HealthyLife Articles

Tag: Health Conditions

Thyroid Awareness

Ear, Nose & Throat Conditions

The thyroid is in front of the windpipe. It helps control your metabolism.

An easy blood test can help diagnose thyroid problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any symptoms.

Low thyroid is called hypothyroidism. With this, body functions slow down because the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. See your doctor if you have a lot of fatigue, are depressed, have dry, pale skin, feel cold often, and have constipation.

High thyroid is called hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone. It gets larger. This is called goiter. Other symptoms include weight loss, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, sweating, trouble sleeping, and more.

Do a “Neck Check:” In front of a mirror, tilt your chin up slightly and swallow a glass of water. Look at your neck as you swallow. Check for any bulges between your Adam’s apple and collarbone. If you see any, contact your doctor.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
A Burning Issue: How To Handle Household Burns

SELF-CARE CORNER

Accidental burns can happen just about anywhere in your home, and they’re not always caused by fire. Hot objects or liquids, friction, the sun, electricity, or certain chemicals can also cause burns.

Each year, about a half-million people nationwide seek medical attention for burns. Household burns lead to nearly 7 of 10 admissions to burn centers. The good news is that the number of deaths from severe burns has dropped by more than half over the past 4 decades, in large part because of treatments developed through NIH-funded research.

Burns result in skin or tissue damage. The severity of a burn depends on the area it covers and how deep the damage goes. First-degree burns affect only the thin top layer of skin. Second-degree burns include the thick lower layer of skin. A third-degree burn is the most serious; it penetrates the entire thickness of the skin, permanently destroying it and the tissue that’s underneath.

You can care for most minor burns at home. If the burn is red and painful with mild swelling or little blistering, then it’s a first-degree or minor second-degree burn.

See a doctor if the burn is dark red and looks glossy with a lot of blistering. These are signs of a deep second-degree burn. Get immediate treatment if the burned skin is dry and leathery, perhaps with white, brown, or black patches. These are signs of a third-degree burn.

Burns can become infected with bacteria or other germs if protective layers of skin are lost. Burns can also lead to painful inflammation, as your immune system shifts into gear.

First aid for burns

For minor burns:

* Immerse in fresh, cool water or apply cool compresses for 10 to 15 minutes.

* Dry the area with a clean cloth. Cover with sterile gauze or a non-adhesive bandage.

* Don’t apply ointments or butter; these may cause infection.

* Don’t break blisters.

* Over-the-counter pain medications may help reduce inflammation and pain.

Call emergency services (911) if:

* Burns cover a large area of the body

* Burns affect the entire thickness of skin

* The victim is an infant or elderly

* The burn was caused by electricity, which can lead to “invisible” burns

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Diabetes-Related Vision Loss Increasing

MEDICAL NEWS

More than 30 million Americans live with diabetes today. Living a healthy life with diabetes is possible, but it is a serious disease that requires proper medical care.

Diabetic retinopathy is a possible complication of diabetes. It is caused by damage in the blood vessels of the eye’s retina. It is also a leading cause of vision loss and blindness.

Diabetic retinopathy rates are rapidly increasing, according to the National Eye Institute. From 2000 to 2010, diabetic retinopathy cases increased 89 percent from 4.06 million to 7.69 million. And, that number is expected to nearly double by the year 2050.

Keeping eyes healthy

If you have diabetes, there are ways to lead a healthy life and avoid problems like diabetic retinopathy. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease recommends:

*Keep blood glucose (blood sugar) levels under control.High blood glucose damages the blood vessels on the retina over time. The blood vessels may become blocked, cutting off blood supply to the retina. Work with your doctor to set a target blood glucose number. Get clear instruction from your medical team on how you can meet your goal. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and certain diabetes medicines may be needed.

*Track your blood pressure.Many people associate blood pressure with heart disease, but it matters for diabetes too. Long-term high blood pressure also harms your retina’s blood vessels. Be sure to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Ask your doctor how often it should be checked. If you need blood pressure medicine, take it exactly as your doctor prescribes.

Early signs of eye problems

Diabetic retinopathy may not have any early signs or symptoms. That’s why it’s important to keep blood sugar and blood pressure under control, even if you feel fine.

If you notice any of the following problems, see your doctor:

* Double vision

* Blurry vision

* Seeing rings, flashes or spots

* Eye pain or a feeling of pressure in the eye

* Trouble seeing out of the corner of your eye

You can take steps to manage diabetes. Talk to your doctor, nutritionist, and medical team about keeping your eyes – and your entire body – as healthy as possible.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Know The Signs Of Autism

MEDICAL NEWS

Autism affects about 1 in 68 children in our country today, according to the CDC. Autism is a developmental disability that can affect how a person interacts with others, learns, and behaves. For some people, the symptoms are severe. Others can lead fairly normal, independent lives.

Although experts don’t know what causes autism in many cases, they do know that treating it early can help improve symptoms. Many children with autism show some signs between one and two years of age.

Now is a great time to learn the early signs of autism and talk to your child’s physician if needed. Some signs to watch for are if your child:

* Doesn’t respond to his or her name

* Doesn’t point, wave, or gesture

* Doesn’t look people in the eye or respond to facial expressions

* Doesn’t like physical contact with others

* Repeats words or phrases over and over, often without knowing what they mean

* Performs repeated body movements such as rocking, spinning, or twirling hands or fingers

* Has obsessive interests in only a few activities

* Gets very upset with change or differences in routines

* Is very interested in organization, such as lining things up in a certain way

* Talks in a “robot-like” voice with no emotion or change in tone

If your child has one of these signs or you notice any unusual behavior, it doesn’t mean your child has autism. But, you should talk with your child’s doctor if you are concerned or have questions about your child’s well-being.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Ringing In The Ears

SELF-CARE CORNER

Developing tinnitus or ringing in the ears can be annoying at best. At worse, the condition can cause anxiety, depression, insomnia, and other serious medical issues. Tinnitus is often described as buzzing, ringing, hissing, humming, roaring, or whistling that someone hears. Imagine hearing something that seems to come from inside your head. More than 50 million people in the United States have the condition, according to the American Tinnitus Association.

If you struggle with tinnitus, you may find help with these tips from Neuromonics:

*Be good to yourself.Tinnitus can affect many areas of life.

*Educate yourself.Tinnitus has several causes and affects each person differently. The more a tinnitus sufferer understands, the greater the chances of making the tinnitus less bothersome.

*Educate others.Family members, friends, coworkers, and associates can benefit from understanding tinnitus and its effects. They can be more supportive if they understand the conditions that are difficult for a tinnitus sufferer.

*Seek out support.A few individuals who understand the daily trials of tinnitus can be invaluable. Consider a formal support group-in-person or online-to find out about coping strategies.

*Contact the ATA’s Support Networkatwww.ata.org/support.

*Obtain counseling.For some people, a licensed therapist or counselor can help with techniques to make tinnitus symptoms less bothersome and with effects of tinnitus such as anxiety and depression.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Traveling With Diabetes

SELF-CARE CORNER

The American Association of Diabetes Educators suggests a plan for ensuring your next travel adventure is safe and successful.

Over-pack your medications.

Gone for a week? Pack two weeks’ worth of your diabetes medications in case of travel delays or misplaced supplies (insulin, syringes, testing strips, extra batteries for your pump, a first-aid kit, glucagon emergency kit). If you use an insulin pump, ask the company if you can bring a backup in case yours fails. Have a prescription from your doctor for insulin or oral medication in case of an emergency.

Protect your supplies.

Keep your medications and supplies close at hand and don’t put them in checked luggage or in the car trunk, where they can be exposed to harmful extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold). If you’re flying, keep them in the original packaging (so no one questions they’re yours) in a bag separate from your toiletries, as requested by the TSA. Don’t worry, the TSA allows you to go over the 3.4 liquid-ounce carry-on limit for diabetes medications and supplies.

Identify yourself.

Wear your medical bracelet or necklace that notes you have diabetes and take insulin (if you do). Bring a doctor’s note that explains you have diabetes and lists your medications, as well as a prescription in case you need more. Carry a health card that includes your emergency contact and doctor’s name and phone number. Learn how to say “I have diabetes,” “sugar,” and “orange juice, please” in the language of the country you are visiting.

Carry snacks and low blood sugar treatment.

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can strike any time and food access during travel is unpredictable, so be sure to bring plenty of snacks such as peanut butter crackers, granola bars, and trail mix as well as glucose tablets or gel.

Simplify flying.

Tell the TSA folks that you have diabetes (they’re used to accommodating people with health issues). Visitwww.tsa.gov/traveler-information/passengers-diabetesbefore your trip to learn about current screening policies. If you plan to inject insulin while flying, be forewarned-the pressurized air can make it more challenging to draw up your insulin, if using a vial and syringe, so be extra careful not to inject air into the bottle.

Test often.

New foods, increased activity, and different time zones can throw your glucose levels out of whack, so be sure to test frequently, including before and after meals. If you take insulin, keeping your levels steady can be tricky when changing time zones, so make a plan to adjust your schedule for injecting. Before your trip, see a diabetes educator, who can help you with this challenging process.

Favor your feet.

Wear comfortable well-fitting shoes and socks at all times. Never go barefoot. Check your feet often, especially after a hike or long walk. Feet and ankles often swell during flights so consider wearing light knee-high compression stockings or bring thinner socks to change into if your feet swell. Wear a shoe that can be loosened if that occurs. Pointing and flexing your ankles during a flight can improve blood flow in your calf muscles and decrease swelling as well as lower the risk of blood clots.

Prepare for a health emergency.

If you need medical treatment, ask your hotel to recommend a local doctor who treats diabetes. Before you travel overseas, get a list of local English-speaking doctors through the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers atwww.iamat.org.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
4 “S”S For Smooth Skin

WELL-BEING

Winter is hard on your skin. Dry indoor air, frequent washing and cold outside air can make skin itchy and painful. Your skin is the largest organ in your body and an important barrier. Protect it!

1. Stay safe with germs: Don’t skip handwashing because your hands are dry. You could end up sick or may spread germs to others. Instead, keep hand cream in your purse, pocket or desk. Apply the cream after you wash your hands.

2. Short showers: A long, hot shower strips skin of its protective oils. Keep showers and baths short and not too hot.

3. Slather moisturizer: After bathing, apply a rich cream or ointment before skin is fully dry. Petroleum jelly is a low-cost and effective choice.

4. Skip harsh soaps: Many products contain drying detergents. These can leave skin feeling irritated and dry. Look for products that don’t contain alcohol or fragrances.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Bedsores

Skin Conditions

Bedsores, also called pressure ulcers, are painful ulcers on the skin. Common sites are the head, back, buttocks, tailbone, knees, and ankles.

Signs & Symptoms

* The skin may feel sore in areas where a bone is close to the skin. There may be no feeling at all.

* The skin gets irritated and red and then turns purple.

* The skin cracks and an open sore appears. The skin area can become infected.

Causes & Risk Factors

Bedsores are caused by constant pressure on the skin or frequent rubbing in one area. Factors that increase the risk of bedsores include:

* Being confined to a bed or chair

* Urinary incontinence; poor bowel control

* Poor blood circulation and loss of sensation due to a stroke or spinal cord injury

Infected sores require antibiotics. Chronic or deep sores may also require antibiotics. If infected sores are left untreated too long, a blood infection that threatens life can result. This is rare, though. Bedsores may also need special dressings.

Self-Care / Prevention

A caregiver may need to assist with these.

* Change position every 2 hours if confined to a bed and every hour if confined to a chair or as often as advised by your health care provider.

* Check the skin daily for early signs of bedsores. Use mirrors for hard to see places. {Note: Redness is usually the earliest sign. Once the skin cracks or breaks down, seek medical care.}

* Use a foam or sheepskin mattress cover.

* Use a waterbed or a bed with an air filled mattress, such as a ripple bed. This type of airbed has a small motor that creates a rippling effect by pumping air in and out of the mattress.

* If incontinent, wear absorbent pads or briefs.

* Keep the skin clean and dry. Clean it right away if there is contact with urine or stool. Use soft cloths, sponges, and mild soaps. Avoid hot water. Do not rub the skin.

* Apply cornstarch to the skin.

* Lift (do not drag or slide) an immobile person.

* Don’t sit on donut-shaped cushions.

* Put pillows between knees and ankles so they don’t touch.

* Use sheepskin under heels and buttocks.

* Don’t massage bony body parts.

* Eat well and get adequate fluids.

* Ask your doctor about taking a vitamin C supplement.

* Handle a person with bedsores gently.

* Apply topical medication, as advised.

When to Seek Medical Care

Contact Doctor When:

* The skin is cracked.

* Sores show signs of infection (fever; redness; pain; heat; pus; swelling).

* Sores have not improved after 2 weeks of self-care.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Cold Sores

Dental & Mouth Concerns

Cold sores appear on or near the lips. They are painful and unpleasant. Nearly 1 in 3 people will have them. Cold sores are also called fever blisters.

Signs & Symptoms

* Tingling feeling on or near the lips for 36 to 48 hours before the sore appears

* Itching at the site (early sign)

* Small, red blisters with pus-filled centers

* Blisters form a yellow crust that lasts about 10 days

* One sore or a cluster of sores

Causes, Risk Factors & Care

Cold sores are caused by the herpes sim- plex virus (HSV), either HSV-1 (this is most often the cause) or HSV-2 (the usual cause of genital herpes). The virus lies dormant in the body and can return. A fever, cold, stress, cold or windy weather, and strong sun exposure are triggers for outbreaks.

Cold sores are very contagious, especially when the blisters rupture and weep.

Cold sores are treated with self-care and antiviral medications, such as acyclovir and penciclovir. Prompt treatment may reduce the discomfort.

Self-Care / Prevention

* Keep the sore clean and dry.

* Apply antiviral medication, if prescribed, to the affected area at the first sign of a cold sore.

* Try an over-the-counter treatment, such as Abreva antiviral cream, Campho-Phenique, Blistex, or make a paste with cornstarch and water. Dab some on the sore with a cotton swab.

* Dab aloe vera or petroleum jelly on the sore. Use a cotton swab.

* Apply ice to the sore or suck on a frozen popsicle.

* Take an over-the-counter medicine for pain.

* Learn to relax. Meditate, practice yoga, etc. Learn to deal with stress, too.

* Avoid foods that are sour, spicy, or acidic. These may irritate the sores.

* Take vitamin C and/or zinc supplements, as directed by your doctor.

* Apply cool compresses when the sores have crusted over.

* Try not to worry or be too self-conscious. This only makes the situation worse.

Prevention

To avoid getting or spreading cold sores:

* Don’t share drinking glasses, towels, or cooking utensils.

* Don’t touch cold sores with your fingers. If you do touch the cold sores, do not touch your eyes. This could cause a serious eye infection.

* Wash your hands often.

* Avoid kissing or direct skin contact with the sores. This includes oral sex. The virus that causes cold sores can cause genital herpes, too.

* When in the sun, wear a hat and use a sunblock with a sun-protective factor (SPF) of 15 or more on the lips.

* Use a lip balm on cold or windy days.

* Ask your doctor about a prescribed antiviral medicine to take or apply when you feel a cold sore coming on.

* Try to figure out what triggers the sores. Once you identify a trigger, do what you can to avoid it.

* Get regular exercise.

Medical Care

Contact Doctor When:

* You have eye pain with the cold sore. Pain from the sore limits normal activity.

* The cold sore has lasted longer than 2 weeks.

* Cold sores appear 4 or more times a year.

* Cold sores appeared after you started a new medicine or are present while taking steroid medicines.

* Eczema

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Dry Skin

Skin Conditions

Signs & Symptoms

* Itchy skin. The skin can be red from scratching it.

* Chapped skin.

* Skin cracks, peels, and/or flakes.

Causes

* Aging. The body naturally produces less oil and moisture.

* Cold winter weather. Dry air or heat.

* Washing the skin often. Using harsh skin products.

* Chronic and excessive sun exposure.

* Allergies. An underactive thyroid gland. Diabetes. Kidney disease. Other skin conditions, such as psoriasis.

Treatment

Dry skin is not a serious health risk. It can be managed with self-care. When dry skin is a symptom of a health problem, treating the problem treats the dry skin.

Questions to Ask

Self-Care / Prevention

* Drink 8 or more glasses of water a day.

* Apply an oil- based lotion daily.

* Wear rubber gloves when you wash dishes.

* Take showers instead of baths. Use warm (not hot) water. Try sponge baths.

* Apply a moisturizing cream while your skin is damp. Use products with lanolin.

* If you do bathe, do so for only 15 to 20 minutes in lukewarm water. Pat yourself dry. Do not rub.

* Put soap on a washcloth, not right on the skin.

* Use a mild liquid soap, like Cetaphil lotion or use a fatted soap. Avoid deodorant, medicated, or alkaline soaps.

* Don’t use moisturizers with fragrances, preservatives, or alcohol.

* Use a night cream for the face.

* Stay out of the strong sun. Do not use tanning salons. When in the sun, use a sunblock with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.

* Don’t scratch or rub dry skin.

Resources

American Academy of Dermatology

866.503.SKIN (503.7546)

www.aad.org

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026