This page is listed here for informational purposes only.
PLEASE see your physician if you are having health problems.

Diabetes

The key to successfully controlling the disease of Diabetes and preventing multiple complications lies in the patient’s understanding of the illness and desire to change dietary habits and lifestyle. (Easy to write but HARD to do) This is a lifelong process.

Diabetes is defined as an elevated blood sugar, but there are many causes of an elevated blood sugar. Diabetes is classified into different types, 1 & 2, based on the various causes. The treatment will vary, depending on what is causing the problem. It is important to know what type of diabetes you have, because your type of diabetes might need to be managed differently from someone else's.

I would stress the importance of doctor’s visits, and A1C goals. Your A1C is the test done by your doctor every 3 months. Since A1C measures your progress over a 3-month period, it's very important to control your blood sugar before and after you eat, every day. Also, it is important that you receive nutritional information: including complex carbohydrates versus simple carbohydrates; how to read labels' effective shopping; and how to exercise safely.

Check your blood sugar number in the morning when you wake up, but before you eat (before a meal). Your doctor will determine what your fasting blood sugar (FPG) goals should be. Fasting means you have not eaten or had anything to drink (except water) for at least 8 hours. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends a reading between 70 and 130.

Please feel free to stop and ask either Liz Gleason RN. or myself any questions (none are too small) about this article or any medical opinion. We may not know the answer but we are good detectives and will find out.

Submitted by : June Hunte RN for May 2010
Jhunte@tampabay.rr.com

Blood Pressure

We visit our physicians on a regular basis and when we go, our blood pressure is routinely taken. Why and what is the purpose of all this monitoring? And what do the numbers stand for?

Blood pressure numbers are very important in assessing how well blood and oxygen is perfusing throughout the arterial system in our body. If your heart pumps blood through your circulatory system with a force that is GREATER than necessary to maintain a steady flow, you have high blood pressure, (hypertension). This puts your whole circulatory system under strain that may ultimately cause problems. Explaining the numbers: A BP reading always has upper and lower numbers (ex. 120/80). The upper numbers, “systolic”, measure the pressure in the arteries as the heart pumps blood into our circulatory system. These numbers are always higher.

The lower numbers, “diastolic”, indicate pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats. The greater the pressure (resistance) in both upper and lower readings make the heart work harder to keep your blood moving, causing damage to your arteries over time.

Blood pressure varies from person to person. A normal blood pressure is 120/80, but in reality your BP will fluctuate during the day depending on lifestyle activities, stress, illness, anxiety, and a number of other factors. The important thing to remember is to try to keep the numbers below 140/90 as these numbers are considered to be the upper limit of normal. As mentioned before, the higher the pressure the more the potential for compromising your circulatory system. A consistent BP reading above 140/90 is considered to be unhealthy and needs to be addressed and assessed by your physician.

The 120/80 figures mean your BP is within normal range for a healthy adult. A little higher or lower is okay too. However, blood pressure tends to rise with age. Other influences that contribute to the risk of rising numbers are family history, lifestyles, diets, overweight, lack of exercise, diabetes, and high salt intake.

The solution to maintaining good health lies in being knowledgeable about your body. Unfortunately, hypertension is usually symptomless. Therefore, a good start is monitoring your BP on a regular basis. Especially if you fall into any of the risk categories. Consider making some changes in your life, and talk to your physician. He is in a position to advise and treat you. If you are already under a physicians care for hypertension and are on medication, take your meds!

Your responsibility in taking your medications: Know the name of your medication(s),the dosage (am't) Time to take it, side effects (read insert). Missed a dose and several hours have passed? DO NOT double up on the next scheduled dose. Take it as prescribed. Nowadays, taking a blood pressure reading is rather simple. You can purchase an affordable BP machine at any pharmacy. They are automatic. You just need to apply the cuff to your upper arm correctly, and push the start button. Lastly, remember hypertension (high blood pressure) cannot be cured, but can certainly be controlled. Each of us need to do our part to maintain good health and retain our good quality of life. June and I are available for your concerns and questions.

Submitted by: Liz Gleason RN for July 2010
esg432@embarqmail.com 352-291-0531


Diabetic Diet

Having diabetes doesn't mean that you have to start eating special foods or follow a complicated diabetes diet plan. For most people, a diabetes diet simply translates into eating a variety of foods in moderate amounts and sticking to regular mealtimes.

This means choosing a diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Consistency also is key, because your body responds to excess calories and fat by creating an undesirable rise in blood sugar. Rather than a restrictive diet, a diabetes diet is a healthy—eating plan that's naturally rich in nutrients and low in fat and calories. In fact, it's the best eating plan for everyone.

lt is important to realize that sugar is not the only carbohydrate that you have to "control". The body will convert all carbohydrates to glucose in your stomach, so eating extra servings of rice, pasta, bread, fruit, or other carbohydrate foods will make the blood sugar rise. Just because something doesn't have sugar in it doesn't mean you can eat as much as you want.

ln addition, many sugar-containing foods also contain a lot of fat. Foods such as cookies, - pastries, ice cream and cakes (white flour) should be avoided, largely because of the fat content (which raises the blood sugar) and because they don't contribute much nutritional value. lf you do want a "sweet," make a low-fat choice, such as low-fat frozen yogurt, gingersnaps, fig bars, or graham crackers and substitute it for other carbohydrates on your meal plan.

The basics to diabetic diet meal planning are simple once we understand the way our body breaks down food. Everything we eat is broken down into sugar gyggtually. Sugary foods such as sweets or fruit hit the bloodstream almost immediately, followed by the slower starches (carbohydrates, or carbs), which take an hour or two to break down depending on their complexity. Proteins are next, taking about four hours, then between six and eight hours the fats finally break down. lf strict attention is paid to diet and exercise, many diabetics can control their blood sugar with minimal dependence on medication. Foods that should be avoided include; fatty red meat, organ meat, highly processed food, fried food, fast food, high cholesterol food and foods rich in saturated fat.

June Hunte R. N. August 2010

Everything you wanted to know about BP

(But were afraid to ask.)

We visit our physicians on a regular basis and when we go, our blood pressure is routinely taken. Why and what is the purpose of all this monitoring? And what do the numbers stand for?

Blood pressure numbers are very important in assessing how well blood and oxygen is perfusing throughout the arterial system in our body. If your heart pumps blood through your circulatory system with a force that is GREATER than necessary to maintain a steady flow, you have high blood pressure, (hypertension). This puts your whole circulatory system under strain that may ultimately cause problems.

Explaining the numbers:A BP reading always has upper and lower numbers (ex. 120/80). The upper numbers, “systolic", measure the pressure in the arteries as the heart pumps blood into our circulatory system. These numbers are always higher.
The lower numbers, "diastolic", indicate pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats. The greater the pressure (resistance) in both upper and lower readings make the heart work harder to keep your blood moving, causing damage to your arteries over time.

Blood pressure varies from person to person. A normal blood pressure is 120/80, but in reality your BP will fluctuate during the day depending on lifestyle activities, stress, illness, anxiety, and a number of other factors. The important thing to remember is to try to keep the numbers below 140/90 as these numbers are considered to be the upper limit of normal. As mentioned before, the higher the pressure the more the potential for compromising your circulatory system. A consistent BP reading above 140/90 is considered to be unhealthy and needs to be addressed and assessed by your physician.

The 120/80 figures mean your BP is within normal range for a healthy adult. A little higher or lower is okay too. However, blood pressure tends to rise with age. Other influences that contribute to the risk of rising numbers are family history, lifestyles, diets, overweight, lack of exercise, diabetes, and high salt intake.

The solution to maintaining good health lies in being knowledgeable about your body. Unfortunately, hypertension is usually symptomless. Therefore, a good start is monitoring your BP on a regular basis. Especially if you fall into any of the risk categories. Consider making some changes in your life, and talk to your physician. He is in a position to advise and treat you. If you are already under a physicians care for hypertension and are on medication, take your meds!

Your responsibility in taking your medications: Know the name of your medication(s),the dosage (am't) Time to take it, side effects (read insert). Missed a dose and several hours have passed? DO NOT double up on the next scheduled dose. Take it as prescribed.

Nowadays, taking a blood pressure reading is rather simple. You can purchase an affordable BP machine at any pharmacy. They are automatic. You just need to apply the cuff to your upper ann correctly, and push the start button. Lastly, remember hypertension (high blood pressure) cannot be cured, but can certainly be controlled. Each of us need to do our part to maintain good health and retain our good quality of life. June and I are available for your concerns and questions.

Submitted by: Liz Gleason RN esg432@embarqmail.com 352—291—053l

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Thank God for the sense to remember the '3' steps, STR . Read and Learn!
Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to  identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells  disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage  when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a  stroke.
STROKE: Remember  the 1st Three Letters....S.T.R.
       Four letters...S.T.R.O.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:


S  * Ask  the individual to SMILE.
T  * Ask  the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE  (Coherently)
(I.e. It is sunny out  today.)
R * Ask  him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to  the dispatcher.
New  Sign of a Stroke -------- Stick O*UT Your  Tongue

NOTE:  Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick'  out his tongue.. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one  side or the other , that  is also an indication of a stroke.

Respectfully submitted:   June Hunte R.N.

                                                              

TO YOUR HEALTH

Since we are in the midst of the cold and flu (influenza) season,   I'm hoping the following information concerning these infections might enlighten and help you and your families avoid catching a cold or the flu during this winter and in the future. 

To begin, every person regardless of age will occasionally catch a cold or develop the flu.    There are over 200 different viruses in the environment that can cause the common cold, but far fewer viruses that cause the flu. That's why there's a flu vaccine available for the flu and not for colds.  

WHAT IS A COLD?

          Colds are minor viral infections of the nose and throat that may last about one week or a bit longer, especially in older adults and those in poor health.   Adults on average catch two to three colds a year, mostly between September and May.   Colds are highly contagious!!   They most often spread when droplets of fluid that contain a cold virus are transferred by touch.   These minute droplets can also  be inhaled.   The common cold and the flu share many similar symptoms yet they are two different conditions.        

          Between one and three days after a cold virus enters the body, symptoms start developing such as a scratchy or sore throat, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose (often with green or yellow-colored discharge), congestion, cough, watery eyes, and headache.   Additionally, you may develop a low grade fever, weakened senses of taste and smell, and muscle aches.   Cold symptoms are generally   milder than flu symptoms.

          The Flu is an infectious illness which affects the nose, throat and lungs and is caused by the influenza virus.   Most people feel better after a week or two, but for some people, the flu leads to serious diseases such as pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses.

          Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly, are more severe, and include many of the symptoms of the common cold. Additional symptoms are fever over 102°F, nausea, chills and sweats, headache, muscle aches,   especially in your back, arms and legs, loss of appetite, and fatigue.

PREVENTING A COLD OR THE FLU.

          You can reduce the risk of catching a cold or the flu by washing your hands frequently, which stops the spread of germs.   Eating healthy, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep   also play a part in preventing colds and the flu because they help boost your immune system. Reducing your stress level also appears to bolster your immune system.   Stress seems to deplete your energy and resistance leaving you more vulnerable to infection.   

          Avoid close contact with people who have a cold, especially during the first few days when they are most likely too spread the infection.   Keep   your fingers away from your nose,eyes and mouth to avoid infecting yourself with cold particles that you may have picked up. Do not share towels with anyone in your household that has a cold.                                                 

          The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get the influenza vaccine, and the best time to get a flu shot is in Sept,Oct, or Nov.   However, it's never “too late” to get a flu shot since it only takes about two weeks for the body to develop immunity to influenza.   The flu season lasts through March.   A flu vaccine is recommended every year because the virus is constantly changing.   New vaccines are developed annually to protect against new circulating strains. The vaccines work by exposing your immune system to the dead flu virus.   In turn,your body will build up antibodies to the virus to protect you from getting the flu.   The flu vaccine is safe and there are very few side effects.

           Lastly, if you are sick, make sure that you cover your mouth when you cough and wash your hands often to prevent giving your cold or flu to others.   Sneeze into a tissue and dispose of it immediately in an appropriate receptacle.

TREATMENT AND “TIPS“ TO HELP YOU FEEL BETTER:

            As you know there is no cure for the common cold. All you can do to feel better is to treat your symptoms while your body fights off the virus. For the flu, treating the symptoms until you feel better is also recommended. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medicine. So, get your flu shot early to avoid catching the flu.< Since the cold and the flu are viral infections, antibiotics won't work for you. Antibiotics should only be taken to treat bacterial complications that arise from a cold or the flu.

1.    Get plenty of rest, it helps the body direct its energy toward strengthening your immune system to help fight the infection. Good nutrition is also necessary for a rapid recovery.

2.    Drink lots of fluids: water, clear soups, juices. Chicken soup has been used for centuries to treat the common cold. It may really help. The fluids help loosen mucus. They also help prevent dehydration, and can soothe the inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat. Blow your nose regularly rather than sniffling mucus back into your head which can lead to infected sinuses. Always wash your hands afterward.

3.    Gargle with warm salty water a few times a day. Or try an astringent gargle to relieve a sore throat. Throat sprays or lozenges may also help relieve pain or a tickle.

4.     Avoid coffee, tea or cola drinks that contain caffeine. Also avoid drinks that contain alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol lead to dehydration.

5.     Sleep with extra pillows under your head.   It will help with the drainage of nasal passages.

6      A small dab of mentholated salve under your nose can open breathing passages and help soothe the irritated skin at the base of the nose. Products like menthol, eucalyptus and camphor all have mild numbing ingredients to help relieve the pain of a nose rubbed raw.

 

           Over-the-counter(OTC) medicines can be very effective in providing temporary relief for your cold or flu symptoms. There are numerous remedies on your pharmacy shelves. However, when choosing a medicine you need to read the labeling, be aware of ingredients and be c Always consult your doctor when in doubt about OTC medicines.

Classifications of OTC Medicines:

     Analgesics: Relieve aches and pains – reduces fever.    Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen,

     Anti-inflammatory:   and Naproxen are some of a large variety of drugs available.

     Decongestants: Relieve   congestion, cough, and nasal discharge.   Vicks inhaler or topical, Sudafed,

     Antihistamines:     Afrin, Claritin, Benedryl, Vistaril   examples.

     Antitussives/Expectorants:   Cough suppressants/mobilize pulmonary secretions. Benylin   DM      Robitussin DM/Fenesin, Muc omyst examples.

      PEOPLE WITH CHRONIC MEDICAL CONDITIONS NEED TO CONSULT THEIR DOCTOR AS TO WHICH OTC COLD AND FLU REMEDIES WILL BE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE FOR THEM.

Some of the conditions where caution needs to be taken are:

     High blood pressure, Glaucoma, Heart conditions, Thyroid problems, Diabetes, and Prostate problems.   Don't take chances with your health and welfare.   Have a healthy, happy holiday season.

Respectfully submitted:   Liz Gleason

 

Resources: American Lung Assn.

WebMD, CDC


TO YOUR HEALTH

Your Eye Health

Look in the mirror. You’ve got one pair of eyes. They’re pretty special, aren’t they? Your teeth get cleaned. Your car gets an oil change. Your hair gets a trim. Maybe you even indulge in pedicures or other spa-like pampering. But how often do you think of your eyes unless something goes wrong? If you’re like most Americans, not often enough.
Important Symptoms to be Alert of :
Consult your doctor immediately if the following appear :

  • Blurred vision not corrected by appropriate corrective glasses
  • Persistent eye pain or acute sharp pain
  • Over-sensitivity to light. Halo or rainbow is seen around lights
  • Partial loss of visual field
  • Red eyes or burning sensation experienced
  • Sudden appearance of large amounts of floaters or black spots in the visual field
  • Abnormal growth in the eye or on the eyelid
  • The transparent part of the eye looks cloudy
  • Eyes become watery, with persistent discharge or crust
  • Vitamin and Foods that may help!

Lutein, is a vitamin that is sold for eye health, and it is over the counter. Ask your eye doctor if this would be beneficial for you to take.
The two major carotenoids in the human retina are lutein and zeaxanthin. Foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin include egg yolk, kiwi, squash and yellow squash, spinach, peas, honeydew melon, brussels sprouts, green beans, apples, corn, grapes, pumpkin, peppers, cucumber, orange juice, celery, scallions, broccoli and mango.6

Submitted by: June Hunte R.N.
Jhunte@tampabay.rr.com
352-746-4232


TO YOUR HEALTH

Visit Your Doctor Regularly

Exercise Regularly - For many health conditions, regular exercise can reduce your risk factors. For example, regular exercise lessens your risk of heart disease and also strengthens your bones, thereby reducing your risk for osteoporosis. I am talking about a small walk every day, or sitting in your chair and lifting cans of soup with your hands. Every little bit helps.

Eat Well We should all eat healthy foods, choose lean cuts of meat and fresh or frozen vegetable. Women should pay particular attention to eating foods that are rich in Calcium and Vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis.

Quit Smoking - While some obstinate smokers may argue that they don't need to quit since they've smoked most of their lives and are still alive, quitting smoking is a great thing to do for your health.

Have Your Cholesterol Tested - Determining if you have high cholesterol—along with analyzing other risk factors—can be critical in assessing your risk for heart disease. Heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women. Have An Annual Mammogram - Women over the age of 40 should have a mammogram every year and seniors should continue this approach. Breast cancer is a major cause of death for women and early detection can be critical in fighting the illness.

Have An Annual Prostate Exam - Once they reach age fifty, men should have an annual prostate exam that includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. The prognosis for men with prostate cancer is best if it is detected early.

Colorectal Cancer Screening - Men and women over the age of fifty should have annual fecal-occult blood tests, a flexible sigmoidoscopy every four years, and a colonoscopy every two - three years.

Diabetes Screening - Adults should be screened for diabetes after age 45 and this will continue once they become seniors. Many seniors do not know if they have diabetes which puts them at risk for a variety of health conditions.

Have Your Blood Pressure Tested - Your blood pressure should be regularly checked by your doctor as high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and hypertension. At the very minimum once a year.

Submitted by: June Hunte R.N.
Jhunte@tampabay.rr.com
352-746-4232