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Why we encourage COVID-19 vaccines

Submitted by aduranplazola on

Less severe, less sick, less likely to spread

In August and early September, Genesis HealthCare System saw a staggering surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations, 75% of which were unvaccinated community members. There has been a 3,000% increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations in recent weeks, with nearly one-fourth of those patients ranging in age from 18-45. The statistics prove younger people are not immune from getting COVID-19 and can become very sick from it.

According to the CDC, vaccines reduce a person’s risk of contracting COVID-19, including the Delta variant. Vaccines are highly effective against severe illness. Experts continue to monitor and evaluate how often unvaccinated people are contracting COVID-19, how severe their condition is, and how likely a vaccinated person is to spread COVID-19 to others. Data show that vaccination often make symptoms less severe in people who are vaccinated but still get COVID-19.

mRNA COVID-19 vaccines have shown to provide protection against severe illness and hospitalization among people of all ages eligible to receive them. This includes people 65 years and older who are at higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19.

Vaccines work by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies, exactly like it would if you were exposed to the disease. After getting vaccinated, you develop immunity to that disease, without having to get the disease first.

mRNA vaccines, such as Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, work differently than other types of vaccine, but they still trigger an immune response inside your body. While this type of vaccine is new, research and development on it has been under way for decades.

In contrast to mRNA vaccines, many other vaccines use a piece of, or weakened version of, the germ that the vaccine protects against. This is how the measles and flu vaccines work. When a

weakened or small part of the virus is introduced to your body, you make antibodies to help protect against future infection.

All COVID-19 vaccines are free from metals and will not make you magnetic, including the site of the vaccination, usually in your arm. None of the vaccines authorized for use in the U.S. contain a live virus.

For more information about vaccines and how Genesis is responding to COVID-19 click HERE.

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Are Beards Good for Your Health?

Submitted by aduranplazola on

Facial hair comes in all shapes and sizes from a two-day stubble to a wild and woolly bushel of hair that makes you believe in sasquatch. Today, we reveal the truth between myths and facts of whether beards impact your health.  

Do Beards help prevent throat illnesses? 

Similar to nostril hair, a thick beard can help catch and prevent nasty floating germs and allergens from entering your nose and mouth. However, the longer germs or allergens remain on a beard, the more likely you are to inhale them. Whereas sneezing gets rid of particles trying to enter your nose, washing your beard is the only way to avoid eventually breathing them in.  

Do beards prevent acne and ingrown hairs? 

Although most people may not consider acne and ingrown hair serious health concerns, they can be uncomfortable, and nobody wants a zit during a big moment in life. Shaving frequently can irritate skin and cause acne or ingrown hair. Growing a beard can prevent this and cover up unsightly blemishes. 

Beards make you look older … or younger? 

Some people may think a beard makes you look older. However, having a beard can help protect your skin from sunlight and reduce your face from aging and wrinkles. So, while a full bushy beard might make you look older today, you will appear younger tomorrow if you shave.  

The final cut

So, are beards healthy? Like most things in life, this is not a yes or no question. There are benefits to having a beard if you properly care for it. In the end, it comes down to personal preference. If you go for the mountain man look, please keep the crumbs cleaned out of your beard.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Can I supplement my food with … supplements?

Submitted by aduranplazola on

In a 2019 survey conducted by the Council for Responsible Nutrition, 77% of adult Americans take a dietary supplement. Are they helpful? Yes, they are. According to the National Institutes of Health, some dietary supplements can help you get adequate amounts of essential nutrients if you don’t eat a nutritious variety of foods. However, supplements can’t take the place of the mixture of foods that are important to a healthy diet.   

 

Q: Should I get my vitamins from food or supplements?  

A: Mother Nature provides enough nutrients in fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and meat. Our body digests, absorbs and pulls the goodness from natural sources better than their artificial counterparts. 

 

Q: Are vitamins different from supplements?  

A: Vitamins are considered supplements. A dietary supplement must be one or any combination of the following substances: 

  • A vitamin, 

  • A mineral, 

  • An herb or other botanical, 

  • An amino acid, 

  • A dietary substance used to supplement the diet by increasing the total dietary intake (e.g., enzymes or tissues from organs or glands), or 

  • A concentrate, metabolite (substance produced by or taking part in metabolism), constituent or extract. 

 

Q: Is there such a thing as too much of a good thing?  

A: Many supplements contain active ingredients that can have strong effects in the body. Always be alert to the possibility of bad reactions like nausea, diarrhea or stomach cramps, when taking a new product.  

 

Q: How do you know if you should take supplements?  

A: Talk to your doctor first. Manufacturers may add vitamins, minerals, and other supplement ingredients to foods you eat, especially breakfast cereals and beverages. As a result, you may get more of these ingredients than you think. MyPlate.gov is a good source for ideas and tips to help you create a healthier eating style that meets your individual needs and improves your health. 

 

Q: Are supplements effective?  

A: Some dietary supplements can improve overall health and help manage some health conditions. For example:  

  • Calcium and vitamin D help keep bones strong and reduce bone loss.  

  • Folic acid decreases the risk of certain birth defects. 

  • Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils is said to help some people with heart disease.  

  • A combination of vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin (known as AREDS) may slow down further vision loss in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).  

 

Q: Can vitamins interfere with medication? 

A:  Yes, sometimes, these drugs and supplements may interact in harmful ways. 

It’s important to tell all your health care providers about all dietary supplements and drugs you take. That way, they can help you avoid harmful interactions.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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You’re vaccinated. Now what?

Submitted by aduranplazola on

Getting the COVID-19 vaccination is a huge step in enabling everyone to move past COVID-19. Does being vaccinated mean you can return to life as it was before the virus? Not exactly.

A Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study shows the COVID-19 vaccines are about 90% effective at preventing you from being hospitalized with COVID-19. The National Institutes of Health estimate the COVID-19 vaccines have saved over 139,000 lives within five months after release.

The studies prove the vaccines are likely to prevent you from getting sick. In the rare circumstances, they do not prevent you from getting COVID-19, the vaccine is very likely to minimize your symptoms, preventing you from being admitted to the hospital.

However, we are all in this together. As you can have and spread COVID-19 after being vaccinated without knowing it, it is best to act with caution.

Therefore, as we continue to navigate the pandemic, we should consider the safety of loved ones, friends, neighbors and strangers. To provide the safest environment possible, please follow the CDC guidelines below and remember recommendations may change as more data becomes available.

According to CDC guidelines, after full vaccination, which means two weeks after your last recommended dose:

  •          You can resume many of the activities you enjoyed before COVID-19
  •          Lower the odds of getting the Delta variant or spreading it by wearing a mask inside public places
  •         Social distance when you can
  •         Wash your hands often

For information on where to receive the COVID-19 vaccine click HERE.

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Confessions From a Couch: 10 Tips for Men to Stay Healthy

Submitted by aduranplazola on

It’s not you; it’s me. I love being your only couch and I’m always here to support you. Lately though, I’m feeling smothered. I love that you enjoy chillaxing with me, but I think it’s time for you to see other furniture – perhaps a spin bike or bench press? I just want you to be the strong, healthy man I know you can be. In fact, here are some tips to improve life for both of us:  

  1. Of course, spend less time sitting on me. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination. 

  2. You enjoy munching those potato chips while watching the game, but the CDC strongly recommends a diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts, and limit fats, cholesterol, salt and added sugars.  

  3. Please, live smoke-free. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says as soon as you quit, your body begins repairing itself, and I’ll stop smelling like smoke and getting those little burn holes. Yuck! 

  4. The CDC says keep track of your numbers for blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI) and any others you may have. 

  5. Instead of lounging on me and watching the television all day or staring into your phone, the American Psychological Association recommends giving the screens a rest every now and then. 

  6. Visit your doctor regularly and always pay attention to signs and symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and excessive thirst. If you have these, see your doctor or nurse immediately. The CDC warns, don’t wait!  

  7. Sleep, boy, sleep! The American Sleep Association says all adults need seven to nine hours per night. 

  8. Myhealth.va.gov says it’s important to stay connected with friends, family and other important people in your life. 

  9. Learn to manage stress. Exercise and diet are important to help manage stress, but don’t forget simply to relax. Mentalhealth.gov says discuss your stressors with trusted people and grab a spot on the couch! 

  10. Have fun! You have my permission (as well as the CDC’s)! Get out of the house and engage in fun activities. 

Remember, I’m not going anywhere. Even though we may not spend as much time together each day, if you keep yourself healthy, I’ll be a soft place for you to land for many years to come!

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Baby Bumps: Helping family and friends prepare for new baby

Submitted by aduranplazola on

Becoming a parent for the first time is exciting, joyful – and overwhelming. Helping your loved one prepare for the baby’s birth will make the transition to parenthood easier. Your help can also get the new family started on the right foot for a lifetime of health and happiness. 

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Share information on classes 

One of the most beneficial things new parents can do prior to the birth of their new baby is to attend a class to help them prepare for delivery, breastfeeding, infant safety and child/baby cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Many of these classes are offered through Genesis HealthCare System. Check out our Classes and Events to learn what is available here. 

Baby-proofing the home 

One of the most important ways you can help a new family feel prepared and ready for their new arrival is help them make sure their home is safe and secure. Here are some tips on making sure the baby’s new environment is ready: 

  • Check the safety of the crib and other baby items. While we all appreciate hand-me-downs from family and friends, it’s critical to know if these items are safe and whether they have been recalled. To learn whether the baby’s crib and mattress is safe, contact the U.S. Consumer Product Information Safety Commission, at www.cpsc.gov. 

  • Prevent suffocation by removing all pillows, blankets and stuffed animals from the crib. 

  • Make sure handrails are installed and secure in stairways, and always hold the handrail when using stairs while holding the baby. 

  • Check to see that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in the baby’s home are working. 

  • Make sure there are emergency numbers, including poison control, near each phone. 

  • Verify that the home or apartment number is easy to view so fire or rescue can locate the home easily. 

Choosing a healthcare provider for new baby 

Most pregnant women give birth in the hospital where their doctor practices and where they are close to family, friends and medical care (just in case). The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends hospitals and accredited birth centers as the safest settings for delivering babies. Confirm that your loved one’s insurance covers both their healthcare provider and the hospital they choose. 

Choosing the birthing experience 

Now is a good time to think about the type of birth your loved ones would like to have. Here are some conversation starters to help them think about their preferences: 

  • Who do you want in the delivery room with you? 

  • Do you want medications to keep you comfortable during labor? 

  • Do you want to breastfeed your baby? 

  • If you have a boy, do you want to circumcise him? 

  • What else is important to you?

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Helping your loved one prepare for the baby’s birth will make the transition to parenthood easier.

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Three sets of menopause symptoms exist –solutions exist too

Submitted by aduranplazola on

Bring up menopause to a close-knit group of female friends and listen as they unravel the mysterious changes and symptoms that seem to show up differently from person to person.  

“So many patients ask, ‘Is this menopause?’” said Callie Crider, D.O., board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with Genesis HealthCare System. “When women come to me for their annual OB/GYN appointment, we often talk about the symptoms and what we can do about them. What worries me is, many women think they must suffer through menopause with no help – and that’s not the case.” 

A wide range of menopause and pre-menopause (called perimenopause) symptoms can occur, but a woman only officially enters menopause once she has gone 12 months without a menstrual period. The average woman reaches menopause at 51 years old.  

“Interestingly, it’s something we diagnose retroactively,” Dr. Crider said. “If a woman goes 11 months without a cycle and then has one, the clock resets.”  

Knowing what to expect, what is or isn’t normal, and what medical help is available can take the mystery out of menopause.  

“Even if we can’t fix all the symptoms, we can treat and bring improvement to many of them,” Dr. Crider said. “I see three main categories of menopause symptoms, and most women fall into one or more of the three categories: hot flashes, vaginal symptoms, and lifestyle.”  

  1. It’s getting hot in here. With no medical treatment, menopause-related hot flashes can last for four to 10 years. These bursts of broiling body temperature can interfere with a woman’s quality of life. Thankfully, physician-prescribed hormone replacement therapy offers a way to cool off the symptoms.  
     
    “About 20 years ago, a study came out with warnings about significant risks linked to hormone replacement therapy, but more recent studies have found that they’re safer than originally thought; and, if administered correctly, in appropriately selected patients, the risks are fairly low,” Dr. Crider said. “So, if hot flashes make you miserable, it may be worth the small amount of risk to get some relief as long as you don’t have any specific contraindications.” It is important to know that not all women can safely use systemic hormones – a discussion with your OB/GYN regarding your personal medical history can help clarify if you can or can’t. 
     

  2. “Down there” care. As ovaries produce less and less estrogen, vaginal dryness, itchiness and pain during sex can occur. But don’t fear because there are readily available treatments to alleviate the irritation.  
     
    “This is the easiest of the three categories to treat. I can either prescribe vaginal estrogen, or they can try water- or silicone-based moisturizers or even coconut oil. Anything to bring back moisture down there will help,” Dr. Crider said.  
     

  3. Lifestyle changes. The lack of estrogen during menopause also causes a woman’s metabolism to reduce significantly, leading to an increase in body fat and a decrease in muscle mass.  
     
    “This is the hardest one, honestly. The metabolism tanks during menopause, and it never returns to its previous level. Even if a woman’s lifestyle habits stay consistent – they’re eating the same and exercising the same – they may gain weight. No one likes that answer. If a woman is noticing unfavorable changes in her weight, she needs to change the balance of calories she is taking in versus burning off. It’s a sad fact,” Dr. Crider said. 
     
    Another lifestyle menopausal effect is decreased sex drive. At this time, no FDA recommended medications or treatments exist to increase menopausal females’ sex drives.  

 

“There are a lot of herbal and natural supplements available in relation to menopause, but none of them are FDA regulated. The products claim to increase sex drive or ease other symptoms, but I don’t encourage those products since they’re often expensive and without proven benefit can be a waste of money. Instead, I recommend talking with your trusted OB/GYN for evidence-based treatments,” Dr. Crider said.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Preventing breast cancer Q&A

Submitted by aduranplazola on

There are no two ways about it – breast cancer is scary. The reality is that most women (and men, who also get breast cancer) will not die from the disease. Nevertheless, a breast cancer diagnosis changes your life, regardless of the treatment path you take. While there are factors that lead to breast cancer, like genetics, that can’t be changed, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk of getting the disease. And the earlier you start to take these steps, the better. 

 

Here are some common questions and answers about breast health and preventing breast cancer you may find helpful. 

 

Q: I have breast cancer in my family. At what age should I start getting mammograms? 

A: You should understand the benefits and potential risks of mammography screening, discuss your personal situation with a trusted healthcare provider, and decide together when to begin screening. 

 

Q: How important are self-breast exams?  

A: Self-breast exams are very important, and you should do once a month. This will help you to be familiar with your breasts so that you can notice any changes that may be concerning. If you discover a change, call your doctor to follow up. 

 

Q: Does my weight matter when it comes to my risk of developing breast cancer?  

A: Being overweight can be a factor. Excess weight increases estrogen (a hormone) and affects other growth factors. Hormones create a more stimulating environment for cancer cells to grow. Maintain a healthy weight, especially after menopause.    

 

Q: I am not overweight, but my diet isn’t the best. I eat a lot of fast food and snacks. Is that a problem? 

A: It can be. Sugar feeds cancer cells. You should follow a healthy diet. Eat primarily whole foods: whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein and low-fat dairy. Limit alcohol and sugar consumption.  

 

Q: Can smoking affect my chances of getting breast cancer? 

A: Yes. The risk of invasive breast cancer is highest in women who began smoking at a young age. If you currently smoke, talk to your doctor about effective smoking cessation programs.  

 

Q: I work at a desk job, and I don’t get very much exercise. Should I be concerned this may play a role in breast cancer? 

A: Women who exercise regularly have lower risks for breast cancer. Start moving more as soon as you can; just 30 minutes of exercise a few times a week can make a difference. 

 

Q: I’ve heard that not getting enough sleep could be a factor is developing breast cancer. Is that true, and if so, why? 

A: It may be a factor. Sleep metabolizes stress hormones, and we know that high levels of stress in your life can impact many health factors, including your body’s defenses against cancer.  

 

The bottom line? Keep your breasts healthy by making good lifestyle choices. Talk with your doctor about your breast health during your regular checkups. And be sure to see your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Daily Breathing Activities

Submitted by aduranplazola on

Breathing is something we do every day without thinking about it. However, pausing to check how you breathe can benefit your health.  

Stress can cause breathing difficulties. When you have problems with your breathing, you lower the amount of carbon dioxide that’s normally in your blood. This leads to a wide range of symptoms, including: 

• Shortness of breath 

• Chest tightness 

• Tingling or numbness in the arms, fingers, toes, or around the mouth 

• Feeling dizzy and light-headed 

• Weakness 

• Heart pounding and racing 

• Heart palpitations 

• Sweating or hot flushes 

• Headaches 

• Feeling sick 

• Fatigue 

These symptoms can appear out of the blue and can also lead to panic attacks. 

 

Your breathing difficulties may be related to: 

• Shallow breathing (breathing in too quickly) 

• Over-breathing (breathing in more air because you feel like you’re not getting enough). Examples of over-breathing include yawning or sighing frequently. 

 

Test your breathing: 

1. Put one hand on your chest and one on your belly. 

2. Breathe for a few seconds. Which hand rises? 

3. If it’s your chest, you might have developed a habit of shallow breathing. 

You can reverse the habit of shallow breathing with daily practice. The next time you feel anxious, take a moment to notice your breathing. Focus on breathing through your stomach so that your belly rises when you inhale and drops when you exhale. 

 

Here’s a belly breathing exercise you can practice for 5 to 10 minutes a day: 

• Inhale gently, lightly, and slowly count to four, expanding your belly as you do so 

• Hold that breath for a count of two 

• Slowly exhale though your mouth for a count of six 

This is called belly breathing, and research shows that practicing regularly can help you feel calmer in weeks.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Ten Thousand Steps A Day - Not the Magic Number Afterall

Submitted by aduranplazola on

For decades, we have heard 10,000 steps a day is the key to good health. Well, it turns out this is false. In fact, you can reap nearly the same health benefits with fewer steps. Before you discredit this article and walk out, give us a minute to step you through everything. You might be surprised and even pleased by what you learn. 

According to a study based on a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey published in JAMA in 2020, people age 40 and older who took 8,000 steps a day during the survey had a 50% higher chance of surviving than people who took 4,000 steps or less a day for ten years after the survey. People who took 12,000 steps a day had a 65% higher chance of surviving than the 4,000 step group.  

Higher step counts appeared to have the largest impact in enabling participants to prevent and survive heart disease and cancer. Participants from a variety of ages, gender and ethnic backgrounds enjoyed these benefits.  

For everyone who doesn’t like to sweat, the study also reported intensity didn’t matter. Carrying groceries in from the car can benefit you as much as running.  

“Walking is a great, low-impact exercise. It works several muscles, can increase your heart rate and often improves your mental well-being too. It’s also easy to do with a friend or loved one, enabling you to share time together and give you someone to encourage you to keep moving on the days you don’t feel like it,” said Stephen Knox, M.D. board-certified family medicine, Genesis Primary Care. “However, as with any other fitness program, you should always talk to your doctor first. Your doctor can examine you for unknown health conditions and recommend the safest way to get started.” 

 

 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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