Insulin without a Prescription

Many people do not realize that they can buy insulin without a prescription. But it’s possible to buy insulin over the counter (OTC), or without a prescription, in all states except Indiana.

This less expensive option exists for people caught between a diabetes diagnosis and the difficulty of having inadequate, or no health insurance. Also for people who are on vacation and loose their insulin and can not get another.

If you do not know how to administer the insulin safely, every pharmacist should know how.  If not, RUN! To another pharmacist

What’s Available

The insulins available without a prescription are not generics of up-to-date brand name insulins. They are older, less concentrated formulations:

R, or Regular insulin which is short-acting, and

N insulin, an intermediate-acting version that is taken twice daily.

No long-acting OTC insulin is available for people requiring basal doses. So, please do not compare dosages.  If you take insulin once a day, you will need to take “N” twice a day, at least.

The FDA points out that these older insulin formulas, used successfully for more than 60  years, were approved for OTC sale since they “did not require a licensed medical practitioner’s supervision for safe use.” Their availability is intended to increase patient safety by making insulin obtainable “quickly in urgent situations, without delays.”

Challenges

 

1. An incorrect administration (e.g., wrong dosing, poor timing) may lead to erratic glucose levels, and potentially fatal high or low blood sugar episodes. Solution, you will need to check your glucose levels more often.

 

2. The level of daily glucose control people obtain using OTC insulin is questionable. Though the drug quality is high, it takes longer to metabolize in the body than newer versions. This means users of R and N insulins need to maintain stability in their diet and daily activities—something they may not be aware of, or are unable to manage. Solution, more protein in your diet, and eat as close as you can to the same time each day.

“They [patients] need to know what they are doing and understand the units, timing, and type of insulin,” says George Grunberger, PhD, president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. “It comes down to this—will the patient be able to achieve glucose control safely?”

Yet, despite the cautions associated with OTC insulin use, the medical consulting firm IMS Health reports approximately 15 percent of those who purchase insulin get it without a prescription.

Future Option

 

Some insulin users can look forward to cutting costs with biosimilar insulins. A biosimilar called Basaglar should be available by the end of this year; savings of about 15 to 20 percent are anticipated.

 

Bosimilar drugs are nearly exact replicas of previously approved medications. Basaglar, for instance, is a copy of the insulin glargine, popularly known as Lantus. More cost saving biosimilar insulins will be coming down the pike as original drug patents expire.

 

Please share with family and loved ones.  If you are having concerns about your personal healthcare, please call us.

Health and Wellness Associates

Archived Article

1. P.  Carrothers

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The Painkiller

The Painkiller

 

If you need to numb the pain, the Pain Killer is just what the doctor ordered. It was originally concocted at the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar in the Sandcastle Hotel, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands. Technically you can’t make one unless you’re using Pusser’s Navy Rum. Pusser’s is a delightful rum based on the rum used by the British Navy until July 31, 1970.

 

Pain Killer

 

4 oz rum

4 oz Pineapple Juice

1 oz Coconut Cream

1 oz Orange Juice

8 oz Crushed Ice

 

Mix all ingredients in a blender and blend for approximately 3 seconds. Serve in a tiki mug or double rocks glass and dust with nutmeg, cinnamon, or both.

 

Did you know that rum is carb-free

Focaccia Cloud Bread (Wheat Free)

Ingredients

Extra-virgin olive oil, for oiling the pan and drizzling

6 large eggs, separated

1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

1/2 teaspoon fine salt

2 cloves garlic, finely grated

3 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

1 tablespoon light agave nectar

1 plum tomato, thinly sliced

Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Handful of torn fresh basil leaves

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan

Directions

Special equipment: nonstick foil

Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F. Line a quarter baking sheet with nonstick foil, then generously oil the bottom and sides of the pan with oil. Set aside.

Beat the egg whites, cream of tartar and salt in a large bowl with an electric mixer on high speed until the mixture becomes shiny and stiff peaks form, about 2 minutes. Beat together the egg yolks, garlic, cream cheese and agave nectar in a separate large bowl on medium speed until completely combined and smooth, 2 to 3 minutes (the mixture may appear broken but it will come together after a few minutes). Gently fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture until combined, making sure not to deflate the egg whites and keeping the mixture as light and airy as possible.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and top with the sliced tomato. Bake, rotating the pan halfway through, until the top is deep golden brown and the bread bounces back when touched, about 20 minutes. (See Cook’s Note.)

Cool completely on a wire rack and store in an airtight container overnight. Before serving, drizzle with oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt, the basil leaves and grated Parmesan; cut into squares.

Cook’s Note: Cloud bread has a crisp-crunchy texture when eaten right out of the oven. For a softer and chewier texture that is similar to traditional bread, allow it to sit in an airtight container overnight.

 

Feel Free to share with family and loved ones.

 

Health and Wellness Associates

Archived

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What to Order When Dining Out on a Diet

 

 

Let’s face it… Dining out is a part of life. But restaurant meals are notoriously high in calories and fat. Luckily, it’s completely possible to make diet-friendly decisions no matter where you’re eating. Here’s the need-to-know info from Hungry Girl.

 

General Tips

* Before you head out, review the menu online. Even if the nutritional information isn’t available, checking out your options before you arrive will help you to make better, more informed decisions.

 

* Don’t assume you’re limited to exactly what’s on the menu; restaurants are often happy to accommodate special requests, like leaving off an ingredient or two. (The exceptions? Schmancy eateries with even schmancier chefs.)

 

* If your dish arrives and the portion is huge (super common), immediately ask for a to-go box; then pack away half, and take it home with you. This way, you’ll be less likely to eat more than you need. Smart stuff!

 

* Learn the lingo. “Steamed,” “grilled,” “broiled,” “baked” — all good things. “Fried,” “breaded,” “sautéed,” “creamy” — not so much. Scan the menu for the pluses, and breeze right past the minuses.

 

Appetizers/Starters

Skip It: Bread and Chip Baskets – Turn a blind eye to the free carbs on the table. Not only are they loaded with empty calories, but they’re also typically served with fatty condiments, like butter, oil, or guacamole. You could easily consume 500 calories and 20g fat before you even place your order!

 

If your tablemates are on board, tell your server you’ll pass on the basket.

 

Slurp It: Broth-Based Soup – A study out of Penn State has shown that eating low-calorie soup before a meal could reduce your total calories by about 20 percent! The soup fills you up and keeps you from overeating when your entrée arrives.

 

So kick off your meal with a broth-based soup, like chicken noodle or minestrone.

 

Spear It: Side Salads – Pass on the croutons, cheese, and creamy dressing (sorry, Caesar). Request light dressing on the side; then dip your fork into it, don’t drown your salad in it!

 

Sea It: Shrimp & More – Look for shrimp cocktail, ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus), and steamed mussels or clams. All of these are low in calories and very filling. Protein power!

 

Entrees

The Dos and Don’ts of Salads – Restaurant salads typically fall into the “food faker” category: They seem inherently healthy, but they often contain around 1,000 calories! Special ordering can really save you here. Avoid candied nuts, dried fruit, fried protein, crispy toppings, and fatty cheeses; indulge in fresh veggies, cut fruit, and grilled protein (like chicken or shrimp). And a restaurant serving of regular dressing can easily have 450 calories and 40g fat! Even light kinds can have more calories and fat than you might think, so always get the dressing on the side.

 

Then, DDP: dip, don’t pour!

 

Protein Pros and Cons – Your best bet is chicken breast or fish, prepared grilled or baked. A petite filet steak is also a good option. The trick is to ask questions. Is the chicken breast breaded? Does the fish come in a sauce? Is the steak topped with butter? Dishes with sauces aren’t necessarily off-limits. But ask for the sauce on the side, so you can control the amount — and steer clear of anything cream-based or buttery.

 

Side Story – Starchy sides like rice and pasta are high in carbs and calories. Ask your server for a double serving of vegetables instead. A side of veggies is usually 50 calories or less (as long as they aren’t oily or buttery), while a side of rice or noodles typically has about 300 calories. Steamed veggies are almost always an option, and some restaurants offer a variety of preparations and types, like grilled zucchini or roasted spaghetti squash. One more smart pick? Half a baked potato (take the rest home), topped with salsa or marinara sauce.

 

Dessert

 

 

 

The Not-So-Sweet Facts – Think sharing a dessert order with two pals will cost you only a hundred calories or so? Guess again. Restaurant desserts often tip the scales at 800+ calories and dozens of fat grams. Even the mini desserts can pack in 400 calories.

 

Surprise Ending – Even if it’s not on the menu, ask if they have fresh fruit. A bowl of berries with a squirt of whipped cream is a fantastic way to end a meal! A scoop of sorbet is also a smart choice.

 

Please share with family and loved ones.  These are just general tips, give us a call and we can work together to make a personal healthcare plan just for your needs.

 

Health and Wellness Associates

Archived

312-972-WELL

 

 

Heartburn Drugs Harm Your Arteries

 Heartburn drugs harm arteries

 

 

A popular over-the-counter heartburn medication accelerated aging of blood vessel cells in lab tests, raising red flags about its long-term effect on heart health, researchers say.

Faster aging of blood vessel cells exposed to the antacid Nexium (esomeprazole) might potentially hinder the tasks these cells perform to prevent heart attack and stroke, the new study suggests.

 

These lab results could explain why other studies have shown increased risk of heart disease in people who use proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) — the class of heartburn medication that includes Nexium, said study senior author Dr. John Cooke.

 

“Our finding that the lining of blood vessels is impaired by proton pump inhibitors is a unifying mechanism for the reports that PPI users are at increased risk for heart attack, stroke and renal failure,” said Cooke, chair of cardiovascular sciences at the Houston Methodist Research Institute.

 

AstraZeneca, the maker of Nexium, responded with a statement noting that the study was conducted in a laboratory setting, “not in humans within a controlled clinical trial. Therefore, conclusions around cause and effect cannot be made.

 

“Patient safety is an important priority for AstraZeneca and we believe all of our PPI medicines are generally safe and effective when used in accordance with the label,” the drug maker said.

 

However, many people aren’t using PPIs in accordance with FDA guidelines, which in Nexium’s case would limit them to a four-week course of treatment three times a year, Cooke said.

 

“They are being used ubiquitously, for long periods of time. They aren’t being used as originally approved,” Cooke said.

 

Dr. P.K. Shah, director of the Oppenheimer Atherosclerosis Research Center at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, said these study results provide a reasonable explanation for how PPIs might affect the heart health of long-term users.

 

“We have clinical data that raises a suspicion that they might be bad if used long-term, and we have now experimental data that suggests a potential mechanism,” Shah said. “But we still have unanswered questions.”

 

For this study, Cooke and his colleagues cultured the cells that line the walls of blood vessels, which are called endothelial cells.

 

These cell cultures were exposed every day to doses of Nexium “similar to what a patient would receive” for an extended period of time, Cooke said.

 

Protective endothelial cells produce substances that relax the blood vessel, and create a slick “Teflon” coating inside the vessel that prevents plaques or blood clots from sticking, Cooke said.

 

PPIs treat heartburn by blocking acid-producing cells in the lining of the stomach, Cooke said. But researchers now suspect PPIs might also interfere with acid-producing cells elsewhere in the body.

 

In the case of blood vessel cells, researchers found that long-term PPI exposure impaired acid production by the lysosomes in the cells. Lysosomes typically clear waste products, but exposed to PPIs they didn’t produce enough acid to clear waste.

 

The waste buildup caused endothelial cells to age rapidly, Cooke said, which could hamper their ability to protect blood vessels.

 

“They start to convert from Teflon to something more like Velcro,” he said. “Things begin to stick.”

 

Another prominent class of heartburn medications, H2 blockers, did not have the same aging effect on blood vessel cells, the study found. H2 blockers include Tagamet (cimetidine), Pepcid (famotidine) and Zantac (ranitidine).

 

Dr. Mark Creager, president of the American Heart Association, added that a lab study like this cannot prove a direct link between PPI use and increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

 

“It certainly raises the question. But now the question, once raised, needs to be answered in a well-designed clinical trial, which hasn’t taken place yet,” said Creager, a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. “I would not advise clinicians to jump from this important basic science study to recommendations they would provide to their patients.”

 

Another expert said PPIs should be used with caution due to possible harms “that have nothing to do with the digestive system.”

 

“Much more work needs to be done before we can draw a line with confidence from this class of drugs to some of these potential side effects, but these researchers are taking an important first step,” said Dr. David Robbins, interim chief of gastroenterology at Lenox Hill Hospital, in New York City.

 

“Bottom line: If you take a daily PPI, which can save lives in the right scenario, check with your doctor and see if you really need it,” Robbins said.

 

Please share with family and loved ones.  If you suffer from heart burn, call us and we will help you detect the cause.  Yes, there are many different causes.

 

Health and Wellness Associates

Archived

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Positive Effects of Meditation and Yoga in the Healthcare System

 

Positive effects of meditation and yoga shown throughout healthcare system

 

While the Western world took a considerable amount of time to discover yoga and meditation compared to the ancient Eastern world, its positive effects are beginning to show throughout the modern day healthcare system. In a recent study carried out by Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)’s Institute for Technology Assessment and the Benson-Henry Institute (BHI),meditation it was found that meditation and yoga has helped to reduce healthcare costs by as much as 43%. In the study, patients participated in a relaxation training program which significantly lowered stress-levels and anxiety while lowering blood pressure, heart rate and decreasing muscle tension. The patients were found to use much fewer health care services in the year following their participation in the relaxation program. Utilising both the data from the Harvard Relaxation Program and also data obtained from the Research Patient Data Registry (RPDR) of Partners HealthCare from between 2006 and 2014 shows a reduction in the need for additional healthcare services.

 

Considering anxiety and depression rate as the third biggest expenditure in American healthcare services, adopting almost cost-free services such as yoga and meditation could see huge pressure lifted off the health care system. This could include greater availability of services and more prompt delivery of those services and also see more funding available for research on other non stress-related diseases that require more attention. Prescribing medication such as anti-depressants only fixes the problem short term. Focusing on more long-term alternatives such as regular yoga or meditation should be the key to effectively helping a patient reach optimal vitality and assist in the recovery and treatment of disease. Unfortunately modern Western medicine is not yet focused on this and still relies almost solely on medication.

 

The link between body and mind

 

Going back to the Eastern World, many practitioners believe there is a very strong link between body and mind and the prevalence of many diseases. This belief has only in recent times spread into the Western World where before they have long believed that the mind is not interconnected to the body. In our modern day, fast paced lifestyles it becomes quite easy to forget about the importance of slowing down and taking time out for ourselves. Every day we find so many places we need to be, people we need to see, jobs we need to do and children we need to take care of. Couple this with emotional, financial and physical stress, it’s no wonder we have a hard time actually paying attention to what ourfresh air body is trying to tell us. It goes even deeper, in that we are also seeing a link between the mind and the immune system and our emotions and their effect on our body. These incredible findings have been made much more easier to prove thanks to development in technology, in particular in neuroimaging which measures specific brain function and molecular biology which reads various biological interactions between cells.

 

When you are stressed your body releases hormones that have a big impact on how your nervous system and internal organs function. Cortisol is the main hormone that affects your body’s function when placed under stress. It has been found to impair memory and function, increase weight and bring about multiple cardiovascular diseases. Your digestive system can also be directly affected by stress and it has been shown that nutrients are not as effectively absorbed when stressed. Irritable bowel syndrome and food allergies are also closely linked to stress. The brain communicates to your stomach via the vagus nerve.

 

When placed under continual stress your immune system begins to suffer which leaves you wide open to many illnesses. The body is unable to fight effectively against harmful bacteria and infections, resulting in inflammation which can occur at many levels. For this reason it is believed that many autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and osteoarthritis form in the body as a result of stress.

 

Adapting yoga and meditation into your schedule

 

Attending a yoga or meditation class even once a week can have a big impact on your overall health and wellness. A guided class will allow you to dedicate at least an hour to your practice without distraction. If you are unable to find the time to attend a class, there are many guided meditation and yoga sequences available on the internet. Finding a quiet place in the house and spending ten minutes a day at a scheduled time will help you develop the important habit of taking time out for yourself. You can then extend your practice to a longer period of time as the weeks go on.

 

The simple act of focusing on your breath will do wonders at reducing your stress levels and calming your mind. When you have a relaxed stress response system you will notice deeper breathing, a lowered heart rate and a positive change in your overall mood.

 

Hopefully in the future we will see the prevalence of many more yoga and meditation programs offered in place of prescription medication to treat a variety of mental illness and mind-body related disease.

 

Please share with family and loved ones.  Call us with your questions, healthcare concerns, and let us develop a personalized healthcare plan for you.

 

Health and Wellness Associates

Archived

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Healthiest Green Soup

Healthy Green Soup

If you are feeling weak then have a healthy green soup as a meal replacement is a great idea to boost energy levels. Soups are healthy, especially the green soup which is incredible for health and taste. You can also detox on soup by making a large batch, refrigerate and consume as your main lunch and dinner meals for two days. You will notice a big difference in your energy levels as the system is detoxified.

RECIPE

-Spinach 500grams

-2 tomatoes

-3x small green vegetables (whatever you have in stock)

-1x carrot

-1x small broccoli head

-1x squash

-1x small sweet potato

-1x leek

-2x onions

Directions

1. If you want the soup not very thick then wash the vegetable stock properly and chop neatly.
   2. Boil the stock until it simmers. Then add the chopped spinach and onion into the stock.

3.Cook for another ten minutes.

4.Once, all the green veggies get blended well then you can serve it hot.

Health benefits

-Spinach is highly nutritious and contains over 22 vitamins and minerals including vitaminA,B,C and K and minerals iron, copper and calcium. Spinach also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties powerful enough to combat cancer.

-Tomatoes contain over 21 vitamins and minerals which include vitamins A,B3,C and K and minerals potassium, biotin and folate.

-Carrots are well known for their ability to improve vision due to their high content of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A upon consumption and is a strong preventer against cancer types, high blood pressure and forms of heart disease. Carrots contain over 16 vitamins and minerals including vitamin A,B6,C and K and minerals manganese, copper and biotin.

–Broccoli is one of the healthiest foods available as it contains over 24 vitamins and minerals including vitamin A,B2,C and K and minerals magnesium, zinc and calcium. Broccoli has been strongly touted for its anti-cancer properties and supports a healthy cardiovascular system.

-Squash contains 20 vitamins and minerals being vitamins B2,C and K and minerals potassium, fiber and magnesium.

– Sweet potatoes contain vitamins A,B6 and C and minerals potassium, manganese and copper. They have strong anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Sweet potatoes are low in fat and high in fiber, making it a healthy addition to any meal as they support healthy digestion.

-Leeks support a health cardiovascular system thanks to their protective properties and contain vitamins A,C and E.

– Onions are also a great source of vitamins and minerals including vitamin B1,B6 and C and minerals manganese, biotin and phosphorus. Onions have anti-inflammatory properties that are great for supporting your immune system and protecting against disease.

 

Please share with family and loved ones.  Call us with your health care concerns,

Health and Wellness Associates

Archived

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HWA-BLACK LINES IN YOUR FINGER NAILS

 

BLACK LINES IN YOUR FINGER NAILS

 

 

 

 

Black Lines in Your Fingernails—Splinter Hemorrhages or Melanoma?

Have you ever looked down at your hand and discovered black lines in your fingernails? What about your toenails? It can be pretty weird and unsettling, and it can also be the result of some bigger health problems. When red or black lines in the fingernails are vertical in shape, it could be a sign of melanoma or heart disease, so getting it checked out by the doctor is highly recommended.

 

What Are These Black and Red Lines in My Fingernails?

 

Not every black or red line running vertically down your fingernail or toenail is a cause for worry. Sometimes it can be related to a nutritional deficiency or an injury, and other times it can be benign. But sometimes it means cancer.

 

What kind of cancer is represented by black lines in the fingernails? Melanoma; specifically, a type called longitudinal melanonychia. This occurs when there is an overproduction of melanocytes, which are mature melanin-forming cells, in the area of the nail. Sometimes called “nail moles,” these black marks are similar to moles that can appear on other parts of the body (such as your arms, shoulders, face or back), and many times they are not malignant, but all the same they should be checked out by a dermatologist.

Black lines may not always be directly related to mole growth or melanoma, but could also be caused by aging, nutritional issues, arthritis, fungus infections, or a heart infection. Red lines that may develop under your nails are also an indicator that something could be wrong. These red lines, called splinter hemorrhages, can be the result of a heart infection that have caused capillaries to burst. We’ll take a closer look at these later.

 

Are the Black Lines in Your Fingernails Cancer?

Upwards of 75% of the time, these black lines occur on your thumbnail or big toenail, and the severity and prevalence will differ on who you are and your age. Dark-skinned people, for example, are far more likely to see black lines forming under their nails, but they also have more instances where said lines are benign. On the other hand, such lines are far less common in Caucasians, but when they do appear there’s a better chance that it’s melanoma. It should be noted that this type of melanoma, subungual melanoma, is extremely rare, especially in the United States.

 

When melanoma is responsible for the appearance of the lines, your doctor will consider a few things, such as:

 

Age: It’s much more common in those 50 to 70.

Width of the line: If the line is wider than three millimeters, it may be a cause for concern.

Pigment change: If the look of the pigment band at the top of the nail is discolored, it could be an indication that the lines are malignant melanoma.

Where it’s located: The thumb and big toe are the most common locations, followed by the index finger.

The coverage area: If the discoloration extends into the cuticle or nail fold, it could be cancerous. This means that your body is continuing to produce more of whatever’s causing the discoloration.

Family history: If someone else in your family has been diagnosed with melanoma, it could increase the chances you have it.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s recommended that you get to your doctor for an examination. There really isn’t much you can do on your own at this point, so it’s important to seek proper medical attention.

 

When Black Lines in the Fingernails and Toenails Aren’t Cancerous

Of course, the black lines in your nails may not be melanoma. As mentioned, they are common in dark-skinned individuals, often without health repercussions. Still, it’s a good idea to show them to your doctor regardless of complexion and age.

 

As mentioned earlier, a fungus could cause the appearance of these lines, or it could simply be a result of aging. It could also have something to do with nerve damage resulting from a chronic condition like arthritis. Sometimes it could even be linked to a nutritional imbalance or deficiency.

 

When it’s a result of nutritional imbalances, then low blood levels of zinc, iron, calcium, or biotin could be the culprits. High levels of selenium may also play a role in forming black lines under the fingernails, so paying attention to diet and supplementation could offer some help. As always, it’s recommended to eat a balanced diet packed with nutrients. When your diet is made up primarily of vegetables, fruit, healthy fats, animal protein, and whole grains, you’ll be getting adequate amounts of all the nutrients you need. Taking a daily multivitamin to fill in the gaps can be a good idea, but it shouldn’t be used as your primary source of nutrition.

 

Are the Black Lines in Your Fingernails Heart Disease?

Black lines can signify some further health troubles, but so can reddish or brown ones. These lines, mentioned earlier, are called splinter hemorrhages and indicate small areas of bleeding beneath the nails. These thin red lines run vertically down the nail, and basically look like splinters, from which they draw their name. These can occur for a number of reasons, and sometimes it can be an indicator of heart disease or cardiovascular problems.

 

Splinter hemorrhages may be caused by small blood clots that damage the small capillaries beneath the nail. They can also occur as a result of:

 

An infection to the heart valve (also called endocarditis);

Vessel damage from swollen blood vessels (vasculitis); and

A bacterial infection resulting from an injury to the area.

Damaged blood vessels can be caused from a variety of factors and they can appear in other areas of the body, as well. The eyes and nose are other places where this is seen, and can be a result of stress or heart troubles. To combat this from occurring, it might be worthwhile to explore some lifestyle changes including more exercise, an improved diet, limiting stress, quitting smoking, limiting drinking, and trying to find ways to get better sleep.

 

Black Lines in the Nails during Pregnancy

Pregnant women may also notice black lines or spots under their nails, or on other areas of the body. This is really nothing to worry about and should subside shortly after the pregnancy has concluded. Pregnancy prompts all kinds of hormonal changes, one of which can be accelerated melanin production.

 

Beyond Cosmetics: You Can’t Just Cover Up Black Lines in Your Fingernails

If you notice tiny black lines in your fingernails, there may be something severe causing it, with the worst-case scenarios being cancer in the form of melanoma or heart disease. If you notice these lines forming, please, don’t ignore them and go see your doctor as soon as you can.

 

Please share with family and friends.  Always call us with your concerns or questions, or picture of your fingernails.

 

We are in this Together!

-People Start to Heal The Moment They Are Heard-

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HWA-WHAT IS IMPETIGO OR INFANTIGO ?

 

 

What Is Infantigo (Impetigo)? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments for Infantigo

You may ask “What is infantigo?” but there is a good chance that you may have experienced infantigo symptoms at some point in your life. Infantigo, also called impetigo, is a common bacterial skin infection in children, although it can affect adults too.

 

An infantigo rash typically consists of clusters of sores. While it typically does not cause serious problems, infantigo sores are certainly “eye-sores”. Left untreated, however, the sores can end up causing permanent damage and more serious complications.

 

What Is Infantigo?

Infantigo is a bacterial skin infection. It can be caused by two different types of bacteria: strep (streptococcus) or staph (staphylococcus). Typically, these bacteria infect skin that is broken or damaged by cuts, scratches, bites, eczema, or other skin conditions. However, infantigo can also occur in healthy skin.

 

The condition is highly contagious and easily spreadable through either physical contact or contaminated items (such as shared towels, bed sheets, and clothing). This is one reason why infantigo commonly affects children, as it is easily picked up at daycares and in school. However, adults may also find themselves with the infection if they come in contact with someone else with infantigo.

 

Types of Infantigo

While infantigo can be caused by two different types of bacteria, there are actually two different types of the infection. Infantigo symptoms differ between the two different types:

 

Non-bullous impetigo: The first type of infantigo infection is called non-bullous impetigo. This form of impetigo is more common, making up most cases. In this form of the infection, impetigo symptoms include crusty, rapidly-bursting sores.

Bullous impetigo: The second type of infantigo is called bullous impetigo. With this type, which is rarer, large, fluid-filled blisters occur. Bullous impetigo is usually painless.

Signs and Symptoms of Infantigo (Impetigo)

There are many infantigo symptoms that typically occur with the infection. While infantigo can affect any part of your body, it is common to have infantigo on your face, particularly around the nose or mouth.

 

For both types of infection, there are some common symptoms:

 

Infantigo rash

Sores

Blisters

Swollen glands

Itchy or irritated skin

For the more common non-bullous infantigo, it is common for the infection to start with small red sores that almost look like insect bites. These sores quickly burst and ooze a yellow fluid. The sores will then crust over, before they eventually go away. Although infantigo is typically painless, these sores can be itchy and are sometimes accompanied by a fever.

 

For the rarer bullous infantigo, large pus-filled blisters form, often on your arms, legs, or backside. These blisters will also usually burst and form a yellow crust, before healing. They can also be accompanied by itchiness or a fever.

 

Causes of Infantigo

Infantigo is caused by bacteria infecting the skin. While that is the one and only cause, there are a number of different factors that can increase your chances of developing the infection.

 

Here are some of the common “causes” of infantigo:

 

Cuts, scratches, and broken skin

Rashes (e.g. poison ivy rashes), eczema, and other conditions that irritate the skin

Allergies or anything that causes skin inflammation

Physical contact with someone who has infantigo

Sharing contaminated bedding, clothing, towels, toys, and other items

Insect bites

Infantigo can also occur in seemingly healthy skin with no noticeable cause. It is possible to have picked up the bacteria from many unsuspected sources.

 

How to Treat and Prevent Infantigo

Luckily, there are infantigo treatments that can help you put a quick end to any breakout that occurs.

 

The most important thing is to see a doctor if you have the signs or symptoms of infantigo. If left untreated, infantigo can cause permanent scarring and skin pigmentation. It can also lead to kidney damage in rare instances, so it is better to see your doctor to avoid any risk.

 

Typically, doctors will prescribe a topical antibiotic cream to apply over the infantigo rash or blisters. For more aggressive cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic pills.

 

However, there are also natural and at-home treatments that you can use to treat infantigo:

 

1. Hygiene

Is infantigo contagious? Yes, but there are things we can do to stop it from spreading. Infantigo can affect anyone, but when it has occurred, proper hygiene will help stop the infection from spreading. Gently wash affected areas with warm water and a mild soap. Wash your hands frequently, as well as bed linens, towels, and other material that may spread the bacteria. Avoid touching or scratching your face.

 

2. Diet

Bacteria infections involve skin inflammation, which is why eating anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial foods can help put a stop to infantigo. Garlic is a potent anti-bacterial—either. Adding some extra garlic to your food or taking a garlic supplement can help treat infantigo. As well, anti-inflammatory foods, such as turmeric, will help stop sores from getting worse.

 

3. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is an anti-bacterial and one of the most effective treatments for bacterial infections of all kinds. You can either buy skincare products that use tea tree oil at your local health food store or apply it on your own, by diluting a small amount of tea tree oil into moisturizing carrier oil. Mixing in a few drops of tea tree oil with argan oil and applying it on infantigo can help stop infections. Remember to research the proper amount of tea tree oil you should be using, as using too much can be dangerous.

 

Infantigo is very common with children, but it is possible to get the skin infection as an adult. Luckily, there are many infantigo treatments that can be used to prevent the skin condition from getting worse or infecting your friends and family. Hygiene, diet, and natural treatments can all be used to clear up a dreaded infantigo rash and keep it from coming back.

 

Please share with family and loved ones.  As always, call us with your questions and concerns.

 

We are in this Together!

-People Start to Heal The Moment They Are Heard-

Health and Wellness Associates

EHS Telehealth

REVIEWED BY DR BETH SIEWERT

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HWA – YELLOW RICE

 

YELLOW RICE – THE BEST RICE FOR YOU!

Ingredients

3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Pinch cinnamon

3 cups water

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups long grain or basmati rice

2 tablespoons sliced scallions

 

Directions

In a medium saucepan, heat the turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon over low heat until fragrant, stirring, about 30 seconds. Add the water, salt, and butter and bring to a boil. Add the rice and stir well. Cover and reduce heat to a bare simmer. Cook, covered, without stirring until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.

Remove from the heat and let sit, covered, without stirring, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork, add scallions, and serve.

 

Health and Wellness Associates

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Recipe courtesy of Emeril Lagasse

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