. If you have a higher risk of kidney disease, talk to your doctor about getting tested.

Tips for Keeping Your Kidneys Healthy Steps to help keep your kidneys healthy include the following: • Keep blood pressure below 140/90 mm/Hg, but check with your health care provider for your appropriate target.

• Stay in your target cholesterol range.

• Eat foods lower in sodium.

• Eat more fruits and vegetables.

• Stay physically active.

• Take your medications as directed.

If you have diabetes, take these steps, too: • Meet blood sugar targets as often as you can.

• Have an A1c test at least March 2016 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 7

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COURTESY OF MAYO CLINIC Anemia is a condition in which you don't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the body's tissues. Having anemia may make you feel tired and weak.

There are many forms of anemia, each with its own cause. Anemia can be temporary or long term, and it can range from mild to severe. See your doctor if you suspect you have anemia because it can be a warning sign of serious illness.

Treatments for anemia range from taking supplements to undergoing medical procedures.

You may be able to prevent some types of anemia by eating a healthy, varied diet.

Symptoms Anemia signs and symptoms vary depending on the cause of your anemia. They may include: • Fatigue • Weakness • Pale or yellowish skin • Irregular heartbeats • Shortness of breath • Dizziness or lightheadedness • Chest pain • Cold hands and feet • Headache At first anemia can be so mild that it goes unnoticed. But symptoms worsen as anemia worsens.

When to see a doctor Make an appointment with your doctor if you're feeling fatigued for unexplained reasons. Some anemias, such as iron deficiency anemia or vitamin B-12 deficiency, are common.

Fatigue has many causes besides anemia, so don't assume that if you're tired you must be anemic. Some people learn that their hemoglobin is low, which indicates anemia, when they go to donate blood. If you're told that you can't donate blood because of low hemoglobin, make an appointment with your doctor.

Causes Anemia occurs when your blood doesn't have enough red blood cells. This can happen if: • Your body doesn't make enough red blood cells • Bleeding causes you to lose red blood cells more quickly than they can be replaced • Your body destroys red blood cells What red blood cells do Your body makes three types of blood cells — white blood cells to fight infection, platelets to help your blood clot and red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body.

Red blood cells contain hemoglobin — an ironrich protein that gives blood its red color.

Hemoglobin enables red blood cells to carry oxygen from your lungs to all parts of your body and to carry carbon dioxide from other parts of the body to your lungs so that it can be exhaled.

Most blood cells, including red blood cells, are produced regularly in your bone marrow — a spongy material found within the cavities of many of your large bones. To produce hemoglobin and red blood cells, your body needs iron, vitamin B-12, folate and other nutrients from the foods you eat.

Causes of anemia Different types of anemia and their causes include: • Iron deficiency anemia. This is the most common type of anemia worldwide. Iron deficiency anemia is caused by a shortage of iron in your body. Your bone marrow needs iron to make hemoglobin. Without adequate iron, your body can't produce enough hemoglobin for red blood cells.

Without iron supplementation, this type of anemia occurs in many pregnant women. It is also caused by blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual bleeding, an ulcer, cancer and regular use of some over-the-counter pain relievers, especially aspirin.

• Vitamin deficiency anemia. In addition to iron, your body needs folate and vitamin B-12 to produce enough healthy red blood cells. A diet lacking in these and other key nutrients can cause decreased red blood cell production.

Additionally, some people may consume enough B-12, but their bodies aren't able to process the

vitamin. This can lead to vitamin deficiency anemia, also known as pernicious anemia.

• Anemia of chronic disease. Certain diseases — such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, Crohn's disease and other chronic inflammatory diseases — can interfere with the production of red blood cells.

• Aplastic anemia. This rare, life-threatening anemia occurs when your body doesn't produce enough red blood cells. Causes of aplastic anemia include infections, certain medicines, autoimmune diseases and exposure to toxic chemicals.

• Anemias associated with bone marrow disease. A variety of diseases, such as leukemia and myelofibrosis, can cause anemia by affecting blood production in your bone marrow. The effects of these types of cancer and cancer-like disorders vary from mild to life-threatening.

• Hemolytic anemias. This group of anemias develops when red blood cells are destroyed faster than bone marrow can replace them. Certain blood diseases increase red blood cell destruction. You can inherit a hemolytic anemia, or you can develop it later in life.

• Sickle cell anemia. This inherited and sometimes serious condition is an inherited hemolytic anemia. It's caused by a defective form of hemoglobin that forces red blood cells to assume an abnormal crescent (sickle) shape.

These irregular blood cells die prematurely, resulting in a chronic shortage of red blood cells.

• Other anemias. There are several other forms of anemia, such as thalassemia and malarial anemia.

Risk factors These factors place you at increased risk of anemia: • A diet lacking in certain vitamins. Having a diet that is consistently low in iron, vitamin B-12 and folate increases your risk of anemia.

• Intestinal disorders. Having an intestinal disorder that affects the absorption of nutrients in your small intestine — such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease — puts you at risk of anemia.

• Menstruation. In general, women who haven't experienced menopause have a greater risk of iron deficiency anemia than do men and postmenopausal women. That's because menstruation causes the loss of red blood cells.

• Pregnancy. If you're pregnant and aren't taking a multivitamin with folic acid, you're at an increased risk of anemia.

• Chronic conditions. If you have cancer, kidney failure or another chronic condition, you may be at risk of anemia of chronic disease. These conditions can lead to a shortage of red blood cells.

Slow, chronic blood loss from an ulcer or other source within your body can deplete your body's store of iron, leading to iron deficiency anemia.

• Family history. If your family has a history of an inherited anemia, such as sickle cell anemia, you also may be at increased risk of the condition.

• Other factors. A history of certain infections, blood diseases and autoimmune disorders, alcoholism, exposure to toxic chemicals, and the use of some medications can affect red blood cell production and lead to anemia.

• Age. People over age 65 are at increased risk of anemia.

Complications Left untreated, anemia can cause many health problems, such as: • Severe fatigue. When anemia is severe enough, you may be so tired that you can't complete everyday tasks.

• Pregnancy complications. Pregnant women with folate deficiency anemia may be more likely to experience complications, such as premature birth.

• Heart problems. Anemia can lead to a rapid or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). When you're anemic your heart must pump more blood to compensate for the lack of oxygen in the blood.

This can lead to an enlarged heart or heart failure.

• Death. Some inherited anemias, such as sickle cell anemia, can be serious and lead to lifethreatening complications. Losing a lot of blood quickly results in acute, severe anemia and can be fatal.

ANEMIA AND AGING COURTESY OF METRO CONNECTION

Aging is accompanied by a number of physical changes. Some of these changes, such as vision impairment or loss of hearing, are anticipated, while others may arrive unexpectedly.

One condition many adults unexpectedly encounter is anemia. While anemia is common in older adults and its prevalence increases with age, it is not a condition that is widely considered part of the aging process. Anemia is often a symptom of a hidden problem that needs to be addressed promptly.

Anemia is one of the most common blood disorders, affecting more than three million Americans, says the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The American Society of Hematology notes that anemia is characterized by insufficient levels of red blood cells in the blood. Anemia also occurs when red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen to the various organs and tissues throughout the body, are not functioning properly.

Very often the signs of anemia are overlooked or go unnoticed until a blood test determines low hemoglobin (Hb) or hematocrit (HCT) concentrations. Some people discover they have anemia as they attempt to donate blood, at which time their red blood cell count is found to be inadequate. When the body lacks oxygen, any number of the following symptoms may be experienced: • weakness • dizziness • extreme fatigue • shortness of breath • fast or irregular heartbeat • pale or yellow skin • cold hands or feet Frequently, existing disorders or conditions, such as congestive heart failure, are made worse by anemia. But unless doctors specifically consider anemia as a possible cause of symptoms, its presence can go undiagnosed.

The American Academy of Family Physicians says the most common causes of anemia among older men and women include chronic diseases and iron deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, gastrointestinal bleeding, and myelodysplastic syndrome are other causes of anemia.

The main way to treat anemia is to discover its source and reverse the outcomes. For instance, a gastrointestinal bleed may need to be repaired. If iron deficiency is the source of the anemia, iron supplements may be prescribed. Many methods to correct anemia involve trial and error and experimentation, especially when the source of the anemia is unknown.

Anemia is a condition that can affect aging adults but does not need to be accepted as a natural consequence of aging. Correct diagnosis and treatment can mitigate symptoms.

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5 unbelievably yummy, better-for-you breakfast ideas (BPT) - Breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, but it can often be the one that's hardest to fit into busy schedules. Even if you have time for breakfast, you may find yourself trading wholesomeness and quality for speed and convenience. However, having better-for-you breakfasts need not require a lot of time or effort.

It can be as simple as making better and smarter choices.

"One of my favorite breakfasts is a bagel with cream cheese, but when I was looking to make healthier choices, I thought this was too indulgent," said New York Times best-selling author and food blogger Andie Mitchell.

"In reality, it's about moderation and eating a whole wheat bagel with a natural cream cheese is a guilt-free breakfast option I love."

Here are five wholesome, yet easy breakfast options that can start your day off on the right nutritional foot: 1. Better-for-you bagel and cream cheese Who doesn't love a good bagel? They're quick, convenient and delicious. They even have their own celebratory day - Feb. 9 is National Bagel Day. If you've been shying away from this traditional favorite thinking you don't need all the carbs of bagels and the additives in most cream cheeses, it's time to rethink your view. A whole grain bagel topped with a better-for-you spread, like Arla cream cheese, is a satisfying and delicious start to the day. Arla's cream cheeses (Original, Light, Herbs & Spices, Peppercorn and Blueberry) are free of artificial flavors, preservatives, thickeners and stabilizers. Visit www.ArlaUSA.com to learn more and to discover unique topping combinations from Blueberry cream cheese with smashed berries to Peppercorn cream cheese with Canadian bacon and cooked egg whites.

2. A better breakfast burrito Classic breakfast burritos are filling, satisfying and nourishing, but unless you go the frozen route, you may not have the time to whip up a morning burrito. A faster, wholesome option awaits - simply top a whole-grain tortilla with your favorite Arla cream cheese, add fresh-sliced fruit such as kiwi, apple or banana, fold in half and enjoy!

3. Outstanding oatmeal As breakfast cereals go, oatmeal is a nutritional champ. A 1-cup serving of plain oatmeal has about 150 calories, and it's loaded with nourishing fiber, protein and vitamin A. Add flavor with wholesome toppings like fresh berries, chopped apples, raisins or nuts. Here's even better news - plain instant oatmeal has the same basic nutritional value as the kind you slow-cook yourself, according to the USDA's Nutrient Database.

However, be wary of flavored versions that may have a lot of added sugar.

4. Terrific toasts A slice of toasted white bread slathered in butter isn't sufficient for a good breakfast, but you can take toast to the next level and create a morning meal that's tasty, wholesome and toasted.

Start by toasting a slice of whole grain bread. Next spread on some protein - this could be a sugar-free peanut butter, almond butter or better-for-you cream cheese. Top with your favorite fruit or veggies. For example, banana slices go well with peanut butter; mango or kiwi cubes are yummy with light cream cheese; and tomato slices atop Arla's Peppercorn cream cheese make for a great wakeup call!

5. Easier eggs Everyone knows eggs are a breakfast staple, but who has the time to prepare them in the morning when you're trying to get everyone out the door? You do! The microwave is your morning best friend, from reheating your coffee to whipping up delectable, easy and wholesome egg breakfasts. You can make scrambled eggs in minutes. Just crack an egg into a microwave-safe cup, add a tablespoon of water or milk, a dash of cayenne pepper and some salt, and a teaspoon or two of your favorite veggie finely diced, such as scallions, tomatoes or mushrooms. Top with a generous spoonful of shredded Havarti or Gouda cheese and microwave everything for 45 seconds. Stir and microwave for another 45 seconds until the eggs are set.

Breakfast doesn't have to be time-consuming or a disappointing compromise. A few better-for-you breakfast options can set a healthful, happy tone for the rest of your day.

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Thai Beef Courtesy of allrecipes.com

"A delicious marinade for flank steak blending the flavors of crushed coriander seed, lime juice, and soy sauce. This marinade can be used well with other meats as well. Serve over rice or shredded Chinese cabbage and red pepper slices."

Ingredients 2 tablespoons coriander seeds, coarsely cracked 1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar 1/4 cup soy sauce 1 tablespoon lime juice 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 pinch ground ginger 1 1/2 pounds flank steak

Directions Place flank steak in the freezer for 20 minutes.

Whisk coriander, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and ground ginger together in a bowl until marinade is well combined.

Remove steak from freezer and slice thinly across the grain. Place steak in a large bowl, pour marinade over steak, and toss to coat. Cover bowl and marinate at room temperature for 1 hour.

Set oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven's broiler.

Line bottom of a broiler pan with foil.

Lay steak slices in a single layer on the rack of the prepared broiler pan.

Cook in the preheated broiler, brushing occasionally with marinade, until steak reaches desired doneness, 1 to 2 minutes for medium rare.

HOW SCARY IS THE ZIKA VIRUS FOR U.S. WOMEN? HELP OVERWEIGHT KIDS THROUGH MINDFUL EATING Q: My husband and I are trying to have a baby, and we live along the Gulf Coast. I am terrified that the Zika virus will get here and we won't know it!

Should we put off trying to get pregnant? -- Susan G., Biloxi, Mississippi A: You and millions of other women are worried about this globe-hopping, mosquitotransmitted disease that's the suspected cause of microcephaly in fetuses. Children born with microcephaly have a smallerthan-normal head and often suffer developmental, intellectual, hearing, vision, balance and speech problems.

As of this writing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Level 2 travel alert to all women who are pregnant or may become pregnant, saying that they should exercise "enhanced precautions" if traveling to any of 23 countries in the Americas (including Puerto Rico), Samoa and Cape Verde or anywhere else that the virus has been reported; you can expect that to expand. Those precautions include using Environmental Protection Agency-certified insect repellants, sleeping under mosquito netting, staying indoors in air conditioning or in rooms with good screens, wearing longsleeved tops and slacks, and wearing permethrin-treated items.

But we worry about women who are pregnant using some of these precautionary chemicals; put insect repellant on your skincovering clothing, not your skin!

And since the virus can be spread through sexual activity, you'll want to consider where your partner has traveled, and use a condom.

For most folks, the virus causes only minor symptoms, so young, old, male or female, if you've traveled to an infected area and have fever, rash, joint pain or red eyes, get a blood test! Health officials need to know each case: During the first week of infection, Zika virus can be found in the blood and primarily passed from an infected person to a mosquito through a mosquito bite -- and then passed on to others who the mosquito bites.

Although the World Health Organization is sounding an alarm, it's too early to know how extensively Zika will appear in the U.S. Researchers are working diligently on developing a vaccine to prevent Zika. Let's hope that happens soon!

In the meantime, follow the CDC (www.cdc.gov/zika) for the latest information.

Q: My pediatrician says I have to help my 7-year-old son

lose weight and keep it off. But I can't make him eat food he doesn't like, and I can't make him play baseball or swim if he says he isn't interested. What can I do? -- Kesha J., Nashville, Tennessee A: This is a problem facing many parents, and solutions often are elusive, but you do need to do something about it. Here's why: Around 70 percent of overweight kids have one cardiovascular risk factor, such as high blood pressure or elevated lousy LDL cholesterol, and 39 percent have two or more. They're also prone to Type 2 diabetes, asthma, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease and self-esteem issues.

Now, how to help him get to a healthy weight and stay there?

Set an example: Serve and eat only fresh fruits and vegetables, unprocessed foods like 100 percent whole grains, and cut out all added sugars, syrups, trans fats and most foods with saturated fats. Don't bring them in the house.

Teach mindful eating: A Vanderbilt University study shows obese children's impulsivity center in the brain is overactive.

Mindfulness -- slowing down impulsivity -- may help kids control poor eating behaviors. In other words, the research indicates that to lose weight, kids may need to change how their brain functions, not just improve nutrition and exercise habits.

Here are the steps, but don't force them. Dish up a healthful dinner. Then say in a calm, moderate tone, for example: What shape is your spinach?

(Wait patiently for an answer) What color? Do you notice a smell? Don't object if you get a sassy answer, just go with the flow. Then have him place the food in his mouth and notice changes on his tongue. Then, while chewing slowly, ask him to notice how the food tastes and to calmly feel it going down as he swallows.

Do that once at every meal until the steps become a habit. And try it yourself. You'll be surprised at what you've been missing in every bite. *** Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of "The Dr. Oz Show," and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic.

Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen at youdocsdaily@)sharecare.com. (c) 2016 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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COURTESY OF CDC.GOV

Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week.

Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon.

Outbreaks of Zika have occurred in areas of Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas.

Because the Aedes species mosquitoes that spread Zika virus are found throughout the world, it is likely that outbreaks will spread to new countries. In December 2015, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico reported its first confirmed Zika virus case.

Local vector-borne transmission of Zika has not been reported elsewhere in the United States, but cases of Zika have been reported in returning travelers.

Zika virus and pregnancy Zika virus can be spread from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby. There have been reports of birth defects and other poor pregnancy outcomes in babies of mothers who were infected with Zika virus while pregnant. Until more is known, CDC recommends special precautions for the following groups: • Pregnant women should consider postponing travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

Pregnant women who must travel to one of these areas should talk to their doctor or other healthcare professional first and strictly follow steps to

avoid mosquito bites during the trip. Until we know more, if your male sexual partner has traveled to or lives in an area with active Zika virus transmission, you should abstain from sex or use condoms the right way every time you have vaginal, anal, and oral sex for the duration of the pregnancy.

• Women trying to become pregnant should consult with their healthcare professional before traveling to these areas and strictly follow

conditioning or that use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.

• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are overseas or outside and are not able to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

• Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)registered repellents. When used as directed, EPAregistered insect repellents are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

-Always follow the product label instructions -Reapply insect repellent as directed.

-Do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing.

-If you are also using sunscreen, apply sunscreen before applying insect repellent.

• If you have a baby or child: -Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months of age.

-Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs, or -Cover crib, stroller, and baby carrier with mosquito netting.

-Do not apply insect repellent onto a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, and cut or irritated skin.

-Adults: Spray insect repellent onto your hands and then apply to a child’s face.

• Treat clothing and gear with permethrin or purchase permethrin-treated items.

-Treated clothing remains protective after multiple washings. See product information to learn how long the protection will last.

-If treating items yourself, follow the product instructions carefully.

-Do NOT use permethrin products directly on skin.

They are intended to treat clothing.

If you have Zika, protect others from getting sick • During the first week of infection, Zika virus can be found in the blood and passed from an infected person to another mosquito through mosquito bites. An infected mosquito can then spread the virus to other people.

• To help prevent others from getting sick, avoid mosquito bites during the first week of illness.

“No vaccine exists to prevent Zika virus disease (Zika).”

Scientists at CDC and the Pan American Health Organization are working with public health experts in Brazil and other affected countries to investigate the possible link between Zika virus infection and microcephaly.

Prevention • No vaccine exists to prevent Zika virus disease (Zika).

• Prevent Zika by avoiding mosquito bites (see below).

• Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus bite mostly during the daytime.

• Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus also spread dengue and chikungunya viruses.

When traveling to countries where Zika virus or other viruses spread by mosquitoes are found, take the following steps: • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

• Stay in places with air

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Symptoms • About 1 in 5 people infected with Zika virus become ill (i.e., develop Zika).

• The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes).

Other common symptoms include muscle pain and headache. The incubation period (the time from exposure to symptoms) for Zika virus disease is not known, but is likely to be a few days to a week.

• The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week.

• People usually don’t get sick enough to go to the hospital, and they very rarely die of Zika.

• Zika virus usually remains in the blood of an infected person for about a week but it can be found longer in some people.

Diagnosis • The symptoms of Zika are similar to those of dengue and chikungunya, diseases spread through the same mosquitoes that transmit Zika.

• See your healthcare provider if you develop the symptoms described above and have visited an area where Zika is found.

• If you have recently traveled, tell your healthcare provider when and where you traveled.

• Your healthcare provider may order specialized blood tests to look for Zika or other similar viruses like dengue or chikungunya.

Treatment • There is no vaccine to prevent or specific medicine to treat Zika infections.

• Treat the symptoms: -Get plenty of rest.

-Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.

-Take medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) to relieve fever and pain.

-Do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

-If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.

• If you have Zika, prevent mosquito bites for the first week of your illness.

-During the first week of infection, Zika virus can be found in the blood and passed from an infected person to a mosquito through mosquito bites.

-An infected mosquito can then spread the virus to other people.

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5 myths and one truth about the cold and flu (BPT) - Some people are always on the move. Their weekend begins with a list of things to do and ends with a bunch of checked boxes. Lunch hours are time to squeeze in a visit to the gym or take advantage of sale. Each day is a marathon of activity.

If this is you, then you know nothing is worse than getting knocked down by a cold. Sitting on the couch, waiting to feel better while you could be running errands, working out or any number of things, is beyond frustrating.

Speaking with a doctor isn't always convenient when you're sick, so many reach out to friends and family, desperate to find some way to feel better.

More often than not, the home remedies they're given are nothing more than old wives' tales.

A better plan of action is to turn to your pharmacist for help.

Often more accessible than a doctor, all you have to do is walk up to the counter and ask them for expert advice. If you've ever wondered how to prevent a cold or how to feel better when you do have one, registered pharmacist and health expert, Jim Morelli, is here to weigh in on some of the most pervasive cold and flu myths, and point you to what really works.

Myth #1: Going outside with wet hair can make you sick.

Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Courtesy of allrecipes.com Ingredients 1 tablespoon butter 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup chopped celery 4 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth 1 (14.5 ounce) can vegetable broth 1/2 pound chopped cooked chicken breast 1 1/2 cups egg noodles 1 cup sliced carrots 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano salt and pepper to taste Directions In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Cook onion and celery in butter until just tender, 5 minutes.

Pour in chicken and vegetable broths and stir in chicken, noodles, carrots, basil, oregano, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes before serving.

Pharmacist's take: Going outside with wet hair can make you physically cold, but it will not cause a cold. It takes a virus to make you sick, which is contracted through exposure to germs.

Myth #2: Feed a cold, starve a fever.

Pharmacist's take: Fevers do not respond to food. That being said, it's always a good idea to maintain hydration and nutrition when sick.

Myth #3: Chicken soup can cure the cold or flu.

Pharmacist's take: Chicken soup is not a cure for anything but hunger. However, there is some evidence it can be beneficial when you have a cold or the flu because it is hydrating and contains needed electrolytes.

Myth #4: The flu shot causes the flu.

Pharmacist's take: The flu shot is actually a killed virus so it is not live. It cannot give you the flu. Even the weakened virus in the nasal spray vaccination should not cause the flu. Some people experience what is called a "serum sickness" from vaccinations, but this is a short lived period of feeling lousy as opposed to the actual flu.

Myth #5: Avoid dairy when sick.

Pharmacist's take: Unless you are taking a tetracycline antibiotic, typically used to treat respiratory tract and intestine infections, dairy is fine when you are sick. Keep in mind, however, that in some individuals, dairy can upset the stomach if they've got a stomach bug.

While it might be disappointing to hear that chicken soup doesn't actually cure a cold, the upside is there is an actual way to feel better. Morelli recommends stocking your cabinet with cold and flu medicine, and the #1 pharmacist recommended brand to treat your worst cold and flu symptoms is Advil Cold & Sinus.

Next time you're sick and eager to feel better, go see your pharmacist and ask for Advil Cold & Sinus. Unlike a number of home remedies, it will actually help make you feel better, sooner.

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.

Because these two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose.

Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.

How can you tell the difference between a cold and the flu?

Because colds and flu share many symptoms, it can be difficult (or even impossible) to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Special tests that usually must be done within the first few days of illness can be carried out, when needed to tell if a person has the flu.

What are the symptoms of the flu versus the symptoms of a cold?

In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense.

Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.

COURTESY OF CDC.GOV

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March 2016: Brain Injury Awareness Month

By Stephanie M. Freeman

All the talk over the past few months has been on depression and mental illness, especially with the release of the Concussion movie and the suicide of several athletes around the world. When I heard the news of these athletes taking their own lives, most of which were due to depression, my heart sank. I could hardly believe as vivacious as they always seemed, they would have depression; but then brain injury was involved in each case. This all resonates so deeply with my soul because I have experienced my fair share of depression from a brain injury growing up. My own experience with brain health and mental health is what lead me to take the next step in my

school near my hometown.

Because March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, I was invited to come discuss some of the stages I had with my brain injury and how I dealt with it. They were interested in how I used my running and activity to get through the hard times. I was delighted to do it because I have a special interest in helping children recognize the symptoms of brain trauma and how to seek help when needed. I began talking to them, and they were unaware that March was the month to recognize this so I went into some detail of that.

I always begin by introducing myself and saying, “I am Stephanie, a marathon runner.”

One child looks up at me and says she remembered me well when I ran the streets religiously in this town, and I agreed with her on that. She told me she would have never known I had any of the issues I just discussed.

After this remark was made I immediately felt a strong emotion come over me, and I started opening up about everything. I told them that I ran so often, had

The Wilcox County Elementary School

life. That step was creating a brain trauma organization to help bring more awareness of this to our world. But this step was only taken because I have lived with brain injury most of my life.

I was asked to do a speech a few days ago on brain injury and brain health at an elementary

all this ambition to run these marathons, lift all this weight and stay as active as possible because I remembered not being able to do any of this. And I remember the words, “you will be in a wheelchair the rest of your life.” Those words drove me

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more each and every day! But, I also let them know that my obsession with all my activities was probably due to the brain injury I received. They all sat in amazement and listened to me go on and on as I described some of my running adventures and the awesome people I have connected with.

Then the question of Post-Traumatic Stress Stephanie M. Freeman is a came up from one of the model, a runner, a trainer, and a teachers, and I felt brain injury survivor from here in another strong emotion the state of Georgia. She is the come to me on that founder of the non-profit brain subject. I felt my voice trauma organization Share Your start to shake as I began Strong with a sole mission to to speak. bring health and awareness to I took a deep breath brain trauma, while encouraging and said, “I was so young and inspiring the lives of people when my injury going through this silent happened. When I finally epidemic. She speaks and helps got out of that hospital I educate on this injury from 23 was like every other years of her own experience. adolescent. I wanted to She is a part of the Brain Injury be normal and fun, no Advisory Council with The Brain different, so what did I Injury Association of America. do? I picked it up and carried on with my life like met a child sitting in a car seat I was normal. Even though I with a brain injury. He looked always felt this strong push just as I remember myself in a inside me I never understood. memory I have so often from But the day this push began to those days when I sat in my make sense to me was the day wheelchair. This baby was only of The Boston Marathon 2013 8 years old, and looking at him bombings.” was as if I had taken a leap back Just hearing those words in time to 1993. I was looking Boston Marathon excited directly at myself. everyone. They all said, “You The speech ended, and I made were really there?” I said, “Yes, I the drive back home letting my was there, not running it, but I was there.” Their eyes lit up with mind drift away into thoughts of all I had spoken of that day. All I even more excitement to hear could do was smile with a this. I then went on to say I grateful heart because I didn’t witness any blood or any remembered a time when damage, but I heard and saw speaking on this subject some things that I will never frightened me so much I could forget. I told them, after hearing hardly move. The memories I those bombs and seeing those faces filled with horror. I traveled was recapturing had stifled me for so many years of my life, and back home to Georgia only to I never knew speaking and revisit my past over and over in sharing it was not only helping my mind. Through nightmares, me grow, but it was also helping visions, and then going into a other people understand this deep depression. This was the frightening misunderstood post-traumatic stress I never illness. I always knew I had this went through as a child after I powerful message. I always felt had my injuries. They all sat in my push, always. even more amazement. Then I I can confidently share a big said I used my running to help lesson I have learned about life: me get out of that dark hole.

The bravest thing anyone can do Since I made it out of that year is to have the courage to step alive, I have recommended running as therapy and medicine away from “normal” and be exactly who you are. It has to everyone I meet, not only for your well-being, but also for your taken me many, many years to discover that the desire to be soul.

I told them that this was not the heard has to become stronger and more powerful than any fear last time I saw the face of postyou have of being different! traumatic stress. I told them of Never Give Up, Never Give In, another time a few months after Never Stop Trying, Never Ever the bombing. I had a photo Give Up!!!! shoot with a tennis wear company in Atlanta. I was high on life, ego a mile wide, and I

American Cancer Society Seeks Teams for Annual Relay For Life of Dougherty and Lee Counties Albany, Georgia – February 22, 2016 –The American Cancer Society is recruiting teams from local families, businesses, schools, places of worship, and the community as a whole to participate in the annual Relay For Life of Dougherty and Lee Counties on April 29, 2016 at Darton State College, 2400 Gillionville Road. Relay For Life teams are committed to help save more lives from cancer by raising funds for the Society. Teams and individuals can learn more and sign up for the Relay For Life event by visiting relayforlife.org or www.relayforlife.org/doughertyleega.

The Relay For Life movement unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all. Relay For Life events are community gatherings where teams and individuals camp out at a school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Teams raise funds in the months leading up to the event. The Relay For Life movement is the world’s largest fundraising event to fight every cancer in every community, with four million participants in 6,000 events worldwide in 2015.

Last year, over 400 people participated in the Relay For Life of Dougherty and Lee Counties and raised $120,000.

“Relay For Life is a chance to make the greatest impact in the fight to end cancer,” said Elizabeth Deming, Dougherty and Lee volunteer Relay For Life event lead. “Many participants are our loved ones who have faced cancer themselves. Each new team brings us one step closer to saving more lives.”

Visit relayforlife.org or www.relayforlife.org/doughertyleega to learn more about the event.

About the American Cancer Society The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 2.5 million volunteers saving lives and fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society's efforts have contributed to a 22 percent decline in cancer death rates in the U.S. since 1991, and a 50 percent drop in smoking rates.

Thanks in part to our progress; 14.5 million Americans who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will celebrate more birthdays this year.

We're determined to finish the fight against cancer.

We're finding cures as the nation’s largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, ensuring people facing cancer have the help they need and continuing the fight for access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air, and more. For more information, to get help, or to join the fight, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

ASK DOCTOR K MOVING TO ASSISTED LIVING DOESN'T HAVE TO BE TRAUMATIC DEAR DOCTOR K: We've finally convinced my mother to move to an assisted living facility.

After spending the past five decades in her current house, she is very nervous about the move. What can we, and she, do to make the transition easier?

DEAR READER: Assisted living facilities are designed for people who can't live on their own because they need help with the tasks of everyday living. The facilities generally provide meals, help with taking medication, housekeeping, laundry and activities.

They are not meant for people who need roundthe-clock nursing care.

No matter how clear the need, moving from one's home to an assisted living facility can be emotionally challenging. Realizing this, assisted living facilities often have people on staff who can help people like your mother to manage their feelings and make the transition easier.

It shouldn't be hard for your mother to physically adjust to an assisted living facility. The environment is designed to meet the needs of an aging body.

There are no steps to navigate. The bathrooms are adapted for walkers.

There won't be any more reaching for heavy pots and pans if the facility dining room provides meals. Your mother may feel comforted, too, if she brings personal items to her new living space. This may include artwork, family photos or favorite furniture.

The new environment will allow your mother to increase her physical activity and wellness.

Assisted living facilities always have exercise classes like tai chi or chair yoga, and many offer physical therapy on campus. It's important to learn which services are available and take advantage of them.

I would also encourage

your mother to get to know others at her facility. For almost anyone, in any environment, the more you interact with others, the more you'll feel at home.

An easy way to meet others is to take part in the many activities offered at the facility. There is often a huge variety, such as painting and memoir writing. And there will likely be outings to museums, concerts and sporting events. Taking part will help your mother feel engaged and purposeful -and less forlorn about the home she left behind.

I once had a patient who became a widow in her late 70s. She had lived in one house since she was a child: Her parents had given her and her new husband the family home and moved to an apartment. But she was having trouble in her old three-level house -- with the stairs, with handling cookware, with reaching things in the cabinets. Her kids found an assisted living facility.

As you'd imagine, she hated the thought of leaving the only home she had ever known. However, she made the move. A year later she said to me: "I loved my old home. But I realize I was starting to hate it, too. Every time something about it defeated me, I remembered my earlier life -- and felt very old. I feel younger now."

(Dr. Komaroff is a physician and professor at Harvard Medical School.

To send questions, go to AskDoctorK.com, or write: Ask Doctor K, 10 Shattuck St., Second Floor, Boston, MA 02115.)

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Common causes of seasonal allergies

COURTESY OF METRO CONNECTION

Allergy triggers are all around, and the rates of those people affected by various allergies seems to be growing.

Worldwide, the rise in prevalence of allergic diseases has continued in the industrialized world for more than 50 years, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Sensitization to foreign proteins in one’s environment is present in up to 40 percent of the world’s population, continues AAAAI. An allergy is defined as an overreaction of the human immune system to a foreign protein (allergen) that is eaten, inhaled, touched, or injected into the body. Allergies can cause such reactions as stuffy or runny noses, itchy eyes, coughing/sneezing, rashes, and hives.

More severe reactions can include difficulty breathing, a lowering of blood pressure and asthma attacks.

Millions of visits to physician offices result in a primary diagnosis of allergic rhinitis, or hay fever — one of the most common allergy manifestations.

The CDC says 17.6 million Americans were diagnosed with hay fever in the past 12 months. Allergic rhinitis is a common condition that creates symptoms similar to a cold. Unlike a cold, which is caused by a virus, allergic rhinitis is an allergic response to any number of triggers. Usually hay fever can be brought on by any number of allergens and sometimes it can be difficult to narrow down the exact cause. However, here are some of the more common allergens.

• Pollen: Of all things that can cause an allergy, those resulting from pollen tend to be the most prolific. Pollen can be released from trees, grasses, weeds, and flowers throughout much of the year. While the main goal of

pollen is to fertilize other plants, pollen that is inhaled can cause allergic reactions. It’s one of the more difficult allergens to avoid since pollen is virtually everywhere.

• Dust: Dust is an accumulation of microscopic particles that become trapped in a home. A large portion of dust is comprised of dust mites.

WebMD says about 20 million Americans are allergic to dust mites and their waste. Dust mites feed on skin from pets and humans. They tend to spike in numbers during warmer weather or if indoor temperatures are kept at 75 F or higher. Cleaning using a HEPA filter vacuum can keep dust at a minimum. Air purifiers also may be able to help.

• Animal dander: Millions of pet owners have an allergy to their animals, says AAAAI. It’s not the fur of the animal that causes the trouble, but usually proteins found in a pet’s shed skin, saliva and urine that can cause problems. Keep in mind that there are no truly hypoallergenic breeds, and length of hair or fur will not eliminate allergies. An allergist may be able to suggest a course of treatment.

• Mold: Tiny fungi with spores that float through the air, mold is yet another common allergen. The most common allergy-causing molds include Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Penicillium.

Preventing the environment needed for mold to grow can reduce allergic reactions. This primarily means airing out homes to keep them dry.

Allergies can occur all year long and be bothersome. Working with an allergist and avoiding the most common triggers can help people feel more comfortable.

Decrease mucus production and subsequent sore throats COURTESY OF METRO CONNECTION

When allergies, colds or the flu strike, the resulting symptoms can be unpleasant.

Watery eyes, sneezing, aches, pains, and lethargy are common. Two additional symptoms common to respiratory illnesses include excess mucus production and sore throat.

Mucus is a vital component of bodily health.

The American Academy of Otolaryngology says glands in the nose and throat continually produce thin mucus to moisten and clean respiratory passageways. This mucus traps foreign matter and can help combat infection. When viruses or bacteria irritate parts of the nose and throat, excess mucus may be produced as the immune system attempts to retaliate. This mucus may thicken and become more acidic. Extra mucus can produce its own side effects, including further irritation. According to New York-Presbyterian Hospital, in many cases, excess mucus production can lead to postnasal drip and subsequent sore throats.

People often mistake post-nasal drip and related sore throat as separate medical conditions. But each can be traced to whichever illness or irritant (such as dry air or chemical exposure) is triggering the body’s mucus response. Reducing the amount of mucus pooling in the back of the throat can help a person feel better more quickly and can be used in conjunction with medical advice.

• Limit foods that may increase mucus production. Dairy products, wheat, soy, bananas, sugar, and preservatives may contribute to mucus production, according to The University of Maryland Medical Center.

• Drink peppermint or regular mint tea. The natural menthol in these herbs can help thin mucus and loosen it up for more productive coughs.

• Increase consumption of mucus-fighting foods and beverages. Mustard, lemon, garlic, and anti-inflammatory oils found in many nuts may help reduce swelling in the throat and nose and tame mucus production.

• Drink plenty of fluids. Clear fluids, such as water, tea and broth, can also thin out mucus, making it flow more easily down the throat.

• Rely on salt solutions. Simple nasal saline rinses or gargling with salt water can alleviate irritation and help reduce some of the mucus, too. Remember to use cooled-down boiled tap water or distilled, sterile water for nasal rinses to prevent the chance of water contamination, which can lead to serious illness.

• Consider medication. When natural remedies are exhausted, prescription or overthe counter products may provide relief.

Decongestants can dry up nasal secretions, while antibiotics may be needed if an infection is bacterial in nature.

Always consult with a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis of mucus issues and sore throat causes. He or she may suggest one of the tips above or a combination of therapies.

March 2016 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 19

20 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | March 2016

Awar d-winning musician raises awareness of r a r e and fatal lung disease

(BPT) - Watching a parent suffer from a serious, rare disease is devastating, as award-winning country music artist Joe Nichols knows firsthand. Nichols lost his father to a fatal lung disease called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - or IPF - after numerous misdiagnoses and years of suffering from persistent and disruptive symptoms.

In honor of his father, Nichols is teaming up with Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and people suffering with IPF to raise awareness of the disease and encourage those who may be experiencing its symptoms to take action.

The national education campaign Breathless: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at IPF - brings Nichols together with real people sharing real stories about how IPF has touched and impacted their lives. If individuals think they may have IPF symptoms, the campaign urges them to take action to get diagnosed early and learn about treatment options. A few simple clicks may be all it takes to help someone with IPF. Visit the website www.BreathlessIPF.com - to learn more about IPF and the stories of people living with the condition. Help make a difference by sharing the educational content on the website through social media.

"Sadly, it took three years before my father was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and he eventually lost his fight at a young age of 46," remembers Nichols. "It's important for me to share my story to help others, because I don't want

people to go through the physical and emotional difficulties my family did during those years before he was eventually diagnosed."

IPF is a progressive and fatal disease that causes permanent scarring of the lungs, difficulty breathing and prevents oxygen from getting to the body. Although considered "rare," IPF is four times more common than Lou Gehrig's disease. It affects up to 132,000 Americans, and approximately 40,000 people die from the disease each year, as many as breast cancer. Most patients die from the disease within three to five years after diagnosis.

Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to helping treat IPF. "Living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is hard but living with this disease without being diagnosed can be worse," said Marilyn Glassberg, M.D., Professor of Medicine and Director, Rare and Interstitial Lung Disease Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. "If you think you or someone you love might be experiencing the symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, then go see a doctor right away so that the proper tests and screenings can be performed. Your doctor can refer you to a lung specialist called a pulmonologist to make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan."

Diagnosing IPF can often be difficult and take years because the symptoms breathlessness during activity, a dry and persistent cough, chest discomfort, fatigue and weakness - are similar to, and often confused with, other "better known" and

more common diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or congestive heart failure. Up to half of IPF cases are initially misdiagnosed and most people suffer with symptoms for almost two years before receiving an accurate diagnosis.

"We're looking for help from everyone.

You can help by spreading the word and sharing the videos and educational materials on the website www.BreathlessIPF.com - through social media. Someone you know or someone in their social network may be facing undiagnosed IPF right now," said Nichols.

"Together we can make a real difference in people's lives."

Who's at Risk: Signs and Symptoms of IPF * Persistent shortness of breath (especially from mild physical activity) * Persistent dry, nonproductive cough * Fatigue and weakness * Crackling sound when breathing in (sounds like Velcro) * Finger clubbing (widening and rounding of the fingertips)

March 2016 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | 21

Conquering the top 5 reasons people fail at fitness (BPT) - Everyone can agree that regular exercise is important, so why do so many people struggle to stick with

Choose fun activities: You'll be more likely to stay interested. Remember, anything that gets you moving

their fitness goals?

If you've encountered barriers holding you back from committing to a fitness routine, you're not alone. The health experts at the Mayo Clinic offer simple ideas for overcoming the five most common hurdles to fitness commitment. For more ideas visit healthcheckup.mayoclinic.org.

counts.

Vary the routine: Rotate among several activities - such as walking, swimming and cycling - to keep you on your toes while conditioning different muscle groups.

Join forces: Exercise with friends, relatives, neighbors or co-workers. You'll enjoy the camaraderie and the encouragement of the group.

Explore new options: Learn new skills while working out.

Check out exercise classes or sports leagues at a recreation center or health club.

Challenge 1: I don't have enough time to exercise.

Setting aside time to exercise can be a challenge, so it's important to use a little creativity to get the most out of your time.

Squeeze in short walks: If you don't have time for a full workout, don't sweat it. Shorter spurts of exercise, such as 10 minutes of walking spaced throughout the day, offers benefits too.

Get up early: If your days are packed and the evening hours are hectic, get up 30 minutes earlier twice a week to exercise.

Drive less, walk more: Park in the back row of the parking lot or even a few blocks away and walk to your destination.

Revamp your rituals: Your weekly Saturday matinee with the kids could be reborn as your weekly bike ride, rockclimbing lesson or trip to the pool.

Challenge 2: I think exercise is boring.

It's natural to grow weary of a repetitive workout day after day, especially when you're going it alone. But exercise doesn't have to be boring.

No energy to exercise?

Without exercise, you'll have no energy. It's a vicious cycle. But breaking the cycle with physical activity is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

Try a morning workout: Hop on the treadmill or stationary bicycle while you listen to the radio or watch the morning news.

Make lunchtime count: Keep a pair of walking shoes at your desk and take a brisk walk during your lunch break.

Be prepared: Make sure you have comfortable shoes and loose-fitting clothes for exercising readily available at home and in your car.

Challenge 5: I can't afford health club fees.

You don't need a

membership at an elite gym to get a great workout. Consider easy and free alternatives.

Do strengthening exercises at home: Use inexpensive resistance bands - lengths of elastic tubing that come in varying strengths - in place of weights. Do pushups or squats using your body weight.

Start a walking group: Round up friends, neighbors or coworkers for regular group walks. Plan routes through the neighborhood, along local parks and trails, or in a nearby shopping mall.

Take the stairs: Skip the elevator when you can and climb the stairs.

Try your community center: Exercise classes offered through a local recreation department or community education are often more budget-friendly than an annual gym membership.

Visit healthcheckup.mayoclinic.org to learn more today.

DID YOU KNOW? COURTESY OF METROCONNECTION

Challenge 3: I'm selfconscious about how I look.

Fitness isn't just about what you look like on the outside, it's the inside as well. Remind yourself what a great favor you're doing for your cardiovascular health, or focus on how much stronger you feel after a workout.

Avoid the crowd: If you're uncomfortable exercising around others, go solo at first.

Try an exercise video or an activity-oriented video game.

Make an investment: Consider investing in home exercise equipment like a stationary bicycle, treadmill or a stair-climbing machine that you can use at home on your own time.

Focus on the future: Praise yourself for making a commitment to your health.

Remember that as you become fitter and more comfortable exercising, your self-confidence is likely to improve as well.

Challenge 4: I'm too tired to exercise.

22 | A (SCNI) Southern Community Newspaper Product | March 2016

Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones that occurs when a person loses too much bone, produces too little bone or both. Though the disease is most often associated with women over 50, anyone can suffer from osteoporosis, which weakens bones and can make them more susceptible to breaks. Exercise is a great way for men and women to build and maintain strong bones in an attempt to prevent the onset of osteoporosis.

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, weight-bearing exercises can help build and maintain bone density. But the NOF notes that men and women who have suffered broken bones due to osteoporosis or those at risk of such breaks may need to avoid highimpact weight-bearing exercises, which include dancing, hiking, jogging, and jumping rope, among others. For those whose physicians who suggest they avoid high-impact weight-bearing exercises, low-impact weight-bearing exercises can help them strengthen their bones. Such exercises may involve lowimpact aerobics and using cardiovascular machines, such as elliptical trainers, stair-step machines and treadmills. Additional exercises that can benefit men and women looking to prevent or combat osteoporosis can be found at www.nof.org.

Unlocking the heart-healthy secret of mushrooms (BPT) - Whether it's being stuck in traffic, missing a deadline or having trouble getting the kids out of bed, the stress we experience comes in many different forms. Often, people think of stress as something you're immediately aware of: your thoughts become crowded, your breath shortens or you can't sleep.

But there is a kind of stress most everyone experiences, and because there are no outward symptoms, few are aware of how it could be harming their health. It's called oxidative stress, and it's caused primarily by the lifestyles we lead. By not sleeping enough, not consuming enough antioxidants in your diet or just being around daily pollutants such as car exhaust, candles or cleaning products, you can be subject to oxidative stress.

What makes oxidative stress especially dangerous is both a lack of awareness and the fact that research has found it leads to an increased risk of heart disease. How? Oxidative stress can affect LDLcholesterol (commonly known as "bad cholesterol") by transforming it into an even more damaging form: oxidized LDL. Essentially, what happens is oxidized stress "rusts" the LDL cholesterol that circulates in the blood. Just as rust can damage machinery, this rust can damage your heart. With someone suffering a heart attack or a stroke every 40 seconds in the United States, the need to educate people on how to defend against the damage caused by oxidized LDL is more important than ever.

Unlocking the power of mushrooms For more than 100 years,

scientists have known that mushrooms contain a super antioxidant called ergothioneine that can help prevent cardiovascular damage. Ergothioneine is a natural part of the human defense system, and our bodies have a unique, genetically-coded protein designed to transport and deliver its antioxidant protection to high-stress areas where it is most needed, such as the walls or lining inside the arteries.

Despite documented evidence of the beneficial role ergothioneine can help with your heart, it's nearly impossible to get enough ergothioneine to directly impact your health through diet alone. No one has been able to unlock the potential of ergothioneine until now.

A breakthrough supplement Thanks to a scientific breakthrough by Mironova Labs, it is now possible to harness the power of this super antioxidant in a nutritional supplement.

MironovaEGT+ is the first and only supplement to concentrate ergothioneine into an affordable, daily serving to help protect your heart from the damaging effects of oxidative stress.* With the availability of this supplement, the "Dust the Rust Off" campaign has been launched to raise awareness of the benefits of ergothioneine and showcase how it can be a major part of a heart-healthy lifestyle. For more information, visit www.mironova.com. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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