Category Archive: health

Protect Your Heart Health

February is recognized as American Heart Month, a time to raise public awareness of heart disease, or cardiovascular disease.  According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is a significant health challenge.  It accounts for one-third of deaths in the U.S.  Many of these deaths are the result of heart attacks, stroke, or coronary artery disease.  The CDC cites heart disease as the leading cause of death for people of most racial and ethnic groups in the U.S.

There are three key risk factors for heart disease:  high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking.  Other conditions that contribute to the risk for developing heart disease include diabetes, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and heavy alcohol use.  Let’s examine how these factors increase our risk.

High blood pressure (hypertension)

Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood the heart pumps and the amount of resistance to blood flow in the arteries.  When the arteries become narrow due to plaque buildup, blood pressure goes up.  The heart has to work harder than it should.  Uncontrolled high blood pressure causes serious heart complications including heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, and heart failure.  Some effective ways to reduce blood pressure to more normal levels include getting more exercise, losing weight, eating less sodium (salt) in your diet, quitting smoking, reducing stress, and taking medication.

High cholesterol

LDL is the bad kind of cholesterol that is the main source of plaque.  When plaque builds up along the walls of the arteries, it causes them to narrow.  If blood supply to a portion of the heart is completely blocked, the result can be a heart attack.  Cholesterol levels can be controlled through diet and medication.

Smoking

Smokers are more likely than non-smokers to suffer heart attacks.  The nicotine in tobacco increases blood pressure, causes more blood clots, and results in less oxygen reaching the heart.

Diabetes

High blood glucose levels can be damaging to the blood vessels.  Diabetics are more prone to have other coronary risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Obesity

Being overweight is linked to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglycerides, and impaired glucose tolerance.  All these factors contribute to heart disease.

Sedentary lifestyle

Physical inactivity puts people at greater risk for heart disease.  Adults should get at least thirty minutes of moderate daily exercise.  This can include various activities including walking, swimming, biking, gardening, stair climbing, and dancing.  Exercise also helps maintain a healthy weight and lowers blood pressure.

Alcohol use

Heavy alcohol use and binge drinking can lead to cardiomyopathy, a type of heart failure.  Alcohol is high in sugar content, so heavy drinking can contribute to obesity and raise blood pressure.  Alcohol can also affect the way some medications work.

Lower your risk factors

Many lifestyle changes can lower the risk of developing heart disease.  If you are overweight, establish healthy eating habits and get more exercise.  A Medical weight loss plan through a physician can help people be more successful in dropping excess pounds.  Stop smoking.  Within a year of quitting, the risk of heart attack drops significantly.  Get enough sleep to help relieve stress.  Avoid excessive alcohol use.

The physicians at RMD Primary Care can answer your questions about heart disease and medical weight loss.  Contact us today for an appointment.

Is Fainting Serious?

Fainting happens when a person loses consciousness for a short time because of a lack of oxygen to their brain.  The medical term for fainting is syncope.  It may occur suddenly, such as when someone moves from a sitting or reclining position to a standing position.  The person may feel dizzy, lightheaded, or even nauseous during the episode.  Someone who has fainted will usually regain consciousness and feel better within a short time.

Is fainting common?

Fainting is fairly common, particularly in the elderly.  Sometimes fainting can run in families.  It is often not serious, and the person may not require any medical treatment.  However, there are some medical conditions that may contribute to fainting, and they should be identified.  In addition, fainting in the elderly can lead to falls and injuries.

What causes fainting?

A drop in blood pressure usually causes fainting.  This can happen when someone changes position quickly.  People may also experience this type of fainting when having blood drawn, getting an injection, being dehydrated, skipping meals, or from an emotional stress such as receiving upsetting news.  This is usually not serious and will quickly pass.

Taking certain medications can increase the risk of fainting.  These include medications for anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure.  People having certain medical conditions may be more prone to fainting.  Examples are diabetes, heart disease, low blood pressure, and anemia.

Should you see a doctor after fainting?

A person with no prior history of fainting should be checked out by a doctor to rule out any serious medical conditions.  The doctor will want a full medical history along with the names of any medications and supplements being taken.  Tell the doctor what activity immediately preceded thefainting episode.  Most people will be given an EKG (electrocardiogram), which shows the electrical activity of the heart.

How to prevent fainting

People who have fainted previously should avoid certain triggers that may cause them to faint again.  When feeling dizzy or lightheaded, they should immediately sit down to prevent falling.  Sitting with their head between their knees may help.  They can also lie down and elevate their legs to increase the blood flow to the brain.  They should change positions slowly when standing up.  Staying hydrated and not skipping meals helps people to avoid feeling faint.

If someone has fainted, try to position them on their back and loosen any restrictive clothing.  Raise their legs a little, if possible.  Check to see if the person is breathing and make sure there are no apparent injuries if the person has fallen.  When they regain consciousness, don’t allow them to get up too quickly.  Call 911 if they don’t regain consciousness within a minute or so.  

Obesity and Health Risks

Obesity is on the rise in the U.S.  Research shows that one in three people in this country is obese.  It has even become a problem in children and adolescents aged 2-19 years.  Obesity has been linked to a number of different health issues of serious concern.  Many people have found that obesity has impacted their quality of life.

Obesity is determined by calculating a person’s Body Mass Index (BMI).  There are formulas available to calculate BMI based on height and weight.  A BMI of 30.0 and above is considered obese.

The following list contains serious health risks that are linked to obesity.

Heart disease and stroke

Obesity can cause a lowering of good cholesterol, an increase in bad cholesterol levels, and an increase in triglycerides.  Obesity is a major risk factor in coronary artery disease, which is a buildup of cholesterol plaque in the arteries of the heart.  Obesity puts individuals at risk for atrial fibrillation, an abnormal heart rhythm, and increases their risk for heart failure.  Even moderate weight loss can reduce the risks in these areas.

Diabetes

Obesity is the leading risk factor for type 2 diabetes.  Diabetes increases the risk for heart disease.  Excess abdominal fat can make the body less sensitive to insulin by disrupting the function of insulin responsive cells.  This is known as insulin resistance.  Weight loss is an important goal in treating type 2 diabetes and may reduce the need for medication.

High blood pressure

Obesity is linked to high blood pressure (hypertension).  Obese people need more blood to supply oxygen and nutrients to their bodies.  The heart has to work harder to accommodate the need.  High blood pressure is a common cause of heart attacks.

Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts.  According to the Sleep Foundation, excess weight creates fat deposits in the neck that can block the upper airway during sleep.  Excess fat in the abdomen compresses the chest wall, reducing lung capacity.  Lack of sleep is associated with weight gain, making it a vicious cycle.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive joint disorder that is strongly associated with obesity.  Being overweight puts extra pressure on joints like the knees and hips.  This speeds destruction of the cartilage.  Fat cells also release proteins that cause inflammation.  This increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis in non-load bearing joints such as the fingers and hands.

Some cancers

Many people do not realize that some cancers have been linked to obesity.  These include colon cancer, esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, kidney cancer, and pancreatic cancer.  Obese people often have chronic low-level inflammation, which is a risk factor for certain types of cancer.

RMD Primary Care offers medical weight loss services.  If you are looking for a healthy approach to weight loss, contact us today for an appointment.

Summer Health and Wellness Tips

Hispanic Family At Home Eating Healthy Meal in Garden

Summer is the perfect season to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.  Backyard barbecues, pool parties, and picnics at the park are family favorites.  The following health and safety tips will help ensure everyone has a good time.

Avoid Sunburn

Protecting your skin from sun damage is a key factor in preventing skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the U.S.  According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70.  A history of sunburns increases the risk for skin cancer.  To prevent sunburn, avoid sun exposure between the hours of 10am and 4pm when UVA and UVB rays are strongest.  Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.  Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outdoors so the skin has time to absorb it.  Reapply every two hours.  If swimming or sweating heavily, sunscreen may need to be applied more often.  Wear a hat to shade the face, scalp, and neck.  Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes from the sun.

Prevent Insect BitesWoman using mosquito repellent on arm.

Insect bites can be more than just a summer annoyance.  Insects can carry disease.  Mosquitos can cause

illnesses such as West Nile Virus, encephalitis, and dengue fever.  Avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, which are peak mosquito times.  Wear an insect repellent on exposed skin or wear clothing that covers arms and legs.  Eliminate areas of standing water in your yard to prevent mosquitos from breeding.

Prevent tick bites by staying out of wooded areas and high grass.  Keep to the middle of the trail when hiking.  Use an insect repellent that is effective against ticks.  Shower soon after coming indoors and check your body for ticks.  Serious diseases including Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme Disease are transmitted to humans through tick bites.

Stay HydratedAthletic woman hydrating drinking water during summer

When outside in the heat, drink plenty of water to replace fluids that the body loses through sweating.  Carry a water bottle when working outside or exercising.  Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they are not effective in preventing dehydration.  Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, and little to no urination.

Minimize Risks of Food Poisoning

Don’t allow a family picnic to become a source of food poisoning.  Uncooked meat and foods containing mayonnaise, eggs, and dairy can spoil within a couple of hours if not refrigerated or kept on ice in an insulated cooler.  Make sure meats are grilled to a proper temperature on the inside to avoid E. Coli infections.  Steaks should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees and ground meats should be cooked to 160 degrees.  Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw meat and thoroughly clean utensils and platters that have touched raw meats.

RMD Primary Care provides a number of General Practice and Family Medicine services for your family’s health.  Contact us today for an appointment.

Can Your Diet Reduce Inflammation?

Smiling Woman on a diet eating healthy

Inflammation is a response from the body’s immune system to fight off infection.  This is one way the body protects itself.  Chemicals from the white blood cells are released into the blood or tissues.  The blood flow to the infected or injured area is increased to promote healing.  Inflammation can be acute, or short-lived, and chronic, meaning long lasting.  Unfortunately, people can have excess inflammation in their body without even realizing it.  Certain autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can lead to chronic inflammation.  Other medical conditions that are linked to chronic inflammation include cancer, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, and kidney disease.

Symptoms of inflammation

Man with inflammation in armCommon symptoms of inflammation include redness, swelling, warmth, and joint pain.  Other notable symptoms include muscle stiffness, fever, chills, fatigue, and headaches.  Chronic inflammation in the body can cause damage to the joints, the digestive tract, the heart, kidneys, and other organs.

Medical treatments

A number of over-the-counter drugs can treat inflammation.  Common medications that treat inflammation include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.  These are known as NASAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.  There are prescription drugs that also treat inflammation.  A physician can prescribe the appropriate ones, based on what type of underlying condition is being treated.

Anti-inflammatory diet

Healthy food for anti-inflammatory dietLifestyle changes can be effective in reducing inflammation.  Doctors may advise their patients to modify their diets to include foods that are known to be anti-inflammatory.  An anti-inflammatory diet would eliminate many processed foods and include more fresh fruits and vegetables.  Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collards would be included in an anti-inflammatory diet.  Tomatoes, strawberries, blueberries, apples, oranges, and cherries are healthy additions.  Many of these foods are high in antioxidants and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation.  Beverages like coffee and tea, especially green tea, are also rich in polyphenols.  Healthy oils, like olive oil, and fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids including salmon, tuna, and sardines may help manage inflammation.  Whole grain breads and pasta, almonds, walnuts, and spices like ginger and turmeric also aid in fighting inflammation.

Foods to avoid

The following foods should be eliminated as much as possible from the diet, as they may actually increase inflammation.  These include white bread and rice, red meat, processed meats, saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, processed snack foods, foods high in sugar, and foods containing trans fats including processed baked goods and fried foods.  Cooking oils and margarines that are high in omega-6 fatty acids, including corn oil, safflower oil, and sunflower oil should also be eliminated.  It’s important to read food labels.  Excess alcohol is discouraged, and sugary beverages like sodas should be replaced with water.

If you would like to learn more about how an anti-inflammatory diet may be beneficial to you, contact your healthcare provider today.

3 Tips for a Better Night’s Sleep

Women peacefully sleeping in bedAccording to the National Institutes of Health, sleep affects our mental and physical health.  When we try to fit so many things into our busy lives, we often sacrifice sleep.  The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.  People who are well rested are more alert during the day, focus better, and have faster reflexes.  People who are tired are less productive, pay less attention to detail, feel higher levels of stress, tend to be moodier, and are more likely to be involved in driving accidents.  The body repairs and rejuvenates itself each night as we sleep.  However, sleep deprivation over time can have negative effects on our hormone levels, immune system, blood pressure, heart health, and mental health.

So, what can we do to enjoy a better night’s sleep?  Here are three tips that may help.

Reduce caffeine intake

Caffeine may be robbing you of a good night’s sleep.  Caffeine is a chemical found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some sodas.  It’s a stimulant that acts on the body’s central nervous system, increasing alertness and reducing fatigue.  Caffeine interferes with adenosine receptors in the brain.  Adenosine is what tells the brain that the body needs rest.  Caffeine can last as long as six hours in your system, so consuming caffeine late in the afternoon or in the evening can certainly affect a person’s ability to fall asleep at bedtime.  Eliminate caffeine intake late in the day, or switch to decaffeinated coffee or tea.

Limit use of electronics at bedtime  Latin man reading book in bed

Many people have become accustomed to using electronics right before bedtime.  This includes looking at laptops, tablets, cell phones, and TV in bed.  The blue light produced by these devices may make it more difficult to fall asleep.  Children and teens are especially sensitive to blue light.  It prevents the body from releasing melatonin, a sleep hormone, by tricking the brain into thinking it’s daytime.  Technology also stimulates the brain, making it harder to relax and fall asleep.  For better quality sleep, try eliminating electronics from the bedroom.

Establish a bedtime routine  

Establish a regular routine of going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning.  Irregular sleep habits can interfere with the body’s natural circadian rhythm.  Any activities before bedtime should be relaxing.  A warm bath may be helpful for some.  Avoid bright lighting in the bedroom.  This can also interfere with melatonin production.  Make the bedroom a quiet and relaxing place.  Try to minimize external light and noise.

Sleep plays a key role in health, so make a good night’s sleep a high priority.  If you’ve tried these tips and continue to have difficulty getting a good night’s sleep, talk to your healthcare provider.  Contact RMD Primary Care to schedule a visit with one of our doctors.   

Does Your Diet Include Enough Fiber?

hispanic man eating an apple rich in fiberDietary fiber is defined as the plant components of our food that are not broken down by our digestive enzymes.  It is sometimes referred to as roughage.  Dietary fiber is essential for a healthy diet, and doctors often urge patients to eat more of it.  But many people don’t know whether they are getting enough fiber, or what foods will help boost their daily intake.

How does fiber work?

There are two components of dietary fiber – soluble and insoluble.  Both types are important for the body.  Soluble fiber dissolves in water.  It delays gastric emptying of the stomach, which means we feel full longer.  Soluble fiber may reduce cholesterol levels and help control blood sugar.  Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water.  It promotes bowel health by attracting water to the stool, making bowel movements easier to pass.

Benefits of fiber

Our body benefits from fiber in many ways.  Fiber regulates bowel movements and prevents constipation.  It helps lower the risk of developing diverticulosis and colon cancer.  Fiber helps control body weight by lowering fat absorption.  This helps prevent obesity.  Fiber slows down the digestion rate of carbohydrates, regulating blood sugar levels.  This lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.  Fiber helps regulate cholesterol levels by preventing some cholesterol from being digested.  This can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Fiber recommendations

Here are the USDA’s recommended amounts of daily fiber.

  • Men age 50 and under – 38 grams per day
  • Men over 50 – 30 grams per day
  • Women age 50 and under – 25 grams per day
  • Women over 50 – 21 grams per day

It is better to get dietary fiber from whole foods we eat rather than from supplements.  Whole foods provide vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that supplements lack.

Foods high in fiberFiber Rich Foods

Try to increase your fiber intake if your diet contains too many refined carbohydrates, sugar,  white bread, pasta, and processed foods.  Nutrition labels on packaged foods list the amount of dietary fiber in each serving.  Foods rich in fiber content include fresh vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and nuts.  Here are some examples of foods that may be included in a high fiber diet:  beans, peas, lentils, artichokes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, avocado, baked and sweet potatoes (with the peel), raspberries, bananas, oranges, apples and pears (with the skin), raw almonds and pistachios, oatmeal, whole grain bread, and whole grain pasta.  Raw fruits and vegetables are often higher in fiber that canned varieties.

Speak to your healthcare provider if you think you may need more fiber in your diet.  Contact RMD Primary Care to schedule a visit with our doctors. Our dedication lies with helping our patients live happier, healthier lives.

 

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?

Women in car with a urinary tract infection - UTIA urinary tract infection, or UTI, is an infection occurring anywhere in the urinary tract.  Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, which cause inflammation in the urinary tract.  The most common site for infection is the lower urinary tract, which involves the bladder and urethra.  Upper tract UTIs, involving the kidneys and ureters, are less common but often more serious.

Although both men and women can develop a urinary tract infection, the incidence in women is much higher.  More than 50% of women will develop a UTI during their lifetime.  Up to 30% of women will experience recurring infections.  UTIs account for many doctor visits each year.

Symptoms of a urinary tract infection are easy to recognize and generally unpleasant.  When the upper tract is infected, the patient will feel pain and tenderness in the upper back and sides.  This may be accompanied by fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting.  Symptoms of a lower urinary tract infection include increased frequency of urination and a feeling of urgency to urinate without passing much urine.  There is typically a burning sensation when urinating.  There may be blood in the urine, and urine may be cloudy or dark colored.  A strong odor may be present in the urine.  Women may experience pelvic pain, while men may have rectal pain.

A person who suspects they have a urinary tract infection should see a doctor.  During the examination, the doctor will ask about symptoms and collect a urine sample.  The sample will be tested for the presence of white cells, red cells, and bacteria.  Additional tests may be ordered if the patient has recurrent infections.

Home remedies are not usually successful in treating UTIs.  Most patients will need an antibiotic.  The patient should finish the entire prescription of antibiotics, even if the symptoms are gone.  Drinking lots of water is recommended to flush the bacteria from the system.  Over-the-counter medications can be taken to reduce pain.

The following tips may help prevent a UTI.

  • Drink lots of water and urinate often. Do not hold urine for long periods.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine. These drinks can irritate the bladder.
  • Wipe from front to back after urinating.
  • Urinate following sex.
  • Avoid the use of diaphragms or spermicide for contraception.
  • Avoid scented feminine hygiene products.
  • Wear cotton underwear, which helps keeps the genital area dry. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist conditions.

Do Cleaning Wipes Protect Against COVID-19?

cleaning wipes for COVID-19 protectionDisposable single-use wipes have become so popular during the COVID-19 pandemic that stores can barely keep them on the shelves.  In an effort to stay healthy and protect themselves from the COVID-19 virus, consumers have bought wipes to clean and disinfect surfaces in their homes, cars, and offices as well as their hands.  However, all disposable wipes are not the same.  Some are labeled antibacterial and others are marketed as disinfectants.  Understanding the difference is important.

Some wipes are only approved to kill bacteria.  These antibacterial wipes are meant to clean the skin and hands.  They may not kill viruses, and COVID-19 is a virus.  Antibacterial soaps and wipes are regulated by the FDA, because they are classified as drugs.  Although washing with soap and water is still the best way to clean hands, antibacterial wipes can be used when we are not able to wash.  They are convenient to use after touching surfaces such as door knobs, light switches, shopping carts, and common surfaces that others may have touched.

Wipes that are labeled disinfectant should kill bacteria, viruses, and mold.  Disinfectant wipes are believed to be effective against the virus that causes COVID-19 because they are known to kill related viruses.  However, many have not been tested specifically for use against COVID-19.  Product disinfectant claims are regulated by the EPA because they are considered pesticides.  The chemicals used are intended to kill microorganisms.  The EPA gives the product a registration number, which should be on the label.

Disinfectant wipes kill viruses, including those that cause colds and flu, on non-porous surfaces.  In the home, these wipes can be used to disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as door knobs, refrigerator handles, appliance knobs, counter tops, light switches, bathroom fixtures, keyboards, cell phones, and game controllers.  The disinfectant on the wipe usually has to remain on the surface for several minutes to effectively kill bacteria and viruses.  The surface should look visibly wet.

It is important to read labels and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.  Some wipes should not be used on surfaces that will have contact with foods.  Many wipes can damage the finishes of leather, wood, granite, and marble.  The same wipe should not be used to clean multiple surfaces, as this just tends to spread the bacteria and viruses from one to another.  Do not use disinfectant wipes on toys that may end up in a child’s mouth.  Never use disinfectant wipes to clean hands, as the chemicals may cause an allergic skin reaction.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Alzheimer's AwarenessJune is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month.  Most of us know someone with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia.  Symptoms of the disease usually begin with memory loss, but eventually involve the parts of the brain that control thought, memory, language, and reasoning skills.  Alzheimer’s impacts a person’s ability to carry out daily tasks and activities, including the ability to communicate.

The main risk factor for Alzheimer’s is age.  Symptoms may begin to appear around age 60.  Women are twice as likely as men to develop Alzheimer’s, primarily because they live longer.  A family history of the disease may also increase the risk.  Researchers are studying other possible risk factors such as having high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

The Alzheimer’s Association lists 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life – This may include forgetting recently learned information such as dates, appointments, or events.
  • Difficulty in planning or solving problems – There may be challenges managing finances, paying monthly bills, or following a recipe.
  • Trouble completing familiar tasks – Examples may include getting lost driving to familiar places or having difficulty running familiar errands.
  • Confusion with time and place – The person may lose track of dates or the passage of time.
  • Difficulty understanding visual images and special relationships – This may lead to difficulty reading or judging distances.
  • New problems with words in speaking or writing – The person may struggle to find words or follow conversations.
  • Misplacing things – They may be unable to retrace steps to find things. Others may be accused of taking items.
  • Decreased or poor judgment – There may be difficulty making decisions or making poor decisions.
  • Withdrawal from work or social activities – There may be a loss of interest in hobbies or activities previously enjoyed.
  • Changes in mood, personality, or behavior – Examples may include confusion, fear, suspicion, or depression.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Awareness

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s.  Treatment includes managing and slowing down symptoms and helping those affected maintain their mental function.  If you notice some of these changes occurring in a loved one, make an appointment to discuss them with their doctor or contact RMD Primary Care. Alzheimer’s awareness is key for treating symptoms.

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