PerioRestore: Help control Early to Late Stages of Gum Disease Today
Over 64 million Americans suffer from Periodontitis (advanced stage of gum diseases)
If not only can cause issues in your mouth, but gum disease can lead to many issues throughout your entire body including osteoporosis, various cancers, diabetes and even a stroke.
So how does gum disease start? The most common culprit stems from not brushing and flossing daily or properly. When we don’t have proper oral health, a sticky bacteria known as plaque and calculus builds up in the pockets below the gumline and between our teeth, causing an infection to form. This ultimately leads to a variety of problems including bone loss.
It is vital to your oral health and systemic health to brush, floss and rinse daily appropriately-for all ages.
Symptoms of Gum Disease include:
*Red, swollen gums
*Ongoing bad breath
*Sensitivity
*Bleeding gums
*Plaque buildup
*Gum recession
*Separation of teeth
*Tooth loss
How do we manage the bacteria when we are not in the dental office?
We know that the sticky bacteria that lives beneath our gums grows quickly and can become difficult to manage and keep at bay once we leave our hygienist. To start, let’s focus on the core homecare basics.
*Flossing
*Brushing and Rinsing
*Smart Food Choices
*Regular Dental Visits
How many of the above have you mastered?
A lot of people don’t have a proper, daily oral regime so a solution is needed to manage the disease at home in conjunction with daily homecare.
Did we mention, managing your oral health is vital to the overall health of your entire body?
But there is a solution! Perio Restore.
Where do you fall in these stages of Perio?
Start your path to healthy gums today. For more information or to watch instructions videos, please visit denmat.com.
The oral cleansing gel is a 1.7% Hydrogen Peroxide gel that fights bacteria inside the pocket and keeps the disease-causing bacteria from recolonizing, helping prevent against further infection.
Oh and a side perk? When used daily, the gel whitens teeth and freshness breath!
How does it work?
The Perio Restore System consists of a customized tray that is designed to gently push the oral cleansing gel deep into each periodontal pocket, allowing deeper reach than other non-invasive treatments.
How often do I have to wear them?
To get the full effects of managing the bacteria, the system needs to be worn every day. But don’t fret! You only need to wear them for short duration each day, at any time of the day that works for you.
Going to the gym? Walking the dog? Relaxing at home? No problem-all you have to do is dispense the gel into recommended time and that’s it! A healthy smile is all yours.
Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the PerioRestore pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. I have never used the product so I have no personal opinion on the product itself. Please check out their website above for more information.
To help understand diverticulosis, let’s review the anatomy and function of the intestine. The small intestine is the long, thin segment of bowel that begins at the stomach and ends at the large intestine. The large intestine, also called the colon, starts in the right lower abdomen and forms a large question mark across the entire abdomen, ending in the rectum. Just above the rectum is the sigmoid (5 shaped) part of the colon. Liquid waste (stool) enters the colon from the small intestine. As it moves through the colon, stool is dehydrated and shaped. By the time the stool enters the rectum, it is semi-solid and well-formed.
What is Diverticulosis?
Diverticuli are pockets or pouches extending out from the colon. These develop very gradually over a long period of time. They occur along the natural weak points in the bowel wall. The pockets develop because of the pressure exerted inside the colon as it contracts. Diverticulosis is the condition of having diverticuli (singular=diverticulum).
Since the highest pressure in the colon occurs in the sigmoid colon, it is here that most diverticuli occur. Because of these high pressure and balloon like projections, the sigmoid often becomes thickened, twisted and narrowed. This thickening and narrowing may cause changes in the bowel function, such as discomfort, diarrhea, and /or constipation in some people.
The Sigmoid Colon:
The sigmoid colon is designed to contract vigorously to maintain a high pressure. This action pushed the stool into the rectum. Since the sigmoid is a high pressure part of the colon, it is here the diverticuli occur.
Who gets Diverticulosis?
Since it takes so long to develop, diverticulosis usually appears later in life. However, it can occur in people as early as their 30’s. It is less common in people and societies around the world whose diet consists of less processed foods and more fruits and grains with very high fiber content.
Symptoms of Diverticulosis:
Most patients do not feel diverticuli forming. Occasionally they may feel cramps or discomfort in the lower left abdomen. Usually, there are no symptoms at all. When diverticulosis is far advanced, the lower colon may become more rigid, distorted or narrowed. This makes it more difficult for stool to move through. The patient may experience thin or pellet-shaped stools, constipation and an occasional rush of diarrhea. At this point, the problem is mechanical or structural one and treatment is more difficult.
Complications of Diverticulosis:
Many people have diverticulosis but few have complications from it. But when complications do occur, they can be serious. Diverticulitis is the most common complication.
*Diverticulitis:
Like a balloon, an expanding diverticulum develops a thinner wall than the rest of the colon. The bacteria in the colon-which are normally helpful as long as they stay in the colon-can seep through the thin walls of diverticuli and cause infection (called diverticulitis).
This infection can be mild with only slight discomfort in the left lower abdomen. Or it can be extreme with severe tenderness and fever. Antibiotics are usually required to treat the infection. The patient should also allow their bowel to rest by avoiding food or sometimes even liquids. For severe cases, the patient must be hospitalized.
*Bleeding:
Bleeding sometimes occurs from a ruptured blood vessel around a diverticulum. This may produce a gush of blood from the rectum. If the bleeding diverticulum is located in the right-side colon, the stool will be dark and mahogany colored.
*Perforation:
The complication is the most uncommon but the most serious. If an infected diverticulum breaks open (perforates), bacteria can escape into the abdomen. This can lead to local infection or a widespread infection throughout the lining of the abdomen requiring abdominal surgery or placement of a drainage catheter.
Diagnosis of Diverticulitis:
The medical history is the physician’s most important tool in diagnosing diverticulitis. The physician may also perform other exams to provide additional information:
*The physical exam may find tenderness in the left lower abdomen.
*A CT-scan is sometimes required to determine the extent of the diverticulitis.
*Flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy use a lighted, flexible endoscope put through the rectum and into the colon, to view the colon from inside.
*A patient’s medical history is the physician’s most important tool in diagnosing diverticulitis.
Treatment of Diverticulosis:
Diverticuli may be preventable or their progression limited with a high-fiber diet. Certain types of fiber, such as wheat bran, retain large quantities of water. This provides a bulkier, softer stool that is easier to pass and may help decrease the pressure in the bowel over time.
Bran and fiber can be found in many cereals, breads and other foods. Additional bulking agents, such as psyllium and methylcellulose are available in drug stores. Generally, a daily intake of 20 to 30 grams of fiber is recommended, beginning at a young age. Also, medications can be used to reduce colon spasms. When diverticulitis occurs at an early age or when there are recurrent episodes, surgery may be necessary to remove the diseased portion of the colon. In years past, people were advised to avoid popcorn, peanuts and other seed products. We now know that these foods do not need to be avoided in people with diverticulosis.
Summary:
Divertculosis is a disorder that may be preventable with a high fiber diet starting at a young age but can usually be treated. Diverticulitis is a potentially serious complication of diverticulosis but effective therapy is available.
Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from a pamphlet from Meducate by GI Supply and I give them full credit for the information from the pamphlet. Please consult with a doctor if you are feeling any symptoms.
What is Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs?
Anyone who has Medicare can get Medicare prescription drug coverage. Some people with limited resources and income also are eligible for Extra Help to pay for the costs-monthly premiums, annual deductibles and prescription co-payments-related to a Medicare prescription drug plan. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 per year. Many people qualify for these big savings and don’t even know it.
To qualify for Extra Help:
* You must reside in one of the 50 States or the District of Columbia.
*Your resources must be limited to $12,640 for an individual or $25,260 for a married couple living together. Resources include such things as bank accounts, stocks and bonds. We do not count your home, car and any life insurance policy as resources.
*Your annual income must be limited to $16,335 for an individual or $22,065 for a married couple living together. Even if your annual income is higher, you still may be able to get some help. Some examples where your income may be higher are if you or your spouse:
*Support other family members who live with you.
*Have earnings from work or
*Live in Alaska or Hawaii
How do I apply for Extra Help?
It is easy to apply for Extra Help. Just complete Social Security’s Application for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs (SSA-1020). Here’s how:
After you apply, Social Security will review your application and send you a letter to let you know if you qualify for the Extra Help. Once you qualify for the Extra Help. Once you qualify, you can choose a Medicare prescription drug plan. If you do not select a plan, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will do it for you. The sooner you join a plan the sooner you begin receiving benefits.
Why should I apply online for Extra Help?
Our online application is secure and offers several advantages. It takes you through the process step by step with a series of self-help screens. The screens will tell you what information you need to complete the application and will guide you in answering the questions fully. You can apply from any computer at your own pace. You can start and stop at any time during the process, so you can leave the application and go back later to update or complete any of the required information. We are careful to protect your personal information.
Can state agencies help with my Medicare costs?
When you file your application for Extra Help, you also can start your application process for the Medicare Savings Programs-State programs that provide help with other Medicare costs. Social Security will send information to your State unless you tell us not to on the Extra Help application. Your State will contact you to help you apply for a Medicare Savings Program.
These Medicare Savings Programs help people with limited resources and income pay for their Medicare expenses. The Medicare Savings Programs help pay for your Medicare Part B (medical insurance) premiums. For some people, the Medicare Savings Programs also may pay for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) premiums, if any and Part A and B deductibles and co-payments.
How can I get more information?
For more information about getting Extra Help with your Medicare prescription drug plan costs, visit https://www.ssa.gov/ and http://www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Social Security representatives are available to help you complete your application.
If you need information about Medicare Savings Programs, Medicare prescription drug plans, how to enroll in a plan or to request a copy of the Medicare & You handbook, please visit http://www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227; TTY, 1-877-486-2048). When you call, you also can request information about how to contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). In addition, you can find your local SHIP contact information on the back of your Medicare handbook or obtain the information online at http://www.medicare.gov/contacts/organization-search-criteria.aspx.
Disclaimer: This information was taken from the Social Security Administration pamphlet on getting Extra Help for Prescription Drug costs and I give them full credit for the information. Please call or email the above resources for more information.
EUS allows a physician to get a clear picture of organs and tissues using a tool that combines an endoscope with a tiny ultrasound unit. Ultrasound projects sound waves into body tissues and then “listens” as the sound waves “echo” back to a sensor. The sensor creates a visual image on a screen that can be evaluated by the physician.
In EUS, the ultrasound probe is built onto the end of an endoscope-a lighted, flexible rube that can be fed through the mouth and into the esophagus (the tube that carries food to the stomach) or through the rectum, depending on what part of the digestive tract the physician wants to investigate. With standard endoscopy, the physician can directly view the inside surface of the digestive tract. With EUS, the ultrasound creates an image of the underlying area, giving the physician a view of the tissues and organs beneath the intestinal surface.
Preparing for the EUS Exam:
Patients should inform their physician of all medications they are taking and check with the physician before stopping any medications. When EUS is done through the esophagus, the patient should not eat or drink anything for about eight hours before the exam. When EUS is done through the rectum, the colon (large intestine) must be cleansed. Normally, the patient uses a liquid diet along with laxatives or enemas to cleanse the colon. If biopsies are anticipated, the physician advises the patient about any blood thinning medications, which are usually stopped up to five days before the exam. These medications may increase the risk of excessive bleeding from a biopsy.
During the EUS Exam:
EUS is usually performed as an outpatient exam in a hospital. The patient is given a sedative to produce a drowsy, sleepy state. The EUS scope is then inserted through the mouth or rectum and eased through to the area to be examined. An EUS scope is flexible and can be easily moved around the various bends in the digestive tract.
When the scope is in position, the ultrasound mechanism produces the images needed for the examination. These images are carried electronically to a computer system that displays them on a video screen for the physician to view. If needed, small tissue samples can be taken from the digestive tract for analysis..
Still photographs of the video images are made to verify what has been found and to use for later study and comparison. In general, it takes 20 to 40 minutes to complete the exam. The patient is then taken to a recovery area for observation until sedation wears off. While most of the needed information is available to the physician immediately, tissue analysis will require several days. A follow up appointment is then necessary to review the results.
Side Effects and Risks:
During the procedure, patients are routinely monitored to be sure that there are no complications from medications. Following the procedure, the patient may have a mild sore throat for a few hours. Because of the sedation, patients should not drive, operate heavy machinery or make important decisions following the procedure. Therefore, someone should be available to drive the patient home.
This ability of EUS to get so close to the area to be examined makes this test reliable and preferable to more invasive techniques. In general, EUS is a very safe procedure. There is a very slight risk of the endoscope tearing the intestinal tract, which would require surgery. Rarely, excessive bleeding may occur with a biopsy.
Purpose of EUS:
The digestive system, also called the gastrointestinal or GI tract, includes the mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, intestines and rectum. Other organs like the gallbladder and pancreas, which contribute to the digestion of foods are also part of the digestive system. When a patient is having discomfort and symptoms that suggest a problem in the GI system, the physician will order tests to help with the diagnosis.
Stomach ulcers and intestinal polpys are examples of conditions that can be easily seen on the inside lining of the intestine. In these cases a standard endoscopy is all that is needed. However, sometimes the physician wants to see deeper into the underlying tissues or the surrounding area and in these cases an EUS can help. EUS is especially useful for evaluating certain tumors of the GI Tract. EUS may be used to evaluate a wide range of conditions including:
*Tumors and lymph nodes that lie beneath the intestial wall.
*Issues with blood vessels supporting the GI Tract.
*Gallstones within the bile duct.
*Abnormalities of the pancreas.
*Abnormalities of the rectum.
*Growth of tumors
*Tumor removal or recurrence.
*Follow-up of benign-appearing tumors.
*Biopsy of tumors or sampling of fluid collections.
Summary:
EUS is an effective way of examining the digestive tract and the related tissues and organs that lie outside it. This exam may be used with other studies to give a comprehensive picture of conditions in the GI tract. Serious complications are very uncommon. EUS allows the physician a high degree of accuracy in making a diagnosis, so that an effective form of therapy can usually be provided.
Disclaimer: This information was taken from a Meducate by GI Supply pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. Please consult with your doctor before having any procedures.
The liver is a large organ that sits in the right upper abdomen, just under the right lung. It performs many different functions at the same time. The liver makes proteins, eliminates waste material from the body, produces cholesterol, stores and releases glucose energy and metabolizes many drugs used in medicine. It also produces bile that flows into the intestine to help digest food. This remarkable organ also had the ability to repair and regenerate itself if it is injured or partially removed. The liver receives blood from two different sources-the heart and the intestine. All of this blood flows through the liver and returns to the heart. It is no wonder that the ancient Chinese viewed the liver, not the heart as the center of the body.
What is Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis is slowly progressing disease in which healthy liver tissue is replaced with scar tissue. Many types of chronic injury to the liver can cause scar tissue to form. This scarring changes the normal structure and disrupts the regrowth of liver cells. Eventually, the scar tissue blocks blood flow through the liver and prevents the liver from accomplishing its important jobs.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Cirrhosis takes years to develop. During this time, there are usually no symptoms, although fatigue, weakness and decreased appetite may occur and worsen with time. When cirrhosis has fully developed a number of signs may be present:
*Fluid retention in the legs and abdomen: the liver produces a protein, called albumin, that holds fluid in blood vessels. When the blood level of albumin decreases, fluid seeps out of the tissues into the legs and abdomen, causing edema (fluid accumulation) and swelling.
*Jaundice: the liver produces bile that normally flows into the intestine. In advanced cirrhosis, bile can back up in to the blood, causing the skin and eyes to turn yellow and the urine to darken.
Intense itching: certain types of cirrhosis, such as chronic bile duct blockage can produce troublesome itching.
Coagulation (clotting) defects: the liver makes certain proteins that help clot blood. When these proteins are deficient, bleeding can be excessive or prolonged.
Mental function change: the liver processes and filters toxins. When these toxins escape into the bloodstream in severe cases of cirrhosis, they can travel to the brain and affect mental function.
Esophageal vein bleeding: in advanced cirrhosis, intestinal blood bypasses the liver and flows up and around the esophagus (connects the throat to the stomach) to the heart. The veins in the esophagus expand and may rupture, causing significant bleeding.
Diagnosis and Liver Biopsy:
The physician may suspect cirrhosis from the patient’s medical history and physical examination. In addition, certain blood tests or ultrasound can provide helpful information. To make a definite diagnosis, however, a liver biopsy (tissue sample) may be necessary. This is performed by anesthetizing the skin and inserting a thin needle into the liver. A specimen of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.
What is the Course of Cirrhosis?
When cirrhosis is diagnosed, the patient and physician begin a plan of action designed to preserve the remaining liver cells and correct the complications mentioned above. By following this plan, many patients can lead long, productive lives.
Treatment:
Often, the only required treatment for cirrhosis is removing the offending cause:
*Alcoholic patients must permanently stop consuming alcohol.
*Diabetics should work closely with their physicians to control their blood sugar
*When iron is being retained in the body, having blood drawn frequently can eliminate large amounts of iron.
*Medicines that modulate the immune system can treat autoimmune hepatitis and prevent potential complications such as cirrhosis.
*Restricting salt ad using fluid pills (diuretics) reduce
*Toxins and drugs that damages the liver must be avoided.
*Using certain laxatives or antibiotics can improve changes in mental function.
*Bleeding veins in the esophagus can be closed with small rubber bands.
*Ursodiol (Actigall) and other drugs may be helpful in treating primary biliary cirrhosis.
What causes Cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis can be caused by many things including:
*Alcohol: excess alcohol use is one of the most common causes of cirrhosis.
*Fatty liver disease: this is often associated with diabetes but can develop in people without diabetes as well.
*Chronic viral hepatitis: Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and perhaps other viruses can infect and damage the liver, eventually causing cirrhosis.
*Chronic bile duct blockage: this condition can occur at birth or develop later in life and the causes remain unknown. The two most common blockages are primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is often associated with Ulcerative Colitis, a chronic ulcerative condition of the colon.
*Abnormal storage of copper (Wilson’s Disease) or iron (Hemochromatosis): these metals are present in all body cells. When abnormal amounts of them accumulate in the liver, scarring and cirrhosis may develop.
*Drugs and Toxins: prolonged exposure to certain chemicals or drugs can scar the liver.
*Autoimmune Hepatitis: this chronic inflammation occurs when the body’s protective antibodies and white cells don’t recognize the liver as part of the body’s own tissue. The antibodies and cells attack the liver cells as though they were foreign cells.
*Cystic Fibrosis: thicken mucus secretions in patients with this inherited disorder can block the bile ducts, leading to swelling, inflammation and eventually scarring.
*Alpha 1 antitypsin deficiency: an inherited absence of a specific enzyme in the liver.
Liver Transplant:
Liver transplantation may be an option for certain patients with severe cirrhosis.
Prevention:
Most cirrhosis is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, fatty liver disease or hepatitis viruses. To reduce the risk of cirrhosis, limit alcohol consumption to no more than 1 or 2 drinks per day. There is a vaccine against Hepatitis B recommended for children and certain high-risk groups such as: health care professionals, persons traveling to Third World countries, homosexual men, intravenous drug users and prosititues.
Summary:
Cirrhosis of the liver is a common disorder that has many causes. With early diagnosis, much can be done to prevent serious complications. Treatments depend on the cause of the liver injury and what complications are present. Ongoing medical research could provide advances in treating cirrhosis in the future.
Disclaimer: This information was taken a pamphlet from GI Supply and I give them full credit for this information. Please check out their website http://www.gi-supply.com for more information.
Natural gas is a clean burning and safe fuel for appliances like your heater, stove, hot water heater, gas dryer and more. Be sure to maintain this equipment so it operates safely. And remember, don’t store flammables like trash, paint, paper products or gasoline near them because they could ignite and start a fire. Watch and share our flammables safety video at pseg.com/GasSafety.
Protect the ones you love. Learn more at pseg.com/GasSafety.
*PSE&G is committed to your safety.
*Be sure to properly store flammables.
Disclaimer: This information taken directly from the PSE&G pamphlet and I give them full credit for it.
PSE&G: Protect the ones you love. Important Natural Gas Safety Information.
Educate your family about Natural Gas Leaks.
Natural gas is a clean and efficient fuel source used safely in millions of American homes and businesses. But as with any flammable material, leaks that do occur can be dangerous. PSE&G wants you to be fully aware of how to detect a gas leak and what to do if you suspect a leak in or around your home.
What to do in case of a leak:
Smell:
Don’t take any chances. If you think you smell a gas leak or see other signs, assume it is a leak.
Leave:
Leave you home immediately and get as far away as you can. If you notice the odor outside, leave the area where you suspect the leak is coming from.
Call:
Once you are in a safe environment-at least 350 feet away from the suspected gas leak area-call 911 or PSE&G at 1-800-880-PSEG (7734).
Protect Your Family Against Carbon Monoxide
What is Carbon Monoxide?
You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide (CO). Small amounts of CO are in the air whenever fuel (such as oil, gas or coal) is burned. These amounts are usually not harmful. However, when fuel-burning appliances and equipment are not working properly, too much CO can build up in the air and cause CO poisoning.
Symptoms of CO poisoning:
Symptoms can occur immediately or gradually after long-term exposure.
Headache, Dizziness, Weakness, Nausea, Vomiting and Confusion
What to do:
*If you think high levels of CO are in your home, go outside.
*If there is a medical emergency, such as someone falling unconscious, take the person outside to fresh air and call 911.
*Then call PSE&G emergency service line at 1-800-880-PSEG (7734). Wait outside until help arrives.
How to prevent CO Poisoning:
*Install Carbon Monoxide detectors as protection in every area of your house. Regularly check the batteries.
*Make sure that all fuel-burning appliances are maintained and are operating properly.
*Do not allow vehicles or any gasoline-powered engine to idle in a garage or enclosed space. CO can drift inside and create a hazardous situation.
How to know if there is a leak:
Because natural gas is odorless and colorless, a distinctive odor, like rotten eggs is added to it to help in the detection of leaks. Make sure everyone in your home is familiar with this odor.
There are reliable ways to detect a gas leak:
*Hearing a hissing sound
*Seeing bubbling in puddles
*Smelling the odor of rotten eggs
PSE&G: A Commitment to Safety:
PSE&G is deeply committed to the safety of our customers, our employees and the communities we serve. As your natural gas provider, we want to make sure you are prepared in the event of a gas emergency.
Share this brochure with everyone in your household. And keep it in a handy place to refer to quickly if you suspect a problem.
Disclaimer: I received this information in the mail from a PSE&G pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. Please call PSE&G for more information and if you smell gas in the house call 911!
Caring for a sick loved one shouldn’t mean losing your pay. Do you care for a parent, spouse, sibling, child, in law, grandparent, grandchild, blood relative or someone with whom you have a family like relationship?
Here is what you need you need to know about New Jersey’s newly expanded Family Leave Insurance Program:
Working family caregivers can apply for wage replacement benefits during unpaid time off from work to care for a loved one with a serious health condition.
The maximum wage replacement has increased from $650.00 to $881.00 per week.
The period to receive benefits while caring for a loved one has doubled to 12 weeks.
Job protection is now provided for workers at businesses with 30 or more employers.
Caring for a loved one who has been exposed or diagnosed with a communicable disease, including COVID-19 is now covered.
I love caregivers!
Learn more at aarp.org/njcaregiving
Apply online at myleavebenefits.nj.gov or call (609) 292-7060.
Through the summer, many of us take to the outdoors to get fresh air and exercise while maintaining social-distancing rules. But as the summer temperatures rise, so too does the danger of heat exhaustion when working out outdoors.
The Heat of the Moment:
Heat exhaustion happens when your body overheats. Common symptoms include:
Headache, Dizziness/Fainting, Cold, pale and clammy skin, body aches or muscle cramps, Rapid, weak pulse, tiredness/weakness, nausea or vomiting
The Safe Outdoors:
When staying active outdoors this summer, remember these seven tips to stay safe:
Stay hydrated: drink plenty of fluids to maintain a normal body temperature.
Stay indoors during peak sun hours: between 10:00am-4:00pm. If possible, schedule your outdoor activities in the early morning or evening.
Wear light-colored, lightweight and loose-fitting clothing: dark tight-fitting clothing traps heat; keeping your body from cooling properly.
Always use sunscreen: sunburn can dehydrate you and keep your body from cooling down. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and apply sunscreen of SPF 30 minutes before going out. Then reapply according to directions on the package. Products labeled or UVA/UVB work best.
Understand your individual risk: certain medications (beta blockers, diuretics and antihistamines for example) increase the risk of heat exhaustion. In addition, frequently check on those at highest risk for heat-related death, such as elderly, disabled people or homebound people. Check on children and pets frequently as they can’t always communicate when something is wrong.
Stay informed: check local news for extreme heat warnings. Avoid outdoor activities during these times.
Safely wear a mask: when wearing a mask outdoors in high temperatures, choose a breathable material like light-colored cotton, for your face covering. Also have multiple face coverings on hand, in case your first becomes damp from sweat.
Turn it down:
If you experience any symptoms of heat exhaustion, stop what you’re doing and move to a cooler place. If symptoms persist, it’s time to call your doctor. When not treated promptly, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition that happens when the core body temperature rise above 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
For more tips for working out safely at HMHforU.org/Exercise.
Disclaimer: this article comes from the June 2020 issue of AARP and I give the publication full credit for the information. Please be careful when going outside and cover up.
bergencountycaregiver 