HealthyLife Articles

Category: Uncategorized

Home Medical Tests

Medical Exams

Home medical tests let you check for and monitor health conditions at home.

Self-Testing Kits

* Diagnose when conditions are or are not present. These include kits that test for blood cholesterol level and blood in the stool.

* Monitor a chronic condition. These include kits that test for blood sugar levels and blood pressure readings.

The U.S. Public Health Service and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) give tips for safe and proper use of self-testing kits. (Each of these does not apply to all tests.)

* Don’t buy or use a test kit after the expiration date.

* Follow storage directions on the label.

* Note special precautions, such as not eating certain foods before testing.

* Study the package insert. First, read it through to get a general idea of how to perform the test. Then, go back and review the instructions and diagrams until you fully understand each step.

* Know what the test is meant to do and what it doesn’t do. Tests are not always 100% accurate.

* Some test results rely on comparing colors. If you’re colorblind, ask someone who is not colorblind to help you read the results.

* Follow instructions exactly. Don’t skip a step.

* When you collect a urine sample, use a sterile or clean container.

* Some steps need to be timed. Use a watch or clock with a second hand.

* Note what you should do if the results are positive, negative, or unclear.

* If something is not clear, don’t guess. Call the “800” number on the package or call a pharmacist for information.

* Keep test kits that have chemicals out of the reach of children. Discard away used test materials as directed.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Keep A Survival Kit In Your Car

Personal Safety

No car should be without a survival kit of items that you might need in the event you’re in an accident, run out of gas, have a breakdown, or get stuck. Items to include:

* First-aid kit.

* Flares.

* White cloth, for distress signal.

* Flashlight with spare batteries.

* Snow shovel.

* Knife or other basic tools.

* Empty gas can, for purchasing gas.

* Small fire extinguisher.

* Paper and pencil.

* Blanket.

* Change, for phone calls and tolls.

* Food and water, for long trips through unpopulated areas. Whistle.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Grief / Bereavement

Mental Health

Grief is a deep sadness or sorrow that results from a loss. The loss can be a major or minor one. It can result from something positive or negative. Bereavement is grieving most often linked with the death of a loved one.

Signs & Symptoms

Stages of Grief

1. Shock.

You feel dazed or numb.

2. Denial and searching.

* You are in a state of disbelief.

* You ask questions, such as, “Why did this happen?” or “Why didn’t I prevent this?”

* You look for ways to keep your loved one or loss with you.

* You think you see or hear the deceased person.

* You begin to feel that the loss is real.

3. Suffering and disorganization.

* You feel guilty, anxious, depressed, lonely, afraid, etc.

* You may place blame on everyone and everything.

* You may get physical symptoms. These include headaches, stomachaches, constant fatigue, and/or shortness of breath.

* You withdraw from routine and social contacts.

4. Recovery and acceptance.

* You begin to look at the future instead of dwelling on the past.

* You adjust to the reality of the loss.

* You develop new relationships.

* You develop a positive attitude.

Grieving the loss of a loved one can last weeks, months, or years.

Causes

* A new or lost job, a promotion, demotion, or retirement.

* Relationship changes, such as getting divorced or having a child leave home.

* An illness, injury, and/or disability.

* The death of a family member or friend. Loss of property. Moving to a new place.

Factors that shape a person’s response to a loss, such as death include:

* Age, gender, and health.

* How sudden the loss was.

* Cultural background. Religious beliefs.

* Finances.

* Social network.

* History of other losses or traumatic events.

Each of these factors can add to or reduce the pain of grieving.

Treatment

Understanding the normal stages of grief, the passage of time, and self-care measures treat most cases of grief. When these are not enough, counseling can help.

Questions to Ask

Self-Care / Prevention

* Eat regular meals.

* Get regular physical activity.

* Allow friends and family to help you. Don’t hold your feelings inside. State how you really feel. Visit them, especially during the holidays, if you would otherwise be alone. Travel during the holidays if this helps.

* Share and maintain memories of a lost loved one. Being reminded of the past can help with the process of coming to grips with a loss.

* Try not to make major life changes, such as moving during the first year of grieving.

* Join a support group for the bereaved. People and places to contact include your EAP representative, your student counseling center, churches or synagogues, funeral homes, and hospice centers.

* Adopt a pet.

* Read self-help books about grief and death.

Resources

AARP Grief Support

www.aarp.org/family/lifeafterloss

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Use Caution With Sleeping Pills

Medication

Used improperly, prescription sleeping pills (called sedative-hypnotics) can be as addictive as alcohol and can produce unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.

You can develop a tolerance to sleeping pills in as little as two weeks of frequent use. In other words, you need higher and higher amounts to fall asleep. Older people should be especially cautious about taking sleeping pills, since their tolerance for medication is usually lower than middle-aged or younger adults.

If you or someone you’re close to takes prescription sleeping pills, possible signs of misuse include:

* Taking sleeping pills nightly for more than two weeks.

* Needing to take higher doses to fall asleep.

* Increasing the dosage without consulting the doctor.

If you’ve become dependent on sleeping pills, don’t quit cold turkey-you’re apt to suffer confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, relentless insomnia, and possibly death. So contact your doctor for instructions on how to wean yourself off the drug.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Complementary & Integrative Health

Alternative Medicine

Complementary medicine is a non-mainstream practice used together with conventional medicine.

Integrative medicine coordinates complementary approaches into mainstream medicine.

Alternative medicine is non-mainstream medicine in place of conventional medicine.

True alternative medicine is not common. Most people who use non-mainstream approaches use them with conventional treatment.

The National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) found that 33.2% of adults in the U.S. used complementary health approaches.

Natural products.

These use substances found in nature, often sold as dietary supplements. Examples are:

* Herbs. Chemicals from herbs, plants, or plant parts act upon the body in a therapeutic way.

* Vitamins and minerals. These are the most common dietary supplement used. About 40% of adults take a multivitamin and mineral (MVM).

* Probiotics. These are defined as “live micro-organisms which, when given in adequate amounts, provide a health benefit on the host.”

Mind and body practices

These focus on the interactions among the brain, mind, body, and behavior. Some practices manipulate and/or move one or more body parts. Examples are:

* Acupressure. This applies pressure to certain places (acupoints) on the body by pressing on them with fingers or hands.

* Acupuncture. This uses needles that are inserted into the skin at certain points (acupoints).

* Chiropractic. This seeks to put the body into balance through manual realignment of the spine and other joints and muscles.

* Hypnotherapy. A person is put in a trance state to respond to suggestion to overcome a problem, such as a phobia, anxiety, or tobacco use.

* Meditation. This increases calmness and physical relaxation by using:

– A quiet location that is free of or has few distractions.

– A comfortable posture.

– A specific focus on a word or sensation.

– An openness to let distractions come and go without judging them.

* Massage therapy. This uses touching and rubbing techniques to relieve sore muscles and promote relaxation.

* Qi gong (“chee-GUNG”). This is part of traditional Chinese medicine. It uses movement, meditation, and controlled breathing to enhance the flow of “qi” in the body. (Qi is an ancient term for vital energy.)

* Relaxation therapies. These include breathing exercises, guided imagery, and progressive muscle relaxation.

* Tai chi. This is a series of postures and exercises of moving the body slowly and gently, and with awareness while breathing deeply.

* Yoga. A system of exercising using postures, breathing, and meditation.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Bloated Belly: Ways To Get Relief

SELF-CARE CORNER

Most people have felt a bloated stomach after a big meal. Usually, the belly feels overly full. It can make clothing feel tighter. The belly may look swollen. Bloating is usually caused by too much food or air and gas getting trapped in the intestines.

But some people get bloated even when they didn’t eat too much. In some cases, it can be downright painful. The best way to address painful bloating is to find the cause and know how you can treat it.

Bloating culprits

The most common causes include:

* Dairy foods. If you notice bloating after eating cheese, ice cream, or drinking milk, you could have lactose intolerance.

* Gum. Swallowing air while chewing can cause bloating.

* Eating too much fiber at once. Fiber is great for you, but if your body isn’t used to it, you can get bloated and uncomfortable. Increase the amount you eat gradually.

* Bowel problems. Being constipated or having irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause painful bloating. Drinking plenty of water can help with constipation and fiber absorption.

* Menstrual cycles. Some women get bloated because their body holds extra water before or during their periods.

Treat bloating at home

Many times, bloating can be managed at home. Here’s how:

* Write down what you eat and drink. Record when you get stomach pain or bloating.

* Cut back on gum.

* Avoid carbonated drinks.

* Drink plenty of water to keep the bowels moving. Don’t use a straw when drinking.

* Eat enough fiber. Start with fruits and vegetables. Eat only small amounts of beans, lentils and other gas-causing foods until you get used to them.

* Watch out for sugar-free foods. Some artificial sweeteners can cause bloating and gas.

* Ginger, peppermint, chamomile or fennel herbal teas may help. Always ask a doctor before using herbs if you have a health condition or take any medicines.

* Over-the-counter anti-gas medicines with simethicone help move gas bubbles out of the body.

When to see your doctor

Call a doctor or seek immediate medical care if you notice bloating with:

* Blood with bowel movements (stool)

* Losing weight without making an effort

* Nausea or vomiting

* For women: menstrual bleeding between periods or after menopause

* Fever

* Severe pain that won’t go away

These could be signs of a serious health issue that needs treatment.

Source: American Academy of Family Physicians

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Health Screenings For Women

SELF-CARE CORNER

Women are at risk for a unique set of health issues. Every woman should visit their primary care and OB-GYN provider every year for a checkup that includes the recommended screenings.

Ask your doctor what screenings are right for you. Your doctor will decide which screenings you need based on your age, family history, health history, and other risk factors.

Women aged 18 to 39

* Blood pressure screening

* Cholesterol screening

* Diabetes screening

* Immunizations

* Infectious disease screening including STI’s

* Physical exam

* Breast cancer screening

* Cervical cancer screening

* Skin self-exam

* Dental and eye exams

* Early and regular prenatal care during pregnancy

Women aged 40 to 64

* Blood pressure screening

* Cholesterol screening

* Diabetes screening

* Immunizations

* Infectious disease screening including STI’s

* Physical exam

* Breast, colon, and lung cancer screenings

* Cervical cancer screening

* Osteoporosis screening

* Skin cancer screening

* Dental and eye exams

Women aged 65 and over

* Blood pressure screening

* Cholesterol and heart disease screening

* Diabetes screening

* Immunizations

* Infectious disease screening including STI’s

* Physical exam

* Breast, colon, and lung cancer screenings

* Cervical cancer screening may no longer be needed. Check with your doctor.

* Osteoporosis screening

* Skin cancer screening

* Hearing test

* Dental and eye exams

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Snoring And Your Health

SELF-CARE CORNER

Occasional snoring is often harmless. It may happen when a person has a stuffy nose or is lying on their back. But if you snore every night, talk with a doctor. Long-term snoring can lead to health problems.

Sleep suffers

Snoring can make you wake up many times during the night. You probably won’t remember these awakenings. They interfere with your body’s ability to get good, sound sleep.

Without quality sleep, you may feel tired nearly every day. This can lead to problems at work, school or home. In severe cases, it can lead to dangers like car collisions if you fall asleep at the wheel.

Obstructive sleep apnea

Sometimes snoring is a sign of a health problem called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Signs of OSA include:

* Loud snoring that happens nearly every night

* Pauses in breathing during sleep (this can happen hundreds of times per night)

* Choking or gasping for air during the night

* Feeling very tired even after a full night’s sleep

* Trouble concentrating or being irritable

* Waking up with a headache

OSA can also cause heart problems because it can increase a person’s risk of high blood pressure, stroke or heart disease. It can also cause an irregular heartbeat, known as an arrhythmia.

How to fix snoring

There are many ways to reduce or eliminate snoring. First, see a doctor to get checked for any health problems. Your doctor may recommend:

* If you smoke, quit. Smoking can make snoring worse and leads to other serious health problems.

* Limit or avoid alcohol. Don’t drink alcohol close to bedtime. Alcohol relaxes throat muscles and can cause more snoring and pauses in breathing.

* Work toward a healthy weight if you are overweight. Being overweight often makes snoring worse.

If these measures don’t help, ask your doctor about other options. Certain devices and surgery can help some people quit snoring.

Relationship problems

Snoring can cause social problems too. Some people find that their marriage or domestic partnership suffers. Partners may not be able to sleep in the same room because of the noise.

Sources: American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Exercise When You Travel

BE FIT

How you exercise may look different when traveling, but it’s still worthwhile. In fact, mixing things up when you’re away from home keeps your workouts fresh and interesting. Try these tips:

*Bring resistance bands along.Easily packable and super lightweight, resistance bands give you the flexibility to exercise anywhere. Bring a few different types for the most exercise options.

*Book a hotel with a gym.Many hotels offer fitness rooms. The equipment is often fairly basic, but you can usually depend on a treadmill or bike and a set of free weights.

*Use your bodyweight.All you really need for a good sweat session is your body! Movements like push-ups, tricep dips, squats, and lunges can be combined in a challenging circuit.

*Get outside.What better way to get the most out of your travel than to explore on foot. And all that walking counts as exercise!

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
You’re Never Too Old To Exercise

BE FIT

Older adults might find it hard to exercise. But exercise is great for older adults and may even help relieve joint pain and increase energy. It can help you sleep better, maintain a healthy weight and relieve stress.

See your doctor first.

Talk to your doctor before starting an exercise plan if you have any health conditions or take medications.

Stay hydrated.

Drink water before, during and after your workout.

Perform all types of exercise.

This includes flexibility (stretching), strength (weights or resistance) and endurance (walking, biking or other activities).

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026