Your smile speaks volumes, even before you say a single word. It doesn’t just express your emotions or reveal your pearly whites. It showcases your health. And not just your oral health but your overall health.
Did you know that even your dentist can detect signs of health maladies such as diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer just by looking in your mouth? Oral health is a window to your overall health.
What’s going on in your mouth can seriously correlate to the rest of your body.
From a young age, we’re taught the importance of good oral hygiene – brush twice a day, floss between your teeth daily, and visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. Tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, and tooth loss can all result from poor oral hygiene.
Underlying conditions and certain medications can also cause oral disease. That’s why a good oral hygiene routine is important for keeping further complications at bay.
However, it’s not always just your teeth, gums, and overall appearance that suffer from poor oral hygiene. Depending on the severity, it could be life-threatening. More and more studies are finding a direct link between bad oral hygiene and major diseases, including oral cancer.
Oral cancer is not a rare disease. It’s one of the most highly prevalent cancers worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 54,010 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year alone. And sadly, 10,850 will succumb to the disease.
Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops on the lips, other parts of the mouth, and the oropharynx (part of the throat at the back of the mouth). It occurs when cells within the mouth begin to grow out of control and become abnormal. These abnormal cells start to attack the healthy cells and cause mutations that result in possible tumors or tissue damage.
It’s unclear what the exact cause of oral cancer is, but conditions such as gingivitis (gum disease), cavities, and loose or missing teeth have been found to contribute to the development.
So, what’s the link to oral hygiene?
Research has found that bacteria resulting from poor oral hygiene could be a significant culprit to types of oral cancer. Your mouth contains about 700 microbes, or germs, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Gross, right?! However, not all microbes are harmful. There is good bacteria that helps with digestion and fights off harmful germs, and then there is bad bacteria that can wreak havoc on your entire body.
Your mouth is a gateway not only to your digestive tract but also to your respiratory tract. Every single day, you are constantly swallowing bacteria that travels into your gut and throughout your body. Bacteria can also creep into your bloodstream with transportation via your gums.
Every time you eat, brush, and floss, you push germs into your gum tissue. That doesn’t mean stop brushing and flossing. It just means that if your gums are tender, inflamed, or recessed due to gum disease or another periodontal disease, it’s only opening the door further to harmful bacteria.
Other contributing risk factors for oral cancer include:
When it comes to oral cancer, prevention is key, which means lowering your risk factors. Although oral hygiene is not the sole contributor to oral cancer, it’s one factor you can control. It’s imperative, especially with age, to continue to take good care of your teeth, gums, and mouth. As we age, our teeth can weaken and experience wear and tear, which makes us more susceptible to other issues.
Ceasing or limiting tobacco and alcohol consumption is another risk factor you have control over. Moderation is always best if you choose not to stop consumption and use altogether.
Don’t skip your dental exams. By visiting your dentist for regular checkups, they can keep an eye out for any possible changes or symptoms occurring in your mouth. It’s also important to note if you see any changes between your scheduled dental appointments.
Contact your dentist and primary care provider if you notice any of the following oral cancer symptoms:
Any of these oral cancer symptoms can be a red flag and can help to detect abnormal cells before they develop into cancer. These are signs you don’t want to ignore or pass off as being something else.
Along with prevention, early detection is vital for oral cancer. Currently, 63% of oral cancer diagnoses are found in late stages (stage III, IV), resulting in a 5-year survival rate of less than 50%. The 5-year oral cancer survival rate increases to 80-90% when detected early.
During your 6-month dental exam, you should ask your dentist to perform an oral cancer screening. This is a simple visual exam where your dentist looks for any signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. They will also feel oral tissues for any possible lumps or growths.
In addition to a clinical exam, some dentists now use supplemental methods for detecting abnormal areas.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, oral cancer claims the life of one American every single hour. Catching oral cancer early can prevent you or a loved one from becoming a statistic.
The thought of oral cancer is scary, but by having regular oral cancer screenings, you can feel at ease knowing you are taking control of your oral health and overall well-being.
Warmer weather is a great invitation to enjoy the outdoors and nature. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining health and keeping critical bodily functions working properly. Hydration can be a challenge for some seniors because seniors may have a diminished ability to sense thirst, notice changes in body temperature, and may be taking medications that have a dehydrating effect. Keeping a few tips in mind will ensure that seniors stay hydrated and continue to enjoy the activities that bring them joy.Older adults looking to stay hydrated throughout the day should try these tips to get started. Being dehydrated can cause confusion, headaches, elevated heart rate, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Seniors who think they may be dehydrated should discuss their symptoms with their doctor before changing their fluid intake. Seniors should discuss hydration with their doctor as only can a healthcare professional recommend how much water someone needs, and they can also provide guidance and tips on managing water intake. Create a schedule drinking a lot of water in one sitting can be difficult. However, creating a schedule that accounts for daily activity, physician-recommended intake levels, and the preferences of the senior can help keep hydration on track. Eat water-rich foods cucumbers, watermelon, apples, and other water-rich produce can help seniors get more fluids at mealtimes. Broth is also a good option. Make water more interesting For those that dont enjoy drinking water, adding small amounts of juice or flavoring to water can make it less boring. Popsicles are also a great optionespecially on warm days! Reduce water loss excessive sweating can contribute to dehydration keeping inside temperatures at a reasonable level, and being mindful of fluid loss during outside activities, can help seniors stay hydrated. Dont wait for thirst often, when seniors feel thirsty; they may already be dehydrated. Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers can provide support for seniors that are concerned about the issue of hydration. Our caregivers can provide transportation to healthcare appointments, assist with meal preparation and planning, and provide support for physician-prescribed hydration regimens. Our goal is to support physical and emotional care goals and to elevate the spirits of our clients and their families every day.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today by calling (970) 241-8818 References Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Get the Facts: Drinking Water and Intake. Web. 2016. FamilyDoctor.org. Hydration: Why Its So Important. Web. 2017. Mayo Clinic. Dehydration. Web. 2018. WebMD. What is Dehydration? What Causes It? Web. 2019 Healthline The Causes and Symptoms of Dehydration in Older Adults
It is a sad commentary on our current cultural worldview that sunlight is widely perceived to be harmful, a cancer-causing threat. But what does the research actually say? And does this research affect older adults differently than other people?Spectrum: For starters, we should understand that sunlight is a complex combination of photons, with different wavelengths and properties. The sun is the original full-spectrum illumination, while both incandescent and LED lights emit, as one might expect, mostly visible-spectrum light.Intensity: The other important variable is the intensity of light, measured in LUX units (a foot away from one candle): direct sun comes in at 100,000; a cloudy day at 1,000; a kitchen or office measures 500; and a living room only 50. Thats why you need to get outside.UV: At one extreme is ultraviolet light (UV), whose wavelength is slightly shorter than visible violet. With regard to our health, UV is a mixed bag.It does cause sunburns, damages DNA, and triggers the aging of skin. It is also statistically associated with malignant melanoma, although, curiously, not with increased deaths from melanoma (because these cancers are mostly treatable).On the other hand, there are numerous health benefits: UV lowers the risk of hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), blood inflammation, and COVID infections. UV also stimulates Vitamin D synthesis in the skin. A large-scale study of 500,000 Brits, with a 12-year follow-up, found that frequent UV exposure lowered all-cause mortality by 14%, with cardiovascular deaths down 21% and total cancer mortality decreased by 13%. It gives one pause to reconsider the vast sums spent on sunscreen lotions. Just wearing light summer clothing blocks 80% of UV.IR: UV radiation represents only about 3% of the sunlight that strikes the surface of the earth, while about 50% is infrared (IR), whose lightwaves are just beyond (longer) than visible reds. IR radiation is more predominant at the beginning and end of days, while UV is strongest when the sun is overhead. A thick cloud cover reduces IR significantly more than UV. In a recent superb Huberman Lab podcast, Dr. Roger Seheult touted the many benefits of IR radiation. Most severe and chronic diseases also involve mitochondrial dysfunction (mitochondria are the small organelles within a cell that produce the energy-generating chemical ATP). One aspect of aging is that we lose 70% of our mitochondrial functioning after age 40. Unlike UV, IR radiation passes through light clothing and the surface of the skin to penetrate deep into body tissues, where it significantly stimulates mitochondrial ATP synthesis.Effects: The effects of improved mitochondrial functioning are pervasive, correlated empirically with sun exposure. Dr. Seheult cited statistics demonstrating that the greatest number of all-cause mortality comes soon after the shortest day of the year, and the lowest number of deaths occurs close to the longest days.People who live far north or south of the equator where days are particularly short in winter have higher overall mortality rates, particularly in mid-winter. In a study of almost 30,000 Swedish women, avoidance of sun exposure carried the same risk of premature death, as did smoking.There is well-replicated rigorous research that moderate IR exposure lowers the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and it reduces blood lipids and chronic inflammation. IR increases immune system response to infections, such as influenza, COVID and pre-cancerous cells.On a sunny day, just 15 minutes outside can make a big difference. If youre in a green space with lots of grasses, leaves, bushes, and trees, you can receive two to three times the IR dose because plants reflect much of the IR that strikes them (notice that most leaves dont get hot in the sun because of these reflective properties).Red Light Therapy: There are many red-light therapy devices now available if you are considering them, be sure to carefully research IR wavelengths, dosage, safety, and therapeutic benefit. One study, utilizing an IR desk unit shining only on face, neck, and hands, proved to be quite therapeutic.Forest Bathing? Dr. Seheult delighted in reminding us of the wisdom of the ancient beliefs that sunlight and fresh air promote convalescence. Forest bathing has become a thing the air around trees is infused with phytoncides that defend plants from bacteria, fungi, and insects. When inhaled by humans, they up- regulate immune functioning and lower stress levels, and reduce stress hormones. The beauty and serenity of such an environment further enhances these benefits, some of which are detectable by lab tests a month later. Furthermore, getting up with the sun (and out from behind the filtering effects of plate glass windows) helps to set your circadian rhythm, which can improve sleep patterns. Take home message: forests, parks and even golf courses soothe the soul, and the body. And early morning and late afternoon may be particularly beneficial.Sweat Benefits: Dr. Seheult is a pulmonologist who treats many respiratory infections he also reminded us about how previous generations treated patients with hot baths and hot packs, as if to sweat out infections. Its been recently discovered that body temperatures a little over 100 degrees Fahrenheit actually accelerate the production of interferon, a powerful anti-viral protein. Maybe weve been a little too quick to reduce our fevers with aspirin, Tylenol, and Advil. And maybe the saunas so favored by Scandinavians and Russians are more therapeutic than weve realized.Conclusion: As spring has sprung, we encourage everyone to get away from your screens, go outside and enjoy the benefits of the sunshine that so amply surrounds us. Residents at Kavod Senior Life have a myriad of ways to get outside, whether it be on the sunlit patio areas, in the resident gardens, on the nearby walking paths in Cherry Creek or on the many benches and sitting areas surrounding the campus. Come for a visit and see for yourself!Ben and Scott https://theagingwiselyproject.com/
By Faith Protsman, MD, Regional Medical Director, VITAS HealthcareVietnam War veterans face unique obstacles throughout the twilight of advanced illness. For hospice care providers to tailor care to meet the needs of veterans who have served in this theater of war, they must consider the tribulations these patients face as they reach the end of their lives.The Vietnam War era was a very tumultuous time to be a soldier. The United States' prolonged involvement in a war of questionable motivation left society with disdain toward the government and its institutions, especially the military.Coupled with horrific images shown on television, constant controversy was a new reality and negative public opinion formed around this conflict, of which those serving the nation were not spared.Careful consideration is necessary when treating patients facing these traumas.Tours of duty proved to be traumatizing in many ways. Young soldiers, some having just turned 18, were drafted into a war that many of them did not believe in. They were not fighting for love of country and God; rather, they were fighting for survival and out of fear for their lives.Intimate battles in the dense jungle led many to be subjected to the horrors that come with fighting in a foreign land that was only familiar to the elusive guerilla enemy soldiers.Servicemembers did not receive a warm welcome when returning home from Vietnam, often being judged and labeled as cruel and even inhumane.Moral Injury Can Impair Mental HealthThis perfect storm of trauma led to lasting moral injury that plagues many veterans for their entire lives. Veterans returning from the war were marginalized and pushed into isolation, often turning to alcohol and substance abuse, which worsened their anxiety and exacerbated their strife.Questions like Ive never spoken about the war, can I now? Was the war moral or immoral? and Was I a good soldier? come bubbling to the surface later in life as their illnesses intensify and their defenses weaken.Careful consideration is necessary when treating patients facing these traumas.The restlessness that can result from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often treated with benzodiazepines. In most cases, these medications can bring relief through calming the patient.Yet, there is a common trend amongst veterans who cope with trauma that results in the opposite effect.Benzodiazepines can lower the walls that Vietnam veterans have built up throughout a lifetime of suppressing trauma and negative memories. This class of medications can exacerbate the symptoms of PTSD as traumatic experiences and feelings of regret resurface. Benzodiazepine-induced inhibition of neurotransmission can even lead to agitated toxic psychosis, increased anxiety, hostility, and rage.1The Value of Compassion Along with Clinical CareRemaining considerate does not end with simply staying mindful during the planning of clinical solutions. Providing care for Vietnam veterans requires a high level of empathy.A key to an empathetic approach is taking the time to listen nonjudgmentally. Though seemingly simple, practicing nonjudgmental, open communication with patients facing trauma from war can help avoid the all-too typical responses of Its okay and You did what you had to do.These patients do not need sympathy, because they have been judged enough throughout their lives. When care teams approach them without judgment, they honor the sacrifices these heroes have made.VITAS hospice care provides compassionate care approaches that are tailored to meet the distinctive needs of Vietnam veterans. With the Veterans Administration (VA) offering hospice care as part of its medical package, VITAS team members can provide empathetic psychosocial support, while utilizing clinical solutions that help manage symptoms.The qualifications for veterans to receive hospice benefits include: A life-limiting illness Treatment goals that focus on comfort, rather than curative treatments A life expectancy of 6 months or less, if their illness runs its normal course Veterans also benefit from the option to receive concurrent care through the VA. The VA can provide curative treatments as the patient simultaneously receives symptom-managing comfort care administered by the hospice care provider of their choosing.Offering solace, while remaining compassionate when patients need it most, is too often overlooked in the busy practice of healthcare. Acknowledging the adversity that Vietnam War veterans have had to face throughout their lifetimes and adapting care approaches to meet their needs is the best way for healthcare providers to give back to those who have sacrificed so much for the preservation of freedom.1Paton, C. (2018, January 2). Benzodiazepines and disinhibition: A review: Psychiatric bulletin. Cambridge Core. Retrieved November 2, 2022, from https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/psychiatric-bulletin/article/benzodiazepines-and-disinhibition-a-review/421AF197362B55EDF004700452BF3BC6
At VIPcare, we are a group of passionate healthcare professionals who believe theres a better way to practice medicine. We see a future where preventative medicine is valued over the traditional approach, which we refer to as sick care. Our goal is to get our patients healthy and to keep them healthy. VIPcare is a patient-focused primary care network under the Better Health Group Services umbrella that has been serving senior communities for more than 16 years. We utilize a high-touch population health management approach that prioritizes spending quality time with the physician and focusing on preventative care. To us, its about quality, not quantity. And not only do we value quality time, but we pride ourselves on creating a quality experience for all our patients. We practice kindness. Show empathy. Reach out in compassion. And every day, we partner with our patients on their journey to Better Health.We settle for nothing less than 5-star service and strive to be 1% better every day. This allows us to always go above and beyond for our patients. We take great care of our team so they can take great care of our patients and achieve: Better Care. Better Outcomes. Better Health. Multiple Locations to serve you throughout Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte Counties!VIPcare Englewood465 S Indiana Ave, Englewood, FL 34223VIPcare Port Charlotte1931 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33948VIPcare Punta Gorda3941 Tamiami Trail, Ste 3175, Punta Gorda, FL 33950VIPcare Bradenton6090 26th St W, Bradenton, FL 34207VIPcare Parrish10018 US 301, Parrish, FL 34219VIPcare North Port14806 Tamiami Trail, North Port, FL 34287SaludVIP Sarasota Commons935 N Beneva Rd, Unit 939, Sarasota, FL 34232VIPcare Sarasota - Bee Ridge4250 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233VIPcare Sarasota - Fruitville5309 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232VIPcare Sarasota - Tamiami8620 S Tamiami Trail, Ste F & G, Sarasota, FL 34238VIPcare South Venice2097 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34293
At VIPcare, we are a group of passionate healthcare professionals who believe theres a better way to practice medicine. We see a future where preventative medicine is valued over the traditional approach, which we refer to as sick care. Our goal is to get our patients healthy and to keep them healthy. VIPcare is a patient-focused primary care network under the Better Health Group Services umbrella that has been serving senior communities for more than 16 years. We utilize a high-touch population health management approach that prioritizes spending quality time with the physician and focusing on preventative care. To us, its about quality, not quantity. And not only do we value quality time, but we pride ourselves on creating a quality experience for all our patients. We practice kindness. Show empathy. Reach out in compassion. And every day, we partner with our patients on their journey to Better Health.We settle for nothing less than 5-star service and strive to be 1% better every day. This allows us to always go above and beyond for our patients. We take great care of our team so they can take great care of our patients and achieve: Better Care. Better Outcomes. Better Health. Four Locations to serve you throughout Lee County!Cape Coral-2301 Del Prado Blvd S, Ste 890, Cape Coral, FL 33990Fort Myers-1635 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33907 Fort Myers-14131 Metropolis Ave, Suite 104, Fort Myers, FL 33912Fort Myers-20291 Summerlin Rd ste 105, Fort Myers, FL 33908
At VIPcare, we are a group of passionate healthcare professionals who believe theres a better way to practice medicine. We see a future where preventative medicine is valued over the traditional approach, which we refer to as sick care. Our goal is to get our patients healthy and to keep them healthy. VIPcare is a patient-focused primary care network under the Better Health Group Services umbrella that has been serving senior communities for more than 16 years. We utilize a high-touch population health management approach that prioritizes spending quality time with the physician and focusing on preventative care. To us, its about quality, not quantity. And not only do we value quality time, but we pride ourselves on creating a quality experience for all our patients. We practice kindness. Show empathy. Reach out in compassion. And every day, we partner with our patients on their journey to Better Health.We settle for nothing less than 5-star service and strive to be 1% better every day. This allows us to always go above and beyond for our patients. We take great care of our team so they can take great care of our patients and achieve: Better Care. Better Outcomes. Better Health. Four Locations to serve you throughout Lee County!Please call to schedule your new patient appointment. VIPcare where you join as a patient, but you stay because you are family. Phone: 239-722-8961Cape Coral-2301 Del Prado Blvd S, Ste 890, Cape Coral, FL 33990Fort Myers-1635 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33907Fort Myers-14131 Metropolis Ave, Suite 104, Fort Myers, FL 33912Fort Myers-20291 Summerlin Rd ste 105, Fort Myers, FL 33908