Patients Helping Patients With Kidney Disease


Patients Helping Patients With Kidney Disease
(NewsUSA) - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one out of every six adults in the United States is living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). If you are battling this disease or caring for someone who has it, help and support are just a phone call away. The Renal Support Network (RSN) offers a unique program called the RSN HOPEline, a patient-run, toll-free telephone service that specializes in patient-to-patient support for people diagnosed with CKD and those who care for them.
Callers gain valuable insights from speaking to someone who understands -- a knowledgeable patient who has learned to live successfully with the illness. RSN HOPEline operators share their experiences and impart strength and hope. RSN is a nonprofit, patient-focused, patient-run organization that provides non-medical services to those affected by CKD.
For more information, visit RSNhope.org or call RSN HOPEline at 1-800-579-1970 (English) or 1-800-780-4238 (Spanish).

Will Dairy Boost Your Weight-Loss Resolution?


Will Dairy Boost Your Weight-Loss Resolution?
(NewsUSA) - If weight loss and dieting are on your New Year's resolution agenda, an unlikely food group may be the help you need.
Consuming dairy products as part of your daily diet can help keep weight down, according to several studies. Findings in the Journal of Nutrition demonstrated that higher-protein, high-dairy diets shaved off belly fat and increased lean muscle.
"One hundred percent of the weight lost in the higher-protein, high-dairy group was fat. And the participants gained muscle mass, which is a major change in body composition," says Andrea Josse, lead author of the study and a graduate student in the Department of Kinesiology at McMaster University.
In addition, a Harvard study, which suggests that the food quality is more important than its calorie count, found that eating specific high-quality foods was linked with less weight gain over time. Its data showed that the more daily servings people ate of fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and yogurt, the less weight they gained. In fact, the research found that each extra daily serving of yogurt prevented 0.82 of a pound of weight gain.
The Nutrition and Metabolism journal reported a study in which participants who consumed three or more servings of dairy a day after weight loss were able to eat more calories without gaining weight than those who didn't consume dairy.
Milk is nutritionally unique in that it is a great source of nine essential nutrients: calcium, potassium, phosphorus, protein, vitamins A, D and B12, riboflavin and niacin. It provides three of the five "nutrients of concern" that children do not get enough of: calcium, magnesium and potassium.
By combining a high intake of nutrient-rich dairy with regular physical activity, it won't even feel like you're trying to lose weight.
"However, as with any diet, you must be realistic. Results take time, so first commit to getting through January to establish a real routine," says Alyssa Greenstein, a registered dietitian with the Dairy Council of Florida.
According to a National Health and Nutrition survey, 86 percent of women and 76 percent of men fail to meet the recommended dairy intake of three servings each day. That means the majority of Americans don't have satisfactory levels of essential nutrients like potassium, zinc, calcium and folate. These levels plummet when dieters attempt to trim calories by purging dairy.
Learn more about the benefits of dairy at www.floridamilk.com.

U.S. pets getting sicker; decline in vet visits blamed




(ARA) - When Michele Sebesto, of Staten Island, N.Y., adopted JC 10 years ago, she said the chihuahua was an invaluable source of comfort. As a New Yorker, she'd just gone through the 9/11 attacks, and the two developed a special bond. Unfortunately, JC had some minor but persistent health problems.

About twice a year, JC would get a urinary tract infection. During an annual preventive care appointment when JC was about 4, Sebesto's veterinarian took an X-ray and made a startling discovery.

"When she showed me the X-ray, I couldn't believe it. The kidney stone was the size of a grape, which is pretty big for a chihuahua," Sebesto says. "My veterinarian did surgery to remove it, and I was pleasantly surprised at how fast JC bounced back."

After the surgery, JC was put on a special diet, and the dog, now 10, sees the veterinarian for regular checkups and has been healthy and free of urinary tract infections since the surgery.

Unfortunately, Sebesto is part of a shrinking population in the United States. Recent studies show that while the number of pets in America is increasing, fewer pet owners are bringing their pets in for regular checkups, and this could be causing a rise in preventable diseases.

"Despite the ever-increasing emotional bond we have with our pets, research shows pets are getting less preventive health care," says Dr. Rene A. Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). "At the same time, illnesses that are totally preventable, such as dental infections, ear infections, diabetes, intestinal worms and heartworms, are increasing."

Troubling trends
AVMA research shows that veterinary visits for cats and dogs have been on the decline for at least a decade. The average number of annual veterinary visits dropped between 2001 and 2006 from two visits a year for dogs to 1.5 and from one visit per year for cats to 0.7 visits, according to the AVMA's 2007 U.S. Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook.

Perhaps it shouldn't be a surprise that, while veterinary care appointments have been declining, incidents of pet diseases have increased. In particular, totally preventable diseases are on the increase. The Banfield Pet Hospital's State of Pet Health 2011 Report found that since 2006 flea infestations were up in dogs by 16 percent and 12 percent in cats, diabetes increased 32 percent in dogs and 16 percent in cats, and hookworm infections in dogs were up 30 percent and 3.5 percent in cats.

An ounce of prevention
The vast majority of pet owners care deeply about their pet's health, says Carlson. In fact 59 percent of dog owners and 53 percent of cat owners say they would, in fact, take their pets to the veterinarian more often if they thought it would help their pet live longer, according to the Veterinary Care Usage Study.

"This study shows us that pet owners really do care about their pet's health and well-being, but they may not correlate the importance of regular checkups with maintaining health," Carlson says. "Pet owners shouldn't wait until a pet is sick to take it to the veterinarian, because pets, particularly cats, will often hide the symptoms of illness when they are sick. So your pet may be sick or in a great deal of pain and it would be very difficult for you to know."

Pets - excluding tortoises and some exotic birds - have much shorter lifespans than humans, and, as a result, diseases can develop more quickly. An annual checkup for dogs and cats is like a person going to see their doctor once every seven years. What's more, pets with existing health problems, like obesity, are at an even greater risk of developing a chronic condition.

"It is estimated that 40 percent of dogs and cats are obese. That's 54 million dogs and cats. Obesity can result in life-threatening illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis," Dr. Carlson says. With so much information now available on the Internet, it is estimated that about 40 percent of pet owners turn to the Internet before their veterinarian for pet health care information. But are they getting the right information from credible sources?

"While some websites may provide valuable background information on diseases, many do not. And relying on what may be misinformation may delay the inevitable visit to the veterinarian. By the time the owner finally gives up on what might likely be incorrect information from an untrained source or advice from other pet owners in a chat room, the pet may be twice as sick or the cure may be many times more difficult or costly. Your pet's veterinarian is the best source for advice on how you can keep your pets healthy, happy and with your family for a lifetime," Carlson says.

Sebesto agrees.

"I think that when you own an animal, you have to make a commitment to provide them with veterinary care," Sebesto says. "I take my dog into the veterinarian every year."

For more information, visit www.avma.org/ounceofprevention.

Five ways to avoid costly repetitive stress injuries



(ARA) - Some may think that injuries in the workplace only happen to those who work high-intensity jobs like construction workers, firefighters or police officers. But you're probably unaware that sitting at your computer and typing - something you do every day - can leave you at risk for significant pain and discomfort.

Repetitive stress injuries (RSI) stem from prolonged, repetitive, forceful or awkward movements. If you thought that clicking your mouse or typing at a computer keyboard were harmless activities, think again. RSI can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful nerve injury. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include tingling or numbness in the hands and fingers, pain that radiates from the hand up the forearm, weakness in the affected side and sometimes the tendency to drop objects. Left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome sufferers often resort to surgery, which is successful in about 50 percent of cases.

These injuries have lead to increased absenteeism, but companies have found ways to reduce that by studying ergonomics, which looks at how people use the tools crucial to their jobs. Employers have done that for good reason: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, RSI is the nation's most common and costly occupational health problem, affecting hundreds of thousands of American workers, and costing more than $20 billion a year in workers' compensation.

If you are suffering from this type of injury, it can be detrimental to your ability to work.  Additionally, during an uncertain economy, people become anxious about taking time off to properly recover. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent RSI.

1. Make sure you are sitting properly at your desk. Short of getting an ergonomically correct chair for your desk, there are things you can do without spending a lot of money. The best sitting posture brings your knees at or above hip level. Add a foot rest to your desk setup to help accomplish this.

2. Add support for your wrists. Adding a wrist cushion for your mouse can help your hand stay at an appropriate angle when maneuvering your mouse.

3. Change your keyboard. It may look funny, but the keyboards that are split in the middle are most effective to keeping your wrists at the correct angle when typing. When you add a keyboard wrist cushion, you can make sure you stay ahead of any potential problems from carpal tunnel or RSI. One company, IMAK, makes mouse and keyboard cushions using ergoBeads, which can massage your wrists while typing or using your mouse. The design conforms to your keyboard and mouse, while completely supporting your wrist and forearm in an ergonomically correct position. This reduces stress in your hands, wrists and arms. Learn more at www.imakproducts.com.

4. Move your computer screen. If you find yourself lurching to see your monitor, move it forward. Make sure your screen is at eye-level - a stand or phonebook underneath can add needed height.

5. Lower your keyboard. Most likely, your desk is at a good height for writing, but not necessarily optimal for typing. Add a keyboard tray under your desk to place your keyboard in an ergonomically appropriate place.

With a few easy steps, you can make your workspace ergonomically correct to solve potentially debilitating and costly injuries.

Answers to parents' common questions about their growing child



(ARA) - Newborn or tween, toddler or teen, a child's developmental progress is always a source of questions for parents. Each stage of life comes with its own unique set of joys and challenges, and parents are always looking for information that can help them guide their children through every phase.

Plenty of books provide parents with information on birth, infancy and toddlerhood. However, that time period just after toddler years but before they start school full-time is much more loosely defined. Parents may be unsure of what to expect in terms of their child's growth and development, but realize their concerns usually don't warrant a call to their pediatrician.

"It's important for parents to be able to have their concerns addressed about their child's development," says pediatrician Jennifer Trachtenberg, chief pediatric officer for RealAge.com and a member of the GoodNites NiteLite Panel, a group of pediatricians and parenting experts. "Many of the things that parents worry about are perfectly normal for growing kids, and children will eventually outgrow these phases."

Here are three common developmental phases of children age 4 to 6, along with Dr. Trachtenberg's suggestions on how parents can support their child during this time:

Nighttime wetness

It's common for children to continue experiencing nighttime accidents for a few years after they've been successfully potty trained. Approximately 7 million kids age 4 and up experience bedwetting. Most kids will outgrow bedwetting as their bodies mature and bladders grow with the rest of their bodies. But if parents are worried, they should consult their pediatrician.

Parents can ease stressful nighttime accidents - and help keep sheets dry - with a few easy steps. Limit liquids at night, stick to a bedtime schedule and try using protection like GoodNites Underwear. Designed to protect children while lying down, GoodNites are more effective and absorbent than training pants. Parents can learn more and consult with the GoodNites NiteLite Panel at www.GoodNites.com.

Thumb-sucking

Sucking is instinctive for infants. It's a way to get nourishment and is comforting for babies and young children. Babies and toddlers often suck their thumbs, but most children outgrow the habit on their own around age 4 or 5, when they begin school.

If you're still worried, ask your pediatrician and they can help you decide if you need to take action. Treatment may include talking to your child about the side effects of thumb-sucking, including teeth movement and germs, starting a rewards system or providing a visual reminder like a bracelet or watch. Most of all, be patient, consistent and provide encouragement.

Speech development

Children's speech skills begin developing in infancy, long before they can actually talk. By the time they are 2 years old, most children can use two- or three-word phrases, name virtually everything around them and be understood by family members. At age 5, most children can easily be understood by strangers and can communicate complex concepts.

Parents may be concerned if their child mispronounces words or seems to struggle with expressing complex communications. Rest assured, it's probably just part of the process of growing up. As always, discuss serious concerns with a pediatrician, who may refer your child to a speech pathologist or an audiologist for testing.

"It's perfectly normal for parents to worry about developmental phases," says Dr. Trachtenberg. "Time, patience and some comforting tactics will usually help children continue to thrive as they outgrow common developmental issues."

Weight-loss surgery communication lacking in doctor's offices



(ARA) - An estimated 72 million adults currently are affected by obesity in the U.S. Yet, significant barriers are keeping adults affected by obesity and their primary care physicians from talking openly about bariatric, or weight loss, surgery.

Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment available for morbid obesity and can result in the improvement or complete resolution of obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea.

Yet, only one in 10 who meet the National Institutes of Health guidelines for bariatric surgery have had their doctor recommend it, according to a national survey sponsored by the Obesity Action Coalition and Ethicon Endo-Surgery.

The survey also found that health care professionals tend to underestimate patients' willingness to discuss their weight and their receptiveness to discuss bariatric surgery. Six in 10 physicians believe most individuals affected by obesity are too embarrassed to discuss their weight with a health care professional. However, more than four out of five reported they are not too embarrassed, suggesting the conversation would be welcomed.

"Health care professionals should be having detailed discussions with people suffering from obesity about all of their treatment options, including bariatric surgery," says Joe Nadglowski, president and CEO for Obesity Action Coalition. "These survey results highlight the need for increased dialogue between patients and physicians around obesity, a disease where treatment can effectively manage symptoms and prevent untimely deaths."

The survey also found that the top perceived drawback of bariatric surgery for individuals affected by obesity is the misplaced fear that it is dangerous (59 percent). Physicians share this concern, with eight of 10 reporting fear of surgery complications as one of the biggest barriers.

"As with any surgical procedure, there are risks. However, it is important to stress that bariatric surgery is considered a safe option for weight loss," says Dr. Christopher Still, director of the Geisinger Obesity Institute, medical director, Center for Nutrition and Weight Management, and OAC Board Member. "In fact, bariatric surgery is as safe or safer than many commonly performed procedures, such as gall bladder removal or hip replacement when performed at a Center of Excellence."

If you are considering weight loss surgery, talk to your doctor about risks, benefits and different options for surgery. Attending an informational seminar with a surgeon is an important step in deciding if bariatric surgery is right for you. For more information about bariatric surgeons and informational seminars in your area, visit www.REALIZE.com.

Information about the survey:

* Subjects defined as U.S. adults 18 and older who have a BMI of 35 or more with at least one obesity related comorbidity or BMI of 40 or more.
* PCPs and OB/GYNs were interviewed.
* Dr. Still is a consultant for Ethicon Endo-Surgery.
* Total number of hours was calculated by taking the average number of months spent seriously considering surgery divided by 12 months per year times 52 weeks per year times average number of hours per week.

Effective ways to manage stress in the workplace




(ARA) - From paltry paychecks to annoying coworkers, more than three quarters of Americans are stressing out about something related to their job, according to a new study.

The vast majority of Americans (77 percent) are stressed by at least one thing at work, finds the Harris Interactive-Everest College Work Stress Survey. The most common issues are: low pay, commuting, unreasonable workload and concern over being fired or laid off. But these are not the only issues American workers are facing - annoying coworkers also made the list, followed by difficulty with a boss, poor work-life balance and lack of opportunity for advancement.

"We've seen numerous surveys that confirm workplace stress has increased during the last several years," says Wendy Cullen, vice president of employer development for Everest College.

Concerns over low pay and job security are consistently one of the top stressors for Americans. In most regions of the U.S., 16 percent of Americans listed low pay as their top stressor, and concerns over job security were a close second. For example, 13 percent of college graduates ranked losing their job as the biggest stressor, which is in line with Americans without college degrees.

"One change we are seeing is that more and more Americans are pursuing careers in industries like health care, which offers more long-term stability." Switching careers or going back to school to gain access to a more secure or better paying career is one technique that many individuals use to deal with insecurity in the workplace.

How to deal with stress

"The impact of stress cannot be overstated," says Davis Brimberg, a Los Angeles-based psychologist who focuses on workplace issues. "Almost all psychological problems are worsened by stress. People of all occupations and income levels are greatly affected," he says. Workplace stress can have negative consequences on your performance at work, and your life.

There are a number of techniques for dealing with workplace stress. First, learn to recognize the symptoms - you may feel a constant sense of nervousness, which can often lead to feeling withdrawn, irritable or apathetic. Stress is also associated with physical problems, such as fatigue and muscle tension.

Physical exercise is also shown to help with stress management. Aerobic exercises have been shown to release mood-raising endorphins, so getting 30 minutes of exercise a day can actually help decrease your stress levels. It is also important to get enough sleep, which can help your body deal with the effects of stress throughout the day, and makes you better able to manage emotional swings.

There are also important strategies in your workplace that can help you deal with stress. Do not over-commit to non-essential tasks. Prioritize important tasks, and learn to delegate non-essential ones. Also, you can schedule regular breaks into your daily routine to allow yourself to get away from your workstation or office.

Additionally, Brimsburg suggests that getting help can be effective. "Counseling can be very helpful in relieving signs and symptoms of stress-related issues."

Easy nutrition tips for busy students


(ARA) - School-aged children have a lot on their plate with homework, after-school activities and family life. You want them to succeed, and a good way to start promoting that success is with a healthy meal plan.

Unfortunately, because families are involved in so many different activities, parents often have less time to focus on their children's nutrition. For the sake of convenience, many will resort to providing sugary cereals, fatty fast-food and empty-calorie snacks. These options are enabling childhood obesity and related health problems to rise at an alarming rate, and a number of national campaigns, such as Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign, have brought improving children's nutrition to the forefront of the American health discussion. With a few tips, parents can find quick and easy solutions for healthy meals and snacks that their kids will enjoy throughout the school year.

Breakfast is often said to be the most important meal of the day, but the rush to find book bags, get dressed and catch the school bus leaves little time to prepare a fresh homemade breakfast each morning. But you can avoid resorting to sugar-laden toaster pastries, cereals and other pre-packaged items and just as easily give your child a healthy start to the day. A whole fruit smoothie is a sweet way to give your children a boost of nutrients to help them stay focused and energized. Simply toss a combination of ice, fruits and even veggies into a Vitamix machine, and you can create an on-the-go power breakfast in seconds. These mighty blending machines are able to actually pulverize entire whole fruits and vegetables - stems, seeds and all - giving your child the full nutritional value of the produce. Vitamix offers hundreds of tasty, nutrient-dense recipes on its website and cookbooks, so your child is sure to find one he or she loves.

Sandwiches for a week
Although it may seem easier to hand your child lunch money, many children and young teens don't know how to make the best nutritional choices on their own. For those mornings when even making a simple sandwich seems too time-consuming, a little preparation can make a huge difference. When you do have some extra time, whether on a Sunday evening or after the kids go to bed, make a dozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, wrap them in individual plastic bags, and stick them in the freezer. They'll remain fresh, and you can toss them right into the lunch boxes. By the time lunch rolls around, the sandwiches will be defrosted and ready to eat. You might even use cookie cutters to create fun but healthy bite-size sandwiches that will thaw by lunchtime.

Salads: not only summer
Some of the staples of summer cookouts can be saving graces for parents during the school year. There are endless combinations of salads that can be refrigerated and easily scooped into small containers for portable lunches or snacks. Cut up a variety of your child's favorite fruits, sprinkle on some lemon juice to preserve, and refrigerate in a plastic storage container for a quick, healthy lunch side or after-school snack. Pasta salads can also be great options for the busy family - if you make a few healthy adjustments. Use whole grain pasta, plenty of crunchy vegetables and low-fat dressings and herbs for a healthy alternative to traditional high-fat recipes. You can also add lean protein such as tuna, chicken or tofu to make the salad more substantial. Refrigerate in a large plastic container, and you've got another quick and convenient solution for lunches and on-the-go snacks.

Happy trails
Kids need fuel to get through the school day, but sugar-packed snacks that are lacking in other nutrients won't provide the lasting energy they need. To help your child avoid an afternoon crash and also concentrate throughout the day, homemade trail mix is an easy, customizable solution. Traditional mixes usually include cereal, nuts and dried fruit, but you can easily adapt any recipe to best fit your kids' tastes. For a tropical twist, add dried pineapple, banana and mango. To satisfy a sweet tooth, yogurt-covered raisins are a healthy alternative to chocolate pieces. And for that child who can't get enough crunch, throw in some granola bites for a protein- and fiber-rich kick. Letting young kids help choose the ingredients and mix up the combination will create extra excitement and show them that healthy choices can taste great.

With a little preparation, you can help your child maintain a balanced diet despite your hectic schedules. These and other healthy tips will help students - and their parents - have a fun, productive school year.

Good nutrition important for eye health as you age


(ARA) - Poor vision has many causes and treatments, and as you grow older, you will likely experience some type of vision loss or reduction in visual performance.

For older adults, bright lights, glare while driving at night and even blindness can dramatically affect quality of life, but the treatment isn't just glasses or a stronger prescription - it's also nutrition and supplementation.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness for Americans older than 60, according to the American Optometric Association. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates 7.3 million people are at substantial risk for vision loss from AMD. Other estimates indicate that as our population continues to rapidly age, as many as one in three could be diagnosed with AMD in the next 20 years.

AMD deteriorates central vision, affecting everything from seeing faces clearly to literally having no central vision at all. Key risk factors for AMD are age, family history, smoking (past or present), low macular pigment, light skin and eyes, obesity and Caucasian women are also at slightly higher risk.

Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD) is a brief, non-intrusive exam performed by many optometrists throughout the country, which measures macular pigment in the back of the eye.

Think of macular pigment as "internal sunglasses" for the back of your eye - they absorb harmful blue light that can adversely affect eye health. Internal sunglasses protect the photoreceptors in the back of the eye - specifically the cones, which are responsible for central vision, color, sharpness and sensitivity to bright light, among others. Two key carotenoids, Zeaxanthin (zee-uh-zan-thin) and Lutein, comprise the internal sunglasses, which can become thin as we age, unable to block or absorb harmful blue light. In order to keep the internal sunglasses thick and dense, it is important to replenish Zeaxanthin, the predominant carotenoid in the area where the concentration of cones is the highest.

Zeaxanthin is very scarce in the average daily diet, and vegetables like kale, corn, collard greens, spinach, and peppers naturally provide nutrients to help maintain macular health, but supplementation is often necessary. For example, one would have to eat approximately 20 ears of corn to get a recommended dosage of 8 to 10 milligrams of natural dietary Zeaxanthin per day.

Supplements like the EyePromise brand of eye vitamins help rebuild macular pigment through unique nutritional formulas that feature the highest levels of all natural Zeaxanthin, derived from paprika. In addition to protection, Zeaxanthin and Lutein can improve visual performance, reduce glare issues and sensitivity to bright light, as well as improve color intensity and contrast sensitivity.

"Too often we concentrate our diets on weight, blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, but ignore one of the most important organs in our bodies - our eyes," says Dr. Dennis Giehart, founder of Zeavision. "An abundance of science has found low macular pigment puts people at risk for AMD, and increasing Zeaxanthin in the diet can help improve macular pigment for improved visual performance."

Vision shouldn't be something you take for granted as you age. Take care of your eyes with proper nutrition and supplementation if necessary, and ask your eye care professional about having your macular pigment measured to maintain your central vision.

Decipher a headache's clues to determine most effective treatment options



(ARA) - Nothing ruins a perfectly fine day quite like a headache. The pain can be impeding, disorienting and sometimes even nauseating. Roughly 45 million Americans suffer from recurring headaches, according to the National Headache Foundation. However, not all headaches are created equal. There are several different types, each with varying symptoms. Understanding different headache causes and treatments can help individuals be prepared.

Tension headaches, otherwise known as "stress" headaches, are the most common among adults. Symptoms include mild to moderate pain across the forehead or on the sides and back of the head and neck. This headache is often accompanied by a feeling of pressure or tightness. Tension headaches can be triggered by a wide range of factors, such as stress, fatigue, anxiety, hunger or poor posture. The most effective way to treat a tension headache is to take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever and rest until the symptoms subside.

Migraine headache symptoms may involve moderate to severe pain. Patients who have sensitivity to light and sound may also experience nausea and dizziness. Migraine pain is often described as pounding or throbbing and is usually one-sided, lasting between four hours and three days. Unfortunately for migraine sufferers, these headaches are often hereditary and recurring. An OTC analgesic combination can be used as a first-line treatment, but this is most effective when used at or near the onset of a headache, or in conjunction with a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of migraines.

Cluster headaches are another variation, and are the least common. Cluster headaches occur more often in men, and happen several times a day, at the same time of day, for a period of time lasting five minutes to an hour. These headaches can cycle for up to a month or longer. This intense pain can be described as a burning or piercing feeling in or around the eye on one side of the head. The patient may also experience eyelid swelling, redness and tearing on one side. Those who suffer from cluster headaches often feel they cannot sit still and will pace during an attack. As with migraines, there are specific medical treatments available to decrease the duration and severity of cluster headaches.

Sinus headaches occur when a person's sinus passages become inflamed or clogged, causing a feeling of pressure in the face. People often confuse tension or migraine headaches with sinus headaches, as the symptoms overlap. A key difference is that these headaches are usually accompanied by other sinus-related symptoms, such as stuffiness, fever, cough and sore throat. To treat a sinus headache, OTC pain relievers can be used to decrease the pain, while an OTC decongestant can help reduce nasal passage swelling.

"There are a number of very effective over-the-counter first-line treatments available to address the symptoms of headaches," says Dr. Gary Ruoff, a physician certified in headache management and the author of numerous articles on headaches and pain management.  "In fact, I recommend many of the 'store-brand' pain relievers sold at leading retailers and pharmacies, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These products are approved by the FDA and use the exact same active ingredients, but cost significantly less than the brand names."

Allegan, Mich.-based Perrigo is a pharmaceutical company that manufactures and distributes most of the over-the-counter medications found under store-brand labels at leading national retailers, grocers and pharmacies. According to Perrigo, these products are the primary treatments available over-the-counter for tension, migraine and sinus headaches:

* Pain relievers: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin
* Migraine relief: acetaminophen, aspirin and caffeine combination pills
* Decongestants: pseudoephedrine, oxymetazoline

"If you continue to experience headaches of any type for any prolonged period of time, I suggest following up with your doctor so he or she may evaluate you for any other underlying conditions and suggest the best course of treatment for your situation," Ruoff says.

Five hot fitness tips for cold weather



(ARA) - Finding time for exercise during the hectic holiday months can be challenging. For many people, a fitness regime gets tossed out with the wrapping paper. This makes getting back into a consistent exercise routine for the New Year an essential but difficult battle. And during dark winter months, fewer daylight hours and cooler temperatures can decrease motivation for even the most dedicated fitness buffs.

Despite discouraging factors during the winter, Americans should continue to strive to get back on track with moderate physical activity. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, most adults need at least 30 minutes of exercise five days each week to stay healthy. Here are five tips to help you get in gear and stay on the path to good health this winter.

* Sneak in fitness activities
Biking is a fun way to get a workout, without feeling like you are working out. Bicycle commuting burns an average of 540 calories per hour. "Half of all trips we make are three miles or less, so biking instead of driving for short trips is a great way to get your daily exercise," says Tim Blumenthal, director of PeopleForBikes.org.

* Find a partner
Exercising with someone else will help keep you committed to physical activity. Studies show people who work out with a friend are more likely to exercise consistently. Walk with a neighbor or join a group bike ride organized by a bike store or local club.

* Bundle up
Investing in quality winter gear will keep you ready for many different weather conditions. Dress in layers and remove clothing as you warm up. Look for light, breathable fabric that isn't too bulky. Also, don't forget to adequately cover your hands and feet.

* Add variety
Mixing exercise activities will keep your body and your brain from getting bored. If you normally run or walk, try alternative cardio workouts. If you live in an area with snow, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing can effectively burn calories. In mild climates, try riding your bike up a steep hill several times in a row: now that's a workout.

* Embrace nature
Consider trading your indoor treadmill for outdoor recreation. A study conducted by the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry found exercising in natural environments was associated with greater feelings of revitalization, increased energy and positive engagement. Although it can be hard to get motivated when it's chilly outside, the fresh air will provide a better workout.

These tips will help you jump common winter exercise barriers. Keeping off those extra pounds during the winter will prepare you well for spring and swimsuit season. And, even more important, staying active during the winter will help you feel your best all year round.

Put your mental health first during the holidays

(ARA) - The holiday season is a chance to reconnect with friends, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy the hustle and bustle of gift shopping. For the millions of Americans living with bipolar disorder, a manic (high) or depressive (low) episode may occur at any time and the holidays can be a time to focus on themselves and managing the condition going into the New Year.

People living with bipolar disorder, a lifelong condition, may experience extreme changes in mood, thought, and behavior. Their mood may alternate between episodes of mania and depression. What's important to know, particularly given that nearly half of U.S. adults will develop a mental illness during their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is that talking with a health care professional can help a person living with the condition find appropriate medication, therapy, and support groups.

The hustle and bustle of the season may make it difficult to stay on track and follow through with refilling necessary prescriptions, making appointments, and taking time out to relax. During busy times like the holiday season, people with bipolar disorder should be sure to take time to focus on themselves and the importance of managing their condition.

"I've seen firsthand how dealing with the holidays can have a negative impact on mental health, and it doesn't have to be that way for those suffering from bipolar disorder," says Dr Lisa Perdue, director of the Intensive Behavioral Service at Terrell State Hospital in Terrell, Texas. "There is a lot of pressure to make every holiday season the biggest or the best. People with bipolar disorder need to make their health a priority. That can mean saying "no" in order to stay on track with doctor's appointments, or skipping a party to relax and enjoy 'me' time."

People living with bipolar disorder should talk to their doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan. TakeonDepression.com, a site sponsored by AstraZeneca, contains helpful resources to support, educate, and inspire those affected by bipolar disorder, and to encourage them to have an open, honest conversation with their doctor.

In addition to information, the site offers tools such as a mood-tracking diary to help recognize symptoms, manage a treatment plan, and have more productive conversations with a doctor. It also features inspiring true stories from people on how they successfully manage their symptoms.

For more information about bipolar disorder and helpful resources, visit www.TakeonDepression.com.

Dr Lisa Perdue was compensated as a spokesperson by AstraZeneca.

Tips to prevent illness this winter


Tips to prevent illness this winter
(ARA) - The colder winter months are notorious for sniffling noses, deep coughs, achy bodies and fevers. It's cold and flu season, which means it's a good time to reduce your exposure to germs and stock up on supplies that will help you escape any illnesses, or at least help you tolerate any symptoms.

Preventive care is key to avoiding the traditional winter illnesses of cold and flu. Here are some tips to keep those icky germs at bay:

* Hand washing is very important, so stock up on soap and antibacterial cleansers and have them ready by every sink in your house. Also consider using disposable towels to reduce the potential for germs to transfer between family members.

* Starting off healthy can help you be strong against invading viruses. You might be in need of extra fortification like fish oil or calcium, so ask your doctor about adding a vitamin regimen to your diet.

* Get plenty of sleep. A lack of sleep can wear down your energy and immune system, leaving you more susceptible to viruses and germs. Make sure you have a comfortable pillow so you don't wake up sore or spend the night tossing and turning. And if you struggle with letting your brain relax, a white noise machine or fan running on the lowest setting can calm you down.

* Keep the house clean. Wash door handles, the phone and even the handles on your appliances frequently to avoid the transfer of germs. Keep a good supply of sanitizing cleaners on hand to help speed up the cleaning process.

* Get the flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone over the age of 6 months gets a flu shot. The nasal spray flu vaccine is also now available for people who qualify.

As you're making a list of all the supplies you'll need to help prevent your family members from getting sick, make sure you look for discounts and coupon codes online at sites like CouponHeaven.com. Many stores listed on this time and money saving site offer discounts on vitamins, health supplements, cleaning supplies and even pillows, which in the long run can save you a good amount of money.

If you do end up catching a virus, stay home from work to prevent the virus from spreading to your coworkers, and try to get plenty of sleep and liquids to help build your strength back up.

Don't let the seasonal flu or cold keep you from enjoying the winter months this year. Spend your time discussing the fun you had sledding down a tubing hill or cross country skiing through the quiet countryside - rather than talking about fevers, aches and pains.