FOR YOUR HEALTH: Understanding COPD

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COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a term used to describe chronic lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Often, COPD is caused by inhaling pollutants, which includes tobacco smoking and second-hand smoke, but other causes of COPD can be fumes, chemicals and dust found in work environments, and genetics.

Two of the most common conditions of COPD include chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Chronic bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a condition where your airways are inflamed. This causes mucus to build up, which can lead to symptoms including:

Frequent coughing or cough that produces a lot of mucus.

Wheezing

  • A whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe.
  • Shortness of breath, especially with physical activity.
  • Tightness in your chest.

Emphysema

In emphysema, the walls between many of the air sacs in the lungs are damaged, causing the air sacs to lose their shape. The damage can also destroy the walls of the air sacs, leading to fewer and larger air sacs instead of many tiny ones. This makes it difficult to breathe.

Symptoms of COPD

Often, people may not recognize the symptoms of COPD until the disease has progressed. COPD can decrease the flow of air going in and out of your lungs, making it hard for you to breathe. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but these are the most common:

Increased shortness of breath/breathlessness. Frequent coughing (with and without mucus), wheezing, tightness in the chest. Unusual tiredness. COPD affects many people – chronic lower respiratory diseases, including COPD, are a leading cause of death in the United States.

If you think you are experiencing any of these COPD symptoms, discuss them with your doctor.

COPD causes and risk factors can vary from person to person, but can include: Smoking, exposure to air pollution, breathing secondhand smoke, working with chemicals, dust, and fumes, a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, and a history of childhood respiratory infections.

The 4 Stages of COPD

A COPD diagnosis and assessments by your doctor can also help identify how far your COPD has progressed and what grade/severity you are. How fast COPD progresses can vary from person to person.

COPD can be classified into 1 of 4 grades based on your ability to breathe. This is determined by specific lung function tests.

Each grade is determined by a calculation taking into account the results of two breathing tests (spirometry), as well as other factors, which include your age, sex, and ethnicity.

The higher the grade (grade 4 being the highest), the more advanced your COPD is.

Grade 1

Severity of airflow obstruction: ≥80 percent of normal percent predicted FEV1.

Mild: Commonly, in this stage, COPD causes mild symptoms, and some patients have shortness of breath.

Grade 2

Severity of airflow obstruction: 50 to 79 percent of normal percent predicted FEV1.

Moderate: Many may seek help for COPD symptoms like shortness of breath.

Grade 3

Severity of airflow obstruction: 30 to 49 percent of normal percent predicted FEV1.

Severe: Typically, in this stage, COPD symptoms worsen and flare-ups may be more frequent.

Grade 4

Severity of airflow obstruction: <30 percent of normal percent predicted FEV1.

Very severe: This is known as the most severe stage of COPD.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Can fiber help you lose weight?

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Dietitian answers 5 key questions

When it comes to weight loss, many people track their macros — i.e., their proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. However, as a humble nutrient, fiber is often overlooked. But what if this is the missing ingredient to weight loss success? Can fiber supplements replace whole foods? In this podcast, a nutritionist answers readers’ questions about fiber and more.

Nowadays, the internet is awash with articles, charts, and recipes centered around eating more protein — anything from a 30-gram-protein breakfast to high-protein drinks and more — to naturally lose weight. And although the key to achieving good weight loss results is indeed a higher protein intake, there is a nutrient that is often overlooked: fiber.

Fiber is crucial not only for digestive functioning but overall health. Studies have shown it can lower LDL cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and protect against heart disease. Newer research also shows that fiber may promote weight loss and enhance sensitivity to insulin.

However, statistics show that less than 5 percent of Americans realistically meet their recommended daily fiber intake, which is on average up to 34 grams (g)Trusted Source for adult men and about 28 g for adult women. So, how can we eat more fiber?

What is fiber, and why is it important for our bodies? How can we tell whether we are eating enough fiber? Is it right to call fiber nature’s Ozempic?

Let’s differentiate between soluble and insoluble fiber while discussing the ideal daily intake for different people. We’ll also touch on how fiber supplements like psyllium husk compare with whole foods, weighing their benefits for our well-being. We will also look at how fiber plays a crucial role in fighting insulin resistance and its potential role in supporting weight management goals.

To discuss this and more is registered dietitian Lisa Valente, MS, RD. Lisa holds a Master of Science in nutrition communications from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, and she completed her dietetic internship at Massachusetts General Hospital.

What are the best high-fiber foods?

After the podcast recording, for the readers of MNT, we also asked Lisa what her top favorite high fiber foods were.

“I will say frozen berries, fresh too, but frozen berries tend to be a little bit higher in fiber for a fruit. And when you buy them frozen, they’re just more affordable and easier to have on hand. [T]hey don’t go bad on you in a day — so, you can add those to smoothies or mix them into oatmeal or yogurt,” she said.

Lisa said her second choice would be whole wheat pasta and shared a fun fact about fiber.

“Brown rice only has one gram more of fiber than white rice, but whole wheat pasta has significantly more than white pasta. [It creates] like this nice fiber-rich carbohydrate base to your dinner to add some vegetables or protein to,” she said.

Her third choice was chia seeds.

“I sprinkle them on oatmeal, but you can also make chia seed pudding where you soak them with some milk or non-dairy milk and add a little bit of fruit. They’re very filling and they not only have fiber, but they also have omega-3 and a little bit of protein. So I feel like they’re sort of this tiny but mighty little seed where you can check off a lot of nutrition boxes at once. So if I had to pick three, that’s a good starting place for me,” she told us.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Living Longer? Great! Now Stay Healthier, Too

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An additional dose of the 2024/2025 COVID-19 vaccine six months after the first dose adds a key layer of protection against severe illness for older Americans and people with weakened immune systems.

(NAPSI)—Americans are living nearly a decade longer than they were in the 1970s. That’s great news – but staying healthy into your 80s and beyond requires extra care and an eye towards prevention. The protection provided by vaccines plays a key role in helping keep you healthy and preventing severe illness and potential long-term complications, especially for older adults and individuals with immunocompromised conditions.

As people age, their immune system naturally weakens – it becomes slower at recognizing and fighting off viruses. At the same time, lungs become more vulnerable, and chronic conditions such as heart disease or diabetes can make it harder to recover from illnesses such as COVID-19. Similarly, people of all ages with weakened immune systems – whether from certain health conditions or medications – face a higher risk of severe illness because their bodies also struggle to mount a strong defense. In both cases, a reduced ability to fight infectious respiratory disease increases the risk of serious complications and hospitalization.

Vaccines Help Keep You Healthy

That’s why staying up to date on vaccines – especially for COVID-19 and other infectious respiratory illnesses like flu, measles, pertussis, pneumococcal disease, and RSV – is essential as we head into spring and summer. Vaccination helps boost our body’s immune response and provides an added layer of protection when traveling and gathering with friends and family. In fact, according to data from the 2024/2025 season, COVID-19 vaccination was associated with:

• A 45 percent lower risk of hospitalization from COVID-19 for older adults
• A 40% lower risk of hospitalization from COVID-19 for older adults with weakened immune systems
• A 33% lower risk of emergency department or urgent care visits from COVID-19 among adults 18 and older

Why It Matters Now

COVID-19 isn’t just a seasonal concern—it can surge at any time of the year, including during the spring and summer. Early in the pandemic, spikes were often associated with colder months, but we now know that outbreaks can occur during any season because the virus keeps changing so it can spread more easily from person to person. This makes staying up to date on vaccination even more important.

Spring into Summer with an Extra Layer of Protection

Immunity from previous doses can wane over time, leaving individuals—especially those 65 and older or with a weakened immune system—more vulnerable to severe illness. If you fall into one of these groups, it’s recommended that you receive another dose of the 2024/2025 COVID-19 vaccine six months after your first dose to help maintain protection.
Talk to your healthcare provider to learn whether you should get another dose of the latest COVID-19 vaccine so you can enjoy time with family, travel, and everything else this season brings.
Learn more at: CVEEP.org/stayprotected.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: A Virtual Second Opinion Can Be A First-Rate Option

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Mike Pressler worried he would lose the active lifestyle he enjoys with his wife, Kathy, when he was told he needed an ostomy bag. A virtual second opinion would make all the difference.

(NAPSI) – A little research led to a big relief for one 70-year-old and his family—and it could help you or someone you care about as well.

One Man’s Story

His physicians told Mike Pressler he needed major surgery to remove an advanced recurrent polyp – a procedure that would leave him with an ostomy bag and threaten his active lifestyle.

As a gym-going, golf-playing 70-year-old retired school administrator who walks regularly and enjoys traveling with his wife, Kathy, Pressler was terrified.

“I was researching hard, trying to figure out any way I could get out of this,” he said.

The Problem

The polyp was non-cancerous, but the cauterization from a previous polyp removal was creating issues.

An Answer

He remembered a friend’s positive experience at Cleveland Clinic, which Pressler noted as having a “stellar reputation.” That led him to seek a virtual second opinion, which he learned he could obtain without leaving his home, through The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic.

Pressler signed up online and was impressed by the virtual second opinion program. They pulled, collected and compiled his medical records on his behalf, saving him time and effort. Soon after, the care team matched Pressler with Dr. David Liska, Chair of the Department of Colorectal Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, who then consulted with Dr. I. Emre Gorgun, a top robotic surgery specialist. Dr. Gorgun was confident he could remove the polyp without Pressler needing an ostomy.

Within just 10 days of starting the second opinion process, Pressler was scheduled for a new, less invasive procedure. That’s a common occurrence with this program, where 67% of virtual second opinions recommend a diagnosis or treatment plan change.

Before the surgery, there was one potential hiccup. Radiology at Cleveland Clinic reviewed his existing MRI and CAT scan, and they were concerned there might be cancer after all, which prompted a sigmoidoscopy and biopsy to make sure.

“Dr. Liska calls me and says, ‘We’ve got to take a time out here.’ Now I’m kind of bummed again,” Pressler said.

The biopsy would prove to be a temporary roadblock and came back as non-cancerous. The surgery proceeded as planned and Pressler is back to working out, playing golf and traveling with his wife.

“The whole experience was totally positive from start to finish,” Pressler said. “From the intake nurse to the doctors and people behind the desks on the first floor. They are all exceptional in my experience.”

Why Get A Virtual Second Opinion

Sixty-seven percent of virtual second opinions recommend a diagnosis or treatment plan change. You may benefit from a second opinion if you:

• Have been diagnosed with a serious or rare health condition (a diagnosis is required for a second opinion).
• Have a condition that is not improving or is getting worse despite treatment.
• Have been told a health condition is not treatable.
• Are considering a treatment that involves significant risks, such as surgery.
• Need guidance choosing from multiple treatment options.
• Want confirmation about a diagnosis or treatment.

How It Works

Step 1: Registration and Live Intake with a Nurse Care Manager. They’ll take it from there and get you on your path to peace of mind.

Step 2: Records Collection and Expedited Matching. The Clinic does all the work of collecting your medical records, then matches you with a Cleveland Clinic Specialist in just a few days.

Step 3: Expert Second Opinion. Following an optional virtual visit with the Cleveland Clinic physician, your second opinion will be delivered via a written report.

Pressler urges other patients to visit The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic at www.clinicbyclevelandclinic.com/lp/vso/ and tap into Cleveland Clinic’s specialized expertise. Those who use promo code 2NDLOOK15 can get a discount on their virtual second opinion.

FOR YOUR HEALTH – Looking Out For Your Lungs: The Importance of Lung Cancer Screening

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A simple cancer screening could save your life – and your lungs may thank you for it.

(NAPSI)—Early detection is essential when it comes to lung cancer, and early diagnosis can save lives.

The Problem

According to the American Lung Association—the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research—lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, yet only 16% of people at high risk have been screened.

A Solution

Fortunately, annual low-dose CT scans can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20 percent; emphasizing the need to ensure that eligible high-risk individuals, such as former and current smokers, are aware of their risk and feel empowered to talk to their doctor.

High-risk individuals include:

• Aged 50-80
• Smoked in the last 15 years
• Have a 20 “pack year” history (1 pack a day for 20 years, 2 packs for 10 years, or any combination of years and packs that equals 20).

To encourage lung cancer screenings, the American Lung Association and the Ad Council released new PSAs that ask: “If your lungs could talk, what would they say?” “The new PSAs are part of the ongoing Saved by the Scan campaign that first launched in 2017.
“There is hope. Lung cancer screening has played a critical role in the 44% increase in the lung cancer survival rate over the past decade,” said American Lung Association President and CEO, Harold Wimmer. “This new campaign will continue to raise critical awareness about lifesaving screening and encourage more individuals to take action.”

Over 1.3 million Americans have taken the Saved By The Scan screening eligibility quiz to determine if they are eligible for lung cancer screening. Among those eligible for lung cancer screening, 43% discussed the scan with their healthcare provider.
“By inspiring people to talk with their doctor about lung cancer screenings, we can offer hope for early detection, effective treatment and ultimately save lives,” said Heidi Arthur, chief campaign development officer for the Ad Council. “We are proud to partner with the American Lung Association and Hill Holliday using the power of creativity – and a touch of humor – to remind former smokers and other high-risk individuals of the importance of getting screened.”

Early Detection Opens Doors for Treatment Options

Lung cancer survivor Denise Lee smoked for 40 years. One day on her commute from work, she saw a Saved by the Scan campaign billboard, leading her to speak to her doctor about getting screened for lung cancer. She got scanned, and learned of her lung cancer diagnosis before she had symptoms.

“The advantage of them finding it so early is that I had a lot more treatment options. I was able to have surgery, chemotherapy, qualify for a clinical trial. One of the advantages of early detection is that the goal of treatment becomes a cure as opposed to palliative. And I had so many treatment options.”

Understanding the Low-Dose CT Scan

The scan itself is quite straight forward and not scary. A low-dose CT scan is a type of X-ray that captures multiple images as you lie on a table that smoothly slides in and out of the machine. The process is open and non-claustrophobic, taking less than 10 minutes to complete. Although any screening can be emotionally challenging, getting the scan done early provides individuals with more treatment options if needed and peace of mind.

Learn More

For additional information and to check if you qualify for a low-dose CT scan, visit SavedByTheScan.org.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Menopause and Dry Eye: What Women Need to Know

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It would be wise for women with dry eyes to see their ophthalmologist.

(NAPSI)—It may seem surprising to some but dry eye is one of the most common conditions women going through the menopause experience.

“Dry eye is a complicated eye condition with various causes. It affects men and women of all ages, but women entering menopause are more likely to experience dry eye because of hormonal changes affecting the eye,” said Purnima Patel, MD, an ophthalmologist and volunteer for EyeCare America®, a program offering no-cost eye exams to uninsured or underinsured Americans.

Dry eye disease is a common condition that happens when your tears don’t adequately lubricate your eyes. When you blink, tears spread over the surface of the eye. This keeps the eye smooth, clear and comfortable. Dry eye can happen when you don’t produce enough tears, when you produce poor-quality tears, or your tears dry out too quickly. It can lead to red, irritated, tired or painful eyes.

Why Is Dry Eye More Common During Menopause?

During menopause, the body produces less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Hormonal changes during menopause are likely linked to dry eye disease, but the exact mechanism is not known, and more research is needed. In general, dry eye can result from lower tear production and reduced lubrication from the eye’s oil glands. This can cause a scratchy feeling or light sensitivity, making it hard to read or drive at night. It can also cause blurry vision.

What Should You Do if You Have Dry Eye?

Artificial tears, also known as lubricating eye drops, are the most common treatment for dry eye. Most are available without a prescription. It’s important to note that drops with preservatives can irritate your eyes if you use them too much. If you need artificial tears more than a few times a day, use drops without preservatives. These come in single-serving droppers. Warm compresses on the eyelids are another at-home treatment.

For some people, a few simple lifestyle changes can resolve dry eye. If you live in a dry place, consider using a humidifier. Direct fans away from your eyes. Take regular breaks from computers and smart phones. Protect your eyes from the wind by wearing wrap-around glasses outside. If you wake up with dry and scratchy eyes, use thicker eye drops such as an artificial tear ointment or gel just before you go to bed.

When Should You See a Doctor About Dry Eye?

If your dry eye is severe, visit an ophthalmologist to help determine the cause and the best treatment options for you. Based on your examination, your ophthalmologist may recommend a prescription eye drop or ointment, tiny plugs inserted into the eyelids to help keep tears in the eye longer, or other medications.

Ophthalmologists are physicians who specialize in medical and surgical eye care. During an eye exam, an ophthalmologist will look at your eyelids and the surface of the eye and determine the amount and quality of your tears.

“Not sure why you’re experiencing dry eye? Maybe you’ve tried over-the-counter drops, but your eyes are still bothering you? It’s best to see a doctor to figure out the cause of dry eye,” Dr. Patel said. “If you already use eye drops for dry eye and have been using the drops more than three times a day, that may be a sign to check in with your ophthalmologist about an additional treatment option that may work better for you.”

Can’t Afford an Eye Exam? EyeCare America® Can Help

Individuals who are uninsured or underinsured may be eligible for a no out-of-pocket cost medical eye exam through the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeCare America® program. This public service program matches volunteer ophthalmologists with eligible patients in need of eye care across the United States. To see if you or a loved one qualifies, visit www.aao.org/eyecare-america/patients.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: 5 Healthy Aging Tips Every Woman Should Know

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As a woman, you may have many responsibilities on your plate, but your health should be a top priority.

Women are often the first line of defense when protecting their family’s health, but in doing so tend to put their concerns on the back burner.

These quick tips can help keep you happy and healthy as you juggle your everyday responsibilities.

1. Get breast cancer screenings every 1 – 2 years

One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and this risk increases with age. Mammograms are the best way to screen for breast cancer, especially during the early stages. The good news is that breast cancer can usually be treated successfully when found early. Medicare covers a free yearly mammogram screening. Learn more about how to prepare and what to expect during the exam.

2. Routine pap exams are the best way to detect cervical cancer

Known as the “silent killer,” cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer for American women, but thanks to widespread use of the Pap test, early detection has significantly improved and boosted U.S. survival rates. Cervical cancer may not have any signs or symptoms, so it’s recommended women ages 21 to 65 get routine test about every three years. Medicare covers cervical and vaginal cancer screenings once every 24 months or every 12 months if you are at high risk.

3. Exercise will improve your overall health

Roughly 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of moderate exercise a week could improve not only your physical but also mental health. Being active helps improve moods and reduce feelings of depression. It can also help manage diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis.

4. Focus on your mental health

Approximately 15 percent of adults aged 60 and over suffer from a mental illness, depression being one of the most common. There’s often confusion around what exactly depression is, especially since many older adults experience major changes in their life like the death of loved ones or medical problems that could cause sadness. The difference is that the feeling is only temporary. If your feelings of sadness begin to interfere with daily life and normal functioning, you may be experiencing depression. Start by speaking with your doctor and determine if a Medicare depression screening is right for you.

5. Healthy eating can prevent serious health conditions

Proper nutrition is essential for the body. As you get older you lose muscle mass, bone density, and burn fewer calories. It takes extra effort to make up for the natural changes of your body which is why eating high nutrient foods make a big difference. Decreased bone density can result in one of the major health concerns affecting about 8 million women, osteoporosis, due to calcium deficiencies in diet.

“Take care of your body now and your body will take care of you for the long haul. When you invest in your well-being, you’ll set yourself up for healthy aging success,” says Gretchen Tanbonliong, Associate Director for Health & Wellness at NCOA. As a woman, you may have many responsibilities on your plate, but your health should be a top priority.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Three steps to consider this spring to help you live a healthier lifestyle

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by Dr. Greg Carnevale,
Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare of Maine

Spring into health this season by refreshing your well-being routine and building healthier habits for the rest of the year. While many Americans make health a primary focus of their New Year’s resolutions, 57 percent of recent survey respondents said they take up healthier lifestyle choices only after having a medical concern.

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, it’s a great time to get moving and focus on living a healthier lifestyle. There’s no better time to get started than today.

Here are three steps you may start taking right away:

Choose a primary care provider and access preventive screenings.

A primary care provider can help guide you on your health journey, and studies suggest that access to primary care providers may help people live longer. Yet more than 30 percent of American adults don’t have a primary care provider.

One important item to check off your health care checklist each year is an annual wellness visit with a primary care provider – even if you feel healthy. A preventive care visit may help you better understand your health and detect any problems early. If you don’t currently have a primary care provider, check with your health plan for in-network doctors in your area or other options for accessing care like virtual care options. Health plans usually cover preventive care, which means you may pay $0 out of pocket for certain covered preventive services if you go to an in-network provider.

You may also be eligible to earn rewards through your health plan for activities like your annual wellness visit, getting certain preventive screenings or completing a health survey. Some health plans also offer coverage for certain health screenings like those for breast cancer and colorectal cancer.

Check with your health plan to understand your coverage and eligibility and talk to your employer about benefits and wellness programs that may be available to you.

Walk 15 to 30 minutes each day.

Getting outside during the day and enjoying the sunshine may be an important source of Vitamin D, boost your mood and help you sleep better.

Taking regular walks, even for 15 to 30 minutes, may be a simple way to get some sun and fresh air, get your steps in and keep your body moving. In fact, a recent study found that walking more may help extend life expectancy by up to 11 years. Ideally, adults should aim each week for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity like a brisk walk, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity like jogging or running.

Some employers now offer wellness programs as part of the health benefits available to their employees.

Track and improve your sleep.

Many people struggle with their sleeping habits, with more than one-third of adults in the U.S. reporting regularly not getting enough sleep. Experts recommend adults get seven or more hours of sleep a night. Maintaining healthy sleeping habits may be beneficial for both your physical and mental well-being, from helping to reduce stress and improve your mood to lowering risk for some chronic conditions.

To help improve your sleep, consider avoiding alcohol, caffeine and too much screen time before going to bed, and try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.

Adding these tips into your daily routine may be a great way to boost your overall health and well-being this spring.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Early Screening—The First Step to Protect Your Memory and Cognitive Ability

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92% of older Americans living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are undiagnosed—but they can be helped.

(NAPSI)—Throughout my career as a clinician, I have experienced firsthand the concerns and challenges that cognitive issues cause older adults. They fear they’ll lose their memory and their independence, and become a burden to their loved ones. The questions they ask most often are if their “forgetfulness” is just natural aging, or if they’re developing a form of dementia. They are often scared of the answer because they think there is little they can do about it.

Even though there is no cure for dementia, if you or a loved one are tested and diagnosed early, there are treatments that can slow down disease progression. These treatments can help you protect your cognitive function and potentially add years to your memory and ability to live independently.

The key is early screening and diagnosis, but sadly, far too many older adults need testing. In fact, according to research published in Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, 92% of older Americans living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a common predecessor to dementia, are estimated to be undiagnosed. Similarly, the Alzheimer’s Association reports 54 percent of adults aged 45 and older who believe they have cognitive decline, have not talked with their health care professional to get tested. This gap is a huge concern since diagnosed cognitive issues can be managed to help reduce the disease’s progression. Without care planning, older adults with MCI have an increased chance of hospitalizations, among other risks, resulting in higher costs to families.

Individuals with MCI and those around them may be aware that memory or mental function is declining. Oftentimes these subtle changes may seem insignificant, so they do not discuss it with their primary care provider who could recommend early interventions that would make the most impact.

Some important red flags to look out for when considering if mental decline goes beyond the typical forgetfulness that comes with age are:

1. Missed appointments and social events
2. Consistently losing train of thought and inability to follow the plot of a book or movie
3. Trouble following a conversation
4. Difficulty taking medicine due to confusion or lack of dexterity
5. Falls
6. Difficulty making decisions, finishing a task or following instructions
7. Issues finding a way around familiar places

If you or an aging loved one is experiencing these potential warning signs, do not ignore them. Take action and get tested as early as possible. If you are diagnosed with MCI, you can determine your management options and start them early to help you stay independent for as long as possible.

Testing can be easy and convenient.

Digital cognitive testing, which leverages technology for a more accurate diagnosis, is one of the most efficient and effective methods to identify and address cognitive issues early. These tests, which can be completed in less than ten minutes, are offered to eligible health plan members as a part of Signify Health’s In-Home Health Evaluations (IHEs), a visit covered under many health plans at no additional cost to the member.

As part of the IHE, clinicians administer the digital cognitive test in the members’ homes where they are often more comfortable than in an office setting. The clinicians also discuss any concerns and fears a member may have regarding the sensitive topic of cognitive decline. Once the test is completed, the results are shared with the member’s health plan and their primary care provider to help facilitate care planning and develop a treatment plan so health plan members get the support and resources they need.

By catching cognitive health issues early, older adults can get ahead of the disease progression and start treatment that may help reduce future caregiving challenges and concerns. Additionally, early detection gives members and their caregivers extra time to learn more about cognitive decline so they can actively engage in making decisions about their future health care and daily living support needs.

If you or a loved one is interested in exploring digital cognitive testing, visit the self-scheduling portal at HelloSignify.com to see if you’re eligible for an In-Home Health Evaluation.

While 92 percent of older Americans with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are undiagnosed, early screening means they can be helped to a better, more independent lifestyle. Tests are available as a part of Signify Health’s In-Home Health Evaluations (IHEs). Learn more at HelloSignify.com.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Are Carbonated Drinks Bad For Your Teeth?

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Save your smile: Cut back on carbonated drinks.

(NAPSI)—You may know sugar-sweetened beverages are bad for your teeth, but did you know carbonated beverages can also be harmful to your smile in other ways?

It’s true, and with more and more people turning to popular drinks such as sparkling water to cut down on their sugar intake, it is necessary to be cautious about what types of carbonated drinks you are consuming.

The important thing to know is that carbonated drinks are acidic, which can lead to tooth enamel damage and mouth diseases such as gingivitis.

The acidity level of a drink is determined by its pH level. Tap or bottled water generally has a pH level of 7, whereas sparkling water is in the pH range of 4.18-7. Drinks that are below pH 5.5 can damage enamel.

Excess consumption of carbonated drinks and acidic foods leads to accumulation of acid-producing harmful bacteria, which are the main causes for cavities and infections. Drinking both sugary and carbonated drinks in moderation can reduce some of their impacts, including damage to enamel. Once enamel is deteriorated, it doesn’t grow back, removing a major line of defense for your teeth.

The best beverages to consume include water, milk, and brewed and unsweetened green or black tea. And while not all carbonated drinks have sugar and not all sugar-sweetened drinks are carbonated, both can cause harm and should be avoided as much as possible.

Some beverages to avoid include soda pop, sweet tea, sweetened coffee drinks, chocolate milk, energy drinks and sports drinks. Never drinking any of these beverages is unlikely, but reducing your intake is a key step in your health journey.

There are also a few steps you can take to mitigate the damage sugar-sweetened and/or carbonated beverages cause including:

• Use in moderation – Just as with sugar-sweetened beverages, think of carbonated beverages as a treat you partake in occasionally, rather than something you drink often. The less you drink, the less it damages your teeth.
• Use a straw – This may reduce contact between the acidic and sugar-filled drinks with your teeth.
• Drink water afterward – Water is a great way to rinse out your mouth and wash away acids and sugars.
• Don’t brush your teeth right away – While it might seem like the best way to help your mouth is to brush immediately, your teeth and its enamel are actually in a weakened state at this time and a toothbrush could damage them further.

In the end, water is your best bet for keeping a healthy smile, especially fluoridated tap water. Carbonated drinks can be very tempting, but anything that puts your oral health into jeopardy should be avoided.

And when it comes to soda, surprisingly, studies have also shown that diet sodas and low-sugar sodas are no better for oral health than regular sodas.

Ultimately, the more sugar-sweetened beverages you drink, the more unhealthy attacks on your teeth, which in turn leads to a degradation of your oral health.

Dr. Dosch, DDS, is the Delta Dental of Washington’s dental director and a member dentist.