Healthline Magazine May 2015

April 30, 2015

ALLERGY SEASON AND COPD OR ASTHMA How do allergies affect lung disorders and what can you do to mitigate the problems?

+ Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity? What you know about each. + Autism “red flags” in young children

What’s LOVE?

Taking care of yourself so you can be there.

Our team offers wellness exams, physicals, testing and screenings to keep you enjoying life.

We provide comprehensive and compassionate care for the entire family. Keeping you in the game since 1925.

FAMILY MEDICINE 1327 Eagle Drive

Make an appointment.

970.286.7449 I uchealth.org/be-there

contents

FITNESS: How to bounce back when an injury takes you down Page 10

also inside

s

sA

Primer on Celiac, Going

GLUTEN-FREE

Page 20

Autism “red flags” in young children ....................................................................... 4 RELATIONSHIPS: How to set limits for yourself and others....................................... 5 UNCOMMON SENSE .............................................................................................. 8 Fit Fun with Fido ................................................................................................... 11 Awareness of COPD growing but many remain undiagnosed .................................. 14 Earth Talk: Fire pits can spark health problems...................................................... 15 What you need to know to control this silent killer .................................................. 16 NUTRITION: Changing one meal a day to alter your diet and health....................... 18 The key to a gluten-free breakfast sandwich: potatoes ........................................... 22 PARENTAL GUIDANCE: Is a regular teaspoon OK for medicine doses?................... 23 Health Calendar & Briefs....................................................................................... 25

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 Tips to help you breathe easier when allergies, asthma or COPD have you gasping for air

_________ PAGE 12

April 30, 2015

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HEALTHLINE 3

Autism “red flags” in young children

By Terri Colby, Chicago Tribune (TNS)

Research shows that early intervention is beneficial for children with autism spectrum disorder, but on average children aren’t diagnosed until age 4 or 5. That’s about two years later than is possible, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Part of that delay undoubtedly is because autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that has widely ranging symptoms from mild to severe. Too, any symptoms a child is experiencing may not be immediately evident in toddlers learning new things every day.

What is clear is that at some point children with autism show deficits in social interaction, language and imaginative play.

“Too often, doctors take a ‘wait-andsee’ approach,” said Dr. Joe Sniezek of the CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities.

“While in some few instances that can be appropriate, far more often it results in children not getting the services they need at an early age, when those services can make the biggest difference in a child’s development.”

“Children with ASD can be reliably diagnosed around 2 years of age, although many children are not diagnosed until 4 years of age or older,” said Lisa Wiggins, developmental psychologist and epidemiologist at the CDC. Michael Rosanoff, director of public health research for the advocacy group Autism Speaks, said multiple factors likely contribute to the later diagnoses.

“The first is that even though the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be screened for autism twice before the age of 2, it is unclear whether pediatricians are adhering to these guidelines,” he said. “The second is that even though warning signs of autism can appear as early as 12 months, in some instances the signs may be subtle and in others, especially for less severely affected children, they

4 HEALTHLINE

may not become apparent until school age.”

Rosanoff also notes that screening services may not be readily available to people who have less access to health care in general. Additionally, others might face long waiting periods between parents’ first concerns, screening and diagnosis.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be screened for general development at 9, 18 and 24 or 30 months and for autism at 18 and 24 months, or whenever a parent has concerns.

Autism Speaks, on its website, autismspeaks.org, lists the following “red flags” that might be reason for concern and should prompt a call to a pediatrician.

— No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by 6 months or thereafter.

— No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions by 9 months.

— No babbling by 12 months.

— No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving by 12 months.

— No words by 16 months.

— No meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) by 24 months.

— Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age.

One of the screening tools used by pediatricians is the M-CHAT-R (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers,

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Revised), devised by Drexel University’s Diana Robins and others. It’s a list of 20 questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no and can be completed by parents in less than 10 minutes. If that screening raises any concerns, doctors have a follow-up set of questions dealing with specific behaviors that have been shown to be effective in screening for ASD. Here is a sampling of the questions on the M-CHAT-R: 1. If you point at something across the room, does your child look at it?

(For example, if you point at a toy or an animal, does your child look at the toy or animal?)

2. Does your child play pretend or make-believe? (For example, pretend to drink from an empty cup, pretend to talk on a phone, or pretend to feed a doll or stuffed animal?)

3. Is your child interested in other children? (For example, does your child watch other children, smile at them or go to them?)

A “no” answer would be cause for concern.

Robins said that parents should trust their instincts about their children and seek out screening, evaluation or intervention if something seems amiss.

“Parents are experts on their children,” she said. “If they are worried and the pediatrician doesn’t support them and make referrals, they may want a second opinion.”

April 30, 2015

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HEALTHLINE 5

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R E L AT I O N S H I P S

How to set limits for yourself and others

By Judi Light Hopson, Emma H. Hopson and Ted Hagen, Tribune News Service (TNS)

Do you find yourself saying yes to too many requests?

Are you so stressed out you feel like you’re juggling knives?

You know how this goes.

If you try to give up a task, or postpone something, you feel like a dagger is going to flip up into the air and slam down into you. Your boss, your friends, or somebody will be let down.

Most of us have read several “time management” books or “work/life balance” books. We’re seeking some magic to find more harmony.

But one good strategy is to set boundaries. You’ve got to figure out where to draw the line on those demands made on you.

“We live in a world where we’re encouraged to light a fire under ourselves,” says a psychologist we’ll call John.

“The clients who come to me for counseling are angry with themselves. They want to know how to keep the bonfire blazing.”

John says that he shares these strategies to prevent this kind of self-torture: • Vary your routine to refresh your mind. If possible in your job, mix boring tasks with those that require a different set of mental muscles. Make sure it’s ok with your boss.

• Alert someone early on that you’re going to say no. For example, tell your

6 HEALTHLINE

sister-in-law that you can’t volunteer at her charity event in December. But tell her this in August. Most of us chicken out and overgive if we’ve failed to give proper notice to others.

• Put somebody off a day or two. If appropriate, ask if extending a deadline at work or in off-hours is possible or desirable.

• Realize that you do have a breaking point. Think you can keep pushing, without mercy? Think again. Plenty of distracted people have automobile accidents or slide into deep depressions all the time. Avoid living near your breaking point by pacing yourself.

One good way to set limits with yourself is to ask: What am I doing too much of? Staying late every night at work? Volunteering too much?

Remember, in order to

stretch yourself, you have to sacrifice something. Sure, you can win awards and have people fighting to make speeches at your funeral.

But ask: What am I sick and tired of doing? How can I dial things back down a notch?

A man we’ll call Richard worked three straight years without a single off day.

Richard’s wife just left him for another man. The moral of this story is this: If you’re subtracting too much energy from yourself, you’re likely taking something from those people close to you as well.

In fact, noticing the atmosphere of your workplace, home and support network is important. You want to leave breathing room to enjoy life, and you want others to feel this breathing room as well.

A friend of ours we’ll call Patty told us recently, “I’d like to hire a full time housekeeper. But instead, I’m

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hiring a cook.” She explained that the “cook” means she is bringing home restaurant food three days a week.

“I have three kids, a husband, and no close relatives to help me cope with life,” says Patty. “So I feel fine about spending money for healthy food from local restaurants.”

Patty sums it up this way: “If I can save two or three hours a week, that’s enough time to exercise, read or talk with a friend. A small change can save your sanity.”

——— (Judi Light Hopson is the Executive Director of the stress management website USA Wellness Café at www. usawellnesscafe.com. Emma Hopson is an author and a nurse educator. Ted Hagen is a family psychologist.)

April 30, 2015

What’s LOVE?

Taking care of yourself so you can be there.

Our team offers wellness exams, physicals, testing and screenings to keep you enjoying life.

We provide comprehensive and compassionate care for the entire family. Keeping you in the game since 1925.

FAMILY MEDICINE 1327 Eagle Drive

April 30, 2015

Make an appointment.

970.286.7449 I uchealth.org/be-there

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HEALTHLINE 7

HL

UNCOMMON SENSE

Melding parenting styles extends to canine companions Dear Dr. Beth, My partner and I have been involved for almost two years and we have decided to move in together. As is true of many lesbian couples, we both have dogs. Our dogs play together well and have spent quite a bit of time at both of our homes.

But we have somewhat different styles of “parenting” our dogs. I will be moving in to her house and I’m wondering how to deal with the conflicts that may arise around feeding, exercise and discipline and other differences in our styles of being with our animals?

You sound like two independent women who have each been living on your own for some time. Naturally, there will be adjustment issues around blending your households and combining pets in a household is certainly a common challenge.

You are off to a great start by simply knowing that your dogs are compatible and play well together. And no doubt, in the time you have spent with one another you have successfully managed your differences in “parenting styles.”

As you may have already discovered, there are probably many commonalities in your approach to your

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that also needs to be handled differently.

With communication and an attitude of respect between you as partners around you pet ownership, this need not be a problematic adjustment as you merge your household. Best of luck in your transition.

animals as well as things that you differ on. That is one of the things that often separates people or brings them together in relationships.

While I am not an animal psychologist, I do have a few ideas that may help smooth the transition for you, your partner and your pets.

There will obviously be issues of great importance to each of you and issues that you can be flexible on.

In general, it is best that your overall treatment of the dogs be very similar. Feeding times, exercise patterns, and so forth are pretty easy to line up. Some issues are going to require compromise. If one of you loves to sleep with your dog in bed when you are home alone and your partner cannot tolerate this, the dog probably needs to get used to sleeping in his or her own bed, which can be in the bedroom if you both agree on this.

Other issues are important but may not be amenable to compromise. If one of your dogs has always been

more of an inside the house dog and the other loves to be outside in cold winter weather, both you and your partner need to be willing to honor one another’s needs and preferences in this regard. If one dog requires special food or medicine and the other does not, you need to work out feeding arrangements that take this into account. It is largely common sense.

The main thing of importance is that when either you or your partner are home alone caring for both dogs, that they both be treated similarly with respect to house guidelines (one can’t be allowed to be under the table when you eat and the other not), but your dogs’ individuals differences also need to be honored and handled in accordance with each of your preferences. You don’t put an indoor animal outdoors all day in the cold just because it is more convenient for you.

(A good quality dog door handles this nicely). Naturally, if one has a behavior problem that the other doesn’t have,

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Dear Dr. Beth, I am confused by some of the changes I am going through. I turned 50 last November and ever since then I feel somehow ungrounded, like I don’t know who I am or what my priorities are.

They seem to be shifting dramatically. I used to be focused on being a parent and wanting to achieve a lot in my profession. I did lots of extra work and participated in the executive boards of a couple of organizations. Now I don’t seem to really care and I feel these commitments are obligations instead of enjoyable. Any thoughts about what might be going on with me?

We all know that our sense of identity and our priorities shift as we move through various life stages.

Some of these transitions are fairly gradual and we just live our way into the next stage of life with minimal muss and

April 30, 2015

fuss. Other transitions are rapid, even precipitous. Going through puberty, getting married and having a child are usually rather dramatic changes that shake up and reshape our sense of our identities and priorities.

Moving into a new age decade seems to be a common time when people consciously or unconsciously reevaluate their life directions. For you, it sounds like turning 50 is one such moment of transition. Many people have significant psychological shifts at this time.

For those who have had children, this is often the time that the children are out of the house and have lives of their own. The hard-driving work of establishing a career is mostly behind you and it is

time to reevaluate.

It is quite normal to be feeling a shift in your priorities around work/ life balance, your interests and perhaps your relationships as well. Around age 50, a lot of people begin to recognize that there are likely more years of life behind them than there are ahead of them. Indications of our mortality ranging from our own health problems to the unexpected deaths of some of our relatively younger adult friends can bring our own mortality into sharp focus.

I encourage you to flow with the changes and realize that it will take months, maybe a year or more to get your bearings with your evolving values and priorities.

Some decisions like change

decisions like working less overtime or discontinuing certain services positions may be made fairly quickly, but I would encourage you to take more time to make decisions like moving, quitting your job or getting a divorce.

The impulses you feel around some of these issues will probably wax and wane quite a few times over the next months or year or two. Just be reassured that you are going through a developmental evolution that is quite natural.

I trust that you will come out on the other side of this transition with

LOCAL MATTERS!

a newly fashioned and more grounded sense of self and life purpose for this decade of your life.

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.

NORTH SHORE HEALTH & REHAB FACILITY 667-6111 LAKEVIEW COMMONS 278-4000 THE WEXFORD 667-1900

www.columbinehealth.com April 30, 2015

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HEALTHLINE 9

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FITNESS

How to bounce back when an injury takes you down

By Latasha Lewis, Detroit Free Press (TNS)

In October, I dislocated my shoulder.

I was doing a double jack burpee and my hand slipped, then my shoulder decided to go another way. The first thing people said after the incident was, “You can’t do that exercise again.”

First, I am not the typical 43-year-old. Telling me what I can’t do only pushes me to do more, and to do it better.

Secondly, I always assess situations to see what can be done differently. Lastly, I will always comply with all of my doctors’ and physical therapy orders, and I will modify my workouts until I fully recover; however, I will not live in fear.

From the moment the incident happened, I kept calm. I also knew that pain is temporary and relief was moments away. All I had to do was hang in there and get to a hospital.

The normal procedure to reduce a dislocated shoulder is to do conscious sedation, which has risk factors as well as a longer hospital recovery time. So I chose not to do conscious sedation to reduce my shoulder pain. I looked at my doctor, my nurse and team and yelled, “Can I get it, get it, get it?” With laughter in the air, the team popped my arm back in place. I was elated and relieved at the same time.

The incident had happened; it was under control, then the real work began with

10 HEALTHLINE

willing to give all.

• Get an accountability partner. My team has been truly amazing during my recovery. They had and still have a very watchful eye on me, and will often tell me to chill out when I’m doing too much. But they don’t enable me.

post-recovery. This is where multiple doctor appointments, diagnostic studies and physical therapy came into play.

My orthopedic surgeon was very stern with me. He said, “You have a small tear and a bruised bone, and whether you have surgery or not depends on how dedicated you are to your physical therapy.”

Going from a very active lifestyle like mine to modifying and asking for help is a very humbling experience.

Physical therapy opened my eyes to a different form of fitness, because that’s just what it is. As much as you don’t like exercising when your body is 100 percent, imagine going to therapy already in pain, with a limited range of motion. There were many days I wanted to not show up, but I knew that the only person that would hurt is me.

Three months after the incident, at a doctor’s appointment, my orthopedic surgeon walked into the room and pulled up my MRI. He gave me a high five and said, “Great job; you did it.” A big sigh of relief came over me.

I know I am not 100 percent yet; however, I am on the right track to a full recovery.

Recovery works if you put in the work. Here are some lessons I was reminded of along the way: • Injuries and accidents will happen; that’s life! How you choose to recover is totally your choice. Don’t get settled in on the couch after an injury, and slowly drift back into a sedentary lifestyle.

• Focus on what you can do and stop dwelling on what you can’t. Some of us become prisoners in our minds when our bodies are

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• About 80 percent of this healthy journey is what you eat. I knew that since I wouldn’t be doing three workout sessions a day for awhile I would have to be even more on point with my eating. Plus, great nutrition helps the body heal faster.

• Make your life a little easier during recovery. I was unable to raise my arm for a while so doing daily activities such as doing my hair was nearly impossible.

So I got my hair braided. (I couldn’t walk around looking a mess.)

• Celebrate the small victories. When I was able to raise my arm completely, I shouted for joy. When I was able to hold a plank position or do a modified push-up, I told the world.

Everything will not come back all at once, so celebrate the little things.

• Don’t allow yourself to indulge in any “Mess” whatsoever. Don’t live in the past or live in fear. It will cripple you mentally, and have you doubting yourself and your abilities.

April 30, 2015

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EVENTS

Fit Fun with Fido

By Misty Kaiser, Healthline Magazine

Coloradoans love their dogs almost as much as they love being outdoors. What could be better than pairing the two and raising a little money besides?

This May grab a furry friend and get in a little friendly competition (or participation) for a good cause with two dog lovin’ 5Ks; the Fire Hydrant Five 5K Walk Run and Pet Expo and the Run Fur Fun. Peak running condition isn’t necessary for either of these events, you can run, walk or any combination in between. The point is to get out raise some money and have a good time. It beats sitting on the couch no matter how fast you finish.

RUN FUR FUN First up — on Sunday, May 17 at City Park in Fort Collins, bring out the entire family for some fundraising fun — all proceeds go toward funding the rescue efforts at Animal House Rescue and Grooming.

The race begins at 9 a.m., but if you come out early— there’s a special kids’ race beginning at 8:30.

During and after the race, until 12 p.m. vendors and vets will be answering questions and providing a variety of health checks for the pups.

Animal House will also be offering discounted microchips.

The fair is open to everyone and admission is $10-$20.

April 30, 2015

Register by May 1 to ensure that you get a commemorative t-shirt. Four-legged participants get bandanas, with a special edition if your pooch came from Animal House.

Think F.A.S.T. and stay in

FIRE HYDRANT 5 With a fundraising goal of $80,000 the Larimer Humane Society encourages participants to gather as many pledges as possible.

The more money pledged, the higher the level of prizes participants can attain — everyone wins.

Have the pups put on their cutest beggar face, and then bring them down to Edora Park in Fort Collins on Saturday, May 30 for a little exercise and a lot of fun.

The kids’ run, and adults run/walk 5K are only part of the day’s events.

From 8 a.m to 12 p.m., wander the more than 60 booths available at the Pet Expo, run your race or cheer on someone else, then stick around to register your furry friend for the Second Chance Dog Show at 10 a.m.

So venture out for some fitness and fun and show your support for some fur friendly folks.

Know the signs of stroke.

F A S T

FACE

Ask the peerson to smile.

Does one side of the face droop?

ARMS

Ask the peerson to raise both arms.

Does one arm drift downward?

SPEECH

Ask the peerson to repeat a simple phrase.

Is their speech slurred or strange?

TIME

Act fast.

Every second, brain cells die.

Call 911. It could be a game changer.

IF YOU GO...

WHAT: RUN FUR FUN When: Sun., May 17, 9 a.m.

Where: City Park, Fort Collins Info: animalhousehelp.org/ runfurfun5k.php WHAT: FIRE HYDRANT 5 When: Sat., May 30, 8 a.m.

Where: Edora Park, Fort Collins Info: larimerhumane.org/ events/fire-hydrant

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HEALTHLINE 11

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FEATURE: COPD & ASTHMA

Tips to help you breathe easier when allergies, asthma or COPD have you gasping for air May marks Asthma Awareness Month

By Elise Oberliesen, Healthline Magazine

Maybe all you allergy sufferers have been walking around with a tissue box permanently attached to your face—as you brace for the next earth rumbling sneeze.

Or perhaps you can’t quite figure out which allergy pills to pop.

To make matters worse, anyone with asthma—a chronic condition that causes difficulty breathing from inflammation in the lungs and airways—already knows that allergies often leave your eyes red and itchy as you try to catch your breath.

Common asthma symptoms include wheezing, coughing and tightness in the chest. While some people manage those symptoms quite well, others develop more serious lung diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a catch all term that includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory asthma—considered a nonreversible form of asthma.

It’s estimated that nearly 9 percent of Coloradans, which translates to about 349,000 people, suffer with asthma, according to 2013 health survey from the Colorado Department of Public Health. Considerably

12 HEALTHLINE

fewer people are diagnosed with COPD— about 183,000 Coloradans—a number that tracks with the national average, says American Lung Association spokesperson Allison MacMunn.

Dr. Sandra Plybon, a physician at University of Colorado Health Family Medicine, describes COPD as “obstructive airway disease that is not fully reversible.”

She says that people with the disease may be at increased risk of developing infections.

When you add allergies to the mix, she says it may further compromise overall health.

Though we tend to associate smoking with COPD, Dr.Plybon, says, “Asthma can increase your chances of developing COPD,” so it’s also important to treat asthma as

well as address any allergic reactions that could possibly exacerbate either.

“If you have COPD and allergies, the allergies can make you more prone to having more infections… allergies affect upper airways and COPD affects the lungs,” she says.

Denver-based National Jewish Health, the largest U.S. medical facility dedicated to lung health treatment and research, weighs in on the interplay between allergies and COPD. “Allergies can impair breathing in patients who have COPD and are short of breath due to their lung disease,” says Barry Make, MD, professor of medicine at National Jewish Health.

“Allergies with conges-

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tion, inflammation and swelling of the nose and throat make it more difficult to breathe through the nose.”

And if those with COPD experience post nasal drip, which is an accumulation of mucus that drains from the nose or drips into the throat, Dr. Make says that they may experience even more coughing and phlegm buildup from the lungs.

Better breathing at home Keeping your home allergen free and minimizing dust particles is one of the best ways to breathe easier at home because it improves your indoor air quality. With a few simple changes, it makes all the difference.

Even though spring welcomes the idea of opening

April 30, 2015

windows so the curtains can dance around in the breeze, people with allergies may want to think twice. Plybon suggests closing the windows to keep the allergens outside—where they belong— not inside your home where they get trapped.

Instead, Dr. Plybon suggests using your air conditioning system to keep the indoor air clean.

For allergy and asthma relief, some people turn to HEPA filters and other portable air cleaning devices.

While a basic air cleaner is designed to remove allergens from the air, the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of American reminds us that there is little conclusive evidence as to whether these devices improve allergies or asthma,

Go from

though some people do report improvement.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted from everyday items in our homes—from the paint on our walls and furniture we cozy up on, to the home office printer—reports the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Not surprisingly, outdoor air contains far fewer VOCs than indoor air— about ten times less, according to reports from the EPA. Because of this, it’s important to keep the air inside the home as clean as possible, says Brett Tucker, with Northern Colorado Air Inc. One simple fix—turn the furnace fan on—and keep it on. That way, air continually moves through the home

and the furnace filter can do its job of trapping dust and allergens.

“When you’re moving air, you’re cleaning air,” says Tucker, noting that many people set the fan only to run only when the furnace kicks on—which isn’t nearly enough.

Tucker also suggests installing a $12 furnace filter commonly found at Ace Hardware. But be careful, he advises, keeping in mind that a furnace needs good airflow to run properly.

“If a filter is too tight— it could ruin your furnace” says Tucker. “If it [filter] reduces the airflow too much it will cause the furnace to act up.”

Want to learn more about the indoor air quality in your northern Colorado home? Ask

A word about pets and allergies Consider keeping Fluffy or Fido out of your bedroom and especially off the bed, says Dr. Plydon. Pet hair and dander may aggravate your allergies.

And if you’ve always dreamed of tile or wood floors, perhaps it’s time to toss the carpet. Even though carpet keeps your feet toasty in the winter, it acts more like a living, breathing science experiment crawling with allergens, dander and dust particles that easily offend your airways or leave you with itchy bloodshot eyes.

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HEALTHLINE 13

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FEATURE: COPD & ASTHMA

Awareness of COPD growing but many remain undiagnosed (BPT) - Americans are becoming more aware of the third leading cause of death in the United States, according to a survey released by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). About 70 percent of American adults say they are familiar with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), up from 2013 data. However, the increased level of awareness is in stark contrast to diagnosis levels: 6 percent of Americans are diagnosed with COPD, but a total of 12 percent of the adult population experience the symptoms, leaving an estimated half of those living with the disease unaware and undiagnosed.

“It’s encouraging to see that more Americans know about COPD - especially among current and former smokers who are most at risk, but that’s only half the battle,” says James Kiley, director of the NHLBI Division of Lung Diseases. “Knowledge alone is not enough.

We need to focus on what patients and their health care providers are doing with that information. One-third of people who are living with symptoms of COPD are not talking about it during medical visits, and that can lead to delays in diagnosis.”

Signs of COPD, including shortness of breath, chronic cough and wheezing, often are brushed off as signs of getting a cold and during the warmer months, some may assume it is allergies or

14 HEALTHLINE

normal signs of getting older.

But the real reason for not being able to perform every day activities could be due to COPD, making it even more important to discuss any symptoms with a health care provider. The disease can be diagnosed with a noninvasive breathing test called spirometry and can be done in a doctor’s office.

People under 45 make up the majority of those who have not spoken with their provider, meaning there is an opportunity for earlier interventions.

“There is no cure for COPD; but we can improve the quality of life for people living with COPD, if we catch it early and get the right treatment regimen in place,” says Kiley. “That’s why it is so critical that we close the communications gap and get

patients and providers talking more about the disease.”

COPD most often occurs in people age 40 and older with a history of smoking.

However, as many as one in four people with COPD have never smoked, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey. Risk factors also include long-term exposure to substances that can irritate the lungs or a genetic predisposition called alpha-1 antitrypsin - AAT - deficiency.

One-in-seven (14 percent) adult Americans knows someone suffering from the symptoms. The NHLBI encourages everyone at risk to get familiar with COPD and talk to a health care provider as soon as possible because even small steps can help

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improve outcomes. For more information and resources, visit COPD.nhlbi.nih.gov, NHLBI’s COPD Learn More Breathe Better program.

The NHLBI analyzed the results of the annual HealthStyles survey of public health attitudes, knowledge, practices and lifestyle habits among a nationallyrepresentative sample of US adults, conducted each year by Porter Novelli, the communications contractor for the NHLBI’s COPD Learn More Breathe Better campaign. The latest survey results represent a sample of 4,530 US adults with a margin of error of 1.45 percentage point; the survey was conducted in the summer of 2014.

April 30, 2015

Earth Talk: Fire pits can spark health problems

By E/The Environmental Magazine, Emagazine. com(TNS)

Dear EarthTalk: Now that summer is coming, my neighbors will be firing up their backyard fire pits again, and I’m wondering if the wood smoke drifting in my open windows is a health hazard for my family and if I have any standing to require them to refrain?

— Mitch Brasky, Reno, Nev.

With summer approaching, many of us are eagerly anticipating the first night we can gather with loved ones under the stars around our backyard fire pits.

But neighbors might have not-so-warm feelings about wood smoke entering their yards and homes. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, wood smoke is a complex mixture of gases and microscopic particles, and when these microscopic particles get into your eyes and respiratory system, they can cause health problems such as burning eyes, runny nose and bronchitis.

As part of its “Burn Wise” program, EPA warns that people who have heart or lung disease, such as congestive heart failure, angina, chronic obstruc-

April 30, 2015

tive pulmonary disease, emphysema or asthma, should especially limit their exposures to wood smoke.

If you’re concerned about smoke emitting from a neighbor’s fire pit, speak to your neighbor about the matter. If the smoke remains an issue, contact your local health or fire department to determine further action.

If you’re in the market to buy a fire pit and would like to avoid having smoke drift into your neighbor’s yard or home, some models are specially designed to reduce smoke output. The American-made Backyard Firefly fire pit, for example, utilizes a vertical design that causes the smoke to be combusted in the fire and the remainder to rise vertically, reducing air pollution by over 50 percent from conventional campfires. There are also a multitude of beautifully designed natural gas fire pits currently available. Natural gas fire pits won’t produce smoke, will instantly light and won’t have to be cleaned like wood-burning fire pits that accumulate ash and soot residue.

If you already own a wood-burning backyard fire pit, you can replace conventional wood with certain varieties of Duraflame Logs.

Duraflame Stax logs are shaped like split wood and burn with the same charred appearance and crackling sounds of a wood fire, but with half the hazardous air pollutants of an equivalent wood fire. Duraflame

Campfire Roasting Logs create hot coals safe for roasting marshmallows, hot dogs or cooking other campfire foods and produce 60 percent less particulate emissions than an equivalent wood fire. No trees are cut down to produce these logs and they are made of 100 percent renewable resources.

For those who own a wood-burning fire pit and would like to continue using conventional chopped wood, the EPA Burn Wise program advises to use only properly dried wood, because wet wood can create excessive smoke. To allow wood to properly dry, stack wood away from buildings on rails in a single row with the split side down. Cracked ends on the wood typically means its dry enough to burn, or you can purchase a moisture meter to test the moisture level in the wood. “Moisture meters that allow you to test the moisture level in wood are available in all sizes and can cost as little as $20,” the EPA states. “Properly dried wood should have a reading of 20 percent or less. Dry wood creates a hotter fire. Hotter fires save wood – ultimately saving you time and money.”

——— EarthTalk® is produced

by Doug Moss & Roddy Scheer and is a registered trademark of Earth Action Network Inc. View past columns at: www.earthtalk.org.

Or e-mail us your question: earthtalk@emagazine.com.

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HEALTHLINE 15

What you need to know to control THIS SILENT KILLER (BPT) - Most people assume they only

need to take their medication when they are sick, meaning when they experience symptoms. But in the case of hypertension, this type of thinking could kill you.

Patients who have hypertension are often completely asymptomatic - that’s the reason hypertension is often called the silent killer. The belief that symptoms such as headaches, nose bleeds, nervousness, sweating, difficulty sleeping or facial flushing are signals to take blood pressure medication is a myth.

Nonadherence to hypertension medication is a huge challenge. Research shows that one in three American adults suffer from high blood pressure, but only 47 percent effectively treat their disease to keep blood pressure levels under control.

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16 HEALTHLINE

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www.pathways-care.org April 30, 2015

Higher risk for heart attack, stroke

Express Scripts’ specialist pharmacist Ed Dannemiller recently spoke with a patient who was 40 days late to refill her blood pressure prescription.

“When I asked her about the delay, she said she only takes her medication when she feels stressed or has a headache. The problem with this is that patients with hypertension may feel perfectly fine before suffering a heart attack or stroke,” says Dannemiller.

Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80, but consistent levels above 140/90 require medical attention.

Simply keeping a patient’s blood pressure under control decreases the risk of heart attack by 25 percent, stroke by

33 percent and heart failure by 50 percent.

But the only way to have a precise measurement is through a blood pressure reading.

Become an engaged patient

“I encourage patients to become engaged in their own health and keep track of their blood pressure readings, which can help prevent unnecessary hospitalizations or ER visits,” Dannemiller explains.

For patients with whitecoat hypertension - those whose blood pressure rises from stress in the doctor’s office - a home blood pressure monitor is a good option.

Dannemiller offers these useful tips for patients monitoring their pressure at home:

• Take blood pressure readings in a seated position with arm at the heart level • To regulate the monitor, discard the first reading • Keep a record of your blood pressure levels to bring to your doctor’s appointment This additional data will help your physician better understand your condition and make better medical decisions to ensure healthier outcomes.

Lifestyle changes can help In addition to staying adherent to blood pressure medication, regardless of symptoms, the following lifestyle modifications also can improve cardiovascular health: • Consume a heart-healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables and low in

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND ANdrew Moore

salt, fat and cholesterol • Engage in regular aerobic physical activity • Manage your weight, limit alcohol consumption and do not smoke

Value of specialized understanding

“Even with lifestyle modifications, most patients need at least two medications to reach their blood pressure goal,” says Dannemiller.

Intervention and education from specialist pharmacists provide an important resource to improve medication adherence. When patients understand the value of their treatment and embrace good cardiovascular health, they bring a little more noise to this silent killer. For more information, visit lab.expressscripts.com.

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HEALTHLINE 17

HL

NUTRITION

Changing one meal a day to alter your diet and health

Changing one meal a day, like subbing out this sandwich for something healthier, can improve your overall diet and health. (Alex Garcia/Chicago Tribune/TNS)

By Alison Bowen, Chicago Tribune (TNS)

The takeout craving at lunch is strong.

But making daily visits to the sandwich shop or wolfing down a container of oily pasta leftovers — perhaps indulged in after a tough meeting or slow day — can add up in more ways than one.

Changing your habits for just one meal a day can improve your health, energy and even weight, experts say.

“It can have a big impact,” said Jill Weisenberger, a registered dietitian nutritionist and author of “The Overworked Person’s Guide to Better Nutrition.” “One meal a day is a significant portion of our calories.”

Even in calories alone,

18 HEALTHLINE

the difference is stark.

A more balanced meal will fill you up more than a packed burrito, Weisenberger said. That burrito might be 800 calories, or a jumbo burger could be 600. But a balanced meal that doesn’t strand you with hunger can be created for 400 or 500 calories — or even fewer.

“You’re saving calories that way,” she said. “Over time, in six months, in a year, you definitely are going to see a weight effect, and you’re going to be happier.”

Leftovers for lunch are fine, she advised; just make sure it’s a smaller, balanced version of what you had for dinner.

“People think lunch is supposed to be skimpy, but if

you eat enough and it’s balanced, it’s amazing what it can do,” she said.

Weisenberger’s recent lunches included black beans and rice — plain yogurt on top — with raw carrots, cauliflower and a grapefruit. A meal crafted from leftovers featured chicken and green beans, with a side of blackberries.

“I want to see somebody with a protein-rich food, so that could be turkey or fish or black beans or lentils or cottage cheese,” she said. Add in a fruit or a vegetable — preferably both, she said.

Stephanie Pedersen, a nutritionist who created the High Impact Health website (www.highimpacthealth. com), said a game-changer

Reporter-Herald — ReporterHerald.com

would be swapping out a sluggish lunch, for example a deli sandwich. Instead, she suggests, swap in quinoa or bean bowls or tossing together a salad with a bit of chicken, seafood or lentils.

“Having that steady drip of energy with vegetables and protein, even a whole grain, could really help that 3:30 fatigue,” she said.

Pedersen said to think of your meal change not through a calorie lens but instead about that slump you feel a few hours after eating.

“Hence, the 3 p.m. chocolate chip cookie craving,” she said.

If lunch isn’t your toughest meal, pick another — grilling chicken for dinner ahead of time or taking time for a substantial breakfast.

“I call it the setup for the day,” said Jim Karas, head of Jim Karas Personal Training and “The Ultimate Diet REVolution” author. “Nobody is going to benefit from eating a yogurt for breakfast. That’s not smart at all. That’s going to set you up to be starving.”

He said the true positive outcome can come when changing one meal alters your mindset. After you swap out one each day, hopefully you feel better, leading to healthier decisions — taking the stairs or grilling a batch of chicken for a week’s worth of healthy meals.

“By making the choice,” Kara said, “you’re hoping for spillover effect.”

April 30, 2015

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The Widener kids have better things to do than get sick. That’s why their mom Jenny has trusted the providers at UCHealth Pediatrics since their oldest was a newborn. Our team of game changers cares for children through every age and stage.

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Make an appointment. 970.616.6656 uchealth.org/wellkids

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HEALTHLINE 19

HL

NUTRITION

A Primer on Celiac, Going Gluten-Free

By Darren Thornberry, Healthline Magazine

Even the casual grocery shopper can see that gluten-free has become big business. More space in the aisle is reserved for glutenfree foods than perhaps ever before, gluten-free items on restaurant menus are being offered as fast as the chef can make them, and exclusive gluten-free stores and bakeries are on the rise.

So, too, is the confusion and misinformation around the topics of celiac disease and the need or choice to eat gluten-free.

What is Gluten?

The Celiac Support Association explains that gluten collectively describes the amino acid sequences,

20 HEALTHLINE

storage proteins, found in grains, particularly wheat, barley, and rye. Related proteins are found in triticale, spelt, and kamut. According to the association’s website, csaceliacs.org, the “gluten” in wheat, barley, and rye contain particular amino acid sequences harmful to persons with celiac disease.

Cross contamination is still a concern when it comes to oats, rice and corn.

Upon eating food produced with gluten-containing grains, a cascade of complications can ensue, which any sufferer of celiac will tell you are miserable at best.

Celiac is an inherited autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive process of the small intestine. A non-celiac sensitivity to gluten, according to the University of Chi-

cago Celiac Disease Center, “causes the body to mount a stress response (often GI symptoms) different from the immunological response that occurs in those who have celiac disease (which most often causes intestinal tissue damage).”

Some people make the choice based on flavor, texture, or ingredients to eat food that’s gluten-free despite not needing to do so for health reasons.

For those who must avoid gluten in order to live and feel well, though, it’s not as simple as watching for wheat on a label. In some cases, a complete lifestyle change is in order. A few of the symptoms associated with celiac are abdominal cramping/ bloating, anemia, constipation, fatigue, joint pain, irri-

Reporter-Herald — ReporterHerald.com

table bowel, weight loss, and even infertility. Symptoms vary widely.

Megan Howes of Colorado Springs was diagnosed with celiac in 2005, her senior year of high school. After weeks of intense stomach pain and some missed school, a pediatric gastroenterologist ordered blood work, which came back 80 percent positive for celiac.

An endoscopy result showed without a doubt that Megan had celiac.

“It took a very long time for me to go gluten-free,” Howes says. “There are so many ways that food can be cross contaminated; it gets hard going out to eat with family or friends. More restaurants are getting gluten free menus, but there is always the possibility of cross

April 30, 2015

contamination, so we go to restaurants that haven’t made me sick. I also have to read all labels at the grocery store to make sure [the food] is gluten-free. If I can’t confirm it, I go to celiac.com and look on the safe gluten-free food list.”

Christi Skow, cofounder of Loveland’s Canyon Bakehouse, a gluten-free bakery, has celiac and intimately knows the struggle. ”Being diagnosed with celiac disease is a very long and difficult process,” she says. “The symptoms aren’t the same for everyone, and celiac disease is often paired with other allergies/autoimmune issues, so it’s not always easy to diagnose. We try to educate our followers on symptoms,

warning signs and things to ask their doctors to help them as much as possible throughout their journey. It took me a long time to get a diagnosis – you can’t give up when it comes to feeling healthy again!”

Canyon provides glutenfree products made with 100 percent whole grains, no GMOs, and ingredients you can pronounce. Skow adds: “Whether someone views gluten free as diet trend or not (and we say ‘not’!), it’s always positive when people pay attention to food labels and read the ingredients in any product they buy. For those with celiac disease, understanding common areas of cross-contamination (toaster, oven, containers,

silverware, cutting boards, etc.) is important so you don’t get ‘glutened.’”

Celiac disease can prevent the body from properly absorbing nutrients, so dietary and nutritional supplements may be prescribed to make up the shortfall.

Readers who believe they may have celiac or gluten sensitivity are encouraged to consult with their physician.

There are, too, a number of online resources available for further study in the sidebar below.

Straight Talk on Celiac and Gluten Sensitivity • Celiac Disease Foundation (celiac.org) • National Foundation for Celiac Awareness (celiaccentral.org) • Gluten Intolerance Group (gluten.org) • Celiac Support Association (csaceliacs.org) • Canyon Bakehouse (canyonglutenfree.com)

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HEALTHLINE 21

The key to a gluten-free breakfast sandwich: potatoes (BPT) - The breakfast sandwich has become a staple of on-the-go mornings.

In fact, convenient and highprotein breakfast dishes are rising in popularity, according to a new study from Nielsen Perishables Group. But if you’re following a gluten-free diet or low-fat diet, buns, biscuits, English muffins and croissants commonly used in breakfast sandwiches might be off the menu for you.

There’s good news: potatoes can fit right in as the base of a quick, high-protein, low-fat and totally glutenfree breakfast sandwich. It’s easy to make Hash Brown Sliders with pre-shredded hash browns as a gluten-free substitute for traditional muffin or bagel-style breakfast sandwiches. Add eggs to

22 HEALTHLINE

the hash brown mixture and include a slice of ham and creamy avocado on the sandwich to create a meal packed with 29 grams of protein per serving.

HASH BROWN SLIDERS

Recipe courtesy of Meagan from the blog “A Zesty Bite” as part of the U.S. Potato Board’s Potato Lovers Club program.

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Makes: 10 sliders (5 servings) INGREDIENTS: 20-ounce package shredded hash browns 2 large eggs 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

cheese 1/4 teaspoon pure ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon table salt 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided 3 small avocados Pinch of garlic salt 8 ounces mozzarella, sliced 4 ounces Serrano ham DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl add hash browns, eggs, shredded cheese, pepper and salt. Mix the ingredients using your hands, making sure everything is well coated.

Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil to a large nonstick saute pan over low to medium heat.

Grab a handful of the potato mixture, about 1/4 cup, and create a ball. Place it down on the pan and carefully pat

Reporter-Herald — ReporterHerald.com

it down to create a flat disc shape. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes and then flip it over and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Remove and place on a paper towel. Repeat until all hash browns have been used.

In a small bowl, mash the avocados and sprinkle with a little garlic salt. Place a spoonful of the mixture onto a hash brown stack. Top with half slice of Serrano ham and a slice of mozzarella cheese.

Top it with another hash brown stack.

The versatile potato can be a healthy star on your breakfast menu. For more potato recipes, visit potatogoodness. com.

April 30, 2015

HL

PA R E N TA L G U I D A N C E

Is a regular teaspoon OK for medicine doses?

By Beth Whitehouse, Newsday (TNS)

A liquid medicine Q dosage is one tea:

spoon, or 5 milliliters; can parents just use a regular teaspoon to measure a dose for a child?

No, says Dr. Ian Paul, professor of pediatrics at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital in Hershey, Pa. Parents should step away from the silverware drawer

when it comes to administering medication.

Household teaspoons are not all uniform in size, says Paul, who is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Drugs and the lead author of an Academy policy statement on the subject of dosing that was issued recently. Even a measuring spoon used for baking, for instance, may not allow for an accurate dose — so using those are a no-no as well, Paul says.

Paul’s committee is trying to educate parents to use

syringes or the designated cup that comes with liquid medicine for all dosing. If the pharmacist doesn’t include a syringe when parents pick up a prescription, parents should ask for one, he says.

The syringe or cup should have dosing increments using the metric system so that doses can by administered in milliliters, he says.

“It allows for a lot more precise dosing and consistent dosing,” Paul says. “This is part of a movement across health care to eliminate nonmetric units.”

Using different-sized teaspoons — or accidentally grabbing a tablespoon — can cause serious overdose issues, Paul says. For instance, a tablespoon is actually three teaspoons, and parents could unintentionally be administering three times the prescribed amount.

“If you repeatedly give three times a dose for a couple of days, you could cause liver damage,” he says.

——— (Email Beth Whitehouse at beth.whitehouse@newsday.com .)

R ecovery in mind, body and spirit.

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

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

April 30, 2015

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HEALTHLINE 23

HL

HEALTH BRIEFS AND CALENDAR

McKee recognized by Healthgrades for providing outstanding patient experience Banner Health today announced that McKee Medical Center has received the Healthgrades 2015 Outstanding Patient Experience Award™. McKee was identified as providing outstanding performance in the delivery of a positive experience for patients during their hospital stay, according to Healthgrades, the leading online resource for comprehensive information about physicians and hospitals. This is the seventh consecutive year that McKee has received this award (2009-2015).

Healthgrades evaluated the 3,575 hospitals that submitted patient surveys to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), covering admissions from January 2013 – December 2013 in order to identify hospital performance in this area.

24 HEALTHLINE

“This award is especially meaningful because it is based on feedback from patients actually receiving care at McKee,” said Rick Sutton, Banner Health Northern Colorado chief executive officer. “The caring environment consistently created by the staff, medical staff and volunteers to meet and exceed patients’ expectations for care has resulted in receiving this award year after year.“ Healthgrades evaluated performance by applying a scoring methodology to 10 patient experience measures, using data collected from a 27-question survey of the hospital’s own patients. The survey questions focus on patients’ perspectives of their care in the hospital. Question topics range from cleanliness and noise levels in patient rooms to factors such as pain management and respon-

siveness to patients’ needs.

The measures also include whether a patient would recommend the hospital to friends or family.

In order to be recognized

by Healthgrades, hospitals must meet eligibility requirements for consideration, which in addition to number of survey responses, includes clinical performance thresholds. Nationally, 3,005 hospitals met those requirements with 452 hospitals outperforming their peers, based on their patients’ responses in order to achieve this distinction. McKee’s performance places them among the top 15 percent in the nation.

“Today, more than ever before, consumers face decisions – and research their options – relating to where to obtain care, so factors like patient experience are increasingly important,” said

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Evan Marks, Chief Strategy Officer, Healthgrades. “Consumers can have confidence that hospitals that have achieved the Healthgrades 2015 Outstanding Patient Experience Award deliver a positive experience for the patient during their hospital stay.”

The McKee patient experience program is very focused and intentional about providing the best experience for patients. A priority is involving staff and leaders in training and communication about the impact their actions and patient relationships have on a patient’s perception of their experience. Consistent staff and leader communication with patients and family members focuses on clarifying goals and expectations for a good experience.

McKee was previously

April 30, 2015

named a 2014 America’s 100 Best Hospitals™.

For more information about Healthgrades, to download a full copy of the report or to get information about hospital and physician quality, visit: Healthgrades. com/quality today.

BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING

Have your blood pressure checked by a Wellness Specialist.

Where: McKee Wellness Services, 1805 E. 18th St. When: Mon.- Thurs., 8 a.m.4:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: 970.669.9355

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Where: McKee Cancer Center Conference Room B When: 2nd Thurs. of each month, 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: 970.622.1961

BREAST-FEEDING SUPPORT GROUP

Where: McKee Medical Center When: Mon. Wed. and Fri. (except holidays), 10-11 a.m.

Cost: FREE. No need to register Call: 970.669.9355

CAREGIVER CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Where: McKee Conference and Wellness Center When: Twice per month, 10:30 a.m. -12 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: 970.635.4129 for dates

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT

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

Where: First Christian

April 30, 2015

Church, 2000 N. Lincoln Ave. When: 3rd Thurs. 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

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE Where: McKee Conference and Wellness Center, 2000 Boise. Ave. When: Tues., 1-3 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: 970.635.4015

DIABETES INFORMATION GROUP

Information, resources, and support to people with diabetes and the general public.

Where: McKee Wellness Center, Kodak Room When: 4th Thurs. every other month, 7- 8:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE May 28: Diabetes & Depression/Burnout – How to “Stay Up” When Diabetes “Brings You Down” Renee Rogers, LMFT – Behavioral Health, Banner Health July 23: Bringing the Eyes into Focus Jennifer Cecil, MD, LLC – Comprehensive Family Eye Care Sept. 24: Diabetes & Avoiding the Medicare Donut Hole (& Other Tips for Open Enrollment) Phoebe Hawley – Outreach Program Manager - Season’s Club Nov. 19: Sugar Substitutes, Short & Sweet Ann Walker, MS, RDN, CDE – Banner Health Dietitian

GENERAL CANCER SUPPORT

Where: McKee Cancer Center Conference Room B When: Tues. (except holidays), 5:30-7 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: 970.635.4129

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Where: McKee Cancer Center Conference Room B When: 4th Thurs. of each month, 5:30 -7 p.m.

Cost: Free Call: 970.622.1961

SCLERODERMA SUPPORT GROUP

Open to scleroderma patients, family, caregivers, and friends looking for a forum to share feelings, concerns, and information.

When: 4th Sat. of even numbered months, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Where: Medical Center of the Rockies, Poudre Canyon Room

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, 11 a.m.

Cost: FREE - Registration not required.

Information: 970.635.4172

WISE WOMEN DISCUSSION GROUP

A supportive environment for women to explore the rewards and challenges of aging. Facilitated by Dr. Beth Firestein.

When: 2nd & 4th Tues, monthly, 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

April 7 & 21 Where: Perkins Restaurant (W. Eisenhower) in Loveland Cost: FREE Info: visit bethfirestein.com, email firewom@webaccess. net or call 970.635.9116.

YOGA SUPPORT GROUP

For anyone touched by

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cancer.

Where: McKee Medical Center Cancer Center Lobby When: 1st and 3rd Thurs. monthly, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE Call: 970.635.4054 to register.

PARKINSON’S LSVT “BIG” EXERCISE REFRESHER CLASS Open to anyone with Parkinson’s disease who has completed the LSVT “Big” program with a physical or occupational therapist and wants to practice exercises.

Where: McKee Conference and Wellness Center, Boettcher Room When: 3rd Tues. of every month 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE Information: 970. 635.4171

COOKING CLASSES “Spring Salads of the World” Taught by Deanna O’Connell, RD Where: McKee Education Building, 1825 E. 18th St., Ste B Time: Thurs., April 16, 6 –7:15 p.m.

Cost: $10

PUNCTUATE YOUR HEALTH: CONNECT THE DOTS Examine three common digestive issues women face, as well as top prevention tips to avoid digestive conditions.

Presented by Ryan McWilliams, MD, Banner Health Clinic - Gastroenterology.

Where: Zoe’s Event Center, 711 10th St., Greeley When: Monday, May 4, 6:30 p.m.

Information: 970.392.2222

HEALTHLINE 25

PAID ADVERTORIAL

Chronic Lung Disease: Control stress and anxiety Stress and anxiety can make breathing harder. When it’s hard to breathe, it’s natural to get anxious and start to panic. This makes you even more short of breath. This sequence is known as the dyspnea cycle, and it’s common among people with chronic lung disease. Talk with your health care provider about how you are feeling. It’s important for him or her to understand what is going on and how it is affecting your life. Breathing training and coping strategies can help you manage stress and anxiety.

UNDERSTANDING THE CYCLE When you’re short of breath, your breathing muscles get tense. It’s hard to take a deep breath. You may worry that you’re not getting enough air. Then you start breathing faster and become more short of breath. You may even start to panic, which makes symptoms seem worse.

Often, people with chronic lung disease try to prevent this cycle by limiting activity, staying at home, and avoiding anything that could cause shortness of breath.

It can be very isolating which can lead to depression. You don’t have to live this way.

WAYS TO RELAX When you find yourself getting stressed or anxious, make an effort to relax. Doing so will help 26 HEALTHLINE

break the dyspnea cycle. Sit in a quiet, comfortable place. Do pursed-lip and diaphragmatic breathing. You may also find the following helpful: • Certain activities can help you relax. These can include reading a good book, listening to music or relaxation tapes, practicing yoga or tai chi, meditating, and praying. Find activities that work for you.

• Try visualization. Picture yourself in a peaceful place, such as the beach. Feel the warm sand. Hear the waves. Smell the ocean. Doing this may help you feel more relaxed.

• Your health care provider may advise using a bronchodilator along with these or other relaxation techniques.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO BREAK THE CYCLE To prevent shortness of breath from limiting your life: • Right now: Learn to stop an attack with pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, and relaxation techniques. If you don’t know how to do these, ask your health care provider.

• In day-to-day life: Learn to maximize your energy and to breathe during activity, so you can do more.

• Over time: Start exercising so your body can start to handle more activity. According to Terri

Reporter-Herald — ReporterHerald.com

Gerrard, a respiratory therapist at McKee Medical Center, it is important to prioritize your activities so you do not become totally sedentary. “Studies prove those with COPD who exercise within their own capabilities stay healthier and experience fewer hospital admissions.”

If you go: COPD

(Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) This seven-session multidisciplinary education series helps with the management of COPD. The team reviews the respiratory system, how it works, what has gone wrong and how you can conserve energy and decrease shortness of breath.

Anyone who has COPD, emphysema or bronchitis is encouraged to attend along with family and/or significant others.

Cost: No charge Location: McKee Conference and Wellness Center Dates: Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation services are also available at McKee Medical Center.

Call: For more information, call 970.820.6606.

April 30, 2015

Pinpoint accuracy allows our experts to focus on a very specific area, providing fewer side effects and better results than other therapies. With stereotactic radiation therapy you’ll receive some of the most advanced technology available in the country, right here at home. And it’s just another way we take care of our own.

For more information or to schedule your appointment, call (970) 820-5900 or visit BannerHealth.com/COCancer.

Keeping kids in

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E M A G THE

The Widener kids have better things to do than get sick. That’s why their mom Jenny has trusted the providers at UCHealth Pediatrics since their oldest was a newborn. Our team of game changers cares for children through every age and stage.

PEDIATRICS

Make an appointment. 970.616.6656 uchealth.org/wellkids