Healthline Magazine February

Complimentary

MONTHLY

February 20, 2014

HealthLine Of Northern Colorado

FEBRUARY IS AMERICAN HEART MONTH!

SHOW YOUR HEART A LITTLE LOVE Four things you can do to help your heart

+ One health test that can stop a silent killer.

+ Understanding the dangers of low blood sugar

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ydo I Where turn when it comes

Myfamily’s health? is that

to my health?

I’VE NEVER even heard of that Is it

DISEASE.

medication

safe?

treatable?

What’s the latest

technology?

WhodoI TALKTO

y

y

I’ve been experiencing ongoing stomach problems like pain and nausea.

What might be the cause?

about this?

What are my OPTIONS

now?

The gallbladder is a common cause of abdominal pain, and many people may need surgery to correct the problem.

The two most common indications for gallbladder removal are symptomatic gallstones or a dysfunctional gallbladder that does not empty bile normally.

Symptoms of gallbladder problems include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, abnormal bowel movements, chest pain and even back or shoulder pain.

Ask the

Expert

The most common symptom is recurring pain in the upper abdomen after eating – especially fatty or greasy foods.

Gallbladder removal can almost always be performed with minimally invasive techniques.

Most patients return home the same day as surgery.

If your doctor has recommended gallbladder surgery, contact a Banner Health Surgeon today.

Thomas Blomquist, M.D. General Surgeon

Jerome Collins, M.D. General Surgeon

Bradford Keeler, M.D. General Surgeon

Karin Schmidová, M.D. General Surgeon

Specializing in General Surgery 1900 N. Boise Ave., Suite 420, Loveland Appointments: (970) 669-3212 www.BannerHealth.com/BMG-LovelandSurgery Accepting Kaiser Permanente Members

contents

Understanding the dangers of low blood sugar Page 4 ▲

Boomers: Have you heard about this health test that can help stop a ‘silent killer’? Page 8

▲

also inside Uncommon Sense ................................................................................................ 12 Nutrition ................................................................................................................. 8 Integrative medicine: Flu season likely to continue through March ......................... 15 Health Calendar .................................................................................................... 16 Health Briefs......................................................................................................... 17

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Thursday, February 20, 2014

Health Line of Northern Colorado is a monthly publication produced by the Loveland Daily Reporter-Herald. The information provided in this publication is intended for personal, noncommercial, informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement with respect to any company, product, procedure or activity.

You should seek the advice of a professional regarding your particular situation.

For advertising information contact: Linda Story, advertising director: 970-635-3614

For editorial:

Misty Kaiser, 303-473-1425 kaiserm@reporterherald.com

on the cover Achieve optimal heart health get moving and get pumping. _________ PAGE 10

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

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ask the pharmacist

Understanding the dangers of low blood sugar (BPT) - The numbers are astounding - nearly 400 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes and many patients may not realize they are at risk for a condition known as hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is characterized as dangerously low blood sugar levels that could cause serious side-effects including hospitalization.

Jay Belcher, is a specialist pharmacist in Express Scripts Diabetes Therapeutic Resource Center, and counsels patients who may not be aware of their risk for hypoglycemia.

“Normally, our body has a natural response that is triggered when blood sugar levels drop below a normal level,” says Belcher. “However, in some people with diabetes, this response is impaired.

Certain medications used to treat diabetes, such as insulin, can also prevent glucose levels from easily returning to the normal range.”

There are certain people at increased risk for hypoglycemia - including those with chronic diabetes and type 1 diabetes patients.

“People with type 1 diabetes are at increased risk because they may not show early warning signs of low blood glucose, a condition called hypoglycemia unawareness,” says Belcher.“This means an individual no longer experiences early

4

recommended). If you are struggling with your food intake, work with a registered dietician who can help design a meal plan that fits your personal preferences and lifestyle. Eating right will help you manage your diabetes.

warning symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, anxiety and hunger; raising their risk of lapsing into severe hypoglycemia.”

It’s important for all diabetes patients to remember that hypoglycemia is usually mild and can be treated quickly and easily by consuming a small amount of a glucoserich food or drink. Unfortunately the condition can rapidly worsen causing confusion, clumsiness or fainting; in fact, severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, coma and even death.

Belcher offers the following tips to help prevent hypoglycemia:

• Timing is everything: As with all medications, always take your diabetes medications in the recommended dosage and at the recommended times.

Some diabetes medications can cause hypoglycemia. If you have questions, talk to your physician or specialist pharmacist who can help explain how and when to take these medications.

• Watch what you eat: Following a meal plan is important for managing diabetes. Have enough food during each meal, avoid skipping meals and try healthy snacking (if

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

• Exercise responsibly: Check your blood glucose before sports, exercise, or other physical activity and adjust medication if necessary. Plus, have a snack handy if your levels fall below 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Also, check blood glucose at regular intervals during extended periods of physical activity and periodically after physical activity and adjust medications if necessary.

• Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking alcoholic beverages, especially on an empty stomach, can cause hypoglycemia. Heavy drinking can be particularly dangerous for people taking insulin or medications that increase insulin production. Only consume alcohol with a snack or meal.

For more information and additional ways to become a more engaged and empowered patient, visit Express Scripts’ Healthcare Insights blog at lab.express-scripts. com.

Thursday, February 20, 2014.

y

ydo I Where turn when it comes

Myfamily’s health? is that

to my health?

I’VE NEVER even heard of that Is it

DISEASE.

medication

safe?

treatable?

What’s the latest

As someone with cancer, how do I know if participating in a clinical trial is right for me?

technology?

y

y

WhodoI TALKTO

about this?

What are my OPTIONS

now?

Clinical trials are an important part of cancer research. Participation in clinical trials benefits patients, physicians and researchers and brings the latest research findings to the community.

Ask the

Expert

Clinical trials are research studies conducted with actual patients to test new drug treatments or new approaches for diagnosing, controlling or preventing cancers.

Trials are usually based on your cancer type and are conducted in phases, with the first phase focused on patient safety.

Before you decide to participate in a clinical study, your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks.

McKee Medical Center is an affiliate of the Colorado Cancer Research Program, sponsored by the National Cancer Institute and offers clinical trials close to home.

Speak with your physician about possible participation in clinical trials at McKee Medical Center.

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Thursday, February 20, 2014

Samuel Shelanski, M.D. Oncologist Banner Health Clinic specializing in Cancer and Oncology Services 2050 Boise Ave., Loveland Appointments: (970) 679-8900 www.BannerHealth.com/COCancer

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

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BOOMERS: Have you heard about this health test that can help stop a ‘silent killer’?

(BPT) - Eating well, exercise, sleep - these are all things we can control when it comes to our health. But unfortunately, some healthrelated things are out of sight, and therefore, often out of mind. Hidden health issues can escalate for years before becoming potentially life-threatening. For example, the term “silent killer” refers to fatal medical conditions that often exhibit no warning signs. High blood pressure is one such condition that many people are familiar with, but there is another very serious condition that most people have never heard of: abdominal aortic aneurysm.

More than 1 million people are living with an undiagnosed abdominal aortic aneurysm - also known as AAA (pronounced “triple A”) - and it’s the third-leading cause of death in men 60 and older. The good news is that AAA can be managed and treated if found in time through a simple ultrasound 6

screening test - so it’s imporAAAneurysm Outreach, to tant for boomers to know the become an advocate for their risk factors for themselves ambassador program - made and their loved ones so they possible by Medtronic, Inc. can ask their doctor about - spreading the word about screening, if necessary.

AAA risk factors and the What exactly is AAA? importance of screening.

AAA is a balloon-like bulge A quick and painless in the body’s main artery that ultrasound screening of the can burst unexpectedly. The abdomen, similar to a pregproblem with AAA is there are nancy ultrasound, can easily no symptoms, and when the detect the condition. In just aneurysm ruptures, only 10 a few minutes, a doctor can to 25 percent of people will determine if AAA is present survive. and if corrective action is Tony Thomas of Detroit, necessary. The good news is Mich., is one of the lucky surat least 95 percent of AAAs vivors. One morning Thomas can be successfully treated woke up feeling great, and if detected prior to rupture with no warnings, suffered through screening and most a ruptured AAA. He was health plans cover AAA reading a newspaper, sudscreening tests at no cost for denly felt a gurgle on the right people who fit the risk profile. side of his back and quickly So who is at greater risk of become incapacitated. His developing AAA? Risk factors daughter called an ambuassociated with this condition lance and he was rushed to include: emergency surgery.

• History of smoking: ToToday, Thomas feels very bacco users are eight times fortunate to have survived more likely to be affected a ruptured AAA. He has than non-smokers. partnered with a non-profit, • Other health conditions: LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

Including clogged arteries (atherosclerosis), high blood pressure (hypertension), and high cholesterol.

• Age: Individuals 60 or older are most likely to develop this condition.

• Gender: AAAs are between five to 10 times more common in men than in women. However, research shows AAA may be more deadly in women.

• Family history: 15 percent of those with AAA have close relatives with the condition.

“I want to urge others to learn about AAA and get screened if they are at risk. I didn’t have that opportunity when I was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery,” says Thomas. “It’s important for others to know that a simple ultrasound screen can help save your life.”

If you or a loved one may be at risk for AAA, ask your doctor about a simple ultrasound screening. Visit www.

AOutreach.org to learn more.

Thursday, February 20, 2014.

t

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At our state-of-the-art 40-bed acute rehabilitation hospital, we SPECIALIZE in rehabilitative services for patients with functional deficits such as stroke, trauma, spinal cord injury, head injury and other disabling impairments. Our passionate and supportive staff helps patients recover quickly and return home safely with a renewed sense of self-sufficiency.

For more information or to schedule a tour, please call us at 970.619.3400 or visit us online at NCRH.ernesthealth.com *Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation,

For the seventh consecutive year, Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital (NCRH) has been ranked in the Top 10% of 789 inpatient rehabilitation facilities. *NCRH was cited for care that is effective, efficient, timely and patient-centered.

Pragram Evaluation Model, 2012

We have

heart

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Thursday, February 20, 2014

We are passionate patient caregivers.

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

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Nutrition

DIABETES QUICK FIX:

Louisiana Blackened Kabobs with Rice and Red Beans

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By Linda Gassenheimer, McClatchy-Tribune News Service, (MCT)

These kabobs offer a Cajun taste in just a flash. Just dip chicken cubes in the spice mixture and broil for 5 minutes Helpful Hints: • Canned small red kidney beans can be found in most markets. The smaller size gives a better texture to the dish, but regular red beans can be used.

• Warm the beans and chicken stock in a microwave oven to save cooking and clean-up time.

Countdown: • Preheat broiler.

• Start rice.

• Make kabobs.

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Days, Evenings, Weekends Thomas J. Allen, M.D. ThomasJ.Al len,M.D. Weekdays 9AM to 9PM Thomas P. Kasenberg, D.O. ThomasP.Kasenberg,D.O. Saturday 9AM to 6PM Edwin M.D. EdwiD.n Risenhoover, D.Risenhoover,M.D. Sunday Noon to 6PM Walk-ins welcome.

Appointments available.

Kristen Olenic, PA-C DenaSheppardMadden,M.D. Angela KristenOlMcNair, enic,PA-PA-C C Angela McNair,PA-C KristiHousley,y,PA-C

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(970) 667-0202 Kasenberg, Dr.Edwin ThomasRisenhoover, P. Kristi HousleyThomas Dr. Edwin D. Kasenberg, D.O. PA-C Risenhoover, M.D. D.O. M.D. LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

8426 S. Hwy. 287 Ft. Collins, Co 80525

www.resthavencolorado.com

Thursday, February 20, 2014.

LOUISIANNA BLACKENED KABOBS

Olive oil spray 3/4 tablespoon Cajun or blackened spice seasoning 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 teaspoon olive oil Salt and freshly ground pepper 6 ounces zucchini (about 1 cup) 6 ounces yellow squash (about 1 cup) 4 kabob skewers Preheat broiler. Line a baking tray with foil and spray with olive oil spray. Place on rack about 5 inches from heat. Place Cajun spice seasoning in a bowl. Spray chicken cubes with olive oil spray. Toss in the spice mixture. Divide cubes in half and thread on 2 skewers. Place olive oil in a small bowl and add salt and pepper to taste. Cut zucchini and yellow squash into 1-inch pieces and toss in oil to coat. Divide in half and place on 2 skewers alternating the vegetables. Remove tray from oven and place the skewers on the foil. Return to oven and broil 3 minutes. Turn skewers over and broil 2 minutes.

Per serving: 250 calories, 65 calories from fat, total fat 7 g, 1.5 g saturated,100 mg cholesterol, 39 g protein, 8 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 3 g sugar, 395 mg sodium.

Exchanges/Choices: 1 vegetable, 5 lean meat ———

RICE AND RED BEANS

1/2 cup 10-minute brown rice 1 cup water 1 cup canned small red kidney beans, rinsed and drained Several drops hot pepper sauce 1 teaspoon olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper Add rice and water to a medium-size saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, lower heat to medium and simmer 10 minutes.

Stir in kidney beans, hot pepper sauce and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.

Per serving: 300 calories, 4 g total fat, <1 g saturated, 0 mg cholesterol, 11 g protein, 56 g carbohydrates, 7 g fiber, 2 g sugars, 170 mg sodium.

Exchanges/Choices: 3 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat ———

SHOPPING LIST

Meat: 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast Grocery: 1 box 10-minute brown rice, 1 can small red kidney beans, 1 package Cajun or Blackened spice seasoning, 1 bottle hot pepper sauce Produce: 6 ounces zucchini, 6 ounces yellow squash Staples: Olive oil spray, olive oil, salt, black peppercorns ——— (From “Mix’n’Match Meals in Minutes for People with Diabetes” by Linda Gassenheimer, published by the American Diabetes Association. Reprinted with permission from The American Diabetes Association. To order this book call 1-800232-6733 or order online at http://store.diabetes.org.)

Distributed by MCT Information Services

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Thursday, February 20, 2014

Tips Dr. Amy Driscoll

Dr. Chris Moore

Dr. Julie Noffsinger

for picking a pediatrician.

Selecting the right pediatrician to care for your child is very important. Following these tips can help ensure a good fit for you and your child.

1. Ask for recommendations.

Ask friends or family recommendations and search the American Academy of Pediatrics site to ensure the physician you’re researching is a board-certified member. AAP members have access to great resources for diagnosis and treatment.

2. Check to see if your child will see the same doctor for their well-visits.

Some practices require that you rotate through each physician while others, like the board-certified pediatricians at UCHealth, have you see one primary physician for well-visits.

3. Ask if the physician has established relationships with urgent care facilities and emergency departments.

Having these relationships in place is important.

This team will care for your child after hours or in emergency situations. Having an open line of communication between your pediatrician and the emergency providers helps ensure comprehensive care for your child.

To see the rest of our tips or request an appointment, go to: care.uchealth.org/kids.

We have two convenient locations to care for your child in west Greeley and east Loveland. If you want a compassionate team of providers to care for your child, call us today: 970.785.8503.

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

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Show your eart h a little love on the cover

by Misty Kaiser

aware of causes and conditions that contribute to heart disease enables us to make educated and responsible decisions regarding our health.

A few are things we already know; cutting salt, exercising and quitting smoking. But just because we know what to do, doesn’t mean we know how to do it.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Paper hearts, candy hearts and hearts full of chocolate are everywhere you look this month, but they don’t have to be all about Valentine’s Day. February is also American Heart Month so let all of those happy hearts be reminders to give a little love to the one that beats in your chest.

According to the National Health Information Center, one in four deaths is caused by heart disease each year.

The most direct path to reducing this statistic is through awareness. Being

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Four things you can do to help your heart

HOLD THE SALT

According to the American Heart Association (AHA) the number one tip

for reducing sodium consumption is reading the nutrition label on the foods you buy. So many of the processed foods straight from the grocery store shelves have an overkill of added sodium, but it’s not exactly hidden, all you have to do is look.

The AHA sets a reasonable limit of sodium in the diet at 1500 mg per day.

While that may seem like a lot, it’s not that hard to get there. For example, there are 160 grams of sodium per serving of regular Ruffles potato chips.

That’s about 12 chips. Just 12. Couple

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Joint Replacement & Arthritis Physiatry Worker’s Comp Services

3470 E. 15th Street Loveland, Colorado 80538 970-663-3975

If you have a back or neck problem, we can help you get back to what you love. Drs. Robert Benz and Bill Biggs have years of experience and board certification in spine care.They specialize in the care that’s right for you—helping people like you feel better and get going again.We offer a complete spine program, whether you need surgery or conservative care. Surgery options include: • Computer guided surgery

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If we can help you with a back or neck problem, call us today at (970) 663-3975. Serving the people of northern Colorado, Wyoming, and western Nebraska.

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

Nancy McRae, PA-C

Thursday, February 20, 2014.

that with the sandwich you ordered to go with them and you could getting close in just one meal.

Cut the salt by choosing lowsodium options, or cooking at home with fresh foods.

GET MOVING

We all know we’re busy people, so sometimes the idea of working in even an extra half an hour a day to exercise can be daunting. But it’s not impossible. Walk while you talk on the phone. Trade your paper book for an audio version and hop on the treadmill or just step out your front door. Get a cheap step counter and challenge yourself to make the number climb a little each day. Find something that you like enough to turn that have-to-exercise time in to some jealously guarded ‘me time’.

There are workouts for just about every preference and time constraint out there; from Zumba to CrossFit to Barre workouts.

Or use TV time to tone. Hold a plank during one commercial and see how many squats you can cram into the next one; sit-watch-repeat.

Clean Momma, Carolyn Barnes, devised a workout that can be executed while house cleaning (cleanmomma. com). No wasted time there.

The best resource when considering a lifestyle change is, of course, your physician. But if you are interested in just finding a place to start, Chilson Recreation Center in Loveland is offering a hearth healthy tip for every day of the month in February, available at cityofloveland.org/index.aspx?page=1898, or on their facebook page (facebook.com/ CityofLovelandChilsonCenter). They can also give you information on starting a heart healthy workout habit.

Whatever you decide to go with, just get moving, your heart will thank you.

BUTT OUT

Smoking cessation has long been touted as one of the most drastic steps that you can take to improve your health.

It can also be one of the most difficult.

.Thursday, February 20, 2014

The Colorado QuitLine is there to help, for free. Through information, advice, and support from a team of professional coaches and a community of other members trying to quit, current smokers have a better chance of quitting permanently. Join the Colorado QuitLine through their website, coquitline.org, or by phone at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or 1-800784-8669.

KNOW YOUR NUMBERS Knowing your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride level can be helpful information assessing heart health risks. Most preventive screenings are available through your doctor, but a few are available for little cost if not for free through health fairs and local clinics.

McKee Medical Center invites the public to have their blood pressure checked for free every Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at their Wellness Services office, 1805 E. 18th St. Suite 6 in Loveland.

At McKee’s annual health fair, you can not only have your blood pressure checked, but while you’re there, you can also attend a Biofeedback/Stress ManLOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

agement Screening that can test for healthy heart arrhythmia and teach you breathing exercises to help lessen unhealthy stress responses.

Cardiovascular endurance tests will give you a baseline measurement for how well your heart handles endurance activities.

Blood glucose levels are also highly indicative of heart health, so seriously consider having a diabetes screening. For this and other tests involving a blood draw, there may be registration and some prep-work to be aware of, such as 24-hour fasting in some cases, so be sure to check before you go.

This year’s event will be held on Saturday, April 5, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McKee Conference and Wellness Center, 2000 Boise Ave. in Loveland.

Call (970) 635-4181 for more information.

The 9Health Fair conducts Fairs statewide with low to no cost heart related screenings among others. The 9Health Fair makes its annual stop in Loveland on May 14, 7 a.m. to noon at the Campion Adventist Church, 300 Southwest 42nd. http://www.9healthfair. org/ University of Colorado Health offers free heart-smart classes and health screenings to anyone over 50 all year long through their Aspen Club.

Their Healthy Hearts ClubTM spans all ages including elementary and high school students focusing on healthy eating, exercise, avoiding tobacco products and facilitating access to preventive screenings, such as cholesterol and blood pressure.

One other helpful tool is the free online risk assessment for heart disease offered by University of Colorado Health Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery.

Visit care.uchealth.org/heart armed with your cholesterol numbers, blood pressure and five spare minutes and see how at-risk you are. Do it during the month of February and be entered in for a chance to win an iPad Air — an apple for your heart (health).

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Uncommon Sense Approach long distance relationship with optimism Dr. Beth Firestein Licensed Psychologist

Dear Dr. Beth, We are in our early 60s and have been going to Arizona in the winter for short vacations for years—a week one year, a couple of weeks another year. Now that we have finally both retired we would really like to start spending the winter months in Arizona. The conflict is that we are very close to our Colorado family. We are torn because we have two adult children and four grandchildren (ages 5 to 11) between the two families and we know we would miss them terribly. We spend quite a bit of time with them and know they would miss us too. We want to be snowbirds but aren’t sure how to handle the disruption to our close relationships to our family. Any suggestions?

It’s wonderful to be in a phase in your life where you have these options and you are fortunate to have found a place you know you would enjoy spending your winters.

There are many practical options and many ways to frame your thinking about your snowbird plans. The answers to your questions lie partly in what you do and partly in how you think about what you are doing.

Although you have probably already considered some of these scenarios, perhaps you will also find a new idea.

Ease into it: if you usually spend a couple of weeks a year in Arizona, make your first winter away one month or perhaps six weeks. Or try spending a month in early winter and a month in late

12

winter broken up by spending part of the winter in Colorado.

This way, you and the family have time to adapt to the changes. Gradually increase the amount of time until you find what is comfortable.

Take (or buy) a computer and learn to use Skype. Skype is a free video face-to-face computer program that allows you to talk over the internet for free.

Email or mail photos of you and your activities to them. Help them feel included in your time away, especially if it is for a longer duration.

Send occasional cards or small gifts. Don’t overdo it, but if you are close to your grandchildren emotionally, this additional contact may help them feel connected even when you are away.

Talk about the things you are going to do together when you return and make good on those promises. Giving children something to look forward to reassures them that you are returning and that they will get to continue spending quality time with them after you return.

If you are in Arizona for several months, invite each family to come for a week to visit. If they have the money and the ability to get time off, perhaps they can come during their spring or winter school breaks. Even if you don’t have the physical space to accommodate the family, you can help them find a motel or hotel with a pool, a nice cabin, or just a condo to rent as a vacation rental for the time they are there. It will add to the sense of adventure.

It would also be great if their parents encouraged them to email you, communicate through Facebook, or send you photos of their activities. They might encourage the older ones to initiate the Skype conversations and write emails. It feels even better when the relationship is a two-way street, but that may or may not happen so don’t be too attached to it. They are kids after all.

Hopefully some of these ideas will minimize the inner conflict you are feeling about your desire to be away from the cold for the winter.

Of course, it is important to spend the holidays together if at all possible, whether at your location or in Colorado.

Have an ongoing conversation with your adult children and share your feelings and ideas.

They probably also have some good ideas about how to make this work for all parts of the family. Most of all, try to enjoy this time in life. I’m sure you have worked hard for your retirement and you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Dear Dr. Beth, I grew up with pets my whole life. Dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hamsters— we always had living things in our home. When I married my husband he was really opposed to having pets. He didn’t grow up with pets and he just considers them messy, dirty and a hassle to deal with. I agreed not to have pets at least for the early years of our marriage, but now our kids are six and eight years old and they are attracted to

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

other people’s animals as if they were magnets. I think it would be wonderful for them to have a pet or two, but how do I convince my husband to get on board with the idea?

This question is tricky but not impossible. Pets are usually a wonderful addition to a family’s life. They can also be messy, dirty and a hassle, but do not let this deter you. The key to resolving this dilemma is to work gradually toward the change, understand and acknowledge your husband’s misgivings, and address his concerns. Having the children beg him to let them have a puppy also tends to help.

Seriously though, families that barge forward over the objections of one of the adults in the family are usually laying the groundwork for tension and continued non-acceptance of the pet. The family may even find themselves having to give their pet away because the tension caused is so great. There are better strategies that are much more likely to lead to a happilyever-after between you, your spouse and your hoped-for addition to the family.

So let’s look at some common objections and reasons why people may not want a pet in the family. The nonaccepting spouse may have had either too much or too little experience with animals in the past. Some people raised on farms and ranches, for example, had tremendous care responsibilities for farm animals. In general, animals were functional rather than fun. Others have grown up where pets were not permit-

Thursday, February 20, 2014.

ted. Either way, the spouse may not have the warm, fuzzy associations with animal companions that you do.

People may also object to having a pet because they have allergies, most commonly to dogs or cats. This is a very real medical concern and your spouse may or may not be willing to take allergy shots or daily medication just so that you can have an animal that he doesn’t want to begin with. Fortunately, there are hypo-allergenic breeds of dogs and cats and other animals that don’t stir up allergies. You may have to compromise on the type of pet, but if that is the primary objection, it can usually be overcome.

More common reasons some people object to having a pet are: 1) They are afraid that the children will lose interest

.Thursday, February 20, 2014

in caring for the pet and the responsibility will fall onto one or both parents and 2) Animals which require more consistent care and attention, such as dogs, will limit the family’s ability to have a free and spontaneous lifestyle or to travel without the hassle and expense of making sure their pet is cared for.

The first concern is actually fairly common. Children may lose interest in their pet (especially guinea pigs, hamsters, reptiles, snakes and other less interactive pets) or they may love their pet dearly but not be willing to follow through with the chores and responsibilities they initially agreed to take on—for example, changing kitty litter, walking the dog, picking up poop in the yard, etc. Again, a reluctant spouse may need concrete reassurance that

they won’t be dragged into unwanted roles and responsibilities for a pet—though many once reluctant adults actually come to bond with the animal and eventually become willing to embrace some of those responsibilities.

Listen to your husband and find out the specific nature of his concerns and objections. Address them one-by-one through ongoing conversation. A one-time talk probably isn’t going to shift things very much. Perhaps you can give your spouse some input into the type, size and breed of animal to be adopted and take his preferences into account.

Let him know how the pet will be cared for and

how the pets needs will be paid for if money is a serious concern. If you can validate your spouse’s feelings and concerns and get his agreement to give it a try, he may even come to love the new member of the family.

Uncommon Sense with Beth Firestein Dr. Beth Firestein is a licensed psychologist. She has 27 years of therapy experience and has practiced in Loveland for more than 16 years.

She may be reached by calling her office at 970-635-9116, via email at firewom@webaccess.net or by visiting www.bethfirestein.com.

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FORT COLLINS | GREELEY | LONGMONT | CHEYENNE LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

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on . en or op flo w nd No eco s

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URGENT CARE

The doctor can see you NOW. Our name has changed, and we've moved upstairs, but the caring providers you have come to know and trust at Loveland Urgent Care are still the same.

We're here for all your minor emergencies and unexpected illnesses.

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Urgent Care 3850 N. Grant Ave. (Located near 37th St. and U.S. 287 in north Loveland) 970.624.5150

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

Thursday, February 20, 2014.

Integrative medicine: Flu season likely to continue through March Drs. Kay Judge and Maxine Barish-Wreden, The Sacramento Bee (MCT) We are at the peak of the flu season and, based on information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, high flu activity is likely to continue for several weeks. So what can you do to minimize the damage of the flu to you and your environment? Quite a few things: •Don’t work if you are sick. Many people who are catching the flu are of schoolgoing or working age, 5 to 65, and it appears to be the H1N1 strain we saw in 2009, which affected a similar population at that time. Thus, if you are sick, avoid spreading the flu by not going to school or work while you have a temperature, and wait 24 hours after your temperature breaks before going back.

Contact your doctor if you have high fevers or shortness of breath.

•Get the flu shot if you haven’t gotten it yet. CDC recommends that providers continue to provide flu vaccinations throughout the flu season, which can last as late as May.

.Thursday, February 20, 2014

•If you do get the flu, ask your doctor for antiviral drugs. These medications now have been shown to work if started up to five days after the flu starts, and appear to reduce the severity and duration of the flu, as well as reduce viral shedding. The antiviral drugs can be taken whether you received the flu shot or not.

•Make sure that you get the flu shot if you are pregnant. This Influenza A H1N1 in 2009 was particularly hard on pregnant women, who were four times more likely to be hospitalized from flu than nonpregnant women that year.

•Expect the flu season to last until at least the end of March. A CDC report notices that peak weeks of flu activity have occurred in January through March during 90 percent of the past 20 seasons.

•The flu shot does help. Even though some people who received the flu shot are getting the flu, overall statistics do show a 17 percent reduction in hospitalizations last year attributed to the flu

shot.

•A surprising risk factor for this flu season is obesity — similar to that seen in 2009.

This season there has been more hospitalization among obese adults. As of this week, obese people have made up 45 percent of adult hospitalizations — yet another reason to have a long-term plan to bring your weight to normal if it is not.

Other people at high risk for serious flu complications, who should strongly consider a flu shot if they haven’t gotten one yet, include those with underlying medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and neurological conditions; pregnant women; those younger than 5 years or older than 65 years of age; and anyone with a weakened immune system.

(Drs. Kay Judge and Maxine Barish-Wreden are medical directors of Sutter Downtown Integrative Medicine program in Sacramento, Calif. Have a question related to alternative medicine? Email fitness@sacbee.com.)

At Columbine, you're family.

Offering all 3 Levels of Care on Our Campus at 29th & Taft. www.columbinehealth.com LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

15

HL

Health Calendar

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE

When: 1-3 p.m.

Where: McKee Conference and Wellness Center, 2000 Boise. Ave., Loveland Cost: Free Call: (970) 635-4015

LOVELAND DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

When: 3/28, 7-8:30 p.m., Where: McKee Conference and Wellness Center, 2000 Boise Ave., Loveland Cost: Free Call: 970) 622-1950

BREAST-FEEDING SUPPORT GROUP

When: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays (except holidays), 10-11 a.m.

Cost: FREE. No need to register Call: (970) 669-9355

BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING

Have your blood pressure checked by a Wellness Specialist.

Where: McKee Wellness Services, 1805 E. 18th St. Suite 6, Loveland When: Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: (970) 669-9355

YOGA SUPPORT GROUP

for anyone touched by cancer Where: McKee Medical Center Cancer Center Lobby When: 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Cost: Free Call: (970) 635-4054 to register

16

CAREGIVER CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Where: Call for locations and dates.

Cost: FREE Call: (970) 635-4129

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT

For caregivers of elderly adults. The group focuses on providing support and education about community resources and behavior issues, particularly for people with Alzheimer’s and memory impairment.

Where: First Christian Church, 2000 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland When: Third Thursday of the month, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE. Care of elderly adult family members or friends is available through Stepping Stones Adult Day Program during meeting times at no charge.

Call: (970) 669-7069

GENERAL CANCER SUPPORT

Where: McKee Cancer Center lobby When: Tuesdays (except holidays), 5:30-7 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: (970) 635-4129

Center lobby When: 11/8, 5:30-7 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: (970) 622-1961

SOULPLAY ART THERAPY

People whose lives are touched by cancer express themselves through art. No art experience needed.

Cost: No charge.

Call: 635-4129 Location: McKee Cancer Center Conference Room Schedule: Wednesdays, 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

TOTAL JOINT EDUCATION

Physical therapists and occupational therapists prepare patients for surgery.

This program is coordinated through your physician’s office as part of the surgery scheduling process.

Where: McKee Conference and Wellness Center When: Thursdays, 3 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: (970) 635-4172 to register

WISE WOMEN SUPPORT GROUP

A free, community group for women 55-100 who would like to connect with other women sharing similar life MAN TO MAN challenges. There is a disSUPPORT GROUP FOR cussion topic for each group PROSTATE CANCER and time for personal sharWhen: 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m., ing. Facilitated by psycholo4th Thurs. of each month gist Dr. Beth Firestein.

Where: McKee Conference Where: Daz Bog Coffee and Wellness Center Shop, 556 N. Lincoln AvCost: Free enue, Loveland.

Call: (970) 622-1961 When: Thursday, 2/ 27, 3/13, 3/27, 4/10, 4/24, 5/8, 5/22 11:15am-12:30pm.

BREAST CANCER (Come early if you would like SUPPORT GROUP to get coffee or a snack).

Where: McKee Cancer Call: Dr. Beth Firestein at LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

(970) 635-9116.

SPIRIT OF WOMEN

A Health Passport to France: Preventing and Recognizing Gynecologic Cancers Spend an evening in France for your health.

Journeying through the unfamiliar territory of gynecologic cancers is like trying to navigate the streets of a foreign country. Let our clinical expert, Dr. Elizabeth Howell, OB/GYN, be your guide through the facts about the five reproductive system cancers, including subtle symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options. She’ll also give you a map for screening and prevention to help you stay on a healthy path for life.

French refreshments will be provided and there will even be a mini-class on the art of scarf tying.

Where: McKee Conference and Wellness Center When: Tuesday, February 25, 5:30-7:30 Cost: Free Please RSVP by February 17 to (970) 203-6631

Thursday, February 20, 2014.

26TH ANNUAL MCKEE CLASSIC BIKE TOUR SET FOR MAY 18

The 26th Annual McKee Classic Bike Tour, formerly Community Classic Bike Tour (MCBT) is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, 2014.

This non-competitive, multidistance bicycle tour travels through the beautiful foothills of Larimer County in Loveland and Fort Collins and is a great training ride preparing cyclists for the numerous summer rides available.

There are four distances to choose from: 62-mile, 37-Mile, 30-Mile, or 10-Mile.

The rides begin and end at McKee Medical Center in Loveland located at 2000 Boise Avenue starting at 6:30 a.m. The 62-mile ride

will enjoy the sites of the Big Thompson River, Lon Hagler Reservoir, Carter Lake, Green Ridge Glade Reservoir, Masonville, Horsetooth Reservoir, Fort Collins, Boyd Lake, and Loveland. The 37 and 30-mile rides will complete the ride through Carter Lake and then back into Loveland.

The 10-mile family/fun ride will enjoy a leisurely ride from McKee Medical Center to Boyd Lake and back.

Entry fees through April 30 are $60 for adults, $35 for ages 13-17, and $10 for children. The fee for all 10-mile riders is $10. 100 percent of all registration fees and sponsorship contributions will benefit McKee Medical Center programs.

The McKee Medical Center Foundation raises funds and friends for the health

HL

and wellness of the Loveland community. We exist to make a difference in people’s lives through excellent patient care.

ANNUAL MCKEE COMMUNITY HEALTH AWARD TO BE PRESENTED AT MCKEE THANKS EVENT

The 2014 McKee Thanks event will continue in the same tradition of recognizing and thanking the Loveland community for its support of McKee Medical Center.

McKee Thanks will take place Thursday, March 13 at the McKee Conference and Wellness Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Donor generosity, staff compassion and the strength of caring all provide excellent patient care at Loveland’s community hospital. Inspir-

Health Briefs ing stories of caring, compassion and life-changing experiences will be shared and the annual McKee Community Health Award, presented by the McKee Medical Center Foundation, will be presented.

The McKee Community Health Award will honor one individual that has contributed to the overall health and wellness of the Loveland community either through direct care or volunteer service in the Loveland health care field. A complete nomination and informational form is available at McKeeFoundation.com. Deadline for nominations is Feb. 14.

Reservations for this event can be made by calling (970) 203-2519.

R ecovery in mind, body and spirit.

To learn more, call (970) 624-5458.

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

.Thursday, February 20, 2014

LOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

17

18

PAID ADVERTORIAL

Kicking the Smoking Habit

Dr. Ravi Nallamothu

Kicking any habit, be it smoking, alcohol or drugs, can be one of the most difficult health challenges to face. But doing so will set you on the right path to being fit and active, instead of tied to an addiction that keeps you from maintaining a positive lifestyle – physically and emotionally.

“Addictions can be hard to overcome, but when you cross that big hurdle, you realize just how much you were letting that cigarette rule your life in an extremely unhealthy way,” says Dr. Nallamothu.

Cigarette smoking is directly linked to lung cancer, emphysema, heart disease, kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease, throat cancer, bladder cancer, and a host of other chronic problems.

And there are other good reasons to quit. Your loved ones, including children, pay a direct price for your smoking habit.

Secondhand smoke increases the risk for heart attack, even among non-smokers and especially among those who already have heart disease, according to the CDC. And in children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, secondhand smoke causes ear infections, asthma attacks, coughing, sneez-

ing, shortness of breath, respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia, and greater risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

“Don’t risk the health of your loved ones for the sake of your habit,” says Dr. Nallamothu.

Here are ways to quit the smoking habit: BEFORE YOU QUIT • Select a date to quit and stick to it!

• Tell everyone you are going to quit.

• Postpone your first tobacco use of the day by one hour each day.

• Don’t carry tobacco with you; make it inconvenient to use.

• Create a “survival pack.” Possible contents: sugarless gum, hard candy, cinnamon sticks, toothpicks, straws, pretzels, fruit, sunflower seeds, vegetable sticks, aspirin for headaches, tissues for sweaty palms, list of reasons you are quitting and a picture of those you love.

“The more prepared you are, the better the chances of success,” says Dr. Nallamothu.

ON THE DAY YOU QUIT • Throw away all tobacco, ashtrays, lighter and spittoons.

• Keep very busy.

• Go places you can’t smoke or chew (mall, movies, etc.).

• Surround yourself with nontobacco using people.

• Clean your clothes to rid them of tobacco odor.

“Try to stay away from people and places whom you associate with smoking,” says Dr. NalLOVELAND REPORTER-HERALD / Health Line of Northern Colorado

lamothu.

HANDLING YOUR URGES • Remember, urges last only two to three minutes.

• Light an incense candle instead.

• Exercise or go for a walk.

• Keep your hands busy (do a puzzle, write a letter).

• Take a shower.

• Call a friend or family member for support.

“It’s like dieting,” says Dr. Nallamothu. “If you can resist that bag of chips or the bar of chocolate for a few minutes, the urge passes and you’re ready to opt for a healthier choice.”

Remember the four “Ds:” Delay (2-3 minutes).

Drink a glass of water.

Deep breathing.

Distraction.

FOR YOUR SUCCESSFUL TOBACCO-FREE LIFE • Celebrate your success; treat yourself to something nice with the money you would have spent on tobacco.

• Ask a friend or spouse to quit with you or get a buddy to support you.

• Don’t think in terms of never using tobacco again - take it one day at a time.

• Find ways to handle trigger times and places (drinking coffee, driving, after meals).

• Brush your teeth or use mouthwash after meals.

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol “The reward at the end of this journey is being a healthier, happier version of you,” says Dr. Nallamothu.

Thursday, February 20, 2014.

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