HealthyLife Articles

Category: Uncategorized

  • Medical Loans: The Good, Bad, And The Alternatives

    FINANCIAL HEALTH

    Wallet with stethoscope.

    A medical loan is a specific type of personal loan that can only be used to cover healthcare expenses. For people facing significant out-of-pocket medical expenses, this type of loan can seem ideal. However, there are a few things you should know.

    The Good

    *  No collateral is required to secure the loan.

    *  Can be easy to qualify for if you have good credit.

    *  Enables you to undergo elective procedures quickly.

    The Bad

    *  Hard to get if you have poor credit.

    *  High interest rates can mean a very high monthly payment.

    *  May involve expensive initiation fees upfront.

    The Alternatives

    *  Talk to your doctor’s office or hospital about a payment plan.

    *  Find help through a medical charity or hospital program.

    *  Talk to your doctor about cost-effective treatment options.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Avoid Holiday Debt

    Financial Health

    Small, mini shopping cart with 2 ornaments inside cart.

    Give yourself a present. Keep holiday spending within your means.

    *  Set a limit on what you will spend.

    *  Make a list before you shop.

    *  Buy from stores that offer layaway plans.

    *  Avoid impulse buying. Leave your credit cards at home.

    *  Shop less – in stores, online, and while watching TV.

    *  At family gatherings, discuss ways you can all spend less on gifts. Make a resolution to start a monthly savings account to use for holiday spending.

    *  Comparison shop. Check out prices online and in-store ads. Use coupons for items on your list.

    *  Pay with cash or a debit card.

    *  Don’t go overboard, even during sales. You’ll save 100 percent on items that you don’t need.

    *  Don’t charge more than you can pay off when your balance is due.

    ays to Well-Being book by the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. www.HealthyLife.com. All rights reserved.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Work Life

    Financial Health

    Work Life

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Brca Gene For Breast Cancer

    MEDICAL NEWS

    Women wearing pink shirts with pink ribbons.

    You may have heard of the BRCA gene for breast cancer. But many people don’t understand what this gene is, or what it really means for breast cancer risk.

    What BRCA really means

    “BRCA” is an abbreviation for “BReast CAncer.” There are two types: BRCA1 and BRCA2. Everyone has both of these genes. Having them does not mean you will get breast cancer.

    In fact, BRCA genes actually help prevent breast cancer. They can stop or slow breast cancer growth.

    When BRCA genes aren’t good

    In some people however, the BRCA genes don’t work properly. This is called a BRCA gene mutation.

    When this happens, the BRCA genes can’t prevent breast cancer. This makes the person more likely to get breast cancer. They may also develop breast cancer at a younger age. Those with BRCA mutations have a higher risk of developing other cancers too, including ovarian and pancreatic.

    Up to 65 percent of women with a BRCA1 mutation will develop breast cancer before age 70. About 45 percent of women with a BRCA2 mutation will develop breast cancer by age 70. People who have a mutated BRCA gene may also pass this along to their children.

    What to do

    Women who have one of the following should talk with a doctor:

    *  A family history of breast cancer

    *  History of ovarian cancer

    *  History of two or more cancers of any type

    In some cases, you may need a test to look at the BRCA genes. If the test finds that you have a BRCA mutation, talk with your doctor about next steps. This may include:

    *  Watching closely for breast cancer signs and getting regular screenings

    *  Taking certain medicines that can reduce estrogen, which can lower breast cancer risk

    *  Having a mastectomy, which is surgical removal of the breasts

    Screening is key

    Even without a BRCA gene mutation, all women should talk with their doctors about breast cancer risk. They should get regular breast cancer screenings. Finding breast cancer early is key. It means you have the best chance for successful treatment.

    Sources: National Breast Cancer Foundation, National Institutes of Health

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Know The Different Heart Disease Types

    MEDICAL NEWS

    Heart on a blue background.

    You’ve probably heard the terms cardiovascular disease, heart disease and coronary heart disease. But did you know each of these terms means something different?

    Let’s learn some of these “heart” terms and what they mean for your health. If you have a type of cardiovascular disease, work with your doctor to come up with a heart health plan. Your plan might include a healthy diet, exercise and medications.

    What is cardiovascular disease?

    Cardiovascular disease is any type of disease that affects the heart or blood vessels. “Cardio” refers to the heart, and “vascular” refers to the blood vessels.

    Types of cardiovascular disease include:

    *  Coronary heart disease

    *  High blood pressure

    *  Stroke

    *  Heart failure

    *  Peripheral artery disease

    What is heart disease?

    Heart disease is any type of condition that affects the heart’s function or structure. The most common type of heart disease is coronary heart disease. Heart disease also includes:

    *  Heart rhythm disorders known as arrhythmias

    *  Cardiomyopathy

    *  Congenital (present at birth) heart defects

    *  Coronary artery disease (CAD)

    *  Heart failure

    Heart disease is a type of cardiovascular disease.

    What is coronary heart disease?

    Coronary heart disease is also called coronary artery disease (CAD). Coronary heart disease happens when a fatty substance called plaque builds up in the arteries. Sometimes people call this clogged arteries or atherosclerosis.

    The plaque reduces the amount of blood getting to the heart. This can cause angina, or chest pain. It can also cause blood clots and can lead to a heart attack.

    Sources: American Heart Association and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • The Facts About Donating Organs

    MEDICAL NEWS

    Illustration of organs.

    Thousands of children and adults are in need of an organ transplant. The biggest needs are for kidneys, followed by livers.

    Being an organ donor

    Adults over the age of 18 can register at organdonor.gov. Select your state and register. Organ donors who are under age 18 will need authorization from their parents. You can always go back to the website later and change your organ donation status, too.

    People with health conditions can donate

    Having a health issue doesn’t mean you can’t be an organ donor. People with many different health conditions have been successful organ donors. The transplant team can decide which organs can be used – and even one organ can save a life.

    Tell friends & family

    Sometimes a person is registered to be a donor, but their loved ones don’t know. Then, they don’t allow the organs to be donated when a person dies. If you’re serious about donating your organs, make sure you tell your close relatives and friends.

    Medical care

    The medical team who cares for a person at a hospital is separate from the organ transplant team. Every possible effort is made to save a person’s life, regardless of their organ donation wishes.

    No costs to an organ donor’s family

    Any costs related to an organ transplant are paid by the recipient. Their costs are usually paid by their insurance.

    Organ donation doesn’t interfere with funeral wishes

    Organs are carefully removed with surgery. People who are organ donors can still have an open casket funeral.

    Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Stroke Faq’S

    MEDICAL NEWS

    Purple background with paper cut out of head and brain.

    A stroke occurs when oxygen flow to the brain is disrupted. Within minutes of a stroke, brain cells begin to die from lack of oxygen. As more cells die, parts of the brain become damaged and may no longer function properly.

    Three main types of strokes

    *  Ischemic stroke is caused by a blockage in the blood vessels of the brain. It is the most common type of stroke.

    *  Transient ischemic stroke (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke, is a type of ischemic stroke in which blood flow is blocked for only a few minutes. TIA’s are often a warning sign that a more severe stroke may occur.

    *  Hemorrhagic stroke is caused by a blood vessel in the brain leaking blood or bursting. The buildup of blood puts pressure on brain cells, which causes damage.

    Signs & Symptoms

    *  Numbness or weakness in the face, limbs, or body on one side

    *  Sudden vision trouble

    *  Confusion and difficulty speaking

    *  Severe headache

    *  Dizziness and trouble with balance or walking

    Early identification of a stroke is essential to minimize harm to the brain. Every minute is critical for getting fast and effective treatment.

    Knowing the warning signs of a stroke means you can quickly seek medical help. Getting medical attention within the first few hours of a stroke ensures the best possible outcome and recovery. If you suspect a stroke, call 911 right away.

    Effects of a stroke

    The brain controls many essential body functions, including movement, speech, breathing, digestion, memories, and emotions. The damage caused by a stroke can lead to long-term disability or even death.

    The exact impact of a stroke depends on the area of the brain affected, the length of time between the start of the stroke and treatment, and any underlying conditions.

    Possible side effects of a stroke include:

    *  Weakness or paralysis on one or both sides of the body

    *  Difficulty forming or understanding speech

    *  Impairment of memory, concentration, thinking, and judgment

    *  Trouble chewing or swallowing

    *  Bladder and bowel control issues

    *  Depression

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Be Ready To Donate Blood

    WELL-BEING

    Arm with bandaid and heart where he gave blood.

    When you donate blood, you are potentially saving a life. The American Red Cross estimates that someone needs blood every two seconds. Your donation makes that possible. The donation process is pretty simple, but there are a few things you should know in advance to prepare.

    Donation eligibility

    To donate blood, you must meet specific criteria. These include:

    *  Being healthy and not currently ill

    *  Over the age of 16 (in most states)

    *  Weigh at least 110 pounds

    *  Have not given blood in the past 56 days

    When you go to donate

    It can help relieve any nervousness if you know what to expect before you go. Most donation centers follow a standard process.

    *Registration:verification of eligibility, checking your driver’s license, and providing your address.

    *Health history:information on health conditions, medications, and recent travel.

    *Health screening:checking your temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and hemoglobin.

    *The donation:takes about 8-10 minutes, during which time you will sit or lay comfortably.

    *Recovery:takes 10-15 minutes, during which time you’ll receive a snack and drink and make sure you feel ready to go.

    When You Should Not Donate

    In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria above, there may be other things that could temporarily disqualify you from donating.

    *  You are not feeling 100%. Only donate blood if you are feeling your best. If you are sick, you should wait until 24 hours after your symptoms pass.

    *  Certain kinds of medications and vaccinations may require a waiting period before giving blood. Check with the American Red Cross before you go.

    *  Low iron may cause anemia or a low blood count, making you ineligible to donate blood that day. Once your iron levels have improved, you may be able to donate.

    *  If you have traveled to certain countries outside the U.S., you may need to wait to donate blood.

    Source: The American Red Cross

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Weighted Blankets – A Sleep Saver?

    WELL-BEING

    Bed with weighted blankets.

    Weighted blankets have become popular – but do you need one?

    Weighted blankets are designed to feel very heavy. They are usually filled with glass or plastic pellets that add weight. Some people believe the extra weight can feel like a hug. This may have a calming effect.

    Before you invest in a weighted blanket, here’s what to know:

    *  No large studies say that weighted blankets have proven health benefits. But some smaller studies have found that they can help a person calm down when stressed. They may also help some people with insomnia and anxiety, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

    *  Weighted blankets come in different sizes and weights. You may wish to use one that weighs around 10 percent of your body weight.

    *  Never use a weighted blanket on a baby or toddler.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine