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

/0 Comments/in /by

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

/0 Comments/in /by

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

/0 Comments/in /by
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

/0 Comments/in /by

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?

/0 Comments/in /by

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.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Denied Relief: Children with Migraine May Be Left Without the Treatment They Need

/0 Comments/in /by

This treatment offers children a way to manage migraine without drugs or side effects—but getting it covered by insurance can be an uphill battle.

(NAPSI)—Migraine is a debilitating neurological disease that affects one billion people worldwide, but it is not just an adult disease. For the 1 in 10 children diagnosed with this complex and incurable condition, it can be a daily battle that affects academic performance, impacts friendships, and leads to diminished quality of life. And many struggle for years before receiving a proper diagnosis.

The Problem

Despite the lifelong consequence of untreated migraine, the landscape of evidence-based pediatric migraine care remains shockingly limited. Many prescription medications have not been evaluated in children or adolescents and were not originally developed for migraine treatment. In fact, only one migraine medication is FDA-approved for acute treatment in children as young as 8 years old, and no medications have been approved for preventive use in this age group. Additionally, they are often poorly tolerated, disruptive to normal activities, and require an adult to manage and properly administer medication to minimize adverse events.

An Answer

Fortunately, there is a non-drug alternative. Unfortunately, certain insurance companies are refusing to cover it. The Nerivio Remote Electrical Neuromodulation (REN) wearable is redefining what is possible for migraine care. It is the only FDA-cleared, non-drug treatment available for people with migraine ages 8 and above, offering both migraine relief and prevention. Despite its proven efficacy, many families face an insurmountable barrier: high cost due to lack of insurance coverage.

“Any treatment with evidence of efficacy is something I discuss with my patients,” says Dr. Ryan P. Williams MD, EDM, a pediatric neurologist and headache specialist with Children’s Specialty Group and Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters – a network of comprehensive pediatric services. “I have noticed more families are seeking effective, non-medication options, and the Nerivio REN wearable fits that need perfectly. However, the cost of the treatment without insurance coverage prevents many patients from accessing it. Of those I prescribe it to, only about half can afford to move forward.”

One Child’s Story

For Kieran Johnston, a 15-year-old migraine patient, non-drug treatment has been transformative. Migraine was an exhausting battle when relying on medications that left him nauseated and sometimes sleepy. The Nerivio REN wearable offered a way to manage his migraine disease without the systemic side effects of drugs. Using the treatment every other day for prevention and for relief when a migraine starts, Johnston has reduced his school absences from 6 or 7 days a month to just 1 or 2. He’s back to playing soccer and football with friends—activities he often missed when using migraine medication.

Still, Johnston’s family is paying out of pocket for this non-drug, non-disruptive treatment.

“We thought about stopping because it’s expensive,” says Johnston. “But it works so well that we decided to keep using it. I just wish it was covered by insurance for our family and so more kids like me could try it.”

Dr. Williams emphasizes that early and effective treatment can make a significant difference for pediatric patients, reducing the risk of developing chronic migraine later in life. “Insurance companies should cover all safe and effective treatment options, and the Nerivio REN wearable deserves to be one of those options, so we can not only treat early, but safely, effectively, and, if desired, without drugs.”

Families and healthcare providers alike are urging insurance companies to take notice and prioritize evidence-based, non-drug treatments for migraine. With growing evidence and real-world success stories, many believe it’s time for insurers to provide equitable access for drug-free options, including the Nerivio REN wearable.

Learn More

Patients, caregivers, and advocates can visit NerivioCovered.com for resources to help fight for better coverage and close the gap in pediatric migraine care.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Profound Relief For Cancer Patients Facing Oral Side Effects

/0 Comments/in /by

An ingenious new rinse can provide relief from mouth sores and ulcers due to cancer treatment.

(NAPSI)—According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), more than two million new cases of cancer are diagnosed in the United States a year. If you or someone you care about is among them, take heart: These days, the vast majority of people with cancer survive the disease.

What You Can Do

There are several approaches you can take, the NIH goes on to say, to combat cancer. These include: chemotherapy, hormone therapy, hyperthermia, immune therapy, photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, targeted therapy and surgery.

What About Side Effects

While side effects can vary with treatment and patient, it’s not uncommon for cancer patients to develop mouth sores, dry mouth, oral pain, and ulcer.

Fortunately, ioTech International has developed an advanced oral rinse called ioRinse MR™ specifically to provide substantial relief for cancer patients whose oral symptoms affect their quality of life and overall comfort, and impose a significant cost burden.

Leveraging ioTech’s proprietary molecular iodine technology, ioRinse™ MR offers a pleasant taste and provides immediate, lasting relief without causing tooth staining.

Transformative Relief from Cancer Treatment Side Effects

“Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause painful mouth and throat ulcers so severe that eating, drinking, and speaking become incredibly difficult, often necessitating feeding tubes,” explained Dr. Herb Moskowitz. “ioRinse™ MR provides a major benefit by supporting healing and providing instant relief while rapidly mitigating the severity and duration of these oral mucositis symptoms, enabling patients to resume their daily activities.

“We’re thrilled to offer ioRinse™ MR to support the well-being of cancer patients,” added Dr. Moskowitz. “ioRinse™ MR stands for Maximum Relief, aptly named for its breakthrough effectiveness in managing the painful side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This product underscores a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for those who need it most.”

Oncologists and dentists who have recommended ioRinse™ MR to their patients report dramatic results. “Typically, patients find ioRinse™ MR more effective and faster acting than any other product they’ve tried,” Dr. Moskowitz shared.

Among the benefits of ioRinse™ MR are the following

The rinse is:

• Safe and easy to use
• Tested and proven effective in providing substantial relief from mouth sores, dry mouth, oral pain, and ulcers
• Not a cause of microbial resistance, non-staining and pleasant tasting
• Cost-effective preventative care
• A long-lasting breath freshener.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: What are dual eligible special needs plans (D-SNPs)?

/0 Comments/in /by

You may be able to get more health care at less cost.

(NAPSI)—Over 12.5 million Americans are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, but many don’t realize this and could be missing out on some valuable benefits. People who qualify for both health care programs can enroll in a type of Medicare Advantage plan called a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP), offered by Aetna® and other health care companies.

D-SNPs work with your Medicare and Medicaid benefits to help you maximize your benefits. They provide all the traditional benefits of a Medicare Advantage health plan, while also offering added benefits, such as flexible allowances, which can help pay for healthy food and certain over-the-counter items. Depending on the state where you live, some additional benefits that come with an Aetna D-SNP may include:

• Dental, vision and hearing coverage
• $0 co-pays for covered Part D prescriptions at in-network pharmacies
• Extra Benefits Card with a monthly allowance to use on certain everyday expenses, like healthy foods and over-the-counter items, such as aspirin and bandages
• SilverSneakers® fitness membership
• Fresh meals home-delivered after a hospital stay

D-SNPs may also come with a personal care coordinator, who can help you find in-network doctors, arrange transportation and schedule appointments. They can also connect you with programs to help beyond health care services.

D-SNPs may help save you money. Most people pay little or no cost for their coverage. Covered Part D prescription drugs are available at no cost at in-network pharmacies, and doctors’ visits may also be fully covered at no cost to you.

If you qualify, a D-SNP can offer you more complete health care coverage so you can take charge of your health and access the care you need.

To enroll in an Aetna D-SNP plan, you must apply and prove that you meet the eligibility criteria, including having both Medicare and Medicaid. You will also be required to periodically prove that you continue to meet the plan’s requirements.

For more information about D-SNPs, call Aetna at 1-844-588-0041 (TTY: 711), 7 days a week, 8 AM to 8 PM. A licensed agent may answer your call. Or visit AetnaMedicare.com/DSNP.

Aetna Medicare is an HMO, PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Our D-SNPs also have contracts with State Medicaid programs. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal. See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: The Dangers of Prolonged Thumb-sucking and Pacifier Use

/0 Comments/in /by

Thumb-sucking, finger-sucking or pacifier use should be discontinued before a child reaches three years of age. These habits can harm the eruption and position of the permanent teeth and affect the health of surrounding oral tissues.

(NAPSI) – While it is normal for small children to use a pacifier or their thumb to calm down or to stop crying, prolonged usage of either can lead to oral health problems down the line.

In general, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children up to the age of three will not face issues from the use of pacifiers or thumb-sucking, but if they keep that habit up as they age there can be major issues with their bite, their teeth, chewing, how their mouth rests and problems with their tongue.

Understanding Pacifiers

There are two types of pacifiers: conventional and orthodontic. Orthodontic pacifiers are generally flat bottomed and square, designed to imitate the shape of the mother’s nipple. Conventional pacifiers—which are often the type sent home with newborns from the hospital—tend to be round. While either option will soothe a child, the orthodontic pacifiers are the least likely to contribute to bite issues after teething.

These habits tend to persist because of physical and emotional stimuli, including boredom, hunger, stress, hyperactivity, pleasure, sadness and various kinds of disabilities. An increase in your child’s level of stress or anxiety can lead to the continuation of the thumb-sucking habit beyond a healthy age.

The Problems

There are five main issues that may arise from prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use:

• Open bite: Upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed.
• Increased overjet: Upper jaw and teeth protrude excessively forward.
• Chewing difficulty: Upper and lower teeth don’t articulate correctly to provide a solid chewing surface.
• Cross bite: Upper back teeth sit inside the bottom teeth and appear tilted inward toward the tongue, instead of lining up straight and fitting into each other.
• Tongue thrust compensation: An infant generally pushes their tongue out when swallowing, while children and adults rest the tongue against the roof of their mouth.

All five of these issues can cause too much pressure on teeth and jaw, leading to speech impediments, issues with facial development and gum problems—they can also eventually require surgery.

Some Answers

There are no ready-made recipes for stopping your child from thumb sucking or using a pacifier, but some of the more popular deterrents include:

• Adhesive plaster or tape on the digit
• Verbal reminders
• Reward systems
• Mittens
• Fidget spinners
• A replacement object to soothe your child, such as a blanket or toy
• Oral appliances
• Braces

Remember, children use their a thumb or a pacifier for a reason, so offering encouragement and helping them come up with other solutions to overcome boredom or anxiety is the way to go.

Dr. Dosch is Delta Dental of Washington’s dental director.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Use Personal Health Records to Take Control of Your Own Health

/0 Comments/in /by

By using a new app, you can take charge of your well-being, make more informed choices, and stay on top of your health with ease.

(NAPSI)—Technology is making it easier for people to manage their health – in ways that may surprise you. Wearables in conjunction with health apps are transforming how people manage their health. These tools enable users to monitor vital signs, track healthcare activities, and manage chronic conditions with ease. By providing access to medical information, millions are making informed decisions about their well-being, improving their quality of life, and taking active steps toward a healthier lifestyle.

An Example

One easy-to-use app helps millions of people understand their health by tracking activity levels, sleep, exercise, heart rate, stress, and even what you eat. Called Samsung Health, it also offers challenges, tips, and coaching to help users set and meet their health goals.

By better understanding your personal health data, you can be in better control of your health and wellness goals. That’s why Samsung Health introduced Health Records, a new feature that gives users easy access to their medical records from clinics, hospitals and major health networks.

The new Health Records feature in the app guides users toward preventive care by offering meaningful insights and alerts that suggest proactive care steps, such as recommending medical tests or actions like scheduling your annual exam. Instead of relying on the hospital for your records, you have easy access to important data such as lab results, prescription records, list of medications, and past hospital visits.

One of the main reasons people use Health Records is because having all health information in one place makes it easy to stay in control of their health. Whether you’re tracking daily steps or managing a long-term health condition, having your health data in the app makes it simple to stay on top of things. And, with a holistic view of your health records, readily available at your fingertips, you can more effectively engage with providers.

With the ability to track everything from exercise to doctor’s appointments, medications, or test results, Samsung Health gives users more control over their health than ever before.

Learn More

To learn more visit https://www.samsung.com/us/support/owners/app/samsung-health.