HealthyLife Articles

Author: AIPM

Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis

MEDICAL NEWS

Psoriatic arthritis (PA) is an inflammatory autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. Up to 1 in 3 people with the skin condition psoriasis will go on to develop PA.

Most people who experience PA have had psoriasis for ten or more years. However, it is possible to develop PA without showing symptoms of psoriasis. PA is most likely to develop in middle age, though it can occur at any age. It can even occur in children.

Signs & symptoms

The most common symptom of PA is pain and swelling of the joints. The joints most likely to be affected include the fingers, ankles, wrists, and knees.

Swelling of the fingers and toes is also common. This is called dactylitis, which causes discomfort and difficulty bending or using the fingers. In addition, the swelling can lead to stiffness and decreased range of motion, especially in the morning.

Other symptoms of PA include fatigue, redness of the eyes, and pitting of the nails.

Though PA is predominantly a joint condition, some organs of the body may be affected. For example, the digestive system, lungs, and heart can be damaged if the condition is left untreated.

Diagnosis & treatment

While there is no diagnostic test for PA, doctors make a diagnosis based on their observation, a health history, and by ruling out other possibilities. Tests that may be used include X-rays to assess the bones and joints and blood tests to look for markers of inflammation.

Prompt treatment of PA is essential to prevent damage to the joints or organs. Unfortunately, there is no cure for PA, but many treatment options are available to manage pain and decrease inflammation.

A primary care doctor, rheumatologist, and dermatologist may all be part of the care team for treating PA.

Living with PA

Thanks to the many effective treatments available, people with PA can reduce the side effects of the condition and lead active, healthy lives.

In addition to medical resources, lifestyle habits such as exercise and eating an anti-inflammatory diet can help manage symptoms.

If you have PA, always talk to your doctor to find out what activities or lifestyle choices are right for you.

Sources: Arthritis Foundation, National Psoriasis Foundation

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Understanding Autism

MEDICAL NEWS

Autism is a spectrum of developmental disorders that impacts how a person learns, communicates, behaves, and interacts socially. While boys are more likely to be affected, autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can develop in people of all ages, races, and ethnicities.

Health professionals believe ASD is caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Autism presents differently in each individual and ranges from very mild to requiring extensive support.

Signs of ASD

Screening is a routine part of well-child visits during the first few years of life. However, those with only mild impairments from ASD may remain undiagnosed until later in life. Signs include:

* Poor eye contact

* No babbling or pointing before age 1

* Not responding appropriately to name

* Poor social responsiveness

* Preferring to play alone

* Repetitive movements such as hand-flapping

* Delays in skill development

* Loss of previously acquired skills

* Preoccupation with certain objects or subjects

* Inflexible adherence to routine

Diagnosing ASD

There is no blood test or other medical diagnostic test. A doctor makes the diagnosis based on observation of the child’s behavior and developmental history. Screening tools a physician may use include:

* Developmental screening

* Developmental monitoring

* Comprehensive developmental evaluations

If a child has additional risk factors for autism, your doctor may recommend additional screenings. Risk factors include:

* Preterm delivery

* Low birth weight

* Lead exposure

* Sibling with ASD

* Other factors

Treatment for ASD

There is no cure for ASD. However, treatment can significantly improve symptoms. Many people with autism benefit from a combination of therapies that help them develop language and social skills and encourage positive behaviors. Common treatment includes:

* Speech therapy

* Occupational therapy

* Educational interventions

* Intensive behavioral interventions

* Family counseling

* Skill-oriented training

* Medication

* Physical therapy

* Cognitive behavior therapy

* Nutritional therapy

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Try Tai Chi For Stress Relief

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

Tai chi and qi gong are mind-body practices. They have been used for thousands of years. Tai chi is one type of qi gong, but they’re not the same. Both focus on the energy of the body, traditionally called “qi” (pronounced “chee”), by using special breathing and movements.

What are tai chi and qi gong?

Both practices are low-impact exercises. You work through a series of poses that are designed to help energy flow through your body. And you can adapt them to work for you. Don’t stretch yourself to the limit. These poses shouldn’t hurt.

You don’t need special equipment or athletic ability to start tai chi or qi gong. You can take a class or use videos to learn. The American Tai Chi and Qigong Association has recommendations.

Relaxation power

Tai chi and qi gong can help you relax. They are a healthy way to lower stress. Studies have shown that these practices can:

* Lower symptoms of depression

* Decrease negative thoughts

* Lower stress levels

* Boost brain function

Better sleep

By using gentle exercise, healthy breathing and deep relaxation, tai chi helps people sleep better. Some evidence shows that tai chi improves sleep quality in healthy people as well as those with chronic diseases.

Wellness in spirit and soul

When you practice tai chi, you work on graceful, flowing movements that move through the body. Over time, tai chi feels like a flow that combines your body, mind and spirit. This can help you feel more connected to your spiritual health.

Less stress about health

Tai chi and qi gong can boost your health, help you feel energetic and strong. If you do them regularly, it can improve your balance and flexibility, which can reduce your risk of falling and getting hurt. They may even help with chronic pain. Ask your doctor if tai chi or qi gong would help you.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Tips For Joining A Gym

BE FIT

A gym can be a great option if you like to work out indoors, but out of your house. And they can help you beat boredom if they offer classes and a variety of equipment. Before you join a gym, keep these things in mind:

Ask the right questions

The gym staff should allow people to visit and check it out before signing a contract. See if the equipment is clean and well-maintained. You should also ask:

* Do you have a membership limit? If they allow unlimited members, the gym could get very crowded at peak times. This could mean waiting in line to use equipment or full classes.

* Do classes cost extra? Some gyms include classes. Others charge a fee.

* Who are your instructors? Ask if the gym staff, teachers and trainers have fitness backgrounds.

Pricing it out

Many gyms have you sign a monthly or yearly contract. Think about how many times per week you will go to the gym. Then divide it up and see how much you will pay each time you work out.

Find out if you are locked into a long-term contract. What is their cancellation policy?

Good health is worth the cost of the gym – but only if you use it!

YMCAs often have discounted programs for seniors that may be covered as a Medicare benefit at no cost.

Check out reviews

Before signing up, search reviews of the gym on the Internet. See what others have to say about the gym’s staff, facilities and equipment.

This is a good way to get some insider information before you move forward. And don’t let them pressure you into joining before you’re ready. Tell them, “I need to think about it” if you’re not sure yet. Then sleep on it for a day or two and check reviews – before you decide.

Source: Federal Trade Commission

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Tips For Exercise After Knee Replacement

BE FIT

After a knee replacement, you may want to get back on your feet. Follow these tips when you’re ready to exercise again:

* Ask your doctor before you try any new exercise.

* Continue to do the exercises your doctor or physical therapist prescribed.

* Consider swimming, biking and walking, as they’re easy on the knees.

* Limit or avoid high-impact exercise like running, skiing or racquetball.

Source: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
The Power Of Positive Thinking

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

Many of us have heard – or given – advice about “looking on the bright side.” Or, you may have heard someone say, “the glass is half full, not half empty.”

These are ways of explaining optimism. An optimistic person is someone who expects good things to happen in their future. But does optimism really help us? Actually, it might.

Some medical research has found that a positive attitude can benefit a person’s health, in part by lowering stress. Some promising results suggest:

* People who are optimistic may have a lower risk of serious heart problems

* Optimism can improve quality of life, including emotional and social well-being, in people who have cancer

* Older adults who were optimistic had fewer health problems

* Being optimistic may help reduce the effects of stress

Of course, more research needs to be done in this area. Optimism is not a cure-all for any disease or condition. But, it’s one healthy way to help people cope with the stress of daily life without any known side effects.

Steps to being more optimistic

Optimism and happiness are not the same thing. To be optimistic, you don’t have to be happy all the time. And being optimistic doesn’t mean you ignore stress or pretend that bad things don’t happen.

Becoming more optimistic isn’t as simple as “just doing it.” It takes time and practice. It may be something you have to keep telling yourself to do every day. Here are some ways to “train your brain” to be more optimistic:

* Pick one good thing. A bad day can make you feel like the whole day was a waste. But instead, make an effort to pick one good thing that happened that day, and reflect on it.

* Avoid things that make you feel bad. If the morning news is too negative, turn it off. Instead, listen to a podcast with a positive message or upbeat music.

* Think about things you can control – and forget about things you can’t. Being stuck in traffic is something you cannot control. But, you can choose to take deep breaths, meditate or relax in your car rather than get angry about the traffic.

If you or a loved one feels stressed all the time or hopeless, talk to a doctor. Mental health is just as important as physical health.

Sources: Psychophysiology; Social Psychological and Personality Science

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
The Importance Of Chores

FAMILY LIFE

Children are often more capable than we realize. Presenting children with age-appropriate challenges and responsibilities is how parents help them grow. Helping out around the house is the perfect training ground to help prepare your kids for life.

Getting started

* Talk to your child about what it means to be responsible. Explain their new duties as a way they help the family and learn skills they will need for their whole life.

* Create a visual schedule or chore chart.

* Discuss being consistent and reliable.

* If appropriate, lay out consequences for neglecting chores.

* As a parent, be consistent with your expectations.

* The younger the child, the more guidance they will need, especially in the beginning. Do chores with them at first until they have enough skill and confidence.

Age-appropriate chores

Toddlers (2-3)

Toddlers are eager helpers and love to do what you are doing. They will need lots of hands-on guidance, but it’s worth the effort.

* Pick up toys

* Wipe up spills

* Put laundry in the hamper

* Fill up a pet’s food bowl

Preschoolers (4-5)

At this age, more independence may develop as your child gains more motor control and has a better memory.

* Clear the table

* Make their bed

* Water plants

* Sort laundry

* Use a handheld vacuum to clean

Primary schoolers (6-9)

This is the age to reinforce independence and consistency with chore expectations. Your child may begin to push back a bit, but stay firm.

* Clean their room

* Wash dishes

* Vacuum, sweep, or mop

* Help with meal prep

* Rake or pull weeds

Middle schoolers (10-13)

By middle school, your child can truly help with tasks around the house and should have the ability to do a variety of chores.

* Do laundry

* Take out trash

* Load and unload the dishwasher

* Wash the car

* Make their lunch

High-schoolers (14+)

Moving toward adulthood, now is the time to make tasks more challenging and ensure they have the necessary skills.

* Mow the lawn

* Prepare a meal

* Care for siblings

* Help with deep cleaning

* Iron and mend clothes

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Telemedicine: Pros & Cons

SELF-CARE CORNER

For some people, seeing their doctor from the comfort of their own home has made accessing care easier. But, for others, the lack of in-person care makes managing their health difficult.

Telemedicine is unlikely to go away. As a patient, you need to know how to get the most out of virtual visits and when an in-person visit might be the way to go.

Pros of telemedicine

* Fast and flexible access to care

* Decreased exposure to other ill patients

* No need to leave home when dealing with a minor illness or concern

* Less time spent driving

* Ease of follow-up for existing health issues

* Less time lost at work

Cons of telemedicine

* Insurance may not cover video visits; check your plan carefully

* Not everyone has access to technology

* Diagnosing a new condition may not be possible over video

* Challenges in monitoring vital signs, like blood pressure, etc.

* Loss of meaningful relationship with healthcare providers

* Important symptoms may get missed

Get the most from telemedicine

* Check your technology set-up in advance.

* Keep your doctor’s phone number handy in case you get disconnected.

* Write down a list of symptoms and questions.

* Write down measurements your doctor may need (height, weight, blood pressure, etc.).

* Have your medication list on-hand.

* Choose a quiet room where you won’t be interrupted.

* Be on time.

* If your doctor recommends any tests or follow-ups, make those appointments right away.

When in-person is best

Not every situation is right for a telemedicine visit. Here are times when in-person may be recommended:

* Pediatric visits

* Emergency situations

* Yearly physicals

* Situations where a physical exam is needed

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Talking About Oral Cancer

MEDICAL NEWS

More than 10,000 people will die of oral cancer this year. Oral cancer is not one type of cancer.

It is a group of cancers that may affect the:

* Lips

* Inside of the cheeks

* Gums

* Tongue

* Inside the mouth (roof or floor of the mouth)

* Tonsils

* Middle of the throat

Watching your mouth

Knowing the signs of oral cancer is important. If it’s caught early, the outcome is better. So, look regularly for any changes in your mouth and see a dentist if you notice anything.

Signs of oral cancer may include:

* Numbness, pain or tender areas in the mouth or lips

* A sore or irritated area in the mouth that doesn’t go away

* A white or red patch

* A lump in the mouth or throat

* An area that feels thicker or rougher than normal

* Trouble with chewing, swallowing or speaking

* Trouble moving the tongue, mouth or jaw

* Teeth that appear to have moved or don’t fit together properly anymore

* Feeling like something is in your throat

* Change in voice not due to a cold or common illness

Many of these symptoms are due to simple, treatable problems. But, it’s important to get them checked by a dentist quickly. Your dentist can diagnose the problem and get you started on the treatment you need.

Am I at risk?

Certain things can make oral cancer more likely to happen. Researchers say that men are more than twice as likely to get oral cancer than women. People who smoke or drink large amounts of alcohol are also at a higher risk. This is especially true if they are over 50 years old.

Some oral cancers are caused by a virus known as the human papilloma virus (HPV). You can catch HPV through sexual contact, which can cause certain cancers in the throat and back of the mouth.

What can I do?

* Get regular dental checkups. Your dentist can check for symptoms of oral cancer.

* Tell your dentist about any changes to your lips, teeth, gums, mouth, tongue or throat.

* Don’t smoke – or quit if you do smoke.

* Drink only moderate amounts of alcohol or less. This is usually two drinks for men per day, and one drink for women per day.

* Talk to your doctor about whether you should get the HPV vaccine.

Source: American Dental Association

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Stop The Spread Of Respiratory Infections

MEDICAL NEWS

The winter months are a peak time for the spread of infectious respiratory diseases. Cold weather often keeps people indoors, where it is easier for infections to spread.

Infectious respiratory diseases include the common cold, as well as other respiratory illnesses that can be more serious. Some people may be at increased risk of severe side effects from respiratory disease, including the elderly, children, and the immunocompromised.

Preventing the spread of respiratory disease helps keep everyone in your family and community safe. A few simple precautions can make all the difference. Once you know how these diseases are spread, you can take steps to contain them and make this winter a healthy one.

Airborne transmission

The most common way infectious respiratory diseases spread is by small aerosols that become airborne when an ill person coughs, laughs, talks, or sneezes. These tiny aerosols can hang in the air for hours and easily travel to the lungs when inhaled.

Surface transmission

Contact with a surface that is contaminated with droplets from an infected person is another route of transmission. If you touch something that has saliva or mucus on it and then later touch your mouth or face, you can become infected with the virus.

Close contact transmission

Being in close contact with someone infected with a virus can result in exposure to large virus-laden respiratory droplets. In contrast to the tiny aerosols that can hang in the air for an extended period, larger droplets fall quickly and most likely to spread when people are less than 3 feet apart.

Types of infectious respiratory viruses

* Chickenpox

* Coronavirus infections (including SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV)

* Diphtheria

* Influenza (flu)

* Legionnaires’ disease

* Measles

* Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

* Mumps

* Pneumonia

* Pneumococcal meningitis

* Rubella (German measles)

* Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)

* Tuberculosis

* Whooping cough

Prevent the spread

* Minimize close contact with ill people.

* Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.

* Don’t share personal items such as food and utensils.

* Ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for you, including the flu and COVID vaccines.

* Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow and tissues (not your hands!).

* Stay home if you are ill.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026