The season of holiday giving may have ended, but generosity is a good way to live year-round. So why not gift someone with the gift of life a blood donation !Especially now, when blood donations have fallen off and our areas blood supply is dangerously low.The pandemic has created a big demand for blood donations in Southwest Florida, says Jeremy Puckett, blood center supervisor with Lee Health. Our blood collections are low because the number of people visiting our area is down. Our seasonal residents and tourists have always gifted us with blood donations, but the numbers just aren't there this year. Puckett says Lee Health's blood donor program is a hospital-based one, which means that donations stay in the community.In other words, a blood donation with Lee Health Blood Center even just a single pint can help save the lives of both children and adults who are patients at Cape Coral Hospital, Gulf Coast Medical Center, Health Park Medical Center and Lee Memorial Hospital, which houses the only Trauma Center within a five-county radius. Puckett adds that blood donations also benefit patients at Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida, the Rehabilitation Hospital and patients receiving treatment at the Regional Cancer Center and Lee Health Coconut Point.Donations can be separated into its different components; the platelets may go to a child with leukemia, the plasma to a patient with a clotting problem, and the red blood cells to an accident victim, Puckett explains. The entire life-saving process takes about 45 minutes. The actual donation time is only 5-10 minutes.The Safe, Effective BloodmobileBecause the blood used for patient care has to be continuously replenished to maintain a constant blood supply, Lee Health Blood Centers need a total of 800 donors a week.Puckett says that because of COVID-19, the usual number of larger, local businesses and organizations that typically sponsor blood drives this time of year also has dropped.But were still open for partnering with local communities and businesses to set up mobile blood drives, he says. For example, wed like to continue working with and developing new partnerships with the 55-and-over retirement communities in the area. These are a vital and much-valued resource for our blood centers.Puckett says the bloodmobiles and its employees strictly adhere to all CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 during blood drives.Were limiting the number of people inside the bloodmobile as well as requiring all participants and workers to wear masks, stay socially distanced, and regularly sanitize their hands. As a matter of protocol when donating blood, well take your temperature anyway, which is another CDC safety recommendation.To donate blood, you must:Weigh at least 115 poundsBe at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental consentProvide photo ID, if your'e a new donorHow do I get the bloodmobile to come to my place of employment?Get a group of people willing to donateCall the Lee Health Blood Center to schedule a time and day at 239-343-2333Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

Were all spending more time at home these days, and many of us might be missing the structure of our normal day-to-day activities waking, working, eating, and keeping ourselves healthy with exercise, the right kind of food and mental stimulation.But there are actually plenty of positives here! In fact, this can be an excellent time to rewrite our own routines, maybe generate some new, healthy habits to help through these times and beyond.Check below for a few ideas that will help you create your own, personalized wellness routine:Fuel Up with Healthy FoodGood health starts within! Try starting the day with a nutrient-dense smoothie.Plan for well-rounded meals with plenty of vegetables to support your health. Now is a great time to set a routine for healthy eating and preparing your own meals at home.Get creative in the kitchen! Test out a new recipe you've been wanting to try.Connect with Nature to Support WellbeingTaking in nature helps us to unwind from daily stressors. It is important to follow local guidelines and use precaution when venturing outside. That being said, the great outdoors can be closer than we think!Spending time on the patio, balcony, or even on a chair outside the front door can be a beneficial way to take in the sunshine, fresh air, and colors of nature.Use any extra time at home to exercise your green thumb! Watering and tending to your garden, no matter how small, is a rewarding task that helps soothe away tension.Here's a quick pic of just one of the many things growing at the Lee Health Coconut Point Teaching Garden:'Tap into Your Creative SideSpending time cultivating your creativity is an easy way to refocus the mind toward enjoying the present moment. You dont have to consider yourself an artist just express yourself!Use free time to pick up an instrument you used to play, or try learning a new one! There are many online resources for learning to play music.Coloring and drawing is fun for all ages. Simply picking up a marker and drawing what comes to mind is a technique that helps us center into the now moment and express what we are experiencing within.Maintain Physical & Mental Health at HomeWith many fitness instructors filming classes for at-home participants, it is easier than ever to turn the living room into a fitness zone! Always listen to your body and consult your health provider as neededbe sure to do exercises that are safe and comfortable for you.Visit the Lee Health Healthy Life Center on Facebook for new fitness and meditation content posted throughout the week by our Instructors and Exercise Specialists.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

For more information on Lee Health, CLICK HEREAs modern healthcare continues to undergo changes, its important to remember that online learning and virtual classrooms are nothing new. They offer plenty of convenient options that take advantage of all our coolest technologyphones, tablets, and computers that we can access anywhere at any time.Patients use online platforms for personalized, one-on-one interactions with their doctors, but they can also use them to join groups of like-minded people in fun activities such as yoga, healthy cooking demonstrations, family events, stress reduction, and seminars about the latest health trends.In short, virtual access is changing the wellness game. Now's the ideal time to find something that helps you stay healthy, empowered and refreshed!If you have a good WiFi connection, virtual health classes are perfect for you. Plus, who doesn't need an occasional break from the news?The virtual classes are such a great resource for our community and patients to take charge of their health, said Carrie Bloemers, MS, RDN, LDN, Director of Healthy Life Center - Education & Navigation. Were excited that with a little innovation and technology, we can continue education in a safe setting throughout the summer.Lee Health Classes Available NowOur Healthy Life Center shave plenty of virtual classes available each month.Our lineup features:Chair YogaPlant-Powered LivingManaging ArthritisAlzheimer's Caregiver Support GroupBalancing Stress and Increasing EnergyWe are holding many virtual events. Please check out our calendar of events!Cooking Camps and DemonstrationsIts especially easy these days to fall into bad eating habits. Were all more susceptible to overindulging in comfort foods, snacks, and sugar to cope with stress and social distancing.But proper nutrition and exercise are still the keys to long-term wellness. Our Healthy Life Centers invite you to learn more about food and nutrition and have lots of fun while doing it with our popular Cooking with Kat demonstrations.In June, Kat, a registered dietitian, will teach you how to make healthy and tasty fish, show you more about mushrooms, and provide instruction on soy-based dishes the whole family will enjoy.In our virtual cooking camps, the kids can get in on the action, too. These camp classes help children learn a new hobby and give them the kinds of skills that will keep them healthier throughout their life.And, heres a bonus: The cooking camp may keep them focused and occupied all summer long!We would love to have kids and parents working together in the kitchen to build new culinary skills, Bloemers said. This helps set the foundation for a healthy lifestyle and works to prevent chronic disease.Join the Virtual Revolution For Free Lee Health Healthy Life Centers virtual classes are free to our community. So connect today to meet our certified experts whose passion (they love what they do!) will inspire and support you and your familys health and wellness journey. Our wellness navigators are also available to put you in touch with the right providers and services. At Lee Health, were here to support you.

Do you know someone who swears by Adderall? Someone who uses it to stay focused, complete a task, or combat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?As a drug becomes more common, its always good to learn more about benefits and risks especially for children who may need help with ADHD.We reached out to Dr, Ashley Chatigny,a double board-certified psychiatrist and medical director of behavioral health with Lee Behavioral Group, for some answers.What is Adderall?Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, two central nervous stimulants that improve focus and reduce impulsivity by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. The Food and Drug Administration(FDA) approved Adderall in 1996.A Doctor Can HelpAdderall is not available without a prescription. But we invite you to talk to a doctor about any medication changes or questions about lifestyle, ADHD, or other concerns.Adderall for adultsAdderall helps people diagnosed with ADHD by improving their focus and concentration since it is a direct stimulant on the central nervous system. The medication has the same effect on those who do not have ADHD, and it's important to remember that Adderall has side effects such as nervousness, restlessness, headaches, problems sleeping, and more.Adderall withdrawal is also a serious issues, and it is extremely important that adults and children take Adderall under the supervision of a doctor.Stay tuned for a fuller story in March's Healthy News on adult usage of Adderall.How is Adderall prescribed for ADHD in children?ADHD, usually first diagnosed in childhood, is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder among U.S. children aged 2 to 17 years. ADHD begins in childhood when the brain is developing, Dr. Chatigny explains. Symptoms typically develop around age 7, during the early years of childhood.Many studies demonstrate that parents and siblings of a child with ADHD are more likely to have ADHD themselves. Also, there's a lot of misinformation about what causes ADHD, like vaccinations. Thats not true, Dr. Chatigny says. It can have other causes, such as diet, environmental exposures, and complications within the uterine during pregnancy.Dr. Chatigny cautions that any evaluation for childhood ADHD should involve tests to rule out other mental and medical disorders. Adderall should be considered a part of a total treatment program that includes psychological, educational, dietary changes and social aspects.How many children with ADHD reach adulthood with ADHD?The symptoms of ADHD in children change over time, especially as they enter puberty.Many children will outgrow the symptoms as their brains change and they reach puberty, Dr. Chatigny says. They're learning coping skills, their cognitive abilities get better, and their ADHD sort of washes out.However, about 60 percent of children with ADHD will continue to exhibit some symptoms of ADHD into adolescence and adulthood. That's about 4 percent of adults, although few get diagnosed or treated for it. Most adults diagnosed with ADHD show symptoms of inattention or distraction.Adult ADHD symptoms are often more mild than those of children with ADHD, Dr. Chatigny says. For example, children with ADHD might have problems sitting still, completing tasks, acting out and impulsive/aggressive behavior while adults are more likely to have trouble focusing and staying organized.How can I tell if Adderall is working?Its unlikely Adderall will make every symptom of ADHD go away, but you'll know its working when some symptoms improve like the ability to stay focused on a task and complete it. Adderall may be working if a person with ADHD says they are doing better at work or school.Adderall helps reduce symptoms of ADHD in about 80 percent of my pediatric patients, Dr. Chatigny says. Children with ADHD experience what's called a paradoxical reaction to the medication. It calms them and most often improves their ability to focus.In people who don't have ADHD, because Adderall produces an excess amount of dopamine, users may experience feelings of euphoria and increased energy levels, as well as possible dangerous physical and emotional side effects.What are Adderall common side effects in people with ADHD?The greatest risks and side effects occur when the medication is not used as intended or the user takes more than the prescribed dose, Dr. Chatigny says.Stimulants can raise your heart rate and increase anxiety, so a person with high blood pressure, seizures, heart disease, glaucoma, liver or kidney disease, or an anxiety disorder should tell their doctor about them before taking any stimulant.Is there a non-stimulant medication a person with ADHD can take instead of Adderall?Dr. Chatigny says brand drugs like Strattera and Wellbutrin are OK options for treating ADHD.Non-stimulant medications like these and others don't have abuse potential. However, the downside is they typically take longer to work, she says. Amphetamines like Adderall begin to work within 30 minutes to an hour. Non-stimulants like Strattera can take 4 to 8 weeks to reach maximum effectiveness at the proper dose.Dr. Chatigny prefers a non-stimulant treatment regime for patients with ADHD, especially in adults, because central nervous stimulants like Adderall are controlled substances, meaning theyre regulated by the federal government because they have a high potential for abuse, addiction and physical dependence.As always, talk to your doctor about Adderall, ADHD, and other medications.Dr. Chatigny is board-certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry, a fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and is the medical director of behavioral health with Lee Physician Group. Her treatment interests include emergency psychiatry, treatment resistant depression, complex psychopharmacology, and substance use disorders.

Let's talk about the one thing that all men can identify with: Prostate trouble.The prostate is a sensitive gland that can easily swell for various reasons, causing problems with urinary flow and sexual performance among other things.As men age their risk of prostate cancer increases, according to The American Cancer Society. One in nine men will get diagnosed in his lifetime, and 160,000 men get diagnosed every year.Although prostate cancer mainly develops in older men -- the average age at the time of diagnosis is about 66 -- Dr. Constantine Mantz, a radiation oncologist on the medical staff of Lee Health, stresses that men shouldn't be lulled by the myth that the disease will only strike after a certain age. Patients who have a family history or a genetic predisposition are also at risk, Dr. Mantz says. The key thing to remember? Lifestyle changes are a key to prevention, and you can start at any age:Diet, as always, is important: The Prostate Cancer Foundation stresses that diet and lifestyle changes can reduce development and progression. You can start with a healthier diet rich in fruits and vegetables especially tomatoes cooked with olive oil as well as broccoli and cauliflower. The PCF recommends less red meat and more fish, which contains omega-3 fatty acids. Stick to a low-fat diet in general.Exciting Exercise :Start slowly if you aren't used to it, and learn to find something you enjoy. It's just that simple. Swimming, cycling, walking, tennis whatever will get you up and get the blood moving consistently week to week help your prostate health.Watch that stress: The PCF says getting treatment for stress and depression as well as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes -- will save your life and improve your odds if you have to deal with prostate cancer.Don't rely on supplements: The PCF warns men not to overindulge in dietary supplements and megavitamins. Some research suggests that too many vitamins can "fuel" cancer although there is no clear consensus. Be sure to talk to your doctor about vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies you use. Also be wary of certain hormone treatments. Male hormones such as testosterone may play a role in development of prostate cancer, according to the PFC.Know where you came from: Men should be acutely aware of their family history. Having a father, brother, or son with prostate cancer increases your risk! A man who has two or three first-degree family members with prostate cancer is 11 times at greater risk than someone who has no family members with prostate cancer. The risk of race: African American men are at higher risk than men of other races and ethnicities. Don't smoke: Not much else needs to be stated here. It's just a bad idea all around. Our experts in oncology education can help you quit today! Regular screenings: The PSA test is essential for men after a certain age. Doctors encourage yearly screening for men after the age of 60, Dr. Mantz says. "There are certain groups of patients who need to be identified, and they need to be treated, and you will never identify them unless you screen for prostate cancer using a simple PSA test," he said. Men should get a PSA screening starting around age 40 to 45 if they have a higher chance of developing the disease. Remember that elevated PSA levels do not always mean you have cancer. Sexual activity: A Harvard Health Professional study reported that frequent ejaculation seemed to help ward off prostate cancer. Scientists found that men who ejaculated 21 or more times a month enjoyed a 33 percent lower risk of prostate cancer than men who only ejaculated four to seven times a month.Great chances: Finally, remember that most men diagnosed with prostate cancer don't die from it. In fact, more than 2.9 million diagnosed men in the United States at some point are still alive today.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click for more information

Its never been more important to improve your health and well-beingThe idea of going to a gym after spending months of social distancing and staying at home may feel odd. But atthe Healthy Life Centers, safety and disinfecting protocols are our top priority.The Healthy Life Centers stay up to date with the latest guidelines from theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)to protect you so that you can continue to improve your health and wellness during these unique times.COVID-19 will be with us for the foreseeable future, saysDr. Alex Daneshmand, Chief Patient and Safety Officer at Lee Health. As we continue to talk about respiratory hygiene, such as covering your cough, washing your hands and masking, we need to remind our staff, providers and community about healthy hygiene.This kind of hygiene includes eating right, exercising and taking care of your mental health. COVID-19 has reminded all of us to take care of ourselves especially since the virus can disproportionality affect people who are obese or have uncontrolled hypertension.Safety is our priorityThe Healthy Life Centers continue to prioritize your health and safety:We perform temperature checks of all staff and HLC members at check-in.All Healthy Life Center team members are required to wear facial coverings.Front desks feature protective Plexiglas barriers that protect both members and staff.Healthy Life Center employees consistently clean and disinfect all surfaces, areas and spaces.Our dedicated cleaning staff part of Lee Healths Environmental Services Team performs additional sanitation.Weve limited the number of spaces in our group fitness classes to meet social distancing precautions.Weve limited our pool lap lanes to one person at a time.Because were all part of the same equation to ensure everyones health and safety, members are asked to disinfect equipment before and after each use. Sanitizing stations located throughout the facility make it a simple and convenient task.Because keeping you safe, healthy, and comfortable is our priority, the following services are unavailable until further notice:Organized team sports (such asbasketball and pickleball)Steam roomsSwim lessonsMassageCafe YouWe can support you in-person or at-homeThe Healthy Life Centers offer a wide range of amenitiesincluding cardio and strength equipment, a pool, group fitness and yoga classes, physical therapy, and educational seminars.Weare alsoproviding members with options for wellness support that they can use from anywhere. Members can meet one-on-one through video chat with a health and nutrition coachand a personal trainer can come up with a plan that works for them with their comfort level, personal goals, and resources they have available.Our coaches provide support with at-home nutrition strategies, stress management, sleep support, and exercise planning to meet members wherever they are on their personal health journey.The Healthy Life Centers can help you stay happy and healthy during these challenging times:Whether youre a longtime member or a new one, you receive a yearly health assessment and custom plan that addresses exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle based on your specific goals, included in your membership.Our fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle experts take a team approach to your care. Were confident we can help you along your health journey, and we back it up byoffering new members a 30-day money back guarantee.Join the Healthy Life Center today!To get started on your complimentary new member package that includes a custom health plan, plus a 30-day money back guarantee, stop by for a tour or call to learn more:Healthy Life Center - Cape Coral609 S.E. 13th Court Cape Coral, FL 33990(239) 424-3220Healthy Life Center - Babcock Ranch42880 Crescent Loop Babcock Ranch, FL 33982(239) 343-3540

Its important to remember that you have a choice. You can feel empowered when it comes to your health.When diagnosed with a chronic health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression and osteoarthritis, your choice is whether you are going to enjoy your activities of daily living or allow your condition to isolate you from others.A chronic health condition must be managed on a daily basis for months, years and often a lifetime. Many people believe that medication is the only tool available when they get diagnosed.And while medication is important, there are many other things that will help you take control.Can you believe that 80 percent of heart disease, stroke and diabetes cases can be prevented? According to the World Health Organization, an unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity and tobacco use are the three primary risk factors for developing chronic health conditions. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, many chronic health conditions can be prevented or reversed, including a 40 percent decrease in cancer diagnoses.If you have a chronic health condition, here are some things beyond the medicine cabinet that may help you find relief:Physical ActivityThe benefits of physical activity are too numerous to count. Physical activity decreases your blood pressure and blood sugar, strengthens your heart, and improves your mood.Common sense may tell you that more physical activity will increase your pain but this isn't true at all. In fact, pain increases when you decide to do nothing at all.So consider swimming, pool exercises, biking, Tai Chi, yoga, and Pilates as part of a comprehensive program. Find activities that you enjoy and can sustain for a long time. Start slow, do what you're comfortable with, and ask your doctor before you start an exercise program.Healthy EatingGood health always starts in the gut. Poor eating habits can cause weight gain. Its simple: a better diet can lead to overall health improvement:Try to have six servings of vegetables a day and 1-2 servings of fruit. Choose foods with less fat. Eat lean protein sources and consider eating more fish and a include more plant food dishes such as rice and beans in your diet. Get back to the basics and try to choose food with only one ingredient such as an apple or broccoli. Avoid processed foods that often comes in boxes.Frequently, we gain weight because of large portions. Avoid fast foods.If you are overweight, try to lose 5-7 percent of your body weight. SleepMany people have sleep problems, especially when faced with a chronic health condition. If you are unable to get a good nights sleep, you may start to notice symptoms such as loss of focus, fatigue, increased pain and fatigue.The amount of sleep varies for each individual, but most experts agree that a minimum of 7 hours helps us feel our best. Some people require 8-10 hours of sleep to function well.Remember: Sleeping pills are not a long term solution to poor sleep. There are many techniques that you can implement to promote a restful nights sleep such as establishing a sleep and rest schedule, avoiding alcohol, caffeine, smoking, getting out in the sun every day, and avoiding electronics (computers, TV, phone) one hour before bedtime. MindfulnessWe hear it all the time: Mind over matter. And it really is true. Practice distraction, mindful breathing, relaxation techniques, meditation, and guided imagery. Don't know how to start? Download a relaxing app on your phone or talk to a friend or expert about meditation or other forms of relaxation. Once you train your mind, you will be amazed at what you might accomplish.Would you like to learn more about these tools and others? Lee Health offers complimentary Chronic Disease Self-Management Education community workshops that were developed by the Self-Management Resource Center. The workshop meets weekly, for six weeks, at a variety of locations in Lee County. Call Lee Health Solutions at 239-343-9264and to register.

Lifting weights helps build muscles, but it does not always help you remember where you left your wallet or what you were supposed to buy at the grocery store. The good news is that you can train your brain to remember just as well as you can train for body for a marathon. In fact, studies show that the brain needs steady stimulation to stay sharp, and a sedentary lifestyle can cause both physical and mental decline.You can do things to strengthen memory -- things we've gotten away from, says Sarah Mitchell, health and wellness coordinator for Lee Health. We use electronics for phone numbers, addresses and to remember things we used to memorize. Weve become a sedentary society. Exercise is one of the best things for the brain.Examples of fun, proven brain exercises include:Write a grocery list and try to memorize as many items as possible. Keep a scorecard on how you do and try to top your score each time. Work it into your grocery store routine. You might just be amazed at how well you do without looking at your phone.Have you ever tried to learn a new language or take up a new musical instrument? Its never too late, and activating those learning centers of your brain will make you feel sharper and more energized.Do you normally brush your teeth with your right hand? Try using your left hand. Switch up your dominant hand when throwing or eating -- or even changing the channel on the television -- and you'll find yourself concentrating extra hard to complete the task. It might even be good for a laugh.Just eat a big meal? Try to identify each ingredient in your main dish and then double-checking that with the recipe to see which food items or spices you got right.Download a brain games app. There are some for math, spelling, riddles, and other games to help people of all ages better retain information.Take part in a trivia night! Besides the brain exercise, the social stimulation helps, too.We all need this type of mental exercise, Mitchell says. And it goes along with physical activity. When people sit for a long time, their brains get lazy. We think about training our bodies from the neck down, but we also need to train our bodies from the neck up.Written and Submitted By: Lee Health - click here for more information

Lee Physician Group has more than 500 primary and specialty care physicians and advanced practitioners.We are right where you need us, too, with 80 office locations in Lee County that make it easy for you and your family to find a primary care or specialty care office near you. Many of our practices are located in buildings or office complexes with other important medical servicessuch as imaging, rehabilitation, and labs.Our specialty physicians treat specific medical needs, whether urgent or on-going, including cardiac care, neurology, palliative care, endocrinology, surgery, allergy and immunology, pulmonology, gastroenterology, memory disorders and more. Primary care physicians are available for your routine medical care and to make referrals to the necessary specialists.Lee Healths Lee Physician Group focuses on creating a partnership between you, your primary care physician and your health care team. We have developed patient-centered practices that help manage and provide care using evidence-based guidelines, increasing the focus on prevention in addition to treatment, and using technology like comprehensive electronic health records.As part of Lee Health, we have access to leading-edge equipment and technology, connection with hospitals and outpatient centers through an electronic health record (EHR) system, and are supported by the comprehensive services and staff of Lee Health.CONTINUITY OF CAREWe know that your care extends beyond Lee Physician Group offices, so we have programs and services in place to ensure that your care continues smoothly and without interruption.Should you need urgent, after-hours care for nonlife-threatening emergencies or if you do not have an established physician, Convenient Care provides the medical care you require. No appointment is necessary, and most insurance plans are accepted.Call 239-481-4111 or go to www.LeePhysicianGroup.org for information or to make an appointment. Select primary care physician offices have extended weekday hours and weekend hours, and some offices offer same-day appointments.Lee Physician Group looks forward to serving you and your family for your medical needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 239-481-4111.Our Call Center is open 7 a.m.-7 p.m., 7 days a week to schedule primary care appointments and answer questions.Editors Note: For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 239-481-4111.

If you could afford treatment of a chronic medical condition to improve your quality of life, you would do that, right?For instance, take chronic kidney disease (CKD), a condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function. When the kidneys arent working properly, waste builds up in the blood, including waste products from food.For people with CKD who havent progressed yet to kidney failure, a dietary plan developed by a registered dietitian may help them better manage their disease andlive better.But many people dont take advantage of this service.In fact, about 90 percent of non-dialysis kidney disease patients never meet with a dietitian, according to an article in theJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.Most adults with chronic kidney disease remain poorly informed of how diet influences disease management and progression, according to the study authors.About37 million Americanshave chronic kidney disease, a number expected to increase in the next 20 years due to the obesity epidemic and aging population, according to Stacy Laffin, an outpatient registered dietitian with Lee Health Solutions.She says almost half of adults age 65 and older are expected to develop kidney disease during their lifetimes. Not all patients with kidney disease progress to kidney failure, she adds.At Lee Health Solutions, our medical nutrition therapy (MNT) program is one of the most important ways to slow the progression and possibly prevent kidney failure, Laffin says. MNT may also help patients with chronic kidney disease improve their blood sugar and blood pressure, which can potentially delay disease-related complications of CKD.But many people who receive Medicare arent aware that MNT is a covered benefit, which Laffin calls a missed opportunity to possibly prevent CKD progression.MNT is an underutilized coverage benefit that Medicare Part B provides for patients who arent on dialysis, she explains. To qualify for MNT, people with CKD who are not on dialysis need to have either a diagnosis of diabetes, or a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease.Indeed, arecent surveyof people aged 55 and older who have CKD reported that 90% of respondents were covered by health insurance, or whats called an employer plan (40.5%) and/or Medicare (36.5%). However, 85% or more didnt know that Medicare covers three hours of MNT for CKD in the first year and two hours in each additional year.Lee Health Solutionsoffers MNT services via telehealth or in-personTo ensure patient safety and ease of access to its nutritional counseling services, Lee Health Solutions also offers its nutritional counseling services online in addition to in-person visits.Many people with CKD also have other co-existing health conditions that can limit their mobility, Laffin notes. Also, our telehealth services eliminate the transportation challenges high season in our area often brings.What is chronic kidney disease?Chronic kidney disease is the gradual loss of kidney function. Your kidneys perform many essential functions for your body including:Filtering toxins and excess fluidControlling blood pressureStimulating production of red blood cellsWhen these fist-sized organs get damaged, it can lead to several serious health consequences including anemia, increased occurrence of infections and can lead to the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant.How can proper nutrition help manage the condition?Lee Health Solutions MNT provides individualized dietary counseling provided by a registered dietitian for patients with non-dialysis dependent chronic kidney disease (Stages 3 to 5).We provide individualized education sessions to pinpoint problem areas, not only teaching what foods to limit such as animal protein and processed foods, but also what are the best replacement foods to choose and how to make those foods fit into your lifestyle, Laffin explains. Through the program, we can possibly help delay disease progression, reduce the likelihood of malnutrition and increase quality of life.Laffin adds that medical nutrition therapy also may:Delay kidney disease progressionReduce likelihood of malnutritionIncrease quality of lifeReduce related complications (obesity, anemia, heart disease, diabetes)Reduce chance of hospitalizationsSubmitted By: Lee Health

Many Southwest Florida residents have questions about COVID-19 vaccines that have been authorized to prevent COVID-19 in the U.S.Dr. Stephanie Stovall, Interim Chief of Quality and Patient Safety for Lee Health System, shares the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Florida Department of Health about vaccines and why practicing other preventative measures remains vital in stopping the pandemic. Are COVID-19 vaccines safe? All COVID-19 vaccines that have been granted Emergency Use Authorizations by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have met rigorous safety criteria and are effective, as determined by data from the manufacturers and findings from large clinical trials.COVID-19 vaccines continue to be tested in large clinical trials for safety and efficacy especially as new variants of the virus are found. However, it does take time and more people getting vaccinated before we learn about extremely rare effects. That is why safety monitoring will continue. The CDC has an independent group of experts that reviews all the safety data as it comes in and provides regular safety updates. In addition, the CDC has monitoring systems in place that allow it to watch for safety issues across the entire country. Learn more about how federal partners are ensuring the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. After I get vaccinated, how long will it be effective? It can take 1-2 weeks after these conditions dose of the vaccine to have adequate protection. Is it safe for me to get a COVID-19 vaccine if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding? If you are pregnant and part of a group recommended to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, you may choose to be vaccinated. If you have questions about getting vaccinated, a talk with your healthcare provider may help you make an informed decision. While breastfeeding is an important consideration, it is rarely a safety concern with vaccines.As of yet, there's no data on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in lactating women or on the effects of mRNA vaccines on breastfed infants or on milk production/excretion. mRNA vaccines are not thought to be a risk to breastfeeding infants.I have an underlying medical condition. Is it safe for me to get a COVID-19 vaccine? If you have an underlying medical condition, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine if you haven't had an allergic reaction to a COVID-19 vaccine or any of its ingredients. But there is limited information about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines in people who have weakened immune systems or autoimmune conditions. If you have had a severe allergic reaction (called anaphylaxis) to an injected medicine in the past, you should talk to your healthcare provider prior to getting the vaccine. Learn more about vaccination considerations for persons with underlying medical conditions. Which lasts longer, immunity after getting COVID-19 or protection from COVID-19 vaccines?The protection someone gains from having an infection (called natural immunity) varies depending on the disease, and it varies from person to person. Because this virus is new, we don't know how long natural immunity might last. Current evidence suggests that getting the virus again (reinfection) is uncommon in the 90 days after the first infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. We wont know how long immunity lasts after vaccination until we have more data on how well COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions. Experts are working to learn more about both natural immunity and vaccine-induced immunity. The CDC and FDOH will keep the public informed as new evidence becomes available.If Ive already had COVID-19 and recovered, do I still need to get a COVID-19 vaccination?Yes. Due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19 and the fact that reinfection with COVID-19 is possible, you should get vaccinated regardless of whether you already had a COVID-19 infection.If you were treated for COVID-19 symptoms with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma, you should wait 90 days before getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Talk to your doctor if your'e unsure what treatments you received or if you have more questions about getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Both natural immunity and vaccine-induced immunity are important aspects of COVID-19 that national and state health experts are working to learn more about and make available to the public as new information develops.Are there side effects to COVID-19 vaccines?You can expect normal side effects after you are vaccinated. Most side effects happen within the first three days after vaccination and typically last only one to two days.Learn more about what to expect at your appointment to get vaccinated for COVID-19. Is there a risk of severe allergic reaction if I receive the vaccine?Serious problems from vaccination can happen, but rarely. According to the CDC, there have been some reports of people experiencing severe allergic reactions also known as anaphylaxis after getting a COVID-19 vaccine. If you get a COVID-19 vaccine and you think you might be having a severe allergic reaction after leaving the vaccination site, seek immediate medical care by calling 911. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and allergies. Do I still need to wear a mask and practice established safety recommendations, like avoiding crowds?Yes. Experts want to learn more about the protection that a COVID-19 vaccine provides and how long immunity lasts before changing safety recommendations. Factors such as how many people get vaccinated and how the virus is spreading in communities will also affect these recommendationsUntil then, its important for all of us to continue using every tool available to help stop this pandemic. Experts recommend that we should continue to practice the following safety precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19:Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact (within about 6 feet) with anyone who is sick or has symptoms.Wear cloth face coverings in public places. Cloth face coverings offer extra protection in places such as the grocery store, where it's difficult to avoid close contact with others.Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw away the used tissue.Stay home if you're sick. Stay home from work, school and public areas if you're sick, unless you're going to get medical care.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

The Cruel Truths About Mental Health StigmaI remember the first time I encountered it.I was young, maybe 8 or 9, and it happened shortly after my best friends father shot himself in the woods outside of his home. As you can imagine, this was a horrible, terribly confusing experience, especially at a time when these kinds of things werent discussed. I can still remember the look on my friends face when he told me the truth.It happened again in high school, this time when another friend pushed his love affair with drugs a bridge too far, leading to a psychotic episode that has never fully resolved. My heart still breaks for the person I knew before his life changed forever -- smart, sharply irreverent, endlessly curious about the world and his place in it. We lost a good man on the altar of human suffering.In both of these sad situations, and in many similar instances in between, I have seen the reality of mental illness cruelly played out in the forum of public opinion:His father was kind of strange anywayWow, hes really crazy nowAnd, my personal favorite, Shes so nuts; I would never want to be her!Im sure you have a few of your own to add to this pile. Not pretty.The Power of FearSo, all of this begs the questions: Why is this? How did it get this way? Why arent we more enlightened on the issue of mental illness than we are?I have a few thoughts.First, we are a deeply social species, and we all want to be part of the tribe. Anything that makes us different, unlovable, less than, or unpopular risks our membership in the group -- and nobody wants to be left out.This is a kind of mean girls view of this dynamic, although, to be fair, this is not exclusive to women. The effects of shame, alienation, and shunning are everywhere, and we all bear responsibility for doing our share to be inclusive.Second, we are all, more or less, instinctually fearful of the other, whether he or she is of another race, ethnicity or sexual orientation, or -- in the darker regions of our psyches -- someone we recognize in ourselves.( Just as an editorial aside, this is what I believe drives the genre of modern horror films that scares and fascinates us. Sigmund Freud, the genius father of psychoanalysis, was among the first to lay this out for what it is: a fear of our dark parts that leads us to self-protectively project shame, ridicule, and ruthless judgment as a defense against feeling afraid and inadequate. His analysis is made for our times as we struggle with the growing pains of becoming an increasingly diverse society.)Human healingSo whats the solution to all of this? Another brief story, if you dont mind.Gordon Derner, the maverick dean of my Ph.D. program, made it a point to let all first-year doctoral students know that, in his opinion, there was no distinction between patients and therapists. To him, we are all broken in one way or another, a seemingly grim observation mitigated by his abiding optimism that everyone could be healed through the grace of human relationships.He was channeling his own mentor, Harry Stack Sullivan, the brilliant and courageous denizen of interpersonal psychoanalysis who made it his lifes mission to treat all people with respect, compassion, and dignity.The bottom line: Stigma about feeling bad, having issues, or just plain being unhappy is something that defines us all. Its just what it means to be human.The sooner we can accept, with love and compassion, this reality in ourselves and others, the sooner we can help one another get what we all need. Lets get on with it.Lee Health Behavioral Health Services:Discover how important you areLee Health Behavioral Health Services an outpatient facility provides friendly and compassionate psychiatric and counseling services along with plenty of other mental health resources. We evaluate your condition, manage your medication, and implement a plan to help you feel better. You will find a trained therapist who is right for you a caring and attentive person who will connect with you and empower you to tackle your problems.For more information or to schedule an appointment please call 239-343-9180.We treat conditions such as:Anxiety disordersPersonality disordersMood disordersPhobiasPostpartum depressionSubmitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

The evidenceis in. Face coverings keep us safer and help slow COVID-19. Thats an important fact to remember the next time you visit the grocery store or meet up with friends inside a public venue.Combined with regularly sanitizing our hands and social distancing, we can all help slow the spread of a pandemic that continues to infect people all over the world and right here in Southwest Florida.So if were going to be dedicated to wearing masks, it only makes sense that we know just HOW to wear them and how to clean them so we can get the most use out of them. Read on for all the details.The right way to wear your face maskWash your hands before putting on your mask.Dont put the covering around your neck or up on your forehead.Put it over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin. This is an important one to remember since many residents report that some mask wearers have their noses poking out.Try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face.Make sure you can breathe easily.Dont touch the face covering, and, if you do, wash your hands.When you get home, remove your face maskcarefullyUntie the strings behind your head or stretch the ear loops.Handle only by the ear loops or ties.Fold outside corners together.Wearing a cloth mask? You must wash it after EVERY use.Wearing a paper mask? Throw it away after each use.Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing and wash hands immediately after removing.What about paper or surgical masks? What about homemade masks?Experts highly recommend that members of the public wear cloth masks. Paper or surgical masks are effective in blocking large droplets, but they dont provide as much safety as cloth because of the looser fit. They are better than nothing, however.Remember, paper or surgical masks are designed to be used only ONCE!Many people are opting to wear homemade masks. The CDC shows detailed instructions on how to make masks. Cotton fabric is recommended, and you can also make masks out of bandanas and old T-shirtsas long as the fabric is solid. Masks with loose fabric such as a crochet mask are not recommended.Keep your face mask clean!So how should you wash that cloth mask? Simply put it in the washing machine with a regular load of laundry. You can use normal detergent and the warmest appropriate water setting for the kind of cloth you have.You can wash your mask by hand using a bleach solution.Dry your mask on the highest heat setting in the dryer or you can lay it flat or on a clothesline in the sun. Make sure your mask is completely dry before wearing it.Other mask tidbits to rememberEveryone over the age of 2 should wear a mask in public.Cloth face coverings should NOT be worn by children under 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or anyone who is incapacitated or cant remove the mask without help.Some studies suggestthat COVID-19 numbers and deaths could be drastically reduced if 80 to 95 percent of our population wore masks.Remember: Masks may not protect you, but they protectother peoplewhen social distancing isnt possible. The virus is mainly spread through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking. That means you are doing a generous public service when you decide to wear a mask.Sources: Florida's COVID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard, Florida Department of Health, Division of Disease Control and Health Protection. Lee, Collier, Port Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades. July 1, 2020.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

Ive been thinking a lot lately about loneliness, mostly because like other diseases of despair (suicide, opiate overdoses, and alcohol-related deaths), it has become epidemic.As a baby boomer who didnt dwell much on this issue until recently, I find myself thinking about my childhood and adolescence.I was raised in a small town in central Massachusetts, population about 3,000, where if you werent related to your neighbors, you likely knew them. You often ran into these familiar faces at the grocery store, post office, or church.This was mostly a good thing, a kindred sharing of lifes journey together. Yet, sometimes the lack of privacy (loosely defined as freedom from being observed) was less than ideal.Privacy was always in constant tension with connection. Interestingly, we didnt think much about it, nor the occasional loneliness that now grips our society.Lonelier Than Ever BeforeSo, what happened? Despite all the ways we can connect Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, You Tube, Pinterest, and Google Plus were lonelier than ever before.In metaphorical terms, were bowling alone as Harvard sociologist Robert Putnam observed.Whether we live in the sprawling countryside or the brawling city, loneliness plagues us.First, the industrial revolution led to urbanization of cities, where our lives were made easier by plentiful jobs and centralized services.Now, the rise of technology (which is always getting smarter think cloud computing, webinars, and online workspaces) has contributed to the phenomenon of de-urbanization in America.More of usare leaving the city to live in rural areas again.Yet, the epidemic of loneliness knows no geographical boundary. The statistics behind this enormous socio-cultural occurrence are staggering.The 2018 landmark study of global health service company CIGNA tells the sad and alarming story. Among its findings:Nearly half of Americans report feeling alone sometimes or always, with an equal number feeling left out.Two in five Americans feel their relationships are not meaningful and that they feel isolated from others a good deal of the time.Only half of Americans have meaningful in-person social interactions, like having an extended conversation with a friend or spending quality time with a family member.Adults ages 18-22, Generation Z, is the loneliest generation and reports itself to be the least healthy as well.Use of social media does not predict degree of loneliness: those who use it are not significantly lonelier than those who do not.15 Cigarettes Per DayAside from its emotional effects, loneliness produces serious physical consequences, too.Many studies link loneliness to a higher risk of coronary heart disease and stroke, diminished immune response, and premature mortality.In other words, impaired social connections can be compared to other well-known lifestyle risk factors.For example, research shows that loneliness and isolation is as lethal as smoking 15 cigarettes per day, and can mimic the adverse effects of obesity, physical inactivity, and poor air quality.Clearly, the connection between a persons physical, social and mental health is indisputable. Lest one be left feeling discouraged by these findings, fear not! Theres also good news.How to CopeFirst, lets renew our appreciation that social connections are not only healthy, theyre critical to living purposeful lives. Technology may have us spinning like a top, but its heartening to remember that conversation, company, and connection matter.Moreover, rest reassured that the same common-sense attitudes and behaviors I learned from my small-town experience can help lessen our burden:First this is most important, I believe is not to blame ourselves for our loneliness and isolation. As a psychologist who has talked with people about this issue for almost 40 years, I can tell you self-blame hinders healing like virtually nothing else I know. For many of us, loneliness is a cultural problem that too often feels like a personal failing. Nothing is further from the truth; if youre feeling disconnected and isolated, dont beat yourself up. Please.Avoid pointing the finger at yourself and reach a hand out instead. Maybe volunteerat something youre passionate about, whether a meaningful cause or an enjoyable activity. For example, if you like working with carpenter tools, assist an organization that improves or builds affordable housing.Work on improving the quality of your sleep. Studieshave linked poor sleep habits with feelings of loneliness. Regular exercise, preferably with a friend, family member, or even a pet, can help, too.Aim for a work-life balance that leaves you with enough energy, vitality, and interest to create and sustain a robust social life. That includes honoring your role in your work family, which includes the acts of giving and receiving with humility. This is important because we spend the best part of our days with our colleagues at the office, shop, or construction site.Finally, social media is here to stay in our culture, and despite its cautionary reputation, it can be a part of all of this. But, in the end, face-to-face interactions and our physical presence with each other can say you are not alone in more ways than all the combined languages in the world. Indeed, it is the wellspring of meaningful, loving, and connected lives.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

A Look at Your Body's Natural DefensesWith all the concern about COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and other viral infections like the flu, we need to look atwhat we can do to support our natural defense system.This is the time to look at your lifestyle and see what you are capable of changing. Proper hand sanitation is the number one method of control, but what else can you do?Lets take a look at what the functional nutrition approach to immune support looks like:Lets Talk FoodFood items to avoid:Alcohol, fried foods, sweetened foods or beverages, and over-consumption of food in general.Alcohol uses up several antioxidants to get properly detoxified from our body. High sugar or high carbohydrate foods severely tax our immune system and can cause inflammation, which increases our bodys consumption of vitamins and minerals.We need to keep all the nutritional power toward our immune system for incoming pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses.Food items to consume: Choose local, fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. They have natural Vitamin C, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help to support our immune cells and protect them from getting damaged.The fiber in vegetables and fruit helps to feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, which is where 70 percent of your immune system resides. Vegetables can be cooked or raw.For optimal nutrition aim for these daily:2 cups of colorful vegetables, 2 cups of leafy greens*, and 2 cups of cruciferous* and thiol* vegetables, and a rainbow of 1-3 colorful fruitsMushrooms:Try a variety of cooked mushrooms -- they help increase macrophages (immune cells) around our nose and mouth. Mushrooms are also a natural source of Vitamin D. Avoid mushrooms if you have mold allergies or are allergic.Remember to use fresh herbs.They contain natural antimicrobial properties and are power-packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.Make sure to use produce.Wash all fruit and vegetables (including organic) because of pesticide and herbicide residue, which can increase the need for more antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.Remember to increase high fiber foodsslowly over 1-2 weeks to avoid gastrointestinal complaints.Nuts, seeds, and fat from plant sources are high in minerals such as zinc, copper, selenium, iron, and many other vitamins and antioxidants. Try to include a small handful of nuts and seeds as a snack daily and try to add a plant based fat to at least 1-2 meals per day such as avocado or olives.Probiotic foods help to increase the beneficial bacteria counts in the gastrointestinal tract. Probiotics also help to maintain your gut-barrier and avoid leaky gut. A good bacterial balance in the gut helps to regulate immunity in rest of the body by managing inflammation.Aim for foods that are natural probiotic foods: kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh, cultured pickles, organic-grass-fed dairy yogurt (plain), cottage cheese, or kefir (plain). Remember to avoid excess sugars to avoid inflammation and stress on the immune system. Try adding fruit to naturally sweeten plain itemsPrebiotic foods feed the existing flora and help them remain abundant and include bananas, garlic, onion, whole grains, chicory, leeks, beans and legumes, asparagus, and honeySleep, Sleep, and More SleepExperts recommend 7-9 hours for adults, and you may need even more than that if you have chronic health concerns. When our sleep is compromised, we are putting our immune system in danger of not being able to restore itself. Poorsleep quality increases our natural stress hormone cortisol, which increases inflammation.Poor sleep can also lead to increased hunger and caloric consumption because of energy needs.Sleep helps the body repair all cells (including those in the immune system) and reduces inflammation that supports your bodys capacity of maintaining good nutritional status.Light ExerciseLight exercise within your comfort and ability helps support the immune system and flushes the lymphatic system -- another source of surveillance for our body. Dont overdo it, though. Excessive exercise can harm your immune system and cause fatigue.If youre involved in excessive training, support your system with your nutrition and other lifestyle measures.Watch that StressMonitor your stress and take a break once in a while! Chronic stress weakens the immune system and puts you at risk by reducing nutrients needed to support your healthy cells.Ideas for reducing stress:Limit TV, especially if you feel its impacting your sleep or stress throughout the dayTry relaxing exercises such as yoga, swimming, and walkingRead a book, magazine, complete a puzzleor coloring bookMeditate, prayer, or mindfulnessTake a napTalk to a friend (preferably about happy things!)Conduct positive self-talkWith these tools in hand you should have the confidence and the opportunity to build and support your immune system.One last note: While supplements can be helpful, you should talk to an expert first since they will recommend what might help on an individual basis. Remember, we cant supplement ourselves out of a poor food plan and lifestyle.*Servings of vegetables is: 1 cup raw, or cup cooked = 1 serving*Thiol vegetables: onions, leek, garlic, scallions, chives, daikon radish, shallot*Cruciferous: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, horseradish, sprouts, red radishes, kohlrabi, arugula*Leafy greens: spinach, kale, beet greens, Swiss chard, cilantro, microgreens, parsley, radicchioWritten & Submitted By: Lee Health- click for more information*

For more information on Lee Health, CLICK HERE.At Lee Health, we have exceptional employees who are also incredibly strong breast cancer survivors, and we want to take this opportunity to celebrate each one of them and their inspiring stories for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.Donna Davis: The Power of Support and PositivityDonna Davis has been at Lee Health for 31 years.I am loved, I am strong, I am happy, and I am cancer free.Those are the words that Donna repeated to herself over and over again as she battled for her life after a breast cancer diagnosis in January 2017.After breaking her shoulder, she underwent surgery and began physical therapy. But even as her shoulder healed, her underarm continued to feel tender, so she went for a mammogram. It was then that she was given the answer that every woman fears she had triple negative breast cancer.My diagnosis consisted of a lump under my collarbone that was inoperable, two in my breast, and five behind my chest wall, Donna said. Because of this, I had to do chemotherapy first to see if it would shrink or take away the inoperable tumor.Donna underwent six months of chemotherapy with port placement, one surgery, and six weeks of radiation. Throughout her treatment, her friends, family, and co-workers supported her through prayers, hugs, cards, and phone calls.Though her diagnosis was three and a half years ago, she still meets routinely with her oncologist to ensure that she is staying healthy and cancer free.My family, my co-workers, my friends, my faith, and others that had been through this gave me so much support, Donna said. I also did a countdown on treatments with the help of my grandchildren. They made me a paper chain with encouraging words on each link that I would take off after each treatment. I was determined to get this done and behind me.Help From a Co-WorkerOne co-worker, Wanda White Nee, was integral in Donnas recovery. Wanda has been at Lee Health for seven years and is also a breast cancer survivor.Wanda offered her office to me twice a day for 10 to 15 minutes to sit in a recliner to rest and meditate, Donna said. Before every chemo session, I would find cards from her on my desk, in my mailbox or even at my sessions with words of encouragement.Donna has never shared her story before, but for Breast Cancer Awareness Month she knew it was important to provide support and a positive story to those who may have been recently diagnosed or who are currently fighting their own battle.Keep a positive mindset; it helps with the treatment, Donna said. Write things down, how you are feeling, and what you are thinking. Communicate with your doctors and nurses because they have information to share that will help. Talk to others that have been through this for tips to help through the tough times.From ringing the bell to celebrate her last chemotherapy treatment, from her doctor telling her that her surgery was a success, to her last day of radiation treatment Donna has precious moments that are etched into her heart.Wanda Heit: A Role Model and FighterWanda Heit has been at Lee Health for nearly 17 years.Four months after a routine mammogram with normal results, Wanda felt a lump on the outer edge of her left breast. Her surgeon was confident that the lump would be benign, so Wanda had it removed.But just three days later, she received devastating news: Stage 3 breast cancer.I was shocked to hear those words, you have breast cancer, with no family history of breast cancer, five sisters, and I just had a mammogram with no signs, Wanda said.Wanda decided to undergo a bilateral mastectomy with reconstructive surgery after determining that the cancer was only in her left breast. Surgeons removed nine lymph nodes, and seven of those were positive. That meant radiation treatment.Wanda began aggressive chemotherapy treatments, which took a toll on her body. She developed painful mouth sores, and she had a low white blood cell count. She then had to undergo a second round of radiation.Support from her husband, co-workers, and long-distance family pushed her to continue fighting.Taking a WalkAs a survivor, Wanda has become an inspiring example and role model for women who are battling breast cancer. She has participated in several walks for breast cancer, including the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk in Tampa Bay.She and three of her friends trained all summer for the walk, and on Oct. 30 through Nov. 1, the four women walked 60 miles.While walking, we shared stories about why we walk, and it made me feel a part of something big, Wanda said. Crossing the finishing line, I broke down. I was tired, my feet ached, but I walked into a line of supporters cheering me into the finish line, and it was the most beautiful welcome home I had ever received.Wandas memories of her fight are still present, but she has turned the scariest news of her life into a beautiful story. She continues to be a role model to those who are currently going through their battle.I faced my disease in a positive manner and showed people through my example that such a thing can indeed be done, Wanda said. Cancer may always be a part of your life, but it wont always be the center of your life.Molly Grubbs: Love and KindnessMolly Grubbs is celebrating because its been exactly one year since her last chemo treatment.Molly, who has been a part of Lee Health for five years, visited her primary care doctor in 2016for a routine breast exam. During the exam, the doctor found a smallspot.A mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy determined that the spot was benign. After a follow-up appointment six months later, she was reassured that she was healthy.Molly returned three years later, a few days after she turned 40. A 3D mammogram, ultrasound, biopsy, and an MRI showed that the same spot that had once been benign had turned cancerous, and it had spread.Molly received a diagnosis of stage two invasive ductal carcinoma and ductal carcinoma in situ. Her right breast had three spots of cancer that had spread into the lymph nodes. Shealso learned that she was estrogen dominantand her body had difficulty detoxing through her liver. Molly started her treatments right away and took advantage of the incredible care and expertise of the staff at the Regional Cancer Center.The gift in my diagnosis was seeing how much love and kindness my family, friends, and co-workers shared with me during this difficult time, Molly said. I felt supported and encouraged every step of my journey.In June 2019, Molly underwent a double mastectomy before starting chemotherapy that lasted three months. She then began 25 rounds of radiation before entering forced menopause in January 2020. This July, Molly completed reconstructive breast surgery, a result of her double mastectomy.An Emotional ProcessFinishing chemo stands out as the moment I am most proud of, Molly said. Chemo and physical therapy were both an emotional process for me. I loved the community of cancer fighters I met during my daily radiation treatments. Believe it or not, I did not mind being bald. I used that time to have fun with wigs and scarves!Molly's battle against breast cancer is complete. She now visits the Regional Cancer Center for an ovarian suppression shot every three months, in addition to taking a pill everyday to block the remaining estrogen in her body.She will potentially undergo an oophorectomy, which will put her into permanent menopause to reduce her risk for recurrence.Molly is a fighter, and we are so grateful to have her at Lee Health!

The change in how were living these days is intended to slow the spread of COVID-19.But our new normal has also had an unintended effect: Many people experiencing symptoms of a life-threatening illness are delaying treatment at their local emergency department for fear of contracting COVID-19.The decision to wait, says Dr. Lawrence Isaacs, medical director of the emergency department at Gulf Coast Medical Center, could cost them their lives.Symptoms of a heart attack, stroke or bleeding in the brain should be treated immediately, Dr. Isaacs says. In patients with these types of medical emergencies, the sooner they can receive treatment, the better their outcome. Time really is of the essence.Patient safety remains top priority at Lee Health Dr. Isaacs stresses that patient safety remains a fundamental priority at Lee Health and the pandemic hasn't changed this commitment.If anything, he says, it has further strengthened it. In February, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recognized Gulf Coast Medical Center for its level of patient safety and care. The center was among four Lee Health patient facilities acknowledged by CMS in its 2020 Five-Star Quality Ratings.For COVID-19, we've heightened precaution and safety measures at all Lee Health facilities, Dr. Isaacs says. We continue to follow the CDCs (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidance to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in health care and emergency medical service settings. That means wearing, gloves, gowns, maintaining social distancing when possible, disinfecting and cleaning patient and work areas, and practicing hand hygiene. We are relentless about following these precautions because we know they work, Dr. Isaacs says. What to expect when visiting a Lee Health ER All patients will be required to wear masks, says Dr. Isaacs. Then, its on to a triage nurse for further COVID-19 assessment.If the nurse suspects you might have COVID-19, we will direct you to the right place for emergency treatment and further evaluation for suspected COVID-19.The Takeaway Dr. Isaacs stresses that patients with appendicitis and other serious health conditions unrelated to the pandemic, especially with symptoms associated with time-sensitive conditions such as heart attack, stroke or a brain issue, should seek emergency treatment immediately .Don't let the fear of coronavirus keep you from receiving emergency medical care. Were here for you no matter what your health crisis might be, COVID-19 or not.Dr. Isaacs notes that because fewer people are going to the emergency department, treatment wait times are shorter than usual, too. Its triage as normal, really, he says. The expert level of care we provide hasn't changed. Just the way we look. Everyone's wearing masks and gowns. Lee Health emergency departments treat severe and life-threatening conditions including severe pain, broken bones ,breathing trouble, chest pain and stroke.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

For more information on the author Lee Health, CLICK HERE.Everyone knows someone who has battled breast cancer -- a family member, a co-worker, a cherished friend. The stories of support and awareness reach far and wide, and that's essential as an estimated 268,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the United States this year, according to cancer.net.Here are a look at some common questions about risk factors, prevention, treatment, and common myths to help you stay informed.How common is breast cancer?The American Cancer Society reports that breast cancer death rates in the U.S. are higher than those for any other cancer besides lung. About 42,000 women in the U.S. are expected to die in 2019 from the disease.And although about 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed in their lifetime, the five-year survival rate is still at 90 percent, according to cancer.net. A lot of the good survival rate numbers have to do with increasing discussion, awareness, and early prevention.What are the risks?The biggest risk continues to be a family history of breast cancer and having multiple previous breast biopsies, according to Dr. Lea Blackwell, a breast surgeon on the medical staff of Lee Health.But there are some risks that aren't as well known.Women who have their first child after age 30 face a higher risk, according to Dr. Blackwell, along with women who start menstrual periods at a younger age than normal and women who have menopause at a later age than normal.For patients who have been diagnosed and undergone a mastectomy, doctors say there still a 5 percent chance the cancer can come back.Other risks include a lack of physical activity, poor diet and nutrition, as well as alcohol use.The more alcohol you consume, the more increased risk of not just breast cancer, but all cancer, said Jeanne Struve, a clinical dietitian with Lee Health.What exams should I get?It cannot be stressed enough: Women must perform self-examinations and get yearly mammograms after they turn 40.I think there's some hesitation of people to get a mammogram because they think they are going to get a lot of radiation exposure -- and its really a very low amount of radiation exposure. Its a very safe option, Dr. Blackwell said.Mammograms can help find tumors that you cant see or feel allowing doctors to catch the breast cancer early.If women have a family history of breast cancer, doctors may recommend getting screened earlier.A 2D mammogram looks at the breast in a couple of different plains: one from the top and one from the side. Those views cover as much of the breast tissue as possible.A 3D mammogram uses the same positioned views but takes thin slices through the breast tissue instead of just one x-ray. 3D mammograms show clearer results and usually have better sensitivity and specificity.Are there any foods that prevent breast cancer?A lot of prevention starts in the gut.Studies have shown that diets high in fruits and vegetables are not only healthy overall but they also decrease the risk of breast cancer, said Jeanne Struve, a clinical dietitian with Lee Health.Soy has definitely been shown to decrease the risk of getting breast cancer and increasing survival rate if you are diagnosed with breast cancer, she saidIn fact, Struve says studies show that half a cup of tofu or soy milk a day can decrease your risk of breast cancer by 30 percent.Cruciferous vegetables also make a difference since they contain sulforaphane, which suppresses the ability of the breast cancer stem cells to form into tumors, Struve said.Some examples of cruciferous veggies:BroccoliCabbageBrussels sproutsBok ChoyKaleSwiss chardCollard greensStruve also recommends limiting alcohol, red meat, and high-fat dairy products.What are some common myths?Dr. Blackwell says many patients ask about risks including ill-fitting bras, bad deodorant, and even cell phones. But there is no evidence that any of those things increase the risk of breast cancer.Another myth? Men cant get breast cancer. One percent of the population of breast cancer patients is men.Typically a male presents with nipple discharge, and usually they will have a mass behind the nipple, she said.And remember: Breast cancer doesn't always cause a lump you can feel, and treatment plans vary widely depending on the characteristics of the cancer and patient preferences, according to breastcancer.org,Surgeries such as a mastectomy also don't ensure that cancer wont come back. Doctors say cancer can return in the armpit near the incision.What are my treatment options?The first step after a diagnosis is to deal with the shock and to lean on a firm support system. That shock can get worse when doctors start explaining cancer treatments.Nurse navigators play a big role by meeting with patients and teaching them about their disease as well as the treatment process and connecting them to the right emotional, medical, spiritual, and financial resources.We meet with patients one-on-one. We do teaching with patients about their whole disease process, said Tammy Zinn, a nurse navigator with Lee Health.SurgeryFor most breast cancer patients, surgery is the first leg of treatment.Because not only does it treat the primary cancer, meaning to remove the tumors, but it also gives us answer by looking at the lymph nodes, says Dr. Rie Aihara, surgical oncologist on medical staff at Lee Health. And some of the answers we get from surgery actually dictate what kind of therapy would come next.Once the path becomes clear, the baton is passed to a medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, or both, who, ideally, work as a team.Based on the nature of their cancer and personal preference, women may opt to remove a portion of breast, one breast or both if they have genetic risk.We do see a lot of women who choose a double mastectomy, especially in the younger population because they have so many years to think about recurrences and things like that, Dr. Aihara says. And we always emphasize if there's only cancer in one area, certainly if its treatable by lumpectomy. That's what we would advise.ReconstructionA majority of women then chose to undergo reconstruction. Many times it starts during a mastectomy using tissue expanders and is completed once they reach the finish line.Radiation/chemoWomen with breast cancer will also likely need radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy or a combination. Many therapies can be done on an outpatient basis and cause much less damage to healthy tissue than previous methods. Your navigator, doctor, and other health team members will help you through the process and show you how to deal with side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and depression.Looking for a Cancer Specialist?Find comprehensive breast cancer care and treatment at the Regional Cancer Centers multi-disciplinary breast cancer clinic. Click on the above link for more information.

Vials of blood and urine move through the large machines, like workers on an assembly line. They enter holding secrets. When they emerge, lab employees interpret and unlock the results.One patient will test positive for diabetes, another negative for cancer. Then, the process begins again with new vials from patients all around Lee Health.We are open 24/7, Fran Cioffi said. Cioffi has been the Cape Coral lab supervisor since 1974. She oversees a team of 28 people. Another 52 people work at the Cape Coral location. They test everything from sputum to fecal samples and deliver results to physicians and advanced providers as quickly as possible. For some tests we can have results within 24 hours, Cioffi said. We know its not a sample, its a patient. Our tests affect patients and families.Samples come into the Cape Coral Hospital lab beginning early in the morning and arrive from Lee Memorial Hospital, Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida, HealthPark Medical Center and all of the outpatient labs throughout the Lee Health system. Gulf Coast Medical Center has microbiology lab that processes all of its samples onsite. We are always busy, Cioffi said. Her lab processes about 6,000 cultures for both urine and blood cultures each month. They also test cystic fibrosis, bacteria, fungus and mycobacterium cultures. The lab experts who work here have a degree, Cioffi said. Most of them have a BS (Bachelor of Science) in clinical science. We work very closely with pharmacy and the infectious disease doctors. Assistants help round out the crew and are important to the laboratory. Safety and Accuracy Accuracy is important, and Cioffi keeps an oversized spiral binder with notations and processes readily available for inspectors who visit the lab on a regular basis. They are judged on proficiency and quality control.We have to be safe and accurate, Cioffi said. We also have to keep up with technology. Medical technologist Lou Latassa has worked in the lab for 30 years and spent a recent afternoon analyzing red and white blood cell counts, platelets and hemoglobin. He processes about 700 samples each day. While many tests emerge with firm results, some require further analysis. If we get abnormal cells we go to the microscope, Latassa said. We can get a better look.Rising to New Challenges Lead lab assistant Danielle Tamburro spends much of her time outside the lab, drawing blood from patients in the hospital. Recently, because of coronavirus, her job has included new challenges.We have to wear gowns, N-95 (masks), booties, a cafeteria hairnet and goggles, Tamburro said. The outfit appears intimidating, but Tamburro compensates with a dose of extra kindness.I try to make it the best experience possible, she said. I love to listen to the patients stories. They are adorable. Cioffi is proud of the team that fosters healing by first discovering what is wrong, from minor infections to life-changing cancers.I love the people I work with, she said. We are here to help.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

The Super Bowl may be over, but there will likely be another house or sports party soon (March Madness?) for family and friends.Two of Lee Healths registered dietitians, Ashley Lovetere and Gina Skaronea, are here to share this tasty buffalo wings recipe that you can use at your next party. Lovetere and Skaroneateach the FARMacy RX Cooking Classes atLee Healths demonstration kitchensat LeeSar.Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo WingsIngredients:1 large head cauliflower1 cup water cup all-purpose flour1 tablespoon onion powder teaspoon salt1 cup hot sauce1 tablespoon vegan butter, meltedInstructionsPreheat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.Wash and cut cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.In a large bowl, add water, flour, garlic, and onion powder, and salt. Whisk until well combined.Add the cauliflower to the batter in the bowl and toss to combine. Remove the pieces of cauliflower, one by one, and tap off the excess batter a few times on the side of the bowl. Place the prepared baking sheet and make sure they are not touching each other, or they will all get stuck together as they bake!Bake for 15 minutes. Flip them over and bake for 10 more minutes until golden brown.While the cauliflower is baking, prepare the hot sauce/butter mixture. Melt the butter in a saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Once melted, add the hot sauce and stir. Set aside.Brush the buffalo/vegan butter sauce on each cauliflower wing, or toss the florets with the sauce in a large bowl, then return to the pan. Put them back in the oven for 20 minutes. Remove, and serve withVegan Ranchdressing and celery, if desired.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health

For more information on Lee Health, CLICK HERE.Renew Your Focus During Social DistancingNo doubt about itCOVID-19 has disrupted our lives, from business, to personal interactions, and even the way children and adults learn and retain information.But online learning and virtual classrooms are helping to fill the gap for many of us as we adapt to this new normal. And these avenues are nothing new they've been around for some time, especially for colleges and universities.Like an in-person environment, virtual classrooms include tools to interact with other students and teachers to allow for the exchange of ideas and to explore questions. There are many benefits to online learning especially since you can participate just about any where as long as you have a strong WiFi connection.Take Your Health and Wellness OnlineIts vitally important to take care of your health during these difficult times, and health systems across the country are putting classes online because of our current social distancing recommendations.In fact, since community members might have a little more time on their hands and are likely looking for things to do and more ways to use some of their pent up energy, this time of social distancing is a perfect time to look at your health. Why not take a moment or two to focus on managing any chronic diseases or to find tips to help prevent future illness?Indeed taking a break from news and media to enrich your health knowledge or to get more active through an at-home workout might be just what you need to feel refreshed.There are plenty of online avenues to help you work on implementing new healthy behaviors and practices to manage your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol or diabetes to be the healthiest version of you.Lee Health Classes Available NowLee Health has joined the virtual movement in a variety of ways. Not only do we have TeleHealth and telemedicine appointments available, we have a robust offering of health education classes through our Healthy Life Center.These classes are free to our community so you will have instant access to expert knowledge and personalities who can help inspire and support your well-being.Our wellness navigators are also available to connect you with providers or services you may need to support your health journey at this time.

For more information on the author Lee Health, CLICK HERE.Know thyself is timeless wisdom. Now, the Greeks may have meant you can live your best life by knowing your own character. But you can also live your best life by knowing your body, too, especially your head and neck.April is oral cancer awareness month, and a quick self-exam of these body parts for anything out of the ordinary can save your life.Oral cancer accounts for roughly 3 percent of all cancers diagnosed every year in the United States, or about 40,000 new cases annually. The disease is among the deadliest forms of cancer, too, with a death rate higher than that of cervical cancer, Hodgkins disease, brain, liver, and skin cancer.That's why self-exams between regular dental check-ups are so important, says head and neck oncologist Dr. Anthony Anfuso, who works with 21stCentury Oncology alongside Lee Health at the Regional Cancer Center. Among people diagnosed with oral cancer today, about half will be alive in five years. But when oral cancer is detected and treated early, treatment-related health problems are reduced, and survival rates may increase.6 easy steps to check yourself for oral cancerRemember, your mouth is one of your body's most important early warning systems. So, grab a bright light, a mirror, and say ahh to these simple steps at least once a month. Heres how:Remove any denturesLook and feel inside the lips and the front of gumsTilt your head back and inspect and feel the roof of your mouthPull the cheek out to see its inside surface as well as the back of the gumsPull out your tongue and look at all of its surfacesFeel for lumps or enlarged lymph nodes (glands) in both sides of the neck, including under the lower jawYou'll be looking for these signs and symptoms:White and/or white patchesAny sore that fails to heal and bleeds easilyAbnormal lumps or thickening of the tissuesChronic sore throat or hoarsenessDifficulty in chewing or swallowingA mass or lump in the neckSource: The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeonsOkay, Ive checked the inside of my mouth. What about my neck and lymph nodes?Lymph nodes help the body fight off infections, and your neck has hundreds of them. They trap bacteria, viruses and other sources of illness. Because they act like filters, its normal for your lymph nodes to occasionally swell when you have a cold, sore throat or infection.Keep in mind that swollen lymph nodes are rarely due to cancer. But you should still self-examine! Here's how:Use your fingertips and move them in a circular motion from the corner of your jaw all the way forward to under your chin.Do this on both sides of your neck.Also, run your fingertips along the muscle that runs down the side of your neck to your collarbone.You'll be looking for:A hard, painless, swollen node about the size and shape of a small almond.When to have yourself checked by a dental or medical professionalIf a node on one side of your neck feels different from its opposite on the other side, or if it doesn't move around, if it is not tender/sore, and persists for more than two weeks.Dr. Anthony Anfuso received his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia and completed an otolaryngology residency at West Virginia University. He completed a fellowship at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in Head and Neck Surgical Oncology and Microvascular Reconstruction. Dr. Anfuso specializes in the surgical management of malignant and benign tumors of the mouth, throat, larynx, neck, salivary glands, thyroid, parathyroid, and skin. He also performs reconstructive surgery of complex defects of the head and neck, including microvascular reconstructive surgery.

Floridas tourist season offers visitors from the Midwest, Eastern seaboard, and other wintry regions of the United States a break from cold, dry airan all-too common factor of nosebleeds.Cold air moving through the nose can dry and irritate the membranes that line the inside of the nose. Nosebleeds are more common in the winterwhen cold viruses are prevalent and indoor air typically is drierbut they can happen in any season and for other reasons, too.Seven out of ten peoplewill have at least one nosebleed in their life. Theyre more common in kids between 2 and 10 years old, and in adults older than 50.Most nosebleeds look worse than they are. They can also be messy and uncomfortable but theyre rarely life threatening.So dont worry, in most instances. If youre having nosebleeds but youre unsure why, this information can help you find a solution.Types of nosebleedsMichael Horowitz, M.D., a board-certified neurosurgeon with Lee Physicians Group, says while most nosebleeds are harmless and easily treated, the more serious cases of nasal bleeding involve repeat bouts that resist treatment and prevention.Ten percent of nosebleeds can be considered serious events because they can lead to airway obstruction from blood in the throat, breathing blood into the lungs, and significant blood loss, he says.Dr. Horowitz says there are two types of nosebleed, or epistaxis as its known medically:Most nosebleeds occur in the front part of the nose where the septumthe wall separating your nostrilsis rich with blood vessels. This type of nosebleed responds to remedies like applying pressure over the affected area.Posterior nosebleeds typically occur much deeper in the nose. These nosebleeds usually produce gushing blood from both nostrils and may also bleed into the throat. Theyre less common, last longer, and more difficult to control than anterior nosebleeds.How to treat a nosebleedTo slow bleeding, sit upright to reduce the pressure in your nose.Tip your head forward to avoid swallowing blood.Pinch the soft part of your nose (just below the bony part) and breathe through your mouth for about 10 minutes.If your nose still bleeds after 10 minutes of pressure, pinch it for an additional 10 minutes. If the bleeding continues, contact your doctor.Once the bleeding has stopped, dont pick or blow your nose. Also, avoid bending forward.What causes a nosebleed?Picking your nose or rubbing it too hardVery cold or heated air that dries out the inside of your nose.Allergy medicines, decongestant nasal sprays, or other medicationsColds, sneezing, sinus or respiratory infectionsChronic sinusitis or rhinitisEnvironmental irritantsPosterior nosebleeds typically require advanced treatment approaches, according to Dr. Horowitz. Blood thinners such as Warfarin and Plavix, and even aspirin, can cause or worsen posterior nosebleeds. Other causes include high blood pressure, blood clotting disorder, and arteriovenous malformation (AVM).AVM is an abnormal tangle of blood vessels connecting arteries and veins, Dr. Horowitz explains, who is also a neuroendovascular surgeon. Nosebleeds are common manifestations of genetic disorder called Osler-Weber-Rendu Syndrome, which affects about 1 in 5,000 people. But whatever the cause of any recurrent and excessive nosebleeds youre having, see your doctor for evaluation and treatment. Treatment options are available.Endovascular treatment: One and doneFor the appropriate patient, Dr. Horowitz says endovascular therapy offers a sound treatment option for controlling excessive nosebleeds.The procedure is painless, minimally invasive, and quick.For patients undergoing endovascular surgery on a non-emergent basis, the procedure doesnt require a hospital stay or follow-up, either.When to see your doctorYou should call the doctor or visit the emergency department if:You feel dizzy, weak, or faint (like you might pass out).Your nose is bleeding fast or you seem to be losing a lot of blood.You just started taking a new medicine.You have other symptoms like unusual bruising on your body.You are bleeding for a long time after you get hurt.You are bleeding from other areas of your body, such as your gums.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

Ever wonder if someone you care about has a problem with alcohol? Especially now that the holidays are over but this person continues to consume alcohol like the festivities never stopped?When people have uncontrolled and problematic drinking, they may have a health condition called alcohol use disorder (AUD).In plain terms, AUD is alcoholism, says Catherine Murtagh-Schaffer, a Lee Health physician assistant who serves as the program lead for the opioid disorder treatment and substance abuse response team.She also writes a weekly column for The News-Press on addiction. Alcoholism is the term used when the body is physically dependent upon alcohol, and withdrawal will occur if drinking is stopped abruptly ,Murtagh-Schaffer says. Physical dependence is determined by a number of factors, such as how much and how often alcohol is regularly consumed, and genetic determinants. AUD, or alcoholism, can range from mild to severe, and can cause lasting changes in the brain.Who's at Risk for AUD?According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism (NIAAA), binge drinking is defined as a pattern of drinking that raises blood alcohol levels to a certain point: Typically after four drinks for women and five drinks for men in about two hours.The good news is that effective treatment can help heal the brain and give people with alcohol problems the skills and support they need to recover.If the person does have an alcohol problem, the best thing you can do is be open and honest with them. Hoping the person will get better on their own wont change the situation.Fortunately, we now have new medications that can help alcohol addiction in combination with counseling or 12-step programs, Murtagh-Schaffer says.Follow these tips for helping a family member or friend who has a drinking problem:Step 1:Talk Choose the right time and place to have the conversation. Choose a place that's quiet and private. Make sure your person is sober and, preferably, not in crisis at the moment.Talk about your concerns by trying to say what you think or feel, like "I am concerned about your drinking." Using I statements reduces accusation. Instead of saying, You're an alcoholic and you need to get help now, you can say, I love you and you're very important to me. I'm concerned about how much you're drinking, and it may be harming your health. Stick with the facts. Some people find it helpful just to get information. You could say, "I want to share some things I've learned about older adults and alcohol."Try to stay away from labels like "alcoholic." Ask if you can go to the doctor with your family member or friend. Step 2: Offer Your Support Suggest things to do that don't include drinking. Encourage counseling or attending a group meeting. Offer to drive to and from these support meetings. Realize that you cant force someone who does notwant to go into treatment. All you can do is offer your help. Its up to them to decide if they will take it. Be nonjudgmental, empathetic, and sincere. Imagine yourself in the same situation and what your reaction might be .However, actions are more important than words. Urge the person to get into a formal treatment program. Ask for concrete commitments and then follow up on them. Give your support during treatment. Keep in mind that treatment of alcohol use disorder is a continual process. For you, that means remaining available while your friend or family member continues therapy. Offer to attend support meetings with them, if they're comfortable with it. Or maybe offer to help out with work, childcare, or household responsibilities so they can attend treatment sessions .Continue to support your friend or family members progress after formal treatment ends. Stay invested in their long-term recovery .Step 3: Take Care of Yourself You need support, too. Think about what you need to stay safe and healthy. Involve other family members or friends so you are not in this alone. Talk honestly about how you are feeling. Try to say what support or help you need.Try going to counseling or special meetings that offer support to families and friends of people with drinking problems. There may be programs at your local hospital or clinic. For example, Al-Anon is a support group for friends and family of people with a drinking problem. Find a meeting near you by calling1-888-425-2666. Ultimately, you must remember you do not have control over another persons addiction. Until they are ready to receive help for their addiction no amount of nagging, cajoling or pressure is going to force them into change. Learn more about Lee Health's Recovery Medicine and Addiction Services:Recovery Medicine/Addiction Services12550 New Brittany Blvd.Suite 201Fort Myers, FL 33907Call: 239-343-9190More Info: To assess whether you or a loved one have AUD, here are some questions to ask. In the past year, have you:Had times when you ended up drinking more, or longer than you intended?More than once wanted to cut down or stop drinking, or tried to, but could'nt?Spent a lot of time drinking? Or being sick or getting over the aftereffects?Experienced craving a strong need, or urge, to drink?Found that drinking or being sick from drinking often interfered with taking care of your home or family? Or caused job troubles? Or school problems?Continued to drink even though it was causing trouble with your family or friends?Given up or cut back on activities that were important or interesting to you, or gave you pleasure, in order to drink? More than once gotten into situations while or after drinking that increased your chances of getting hurt (such as driving, swimming, using machinery, walking in a dangerous area, or having unsafe sex)?Continued to drink even though it was making you feel depressed or anxious or adding to another health problem? Or after having had a memory blackout?Had to drink much more than you once did to get the effect you want? Or found that your usual number of drinks had much less effect than before?Found that when the effects of alcohol were wearing off, you had withdrawal symptoms, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, irritability, anxiety, depression, restlessness, nausea, or sweating? Or sensed things that were not there?Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

It seems like every day health experts issue another safety recommendation to help us prepare and deal with the coronavirus.As we continue to plan for the uncertainties of COVID-19, here are some tips for making our pets part of our preparedness plan, too.Thankfully, amid all the worrisome news there's a glimmer of good tidings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) reports that companion animals in the United States, including dogs and other pets, cannot contract or spread COVID-19. Also, the World Health Organization (WHO) says there's no evidence the virus has infected any dogs or cats .However, because animals and people can sometimes share diseases (called zoonotic diseases), the CDC recommends people who are sick or under medical attention for COVID-19 to limit contact with companion and other animals until more is known about the virus .Petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked and sharing food is not recommended.Instead, have a friend or family member take care of your pet until your health provider says you have cleared the virus. If you are ill with COVID-19 and must take care of your own pet, practice good hygiene and wear a face mask, if possible.Again, there's no evidence that your pet can spread COVID-19, but to make sure, you want to err abundantly on the side of caution. I'm healthy and need to bring my pet or service animal to the vet. What should I do? If you are healthy, call your vet to make an appointment for your pet or service animal as you usually would. I have COVID-19 but still need to bring my animal to the vet. What should I do?If your need to see your vet is an elective and a non-urgent one, you should wait until both your health care provider and public health officials say its okay to interact with other people.If you believe your pet or service animal is ill, seek help from your vet and public health official to determine how to best ensure your pet or service animal can be appropriately cared for while minimizing risks of transmitting COVID-19 to other people.What else should I do to help my pet?Stock up on pet supplies. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends preparing an emergency kit with at least a 30-day supply of medication and two weeks worth of food for your pet.Designate an emergency caregiver. Identify someone who can take care of your pet in case you cant. Share with them your pets health issues, if any, and provide contact information for your veterinarian. Also, let them know other things about your pet, such as their habits, quirks, favorite foods, food preferences, and so on.Have a crate ready. If your pet needs to be relocated or transported, a crate can help protect your pets safety.Identification. Your pet should have proper identification, such as a collar with ID tag and a microchip with current contact information.Continue to protect yourself!Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds!Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Avoid close contact with sick people.Stay home when you are sick.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

Caregivers can help seniors maintain health with proper nutrition, exercise and lifestyle habits. Caregivers can play a large role in helping seniors maintain their health with proper nutrition, exercise and other lifestyle habits.Benefits of exercise in older age: Increases mental capacity - Research links physical activity with slower mental decline. Exercise increases blood flow to all parts of the body, including our brain. Prevents disease - Exercise is beneficial in preventing dementia and Alzheimers disease. Exercise can also delay or prevent many diseases associated with aging, such as diabetes, colon cancer, heart disease, stroke, and more. Improves healing- Injuries can take longer to heal as people age. Regular exercise may speed up the wound-healing process by as much as 25 percent.Increases balance -Exercise can help improve balance, which can help prevent falls. Falls are a major cause of broken hips and other injuries that often lead to disability and hospitalization in older adults.Tips to making meals and snacking easier: 1. If the person has a hard time using a knife and fork, serve finger foods. Try bite-sized pieces of sandwich, meat, or cut-up fruit or veggies. 2. Serve one or two foods at a time. Too many choices can be overwhelming. 3. If chewing or swallowing is a problem, mash, puree, or moisten foods with broth, sauce, or milk. 4. Add flavor to meals with spices and herbs. 5. Put out bowls of nuts and fruit to encourage snacking. 6. Serve nutritional supplement drinks or smoothies with protein powder and fruits.According to the AARP, 40% of people between 45 and 64 are considered sedentary. At age 64 and older, that number jumps to 60%.HOME CARE TIP: Many seniors will not want to grocery shop alone or cook food for just themselves. Work grocery shopping into part of your time together and prep meals so they can easily prepare a meal for one on their own.Submitted and Written By: Golden Care - click here for more information

An annual mammogram is widely known as the best way to detect breast cancer early, when women have the most treatment options and better chances of a favorable prognosis.But not all mammograms are the same. There are two different primary types - screening mammograms and diagnostic mammograms - and some important differences between the two.Read on to learn how both exams are vital to saving lives.Screening mammogramDiana McEnerney, director of the Lee Health Breast Centers, says that a screening mammogram looks for signs in women who dont have any problems, and a diagnostic mammogram checks the breast if there have been changes or problems detected.A screening mammogram is the most effective screening tool to find breast cancer in most women because the exam can detect masses and calcifications before you or your doctor can feel them, McEnerney says. The exam is done yearly in women who have no breast symptoms or changes in their breast exam. All our outpatient breast imaging locations offer the latest screening technology, including 3D mammography screens.Experts recommend annual screening mammograms for women who are 40 years or older or for younger women with specific risk factors. Women dont have to have any signs or symptoms of a breast abnormality in order to receive a screening.McEnerney says that a3D screening mammogram is a womans best tool for detecting any changes in breast tissue.Our screening mammograms are read exclusively by breast imaging radiologists certified in mammography and breast ultrasound, not general radiologists, she says. Our team understands how stressful this procedure can be for some patients and treats every patient with the highest quality patient care.Diagnostic mammogramA diagnostic mammogram checks the breast if there have been changes or problems detected. Women will be referred for this type of mammogram if their screening mammogram revealed a possible abnormality or when something is difficult to determine from the screen, McEnerney says.Women who were treated previously for breast cancer may also get a diagnostic mammogram, McEnerney explains. Diagnostic mammograms are also recommended if a woman has a breast mass or other breast change found during a breast self-exam or by their doctor.Mammograms can be 2-D or 3-D, depending on what the doctor is looking for:A 2-D mammogram looks at the breast from different angles: one from the top and one from the side. Those views cover as much of the breast tissue as possible.A 3-D mammogram uses the same positioned views but takes thin slices through the breast tissue instead of just one X-ray. 3D mammograms show clearer results and usually have better sensitivity and specificity. These images can reveal any potential tumors or abnormalities. is the latest technology for breast cancer screening. It can better differentiate a cancer from overlying glandular tissue. This increases cancer detection and decreases chances of a false positive.Ask your doctor which mammogram is right for you.And dont put off learning when you should begin routine mammogram testing, McEnerney cautions.A recent reportshowed only about 65 percent of women above the age of 40 had a mammogram within the past two years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Takeaway:Mammograms are essential, important, and potentially life-saving. Talk with your doctor about when to start mammography screening sooner than later. Submitted and Written by: Lee Health - click here for more information

When you are sick, you want to see your primary care physician an M.D. or a D.O. in a timely fashion. But an influx of patients, a loomingshortage of physicians, and other factors mean that doesnt always happen.Thats why you might have noticed more health professionals with abbreviations like PA and APRN on their jackets when you visit the doctors office, emergency room, urgent care center, or outpatient clinic.But who are they, how are they trained, and what do they do? Lets find out.Education, ExperienceThe first thing to remember: A PA (Physician Assistant) and an APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) have the expertise to examine patients, order tests, prescribe medication, and provide education.And the other big point to remember: PAs and APRNs work under a doctors supervision, and they consult with an M.D. or D.O. to sign off on care plans and prescriptions.Education and clinical training for PAs and APRNs differ slightly. Advanced practice registered nurses hold masters degrees and many have doctorates.Physician assistants must have a masters degree, have completed a physician assistant program, and received PA certification through the National Commission of Physician Assistants. The state of Florida licenses both PAs and APRNS.It's all about the teamSo how do PAs and APRNs fit into the flow?They help doctors with a concept called team-based care, where patients have access to a doctors entire team and network nurses, medical assistants, social workers, customer service specialists, physician specialists, and more.This approach works.Studies showthat patients treated by their doctors in ateam-based practicehad fewer hospitalizations, visits to emergency departments, and referrals to specialists.Under the physicians supervision and consultation, an advanced practice provider such as an APRN or PA can provide the same kind of patient care as your primary doctor, said Joseph Hobson, D.O., a recently retired board-certified family medicine physician with Lee Physician Group. These highly trained and experienced providers work in close consultation with the doctor, who still maintains responsibility for the healthcare team and your comprehensive, ongoing healthcare.Dolan Abu Aouf, a physician assistant withLee Physician Group, says PAs and APRNs are dedicated to patient care, and they work with your doctor to help you establish a great care relationship with your doctor.Our goal is that each patient receives the same level of exceptional quality care, Dolan says. We also have immediate access to any of our LPG physicians if any issue comes up. This is what the team approach is about, working together as a cohesive team to treat the patient all along the continuum of care. It works.How are PAs educated? Masters degree and/or doctorate. Curriculum is modeled on medical school. Students complete 2,000 hours of clinical rotations in family medicine, internal medicine, general surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine, and psychiatry. Trained as medical generalists, providing them diagnostic and treatment skills in all areas of medicine and for all patients, regardless of age or gender.How are APRNs educated? Masters degree and/or a doctor of nursing practice degree. Trained in the advanced practice of nursing. Students must complete 1,000 hours of supervised clinical practice. Trained in a chosen health population focus area: family, adult/gerontology, neonatal, pediatrics, womens health, or psychiatric/mental health.Written & Submitted By: Lee Health- click for more information*

For more information on Lee Health, CLICK HERE.Shortness of breath. Heart palpitations. Fatigue. A flutter or a pounding feeling in your chest. Even feeling like you might pass out.These are symptoms of atrial fibrillation(A-Fib), the most common type of heart arrhythmia in the United States. Nearly 2.7 to 6.1 million people here have it, and the number is expected to increase, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Dr. Paul DiGiorgi, a cardiothoracic surgeon with Shipley Cardiothoracic Center at Lee Health, hears all kinds of questions from patients who are diagnosed with A-Fib.Many people don't even know they have A-Fib in the first place. So its a very common disease process, especially as you get older, he says.What is A-Fib?Your heart has four chambers two in the front and two in the back. But when these chambers stop working together, that's when patients are at risk for A-Fib.Sometimes you are going in and out of A-Fib, and you don't even feel it. Many other people notice it right away. Patients present very differently, Dr. DiGiorgi says.Patients may feel shortness of breath, heart palpitations such as a rapid beat or pounding, fatigue, chest pain, or even pass out. Unfortunately, the patients who don't know they have A-Fib sometimes present for the first time with a stroke, he said.Know Your Risk FactorsA-Fib is one of the most undertreated heart diseases but a simple EKG test can determine if patients are living with the disease.The older you are, the more likely you are to have it. It is related to other issues, such as hyperthyroid, heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, Dr. DiGiorgi said.Common medical issues associated with A-Fib are lung problems such as COPD or pneumonia, sleep apnea, hormone imbalances or other cardiac diseases such as coronary artery disease and valvular heart disease.Obesity can also put patients at risk for developing A-Fi which is why doctors say if patients can improve their lifestyle, many times they can lower their risk.Things like smoking cessation, controlling your high blood pressure, controlling your diabetes, controlling your caffeine intake these are all major components to success or failure of any treatment, he said.Treatment OptionsThe good news is that there are several treatment options available.Medications and lifestyle changes, which are very important no matter what anybody does for you, and catheter ablations have been successful, Dr. DiGiorgi said.Another option is a minimally invasive procedure where a surgeon removes tiny areas of the heart that are causing abnormal electrical impulses.What is the right treatment plan for each individual? It has to be sort of a customized plan for each person. A-Fib is very complex, and everybody has a slightly different level of complexity with it, especially when you talk about how long they have had it, Dr. DiGiorgi said.Patients with A-Fib may have no symptoms, so if a patient has risk factors its important they meet with their doctor.First of all, get checked out because many people have A-Fib and don't even know they have it. Number two, find out as much as you can about it and what your options are, and be aggressive about getting answers to your questions and getting solutions to your problems, Dr. DiGiorgi said.Symptoms, Education, TreatmentCardiologyHighly trained experts keeping your heart healthy by preventing, evaluating, and treating a wide variety of cardiovascular conditions.Reach Out to Learn MoreLocated at HealthPark Medical Center in Fort Myers, Shipley Cardiothoracic Center takes a revolutionary approach to improving healthcare in Southwest Florida. Lee Health has been caring for patients for more than 100 years, and cardiothoracic surgery has existed here for more than 40 years.

LEE COUNTY, Fla. Vice President of Brightstar Care Susan Nimnuan, has been pushing to get in-home and homebound patients the COVID-19 vaccine. When she first started her efforts she didnt think that daywould ever happen.Until it did, her dream was also a reality for the Olivieris who have been waiting for the day to get vaccinated, ever since the vaccine was first announced.It has lifted a lot of weight off our shoulders, said Edwin Olivieri homebound resident who received the vaccine.Edwin and his wife Isabel have been trying to get their vaccine for months. Edwin has diabetes, surviveda stroke, and recently lost his vision. Their daughter and caregiver Linda Flores and her husband used two laptops, two ipads, and their cell phones just to get them on a list.Weve been able to get on lists but nothing was able to come to fruition, said Flores.But now the wait is over, as Friday morning Edwin, Isabel, Linda, and her Uncle received their vaccine.It was a very pleasantsurprise to know that we were able to get this service right in our own home, Edwin said.The Oliveris other daughter has cancer, and without their vaccination, they havent been able to see her since December.Now we can get together with her, we can see her, we can hug her, Isabel said. We need that hug that we always had everyday ya know?With a personal connection to this family, Nimnuan pushed hard, making phone calls, sending emails, even going to meetings.Theyre someones mother, theyre someones father, theyresomeones grandparent, said Nimnuan.She knows firsthand how important our loved ones are, as her grandfather had Parkinsons.Its just about giving back to our seniors. I wish I wouldve had more time with mygrandparents so maybe this can help someone else have that opportunity, said Nimnuan.Even though the Oliveris are vaccinated, Edwin said they will continue doing what they did before. Such as, washing their hands often, wearing masks, and social distancing.Brightstar Care will do its second round of vaccinations next week.If you would like more information on how to get your homebound loved one vaccinated, contact Susan at (239) 992-4779 or send her an email at Susan.Nimnuan@BrightStarCare.com.Click Here for Original Article Link

Were all getting to know the inside of our homes a little better these days. That means more of us are gathered together in crowded spaces as we cook, clean and make more clutter.The togetherness can be nice, but older adults may find that more time in home leads to more chances of falling.Home safety, unfortunately, is often overlooked. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that most falls happen at home. In fact, 1 out of 3 adults over the age of 60 fall each year.Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the ER for a fall, and an older adult dies every 19 minutes from a fall, according to the National Council on Aging.We know that falls can be dangerous. Did you also know that fear of falling and a lack of confidence are proven factors in relating to high incidences of falls? Its true. So adults need to ensure they feel free to move around their home without worry.Being hyper aware and implementing changes will make a big difference. So remember this quick list of things you can do to fall-proof your home:Keep your floors clutter free.Remove small rugs or tape down or secure them.Add grab bars in the bathroom.Avoid wet floors at all costs.Have handrails and lights installed on all staircases. Hold the handrails when you go up or down the stairs. Do you need to carry something up the stairs? Make sure its in one hand only while you grip the handrail with your other hand. And dont let what you are carrying block your view.Use nightlights throughout your home.Use good lighting all around your house especially at the top and bottom of stairs and at each end of a hallway.Keep your phone and a flashlight next to your bed.Sofas and chairs should be the right height for you to get in and out of comfortably.Know where your pet is at all time! Our little friends are easy to trip over.Keep emergency numbers nearby or invest in your own medical alarm.Once you have made your home a confident space to move around in, you can work on walking and taking more laps within the hallways. Sometimes I have patients stand while commercials are on or march in place or practice sit-to-stands so they get exercise between shows.Even if you are an active adult and play tennis and golf regularly, you are can still fall in a cluttered and dark home. The checklist can apply to anyone, so make sure you go over it with your family.

For more information on the author Lee Health, CLICK HERE.Southwest Florida residents enjoy tennis year-round thanks to constant sunshine and hot weather, but interest spikes this time of year because of Wimbledon, plenty of professional hard court tournaments throughout the summer, and the U.S. Open in August.Beyond professional play, there are all those energetic club players, gated community tournaments, youth leagues, apartment complex hobbyists, casual hits at parks, and so much more. Indeed, tennis is everywhere and offers plenty of excitement and fun and its also a thorough exercise for all ages.Thinking of taking up tennis or getting back into the game? Need a refresher on just how effective tennis can be for your physical and mental health? Read on to learn all about tennis physical and mental benefits as well as try out some handy injury prevention tips.Physical Perks: 15-0Paul Zavala, an occupational therapist at Lee Health, says tennis contributes to fitness, strength, agility, flexibility, reflexes, and overall health. Tennis helps you learn better footwork and balance since mobility is a key to properly hitting the ball.Tennis utilizes upper, core, and lower body muscles but its also one of the best cardiovascular and aerobic exercises you can do. Playing a few sets increases oxygen flow, circulation, and helps you fight back heart disease. That kind of physical workout also decreases lipids, which helps lower cholesterol.Mental Might: 30-0One thing to remember is that sports and physical activity in general improve your mental health as well. Tennis contributes to quality of life by providing a platform for social interaction, friendship, and family bonding, Zavala says.Exercise also improves your mood and self-image especially when weight loss is involved.Want to sleep better? Tennis improves serotonin levels, which is critical to better rest. Then there is that natural mood boost and a heightened self-image especially when weight loss is involved."Tennis is a life skill that can be enjoyed at any age, Zavala says.How to Prevent Injuries: 40-0OK, so we've convinced you that tennis is a great thing. Now its up to you to take the proper steps and prevent injuries:Zavala recommends proper warm-up at least 15 minutes before you play. Warm-up should include global stretches, light cardio, and practicing your strokes.Work in proper rest and try not to play two days in a row. Zavala tells clients that playing tennis two days in a row is comparable to working out in a gym. Its not recommended to work out the same muscles successive days in a row, and it is the same with tennis.Be sure to perform a whole-body stretching regime every morning to help prevent muscle strain and tears.Zavala says these exercises can help with stiffness and weakness: Light resistance circuit training one or two times a week (legs, core, shoulders, forearms), and cardio (bike, walk, jog) one to two times a week.Game, Set, Match!Your'e well on the way to enjoying a lifetime of fun and exercise. Remember to eat right to provide your body with enough fuel to play and be sure to stay hydrated, especially in the hot Florida summer.Have a tennis injury and need to rehabilitate? Click the link above for more information,

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Lee Health's care team has been on the front lines, using strict safety measures and passionate dedication to treat our community's sickest patients.Besides physicians and nurses, Lee Health's COVID-19 team also includes other experts behind the scenes including certified nursing assistants, transporters, advanced providers and respiratory therapists.We look for conditions like respiratory distress, wheezing, and cardiac arrest, said Kathy Mattozzi, lead respiratory therapist at Health Park Medical Center. Anything to do with the heart and lungs, were there.From ventilators for use on sedated patients to breathing exercises on recovering patients who are about to leave the hospital, respiratory therapists are a pivotal part of the COVID-19 response.They help patients who have any breathing disorders, including asthma, COPD, or emphysema, or those who need assistance breathing while sedated. We have direct patient contact, every day, Mattozzi said. In the ICU, we round with the doctors and learn about each patient. Taking an Active Role The RT team was a well-oiled machine, aiding the frailest cardiac, stroke and surgical patients until COVID-19 hit.They regrouped and learned to work in a different way, with patients who are highly contagious and need special care. They exercise precautions but have become skilled in entering and exiting patient rooms with ease.The first couple of weeks were stressful with so many unknowns, Mattozzi said. But its better now. Respiratory therapist Daniel Torres works three 12-hour shifts each week. He spends 15 minutes to several hours in each patient room. Some patients are alert and follow instructions. Others are unconscious. During a recent day he checked a bi-pap machine and gave a breathing treatment. Its rewarding when we see a patient improve, he said. We see it because we have such an active role. Watching someone walk out means a lot. I think everyone on the care team respects what we do. Nobody's Done Until Everybody's Done That care reaches all levels. Respiratory therapy assistant Robert Higginbotham spends his days collecting equipment that has been used and is ready for cleaning. He disinfects all pieces, wraps them in plastic and stores them in a safe room until the staff need them. Its nice to be part of this team, he said. I worked in transport and then came here. Ten years into the job, Higginbotham said he wouldn't change anything. Our director makes sure we have what we need and were safe. Patients, like those who spend most of their time unconscious, have little idea how pivotal the respiratory team is to their survival and recovery, but the therapists remain positive.We know were an important part of the care team, Mattozzi said. We are like a family and everybody helps. If I need help, someone will come from another floor if I need it. Nobody's done until everybody's done.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

For more information on the author Collier Home Care, CLICK HERE.Even if you are a very independent person, there may come a time when you need 24-hour home care, either temporarily or indefinitely.Or perhaps your loved one is already there, needing 24-hour home care help with everything from climbing out of bed to getting dressed, and everything from assistance with meals to help with bathing.Whether the care is for you, or you are looking into 24-hour care for the elderly in their own home, todays blog should offer valuable information that can serve you now or in the future.What Type Of Help Is Available Via 24-Hour Care Services?The day-to-day living tasks we all take for granted until we lose a measure of mobility or need extra assistance are what a caregiver can help you or your loved one with. The types of tasks that a professional caregiver can assist with include, but are not limited to, the following:Bathing, showering, and personal groomingGetting dressed into daytime clothes or pajamasTransferring from one location to another, such as out of bed or into a chairMobility assistance, such as help with using a cane, walker, or wheelchairToileting assistance and incontinence carePrescribed exercises to help with range of motion, flexibility, and strengthTaking vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, and respiration ratesHandling light housekeeping tasksPreparing meals, assisting with eating, and adhering to special dietsOffering medication reminders and helping with self-administration of medicinesThe caregiver is there to help you with the things you're finding difficult doing on your own. Services can be tailored to your specific needs, since you may not need assistance with every task.The Differences Between Live-In Care And 24-Hour CareFor a number of people, its unclear what the differences are between live-in and 24 hour care. While they are similar, important differences exist.Live-in care services refer to those provided by a certified nursing assistant (CNA) or a home health aide (HHA) living in your home. They are there to assist with daily needs, and they have a separate room available where they sleep and store their belongings. The live-in caregiver needs to have at least 8 consecutive hours of uninterrupted sleep, which means that the person being cared for needs to be able to sleep through the night without requiring help.With 24-hour care, also referred to as around-the-clock care, CNAs and/or HHAs are available for 8- to 12-hour shifts, with two or three different caregivers working in a 24-hour period to ensure around-the-clock care. In this way, a team of dedicated caregivers provides services for full 24-hour coverage every day, all week long.Some individuals who need 24-hour care can eventually move away from around-the-clock coverage to either live-in care or even just a few hours of personal care assistant each day.If You'd Like To Learn MoreIf you are in the greater Naples, FL region and you would like to learn more about 24-hour care and whether its right for you or a loved one, give Collier Home Care a call. We will be happy to discuss your case with you and help you determine what the appropriate level of care may be.

As we move further into the COVID-19 pandemic, one question seems to be on everyone's mind: Can you get COVID-19 twice?Like with so many other questions we have about COVID-19, the answer isnt clear.Here is the CDC's latest information on the question:"Cases of reinfectionof COVID-19 have been reported but are rare. In general, reinfection means a person was infected (got sick) once, recovered, and then later became infected again. Based on what we know from similar viruses, some reinfections are expected."Antibodies: What Do They Mean?The body's immune system fights infections by producing antibodies to viruses, and some experts think that those who recover from COVID-19 developantibodies that may offer protection against reinfection.But how strong that immune response is and for how long it lasts remains unknown.Top infectious disease experts assert that immunity to other known coronaviruses, including those that cause the common cold, typically lasts only 3-6 months.The Hong Kong reinfection study, slated for publication in the medical journalClinical Infectious Diseases, details how researchers sequenced the genomes of the virus after both infections for comparison.Researchers found the second infection appears as a slightly different virus strain from the initial one, thus confirming reinfection, rather than a positive result due to a lingering first infection.Dont StressNevertheless,Dr. Stephanie Stovall, infection prevention medical director with Lee Health, says we shouldnt stress about the reinfection case.We see this with other types of coronaviruses, the ones that give us the common cold," Dr. Stovall says. "It is unknown if the genetic differences that were seen will affect immunity.Its remains unclear how common reinfection from COVID-19 might be because few researchers have sequenced the virus from each infection, Dr. Stovall adds. That's a reminder that COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a new coronavirus previously unseen in humans.Long-Term ImmunityOn Aug. 24, researchers in Hong Kong confirmed a 33-year-old man was infected a second time with COVID-19 more than four months after his first bout.The patient was first diagnosed with COVID-19 in March and cleared the virus in April, according to the study.Dr. Stovall says the patient became re-infected relatively soon (4.5 months) after clearing his first infection, and this suggests that long-term immunity may not be naturally occurring after infection.For example, people who have had a virus like the measles develop lifelong immunity (along with antibodies) to it, she explains. When were re-exposed to the measles, special white blood cells called B lymphocytes in our immune system start producing antibodies that neutralize the virus and mark it for destruction by other types of white blood cells.With COVID-19 and common cold viruses like other coronaviruses and rhinoviruses, our bodies may develop detectable antibodies, according to Dr. Stovall. But there is the possibility that these antibodies either dont last long enough or arent strong to prevent reinfection.This may mean that the conceptof herd immunityis less likely to be effective atcontrolling disease in our communities, Dr. Stovall notes. Ultimately, we need more information from vaccine trials and from the genetic sequencing of the virus in suspected re-infection cases to know more.Until more evidence-based data become available to bolster the fight against COVID-19, wearing a mask, practicing social distance, and regularly using alcohol-based hand sanitizers remain theanswersthat we can count on.For Original Blog Source Click Here*

To learn more about Lee health, Click Here.Holidays are for making new memories and fondly remembering others. But as we age and loved ones pass or move away, memories that once brought joy may now bring sadness.Laverne Jones, an advanced practitioner registered nurse (APRN) with Lee Physician Group ,Lee Memory Care, discusses how seniors who are vulnerable to depression during the holidays can cope.More than 12 million Americans over age 65 live alone, according to the American Psychological Association. This year, unlike others in recent memory, has burdened everyone, especially seniors who are already stressed by prolonged isolation due to the pandemic and facing the risks of illness and even death from possible infection from COVID-19.Many seniors in our community who are practicing social distancing due to COVID-19 may not see their family during the holidays, which can lead to feelings of sadness and depression, Jones says. It may help to recognize that this holiday will be different from past ones, and that new ones can be created instead.Find new ways of celebrating virtually, such as with video chat and emailing. Although you wont physically be together with loved ones, you'll still see and hear them in real-time.Stay connected with family, friends, and loved ones often, she says.Acknowledge your feelingsFeelings of sadness and grief are normal and appropriate. And its okay to feel them, Jones says.Expressing our feelings when were sad can give us some relief, she says. If you're grieving the loss of someone this holiday season, know that you're going to have waves of sadness about missing them. One day you might feel sad and maybe the next day, you wont. Its important to feel your feelings, whenever you have them. Its healthy.Also, Jones adds, its okay to be human, meaning that you're not going to be perfect during this holiday season or at any other time of the year.Don't feel bad about not meeting unrealistic expectations of yourself. We want things to go perfectly during the holidays. Its understandable but not realistic. For example, don't feel bad that you don't or cant remember someone's name. Its nothing to be ashamed of. There's nothing wrong with saying, I'm sorry, but I cant remember your name. You don't have to be perfect.Reach out to someoneIf you're feeling alone and depressed, reach out to friends and family. Jones says that connecting with others is one of the best ways to relieve depression and loneliness. By focusing our attention on helping others in need, we often forget our own troubles and we lift our own moods.If you know of someone who is depressed, you can be available for them as a sympathetic ear or maybe help with daily tasks that may seem overwhelming to them. We've all been there.Just knowing that we have someone we can lean on can help us feel better, Jones says.There are many community resources that you can volunteer with safely during the pandemic, Jones says. Maybe you can cheer someone up by cooking a meal and dropping it off for someone staying at a shelter or a senior living community. If you already virtually connect with friends and family, maybe you can also do that with someone who's lonely and knows how to use the technology.Pamper yourselfAbove all, Jones says, be nice to yourself. Treat yourself as you treat others, with kindness and patience and understanding.Do what you want to do, but treat yourself kindly while doing it, Jones says. That includes staying with your wellness routines, connecting with others, getting a good nights rest, and keeping your healthy habits. These can all keep depression away.By tweaking how you do things this season and seeking the company of others, the holidays can still be a time of renewal and joy.Every day should be treated as a holiday, Jones says. Treat every day as a special one. You don't have to wait for the holidays to start.

The holiday season is upon us, with all its magical wonders, good cheer, and . . . contagious diseases.COVID-19 (coronavirus) and flu (seasonal influenza) are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2), and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses.Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis.Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two. Heres what you need to know:What are the similarities?COVID-19 and flu can have varying degrees of signs and symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. Both diseases are spread by air-borne respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces.The symptoms COVID-19 and flu have in common include:Fever or feeling feverish/chillsCoughShortness of breath or difficulty breathingFatigue (tiredness)Sore throatRunny or stuffy noseMuscle pain or body achesHeadacheSome people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adultsBoth can lead to pneumonia, a secondary infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs* Source: Centers for Disease Control and PreventionCOVID-19COVID-19 seems to cause more serious illnesses in some people, according to the CDC. Other signs and symptoms of COVID-19, different from flu, may include change in or loss of taste or smell.If youre infected with COVID-19, youll typically develop symptoms five days after infection. However, symptoms can appear as soon as two days after infection or as late as 14 days after infection.Possible symptoms of COVID-19 include:Fever or chillsCoughShortness of breath or difficulty breathingFatigueMuscle or body achesHeadacheNew loss of taste or smellSore throatCongestion or runny noseNausea or vomitingDiarrhea* Source: Centers for Disease Control and PreventionNote:Sneezing with a stuffy nose is not a typical COVID-19 symptom.Important:People who are high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 include older adults and people with certain medical conditions (e.g. heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes).Recovery from COVID-19:Many people with mild symptoms of COVID-19 can recover at home with rest and fluids. But some people become seriously ill from COVID-19 and need to stay in the hospital for supportive treatment.Currently, there is no vaccine available for the virus that causesCOVID-19. But researchers are working to develop vaccines to preventCOVID-19.What should I do if I have COVID-19?If you have mild or moderate disease, stay home for 10 days after your first symptom unless you need medical care. If you must see another person during that time, you must wear a mask.You must always wear a mask around people.InfluenzaIf youre infected with the flu, symptoms typically develop one to four days after infection. People who have the flu often experience some or all the following symptoms:Fever or feeling feverish/chillsCoughSore throatRunny or stuffy noseMuscle or body achesHeadachesFatigue (tiredness)Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in adults)* Source: Centers for Disease Control and PreventionImportant:People who are high risk of severe illness from the flu include older adults and people with certain medical conditions (e.g. heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes).Recovery from the flu:Your doctor may prescribeoral antiviral medications within 24-48 hours of your infection. These medications can address symptoms and shorten the duration of the flu. If you havent already received your annual seasonal vaccine, a flu vaccine can prevent or reduce the duration of the flu.What should I do if I have the flu?If you have mild or moderate symptoms,you should stay home and avoid others until 24 hours after your fever is gone unless you need medical care.If you develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or the flu or believe you may have been exposed, contact a Lee Physician Group healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your situation.Submitted By: Lee Health

For more information on the author Lee Health, CLICK HERE.Remember, it only Takes One: Prepare for the next Hurricane SeasonUPDATE: This blog post originally ran in 2019 as Dorian swirled nearby and the stress of hurricane season became a reality once again. However, these safety preparations work for all oncoming hurricanes.Here are some important things to consider:Check your first aid kit and restock if necessary; include sunscreen and insect repellent.Be sure you have refills of your prescriptions. Florida law allows pharmacies to fill prescriptions in advance during hurricane warnings.Think ahead about preserving refrigerated drugs, like insulin, in case the power goes out. In an emergency, you can reach out to the Red Cross or poison control for assistance in determining the safety of a drug.Know the details of your medical equipment, including the size, manufacturer, and company and account numbers.Stock up on batteries, especially if you require batteries that need to be special ordered.Consider medical supplies, including catheters and dressings, as well as dietary restrictions, and be sure you have appropriate supplies and options available.Build or restock your disaster supplies kit, including food, water, flashlights, batteries, chargers, cash and first aid supplies.Scan important documents, such as medication logs, insurance papers, etc., and store them on a flash drive in a safety deposit box. Lee Health uses Epic, so our patients have one seamless, electronic health record across the system.Determining whether you or your loved ones need access to a special needs shelter is one of the most important things to do to prepare for hurricane season. Lee Health hospitals and facilities are not hurricane shelters. If you or your loved one requires assistance that exceeds services provided at a general population shelter, you must preregister with Lee County Emergency Management.Visit Lee County's website for more information on special needs shelter, as well as the locations of public shelters.

For more information on Lee Health, CLICK HERE.You dont have to be scared of acupuncture.Needles poking through your skin may not sound like a good time, but millions have tried it and found relaxation and relief. This old Chinese medicine approach which has become more mainstream in recent years helps patients relieve debilitating and life-altering symptoms such as pain, stress, depression, anxiety, and nausea.And did you know: The American Cancer Society supports the use of acupuncture for cancer patients. Indeed, it can give you some relief without the side effects of medication.So as more patients look for complementary treatments, lets point you in the right direction:What is acupuncture?The body has natural energy that often gets blocked or impaired. Acupuncture inserting needles at certain points in the body to relieve symptoms ignites that energy and releases endorphins. Licensed experts use extremely fine, sterilized, and disposable needles to ensure safety and to give you the most possible benefits.What happens at my appointment?Acupuncturists do their best to make you feel comfortable. Remember, this will be just like any other health appointment:Patients fill out paperwork about their health history, the reason for your visit, and other relevant questions.An expert will talk to you, observe your condition, take your pulse and other vitals to come up with the correct treatment plan.We will put a specific plan of action into place so that we can treat your symptoms AND the root cause of your trouble.When you are feeling relaxed and comfortable, we gently insert needles into precise points in your body. Patients usually lie still for about 20 minutes to allow the body to correct itself.We take the needles out, slowly, and the treatment is over. The patient will generally feel more relaxed and at ease.Does it hurt?Acupuncture does not hurt. The needle creates a micro tear, sending a signal to the brain, where chemical messengers release and naturally improve your health. Some patients may feel a slight tingle, and many are surprised by how relaxed they feel.Are the needles reused?No. Acupuncture needles are either individually wrapped or sealed in a sterile pack. The FDA regulates these needles, which are discarded after use.How does it all work?Ah, the magic question! And there are plenty of theories. First, though, lets recognize that the body knows how to heal itself if provoked in the right way. There is an innate intelligence in all of us that aims toward righting the body.Lets use pain as an example. Something causes your pain. Acupuncturists look to balance that system to stop the pain. The placement of the needle and the metal in the needle itself can be thought of as the medicine. The practitioner wisely chooses the correct needle placement, just like the medical doctor chooses the correct medication. The needle sends a signal through a neural pathway to stimulate oxygen, nutrients, blood, and chemical messengers to improve your cellular, tissue, organ, and bone health.More about needles: How many do you use?The number of needles varies based on your condition, but typically we use somewhere between eight and 16 each visit. And remember: Acupuncture needles are NOT the same as needles used to poke you and draw blood. These are much finer and thinner.Do I stay dressed during a session?Of course. We advise you to wear loose-fitting clothing, however, so we can reach most areas.Are acupuncturists trained?In Florida, all graduates must complete four state board exams, 870 hours of hands-on clinic, and, typically, four years of schooling. Please remember that not anyone can just start inserting needles into your body. We are trained experts, committed to complete, compassionate, and quality healing.Are there different types or styles?Not all acupuncturists study the same style. Typically, most schools teach Traditional Chinese Medicine, but there are many different forms: Five-element theory, esoteric, Japanese, Korean, Tan style, Master Tang Theory, and others. What style will work best for you? We can help you decide.Just what exactly will acupuncture help treat?Were glad you asked. Acupuncture is great for:PainSciaticaPre/Post SurgeryMigrainesInflammationOsteoarthritisAutoimmune DiseasesPMSHot FlashesGastrointestinal IssuesAcid RefluxSinusitisInsomniaAnxiety/DepressionFatigueHow do I make an appointment?Acupuncture at Lee Health does not need a referral. Click the link at the beginning of the article for more information.

Stop worrying and embrace that lifesaving colonoscopyDoctors and other experts are on a mission: They want you to know that one of the deadliest cancers is also the most preventable.There are about 50,000 people who die from colorectal cancer each year in the U.S., says Janette Gaw, M.D., a colorectal surgeon on the Lee Health medical staff. Colorectal cancer is any cancer that starts in the colon or rectum.But lifestyle changes and education ensure that you have a chance to ward off this deadly disease.And the most important thing to remember? A colonoscopy a medical test that examines the lower bowel for abnormalities -- is essential.Overcoming a Bad ReputationUnfortunately, colonoscopies have a bad reputation. The very idea of the exam makes many people uncomfortable or afraid. But your doctor will help you through the procedure, and you may only need to get one every 10 years.Dr. Gaw recommends that screenings should begin at age 50, but you should get a colonoscopy at a younger age if you have a family history of colon cancer.We all know that drinking the prep liquid can be pretty gross, but some doctors will allow you to split the dose into smaller portions or may even allow you to drink a low-volume and tasteless mixture. And dont feel like you have to guzzle the mixture all at onceif you feel sick, take a break and chew some gum. You can also dilute the mixture with a sports drink to help with electrolytes and taste.OK, the bad part is next: You will probably be stuck in the bathroom for a long time after you drink the prep liquid so your colon can be thoroughly clean for the procedure. So grab your favorite reading material or browse something fun on your phone. Use hygiene wipes or ointments to help with irritation.So now you are ready for the procedure but remember you have sedation options to make you as comfortable as possible. Talk to your doctor about all the various options, and remember colonoscopies are hardly ever scary or painful!RecoveryDr. Khalid Alam. a gastroenterologist with Lee Health, says theres good news when it comes to recovering from your colonoscopy.Colonoscopies have been around since the 60s. We used to insufflate air in the colon and expand it and thats how you examine the colon, Dr. Alam said.After the procedure, the patient may experience bloating and discomfort, an experience Dr. Alam is working to change.What we like to do is to make colonoscopies more palatable and acceptable to the patients, and air insufflation which has been around since the late 60s would cause some discomfort to the patient.Its why, he says, more physicians are using CO2 instead of air. The process has proven safe and more comfortable for patients. CO2 is more easily absorbed and less uncomfortable, said Dr. Alam.Dont forget about other essentials of colorectal cancer prevention:Stop smoking and drinkingEat more fiber, fruits, vegetables and less salt, processed fats, and red meatBoost your immune system with more activityDont ignore symptoms such as bloody stools, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss or fatigue, cramping in the lower stomach, and change in bowel habits.Patients who face colon cancer have a variety of treatment options based on the severity of the disease. In its earliest stage, colon cancer is highly treatable.Learn more at our new and improved Gastroenterology page!Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click for more information

For more information on the author, Lee Health, CLICK HERE!Every bite we take affects us in some way, but did you know that the cheeseburger you had for lunch might actually make your knee hurt?That punch in the stomach is true, according to experts: Diet has a huge impact on your joint and arthritis pain and may cause or contribute to rheumatoid arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation.We need to understand that inflammation starts in the gut, says Sebastian Klisiewicz, D.O., a physiatrist on the Lee Health medical staff. Every bite we take can either increase or decrease inflammation.Recent studies confirm that people whose diet is high in antioxidants, fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins, and fats tend to have:less painless stiffnessless progression of degenerative diseasesThe Arthritis Foundation suggests you try the following foods to ease your difficult joint and arthritis pain:Fish: This great substitute for salty red meat has omega-3 fatty acids, which help with inflammation at a cellular level that means fish can actually stop inflammation before it starts. The AF says fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel are best, two to four times a week.Nuts and seeds :Its so easy and often fun simply to reach for a snack while watching the game or hanging out with friends. But instead of potato chips, grab a handful of magnesium-rich nuts and seeds such as walnuts, peanuts, almonds, pistachios, and chia seeds. Nuts and seeds have plenty of fiber, too.Extra virgin olive oil: The Olive Oil Times and Science Direct report that EVOO has more than 36 phenolic compounds, many of which have the same effect in the body as ibuprofen.Cherries: Another great snack substitute for salty pretzels and potato chips is anything berry related. Cherries have something called anthocyanins -- which are also found in strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries which give them their vibrant red color and may relieve joint pain and lower the risk of gout attacks.Vegetables :No surprise that vegetables the more colorful the better have nutrients and antioxidents that help your body fight cell damage and lower inflammation. Experts stress to go for the rainbow and try dark green veggies, orange carrots and sweet potatoes, olives, and garlic.And, finally although it isn't a food, you should never forget about the potent, healing power of water to help lubricate those joints. Stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout your day. You can also try some tea: The Arthritis Foundation reports high polyphenol levels in green and white tea, which can help preserve cartilage and bone.

A Map for determining if your elderly parent should quit driving.An automobile driver in city traffic typically makes about 200 driving decisions per mile. Most of us are hardly aware that were checking mirrors and gauges, slowing down, speeding up, signaling, changing lanes, keeping the proper following distance, and so on, while we drive.These driving decisions seem to come naturally with practice and experience.But as we age, the benefit of driving experience may become less a factor in driving safety. Mobility issues, vision changes, and hearing loss begin to affect our ability to drive safely.Sure, many seniors continue to drive safely in their 80s and even early 90s because they've adjusted to their limitations.Some wont drive after dark due to night vision issues, others wont drive during rush hour because of slower reflexes to more complex driving situations, and so on.But what if you have an aging parent who refuses to heed their obvious driving limitations and continues to drive, putting themselves and others at risk? How do you know when the time has come for them to stop driving, and what should you do about it?Driving helps older adults stay mobile and independent, but the risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash increases as people age, says Jennifer Cittadino, an advanced practice registered nurse with Lee Health Geriatric Medicine.According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 500 older Americans are injured every day in crashes. That's why its so important for family members to monitor their aging parents driving abilities and habits.Determining your parents ability to drive safely can help ensure their independence, but more importantly, also their health, Cittando says.Experts say that seniors who lose their ability to drive may begin to isolate, which can lead to poor nutrition, health problems, and depression.Identify the warning signsIf your  able to ride along with a parent to look for signs of poor driving, remember that it doesn't automatically mean your parent shouldn't drive.Your parents poor driving behaviors may be related to an underlying physical condition, such as diminished eyesight or hearing both often correctable by eyewear and assistive hearing devices.Also, your parent may also take medications that can affect their driving skills. Medication side effects such as drowsiness and lightheadedness can impair decision making. Your parent should talk with their doctor or pharmacist to learn how their medications can affect their driving.What to look forDoes your parent confuse the gas and brake pedals or have difficulty working them? Drivers who lift their legs to move from the accelerator to the brake, rather than keeping a heel on the floor and pressing with the toes, may be signaling waning leg strength.Does your mom or dad seem to ignore or miss stop signs and other traffic signals? Perhaps your parent is inattentive or cannot spot the signs in a crowded, constantly moving visual field.Does your parent weave between or straddle lanes? Signaling incorrectly or not at all when changing lanes can be particularly dangerous, especially if your parent fails to check mirrors or blind spots.Do other drivers honk or pass frequently, even when the traffic stream is moving relatively slowly? This may indicate difficulty keeping pace with fast-changing conditions.Does your mom or dad get lost or disoriented easily, even in familiar places? This could indicate problems with working memory or early cognitive decline.Source: NHTSAIf you're unable to observe your parent driving, watch for these signs:Multiple vehicle crashes, near misses, and/or new dents in the carTwo or more traffic tickets or warnings within the past two years; increases in car insurance premiums because of driving issuesComments from neighbors or friends about drivingAnxiety about driving at nightHealth issues that might affect driving ability, including problems with vision, hearing, and/or movementComplaints about the speed, sudden lane changes, or actions of other driversRecommendations from a doctor to modify driving habits or quit driving entirelySource: National Institute on AgingIf your parent exhibits any of these warning signs, talk with them about getting a comprehensive driving assessment, Cittadino says, citing a recommendation of the NHTSA.A driving assessment can help identify and address any risky driving behaviors, she says. The goal, of course, is to maximize their safe driving.How to Have 'The Talk 'About a Parents DrivingUnderstandably, talking with a parent about their driving can be difficult. Here are some tips to help:Be prepared. Identify the person's transportation needs. Learn about local services that can help the parent who can no longer drive. The goal is to help your parent continue the activities they enjoy while staying safe and maintaining their independence. For example, you might say, "I'll help you figure out how to get where you want to go if driving isn't possible."Use "I" messages rather than "You" messages. For example, say, "I am concerned about your safety when you are driving," rather than, "You're no longer a safe driver."Be positive and supportive. For all of us, our driver's licenses are symbols of personal freedom. Understand that a parent may become upset at losing their driving privilege. "I understand that this may be upsetting" or "We'll work together to find a solution," are helpful.Stick to the issue. Discuss the driver's skills, not their age.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

The COVID-19 pandemic is stressing us out, and those heightened levels of anxiety and worry are affecting our appetites.Some of us cant eat enough to satisfy our hunger pains and keep tearing through the snacks, while others have as much interest in eating as watching paint dry.What gives? Blame stress, says certified functional nutritionist Julie Hill.Heres some expert advice on how to manage these challenges and optimize your health with something you may not have heard of before called Rest and Digest.How Does Stress Affect Appetite?Stress is how the brain and body respond to a demand, says Hill, whos also a registered dietitian withLee Health.During bouts of short-term stress, we get more focused, our reaction times become faster, and our strength and agility increase, Hill says. But blood sugar levels may rise in response to the stress.Typically, we wont be hungry or have an appetite when were concentrating on a project or facing a threatening situation, Hill says. Different events cause different responses in different people, of course. But usually were not thinking about eating during these stressful moments.On the other hand, some stress, especially ones like the pandemic that cause long-term stress (chronic stress), can change our metabolisms.During chronic stress, excessive hunger can be caused by insulin resistance, which causes our blood sugar levels to remain high even though the stressful event has passed, Hill says. This can lead to uncontrolled hunger or no appetite at all.Hill says uncontrolled hunger can be a message to your brain that youre not getting enough vitamins and minerals as well as other macronutrients like protein, fat and carbohydrates.Your body doesnt say I need vitamin C, so please eat an orange. Instead, the brain receives the message to choose sugar, carbs, or a salty food like potato chips, she says. These foods yield high energy, but not nutritional value.'Rest and Digest'During Your MealsHill says a regular practice called rest and digest can do wonders for restoring healthy eating behaviors, regardless of your hunger level or lack of it.Rest and digest is a response that can calm the body, Hill says. It can slow our breathing, lower our heart rate. In this mindful state, our bodies can optimally digest food. Were more relaxed, which is good because it invites recovery from stress. We become healthier the more time we spend in rest and digest.Rest: Before you begin eating, set aside 1-2 minutes for quiet meditation. Time yourself.Digest: Smell your food, feel your mouth salivate, feel your stomach churn, think about how nutritious your meal is. These are good signs that youve told your body its time to eat and not be stressed, Hill says. This will help your body to more effectively absorb of the nutrients in your meal.Digest: Chew each bite of food 15 to 20 times. If youre not fully chewing your food, your body cant further digest it, Hill says. Youll need to eat more food because your body will miss out on the calories from that big piece of food you swallowed before completely chewing it.Rest: When were stressed, we tend to eat without a lot of awareness. When you focus on chewing, thats a form of mindfulness, Hill says. Your stomach recognizes how full you are based on how many times youve chewed during the meal. There still might be food on your plate, but your stomach will let you know, if you listen to it through mindful eating.Rest. Prepare a healthy meal for yourself and bring it to work for lunch the next day. The workplace can be loaded with tempting foods that arent necessarily healthy for you, Hills says. Eliminate the stress of deciding what to eat during your lunch hour.Home Meals and MindfulnessA prepared, homemade meal also saves time. Like most of us, youre either on a 30 or 60-minute lunch hour. Ever bring a to go lunch back to the office only to find have 15 minutes left to eat it? You end up wolfing it down and miss the chance to eat mindfully.Remember to avoid distractions like ringing phones, blaring televisions, or talking computers while you eat. These will decrease your bodys ability to digest and absorb the food, and you may end up eating more than your body needs.And after eating, take 2 to 3 minutes to be mindful, grateful, and happy.If you feel like you would like more support, please click here.Submitted & Written By: Lee Health

Don't Derail Your Health - No Matter Your Condition or MobilityDuring these stay-at-home times, our go-to stress-busting routines are no longer available.Lee Health certified exercise specialist Marc Bifano says lack of equipment and opportunity shouldnt derail your commitment to your health and emotional well-being. Hes met the challenge before with other clients.Throughout my professional career, Ive adapted my clients to the limited equipment available to them, Bifano says. We had to get creative and think outside the box to establish a fitness program that optimized their health and wellness.Exercising at home without equipment can benefit someone whos new to fitness and isnt sure what to do. Also, for people who have been exercising for years, a home-based exercise program is an opportunity to change up their workouts, Bifano says.Marc Bifanos top tips for exercising at home:Learn bodyweight exercises.Bifano says mobility, stability and muscular endurance activities are the foundation of any sound program.Bodyweight exercises like planks, body squats, bridges and even yoga movements are ideal to establish and maintain a strong foundation, Bifano says. Typically, these are the first steps I guide new clients through before they move onto more challenging exercises.Use household items for strength and mobility.Fitness equipment costs money, of course. If you want to avoid the expense, Bifano recommends going old school by introducing home items into your workouts.You can use water or milk jugs, a towel, your stairs, homemade sandbags, a broom, and chains,just about anything that can challenge your core and muscles. For example, Bifano says, you can use a gallon of milk or a detergent jug and use it like a dumbbell or kettlebell. The point is, he says, is to get moving!Equip your home gym.Because exercise equipment can be expensive, Bifano suggests starting small. The essential items for starting a home gym include a few pairs of different weight dumbbells, or a set of adjustable-weight dumbbells, he says.Other relatively inexpensive items are resistance bands, jump rope, stability ball, pull-up bar, and an exercise mat. With this equipment, you can create a good, balanced workout that includes pushing and pulling motions, Bifano adds.Switch up your exercises.Avoid doing the same workout every day, Bifano advises. Your body adapts pretty quickly to the demands that are placed on it, so try challenging different muscle groups. Youll avoid getting bored with the same old routine, too.Exercise for Adults with Limited MovementBut what if you are not able to get outside and enjoy the great outdoor space? What if you are limited in your house but need to stay moving?Mobility is one of the keys to remaining healthy so here are some recommended exercises to keep your strength and mobility going while in your house:Sit to stand. Sit in a chair and, not using your arms, try to push up, stand up and down. See how many you can do in a 30 seconds. Work up to an increase of repetitions over 2-3 weeks or, more importantly, try to increase your speed.Wall push-ups. Place your hands on a wall at chest level and perform push-ups on the wall. The further your feet are away from the wall, the harder the exercise. Challenge yourself with increasing your repetitions and starting with upright body position, progressing to placing your feet further away from wall.Balance exercises. Stand with your feet together for 30 seconds. Progress to one foot in front of the other like you are standing on a straight line. The next progression would be single leg balance for up to 30 seconds.Shoulder pinches. Stand up with your back against a wall or door. Pinch your shoulder blades together and bring them toward the wall. Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 20 times.Walk around your house and create laps to get some more steps in. Make several trips out to the mailbox, stand during commercials or march in place for as long as you can.If you are moderately active, some other options for exercise include online fitness classes through platforms such as Zoom.Going from being moderately active to minimally active during this time can impact you greatly, so get moving and stay safe!Original Blog Source: CLICK HERE

For more information about the author Lee Health, CLICK HERE.No matter your age, getting healthier with exercise is possible. Studies show that people who stay active benefit from exercise, whether you're 20 or 100.Case in point: Rodney Alexander, age 100, is always on the move.In fact, Rodney recently cut short an interview at Healthy Life Center - Fort Myers because he had to exercise. I don't want to be late, he says.Today he's joining his workout buddies at Sit & Be Fit, a group class that strengthens and stretches the body from head to toe. Since the center opened five years ago, Rodney has stretched, lifted, walked, bent, turned, crouched, and tasked his body with physical and aerobic exercise. He steps on the elliptical trainer regularly, too.That is, when he's not doing leg presses and curls, and chest and shoulder lifts on the weight machines. His workout days are Tuesdays and Thursdays, without fail.Rodney, a Michigan native, celebrated his 100th birthday on July 12. To put that milestone in perspective, Rodney was born the same year Prohibition began, Woodrow Wilson was U.S. president, and the Boston Red Sox sold Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees.I have no secrets, Rodney admits when asked for the inside scoop to living longer.Its apparently not in his genes; his mother lived until age 70, although his father reached 87 before passing. He doesn't smoke, drink excessively, and the only sport he ever played was golf, which he quit after he settled in Fort Myers 30 years ago.At the tender age of 70, the Michigan native retired from his career as a manufacturing engineer with Ford Motor Company. People were surprised I was as old as I was, even back then, after I retired, he says with a laugh.The only hint he offers about his durability is: I have always been interested in health, from the very beginning. I've also led a life that was a happy one.How do you do it? ConsistencyKathy Gardner, an exercise specialist with Lee Health, has worked with Rodney since 2004.Actually, I don't really work with Rodney, Kathy explains, marveling at that fact. He doesn't require any assistance on any of the machines. He does everything on his own.Kathy says Rodney hasn't changed much in the past 15 years. He remains very fit, has excellent posture, and great muscle tone, she says. He has the strength to maintain his balance, which is so important as we get older. His exercise consistency is the key. Rodney is always at the center. He's been coming for years. Staying consistent with our exercise is incredibly important.At age 98, Rodney had to quit driving his car after he took a tumble while walking the family dog outside the single-family home he shares with Joan, his 80-year-old wife. She's doing pretty well, too, he adds, chuckling.Rodney's good humor belies how serious his fall was. He suffered a subdural hematoma when his head struck the pavement.Rodney rehabilitated at Health Park Care & Rehabilitation Center'. After three months, he went home. The subdural hematoma went away by itself, he says.After his workout today, Rodney will ride home with Joan, who drives him to and from the center.This is a very unique place, Rodney says. He looks out at the exercise area where exercisers are working up a sweat either alone with an exercise specialist. A lot of the rehab therapists here are the same ones who helped repair people like me before we came here. I get all these therapists to choose from.The thought delights him, like an embarrassment of riches. He laughs again, and then excuses himself to make his exercise class. Again.Need help with an exercise regimen or advice on nutrition or diet?Contact our experts at the Healthy Life Centers!

Red Tide impacts Southwest FloridaThe severe red tide and algal blooms in Southwest Florida raise questions about potential health risks for residents and seasonal visitors.To help reduce your risk of exposure to harmful algae and red tide, here is some helpful information from Dr. Mary Beth Saunders, Lee Healths medical director for Epidemiology and Infection Control.Red Tide:People exposed to red tide may experience varying degrees of eye, nose, and throat irritation. The symptoms are usually temporary and go away when a person leaves the area with red tide.Blue-Green Algae:Most blue-green algae are not harmful to humans, but some types release toxins that can, on rare occasion, affect your liver, nervous system, and skin. Drinking water with algal toxins may cause abdominal cramps, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Direct contact with high levels of algal toxins could irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and throat. Remember: It is not possible to tell if a bloom is harmful just by looking at it..Tips to avoid red tide and algae bloom risks:Avoid coming in contact with red tide or a blue-green algae bloom. This includes swimming and jet-skiing.Wash immediately and thoroughly with clean water and soap if you come in contact with contaminated water.Dont swim in water if dead fish are on the shore.Over-the-counter antihistamines decrease symptoms associated with red tide.People with chronic respiratory problems such as asthma should avoid areas with active red tides or severe algae blooms.Cant avoid an area with red tide? Wear a particle filter mask to lessen the effects.Dont eat shellfish such as clams and oysters that are harvested from areas with active red tide.Residents of beach areas affected by blooms should close windows and run their air conditioner.Anyone who feels sick from exposure to red tide or algae or has persistent symptoms should call their primary care doctor.They can also visit one of our Convenient Care walk-in clinics.Boiling water does not remove or destroy algal toxins.Children should not play along the shoreline where they might be exposed to clumps of algae or red tide water.Attention pet owners! Red tide and algae blooms pose the same risks to animals. Pets should not drink affected water and should avoid beach areas with red tide.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

For more information on the author Lee Health, CLICK HERE.(NOTE: This Telemedicine blog was updated with information on COVID-19 safety.)Modern telemedicine services offer you a simple, secure and easy way to meet with primary or specialty healthcare providers from wherever you are home, office, car, hospital bed, every where using a smart phone, tablet, or computer.You receive the same level of compassionate, exceptional healthcare that you would expect during an actual office or outpatient visit, or bedside visit in the hospital.What is Telemedicine and who is it for?Telemedicine is a catch-all term for our virtual visit services. The first type of virtual visit is Lee Telehealth, available 24/7, seven days a week, to connect you with a doctor or provider for urgent care needs.These are visits that are NOT emergencies and fall under Urgent Care services:Cold and fluUTIsSinus infectionRashPink eyeHeadachesReferralsPrescriptionsGeneral questions and moreNeed to see someone ASAP?Don't have a primary care doctor or cant get an immediate appointment with yours? Dont have anappointment and need to see someone right away because you dont feel well, have a minor injury, or cant leave the house? Lee Telehealth is your answer. Log on for video chat or phone chat. Its your choice!Lee TeleHealth also helps people who have transportation problems or have a problem after hours or on weekends. Is TeleHealth a good option to be screened for COVID-19?Yes, TeleHealth is an excellent option for many patients. Since the pandemic, approximately 800 people participate in telehealth every day. This is both convenient and the best possible way to avoid spreading illness. Lee Telehealth physicians and providers are trained on proper COVID-19 protocols. If they think you require testing, they will walk you through your next steps.However, not everything can be treated through a video visit. We want our patients to know we are here for them if they need to be seen in person. We are taking every precaution to prioritize the safety of our patients and colleagues.If you DO need to be seen in person, please remember that all Lee Health facilities and office operate under STRICT safety protocols that involve masks, social distancing, and other precautions. Don't delay your care when you need it!More Options: MyChartThe second type of telemedicine option is through MyChart, which lets Lee Health patients access their medical information all in one place. Its easy, safe, and secure. MyChart visits are perfect for simple checkups and non-urgent care check-ins with your doctor.If you have a MyChart account, you can do the following and more from your computer, tablet or smart phone:Make an appointment for a video visit or telephone consultation with your doctor. These visits are virtual face-to-face visits with your doctor, who will appear on the screen of your laptop, tablet, or phone. Doctors and other providers are trained to evaluate conditions this way through observations and questions. They can also order tests and use technology to check your vital signs.MyChart is your online resource for non-urgent care and non-emergenciesSend a confidential message to your medical care teamGet online diagnosis and treatmentCall-only consultations (no video)Arrange to follow up with a doctor in person, depending on the level of care you needIf you don't have a MyChart account, you can sign up for one only if you have been seen by a Lee Health provider and have a Lee Health medical record.Other Telemedicine usesWe know having loved ones at your hospital bedside matters, especially during times when visits are restricted for patient safety reasons. Lee Health has devoted its considerable technological expertise in our telemedicine services because we're devoted to you.For patients who don't' have smart devices to connect with their loved ones, Lee Health hospitals offers iPads to do exactly that! With a little help from one of our staff members, patients can video chat with family and friends.Telemedicine ensures your safety in the hospitalIf you have to visit the emergency department (ED) or are admitted to the hospital, were taking care of your safety first and foremost. Lee Health uses telemedicine as one of many ways to ensure the safety of your health.In our emergency departments, ED physicians and staff use telemedicine to minimize exposure as they virtually communicate with patients. This helps us make sure we take the proper precautions and get you the right treatment.In the hospitals, when our hospitalists and specialists conduct virtual rounds on patients with suspected or positive COVID-19, they use telemedicine. Our providers are able to talk with patients, use a stethoscope to virtually listen to their lungs, heart and abdomen, and consult with them and case nurses to develop treatment plans.

Now that authorized vaccines to prevent COVID-19 in the U.S. are available, Dr. Stephanie Stovall, Interim Chief of Quality and Patient Safety for Lee Health System, offers an experts take on what we should know about the new COVID-19 vaccination program and COVID-19 vaccines:COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you from getting COVID-19.Two doses are needed. Depending on the specific vaccine you get, a second shot 3-4 weeks after your first shot may be needed for optimal protection.COVID-19 vaccination is a safer way to help build protection.COVID-19 can have serious, life-threatening complications. There is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you. And if you get sick, you could spread the disease to friends, family, and others around you. CDC makes recommendations for who should be offered COVID-19 vaccine first when supplies are limited. To help guide decisions about how to distribute limited initial supplies of COVID-19 vaccine, CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices have published recommendations for which groups should be vaccinated first. The supply of COVID-19 vaccine is limited in the U.S., but supply will increase in the weeks and months to come.The goal is for all to easily get vaccinated against COVID-19 when sufficient enough quantities become available. Once vaccine is widely available, the plan is to have several thousand vaccination providers offering COVID-19 vaccines in doctors offices, retail pharmacies, hospitals, and federally qualified health centers. COVID-19 vaccines may cause side effects for some people. This is a normal sign that your body is building protection.The side effects from COVID-19 vaccination may feel like flu and might even affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days. Learn more about side effects and what tips can help reduce pain and discomfort after vaccination.Cost is not an obstacle to getting vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccine doses purchased with U.S. taxpayer dollars will be given to the American people at no cost. However, vaccination providers may be able to charge administration fees for giving the shot. Vaccination providers can get this fee reimbursed by the patients public or private insurance company or, for uninsured patients, by the Health Resources and Services Administration's Provider Relief Fund.The first COVID-19 vaccines are being used under Emergency Use Authorizations (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Many other vaccines are still being developed and tested. Dr. Stovall says the combination of getting vaccinated and following CDCs recommendations to protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from COVID-19. Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others, but these measures are not enough, Dr. Stovall says. Vaccines will work with your immune system so it will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools we have available. As experts learn more about how COVID-19 vaccination may help reduce spread of the disease in communities, CDC will continue to update the recommendations to protect communities using the latest science.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click for more information

We use it to find directions, Snapchat our friends, and even buy stuff. There is no doubt that smartphones have become a way of life .In fact, your phone is probably within reaching distance right now.But 24/7 access to news outlets and social media networks not to mention endless messaging from friends and co-workers bombard our brains with overwhelming amounts of information.This constant stimulus may leave us feeling anxious, fatigued, isolated, and even depressed making a new term digital detox essential to our mental and emotional health.What is digital detox, anyway? Digital detox is an agreed upon period of time where individuals, companies, families, or other groups pledge to put down their phones and step away from their computers so they can concentrate on conversation, activities, learning new skills, and just generally being more aware of the concrete world around them .Experts from the official movement have been busy giving presentations and speaking engagements all over the country, and others are starting to join in on a smaller scale.We all need a technological detox, writes Evan Sutter in his book Solitude: How Doing Nothing Can Change the World. An author and social entrepreneur, Sutter speaks on topics like mindfulness, meaning, and fulfillment.We need to throw away our phones and computers instead of using them as our pseudo-defense system for anything that comes our way, Sutter says. We need to be bored and not have anything to use to shield the boredom away from us. We need to be lonely and see what it is we really feel when we are.As Sutter suggests, technology quickly becomes a crutch and a temporary diversion from real emotions. This attempt to escape, though, actually makes us more vulnerable to mental health issues.If we continue to distract ourselves so we never have to face the realities in front of us, when the time comes and you are faced with something bigger than what your phone, food, or friends can fix, you will be in big trouble, Sutter says.Are we addicted? Unable to function without mobile devices, our dependency is often compared to an addiction. In her article, "Why We're All Addicted to Texts, Twitter and Google", Susan Weinschenk, Ph.D., points out that dopamine the same chemical released in our brain when we gamble, eat, or have sex is also released when we use our smartphones. Texts from a new crush, comments on our selfie, or phone calls from a friend all tap into our brains reward system.Want to talk to someone right away? Send a text and they respond in a few seconds. Want to look up some information? Just type your request into Google. Want to see what your colleagues are up to? Go to LinkedIn, Weinschenk says.That dopamine loop gets you seeking, looking for rewards, and seeking some more. It becomes harder and harder to stop looking at email, stop texting, or stop checking your cell phone to see if you have a message or a new text, she says.You can see why a detox isn't always that simple. But we have to start somewhere. Try these small and realistic changes :Stop using your phone as an alarm. Instead, use a real alarm clock. Its just as handy and can help you stay off your mobile device before bed.Turn off notifications. Do you really need Twitter and Facebook updates throughout the day? Monitor the amount of time you spend on your device. Apps like Screen Time and Digital Wellbeing can help you control your daily usage. Set a reasonable time frame and stick to it. Maybe only one hour on your phone after dinner? Try a morning routine without any technology. Start with just a couple of times a week. Stick to one device at a time don't use your phone while watching TV, using an iPad, or computer.Try not to revert to your phone in awkward social situations. And don't check your texts while in the middle of a conversation. Above everything else: Make sure you aren't answering a quick text or using the web when you drive.Countless benefits await! There are countless benefits waiting for you once you decrease your screen time perhaps the most crucial being more restful sleep, says Gloria Reilly, Health Services Coordinator at Lee Health. The artificial blue light that our phones emit causes a disturbance in our circadian rhythm, the natural cycle that unites our behaviors with the functions of nature. Instead of staring at a screen before and after sleep, try rising with the natural blue light of the sky by taking a walk in the morning to absorb those wake up rays get your body going and boost your happiness! For a bedtime ritual, Gloria recommends ditching the social media binge and trying a deep breathing technique with essential oil aromatherapy to easily tune into your natural sleep cycle.A break from technology allows us to re-evaluate unhealthy habits and identify where we can cut out its unnecessary use. It also empowers us to live fully in the present moment, self-reflect, and slow down to enjoy life.Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

Practicing good hand hygiene washing our hands well and frequently is crucial to helping us stay healthy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises using soap and water and washing your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used and should have at least 60 percent alcohol, but it is always better to use soap and water to clean your hands.Because it is flu season, and we are still contending with COVID-19 (though spread has decreased significantly in our community), we at Lee Health thought it would be helpful to remind everyone in our community of the proper method for hand-washing:Wet your hands with clean running water and apply soap. Use warm water if it is available.Rub your hands together to make a later. Scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails.Remember to keep scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.Rinse your hands well under running water.Dry your hands with a clean towel and use the towel to turn off the faucet.If you are using alcohol-based sanitizer to get your hands clean because it is your only option, then:Apply the product to the palm of your hand.Rub your hands together.Rub the product over all surfaces of your hands and fingers and continue rubbing until your hands are dry.In addition to washing your hands frequently, avoid close contact with people who are sick. You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, and you should stay home if you are sick.Should you need medical attention, Lee Telehealth is a great option to get the care you need without having to leave your house, which greatly reduces your exposure to germs from others and others exposure to your germs. 

For more information on the author Lee Health, CLICK HERE.As the afternoon creeps along and your lunch gurgles in your stomach, its natural to feel like taking a nap under your desk at work. Some of us reach for coffee or tea, and some of us go right to the workplace snack bowl. Some of us do both.Before long, the afternoon sugar rush becomes an essential part of your routine, maybe even an addiction.Many experts agree that sugar fits the criteria of an addiction, said Rowe Hudson, director of Lee Health Solutions. It stimulates the brain; people continue to consume it despite its harmful effects and a desire to quit; you can develop a tolerance to it; and many people experience withdrawal symptoms after removing it from their diet. Eating too much sugar causes insulin levels to rise, which leads to tense artery walls, which then leads to higher blood pressure and risk of stroke and heart attack. Plus, too much sugar can affect your looks. It contributes to aging in general, but most noticeable are the extra pounds and wrinkles, Rowe said. Too much sugar can damage collagen and elastin, which keep skin youthful.So what can you do to curtail the habit?Remove junk food from your environment: This is a tough one because candy and chips and sugary drinks are probably in high supply at your workplace. Most health experts agree that junk food can be replaced with fruit if you need something sweet. How about a bowl of blueberries? A sliced apple? A sloppy slice of watermelon? You may need to start with taking the candy off your desk or taking the long way around that co-workers office who always keeps the snacks in clear view.Stay hydrated. Most of us know that drinking lots of water is a key to battling many health issues. But you may not know that we sometimes mistake thirst for hunger. A belly full of water is likely to decrease your sugary cravings.Eat before going out and before grocery shopping. You'll be less likely to splurge on candy and baked goods this way. Some experts suggest only shopping the perimeter of your local grocery store and avoiding those pesky middle aisles with all the brightly colored treats. Also, eating breakfast in the morning is more likely to fill you up and help you avoid that late afternoon crash.Read food labels :Memorize these words: high fructose corn syrup, corn sugar and evaporated cane juice. They are all alternate names for sugar.Identify emotional triggers: This is perhaps the most difficult one to address. Do you eat more sugar when you are depressed or anxious? Do you scarf the Skittles when you have to push through the afternoon and get that report done? Once you realize the pattern you can make a conscious decision to do something else instead: Read, go for a walk, talk to a friend, or substitute a different food. And its always important to remember to be kind to yourself: You are going to slip up, and one candy bar isnt the end of the world. Be nice and do better the next day.

A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be an overwhelming time for patients and families.But the Regional Cancer Centers Outpatient Facility at the Sanctuary works every day to ensure patients find peace of mind and some relief during their cancer journey.Acupuncture helps soothe debilitating and life-altering symptoms such as pain, stress, depression, anxiety, and nausea by increasing energy flow and allowing the body to naturally heal itself. And did you know: The American Cancer Society supports the use of acupuncture for cancer patients. Indeed, it helps without the side effects of medication.Renee Sarra, a licensed acupuncture physician and doctor of oriental medicine at Lee Health, offers acupuncture for cancer patients every Wednesday at RCC. Appointments usually last 30 to 60 minutes, and new patients are put at ease immediately in a calm and comfortable setting.For the first visit, I usually listen and weigh what the patients need and want, Sarra said. I check their pulse, listen to their concerns, listen to the body, feel where they might be tender. This gives me an indication on what areas or organs to target over others.Sarra says that patients are usually amazed at how relaxing acupuncture can be and how energizing.Patients generally sit with needles for 20 minutes, face up, as comfortable as possible, while the body heals itself, she says. The big thing we often discuss is scar tissue, which interrupts the balance of energy flow. My goal is to get everything in the body to move again.Since cancer treatment causes a lot of fatigue, I try to get that energy flowing again, releasing all that tension in the scar tissue and other areas.The results are often immediate.Pain loss, gastro and intestinal issues, headaches, damage of the nerves acupuncture really helps soothe these side effects of chemotherapy, she says. Chemo affects the kidney and liver the most, so we can enhance and drive out those toxins and allow the body to heal and process a lot faster.Patients can think about it almost like fixing a frozen shoulder. That stiffness and pain that inhibits energy and movement acupuncture can really help.Oncology physicians at RCC frequently refer patients for acupuncture, and Sarra works in tandem with a patients complete cancer care team part of the RCCs overall mission of complete care, close to home.Its so nice to feel I'm doing a service for someone who has gone through a lot, Sarra says.Other Things to Know about AcupunctureThe body has natural energy that often gets blocked or impaired. Acupuncture inserting needles at certain points in the body to relieve symptoms ignites that energy and releases endorphins. Licensed experts use extremely fine, sterilized, and disposable needles to ensure safety and to give you the most possible benefits.Does it hurt?Acupuncture does not hurt. The needle creates a micro tear, sending a signal to the brain, where chemical messengers release and naturally improve your health. Some patients may feel a slight tingle, and many are surprised by how relaxed they feel.Are the needles reused?No. Acupuncture needles are either individually wrapped or sealed in a sterile pack. The FDA regulates these needles, which are discarded after use.More about needles: How many do you use?The number of needles varies based on your condition, but typically we use somewhere between eight and 16 each visit. And remember: Acupuncture needles are NOT the same as needles used to poke you and draw blood. These are much finer and thinner.Are acupuncturists trained?In Florida, all graduates must complete four state board exams, 870 hours of hands-on clinic, and, typically, four years of schooling. Please remember that not anyone can just start inserting needles into your body. We are trained experts, committed to complete, compassionate, and quality healing.Outpatient Center at The Sanctuary8960 Colonial Center DriveSuite #210Fort Myers, FL 33905Acupuncture offered from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. WednesdaysTalk to your physician about a referral or call for more information: Phone 239-343-9430