Health Care and Thanksgiving 2013

 

This week marks a time when Americans celebrate a uniquely American holiday—Thanksgiving. No other nation marks this time, and as Americans have become accustomed to having a day set aside as a national time of refreshment and rest, the meaning of the season has often been lost on football (also uniquely American), tons of food—turkey ad nauseum--and the beginning of the holiday shopping season.

Even this year, stores cannot wait til “Black Friday,” so called because the day after Thanksgiving on Thursday is the busiest retail shopping day of the year that brings billions of dollars to stores. In 2012, that was a $59 billion dollar day. This year, shopping starts after dinner on Thursday. Has the nation lost its mooring to the original intent of this time?

In 1789, George Washington, a freshly minted first President and Father of a new nation, proclaimed a time to be set aside for all Americans to honor God in a time to give thanks for the blessings bestowed on a country that was brand new, and that had just come through almost a decade of war with its former parent nation, Great Britain. Still searching for a new identity as the United States of America, the population of three million new citizens were looking for a cohesive way to make it in the world.

According to The Heritage Organization, following a resolution of Congress, President George Washington proclaimed Thursday the 26th of November 1789 a day of “public thanksgiving and prayer” devoted to “the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be.” Reflecting American religious practice, Presidents and Congresses from the beginning of the republic have from time to time designated days of fasting and thanksgiving (the Thanksgiving holiday we continue to celebrate in November was established by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War and made into law by Congress in 1941).

In setting aside a day for Thanksgiving, Washington established a non-sectarian tone for these devotions and stressed political, moral, and intellectual blessings that make self-government possible, in addition to personal and national repentance. Although the First Amendment prevents Congress from establishing a religion or prohibiting its free exercise, Presidents, as well as Congress, have always recognized the American regard for sacred practices and beliefs.

Thus, throughout American history, Presidents have offered non-sectarian prayers for the victory of the military and in the wake of catastrophes. Transcending passionate quarrels over the proper role of religion in politics, the Thanksgiving Proclamation reminds us how natural their relationship has been. While church and state are separate, religion and politics, in their American refinement, prop each other up. Here is the proclamation:

“By the President of the United States of America, a Proclamation.

Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and—Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me “to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:”

Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favor, able interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquillity, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted; for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations, and beseech Him to pardon our national and other trangressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shown kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally, to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.

Go. Washington”

As you go about your annual celebration of this season, and gather with family and friends, remember to eat and drink in moderation. Stay away from harmful activities, and share the blessings of the holiday with others not so fortunate as you. Here are a few thoughts: instead of gorging on several plates of turkey, dressing, and pumpkin pie until you pass out, volunteer on Thanksgiving Day at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen to feed the down and out. Donate food to a charitable organization to help those who are unable to buy food. Go to your local church or synagogue for services, and ask God to provide safety and protection to the first responders—firemen, police, and our military—as they serve to keep the nation safe.

Give thanks for both the tangible and intangible rewards you enjoy each day. Teach your children and grandchildren the true meaning of Thanksgiving and why it is such an important occasion. Take time to reflect on your blessings, and why you are thankful. Give thanks to God for what He has provided no matter how much or how little you have. Don’t take it for granted. After all, you could be living in a country that is totally clueless about this time of year. What a shame that they miss all the blessings of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Until next time.

 

 

Health Care and JFK

Today marks the 50^th anniversary of the assassination of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the 35^th President of the United States, in downtown Dallas, Texas. A huge shock to the nation, it singlehandedly affected the entire population at once and forever changed the image of news coverage in the US as well as the leading cause of the end of the “Age of Innocence” in America. Also, the tragic loss of JFK was a harbinger of how vulnerable society was to violent acts and violence in general.

As an 8 year old living in southwestern Pennsylvania, I remember distinctly this day. Although it has been fifty years to the day, I still remember the announcement by our elementary school principal over the loud speaker in our room, and how the entire teaching staff and some students reacted to the news pronounced slowly and haltingly by a grown man not typically known to be emotional. Many of the female teachers screamed and ran into the hallway, crying out loud and shaking. Some of the students in my third grade class were upset because of their reaction to the news. And school was suddenly dismissed, interrupting our preparations for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.

In those days, it was still safe to walk home from school. And as I entered the house when I got home, I noticed my mother who was not a big fan of the President, crying at the news being broadcast our black and white television set in the living room. Although she was not a political creature by nature, the shear unbelievable event was enough to cause her to be emotionally affected. We listened for the rest of that afternoon and into the evening, and we cried for the loss of life, and for the loss of certainty in our lives and as a country.

Although I really did not understand fully the implications of JFK’s assassination at the time, I did know what being murdered and dying was about. As a kid, I could not really comprehend why someone would want to kill the President. But as I grew older, and began to understand how the world works, I realized that evil is alive and seeks to destroy all good things.

Now, fifty years later as the news programs and documentaries have been broadcasting all week long about the history of that day, and as those who were close and personally involved in everything from the presidential limousine, to the arrest of Lee Oswald, to his murder by Jack Ruby, and the finality of little John John saluting a flag draped casket on its way to Arlington Cemetery, it is very apparent that memories sometimes are lucidly clear, and sometimes are given to modified revisions of actual events. The closer you were to that day, the more you remember.

I live in the Dallas area today, fifty years later. And I have been to the locations that have been re-broadcast in black and white footage, and even Dealey Plaza and the grassy knoll shown so clearly in the Zapruder film. That few seconds of film forever changed the way the American President now rides through traffic, under a very bullet proof, armored limousine—no more open cars, and no more lax secret service. 

Even the physician who operated on JFK that day at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, trying to save a life drained of brain, blood, and breath, changed the way treatment has been done on all trauma cases. And emergency services have improved dramatically since that day. Over the past five decades, health care has changed dramatically for anyone who has a life threatening event. And for those who need regular medical care, the improvements in medicine have advanced beyond comprehension to those who were watching life drain from the American President on November 22, 1963.

Has the American population changed in its overall social attitude toward Presidents? There have definitely been better and worse executives in the Oval Office since 1963, but the overarching message is that no matter who the occupant of the White House is, and no matter how much you may agree or disagree with his policies, the need to keep him safe and secure is tantamount to national security, and international stability.

No matter what side of the political aisle you stand, always remember one thing. The Office of the President deserves respect. You may disagree with his policies, but respect the Office. You may campaign against him, but respect the office. You may vote for another candidate, but honor the office. The Bible commands that you pray for all those in authority, no matter the office. Pray for wisdom, for following God’s will, and for safety and protection. And, no election results happen by accident. If you are in doubt, read these passages: Proverbs 21:1, and Daniel 2:21.

Fifty years—where has it gone? Over the years, sometimes time seems to crawl.  Looking back, however, the time has flown. The older you get, the faster it goes. Here’s to making every moment count!

Until next time.

Health Care and Baldness

Many people worry about losing their hair, especially if they are going through certain medical procedures or illnesses that can cause loss of the hair on their head. However, some baldness is caused by the body’s reaction to some drug therapies, and some is due to genetics. Also, aging has an effect on losing your hair. There are multiple reasons that cause baldness.

According to the Wexner Medical Center at Ohio State University, baldness, also known as alopecia, is hair loss, or absence of hair. Baldness is usually most noticeable on the scalp, but can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows. The condition is more common in men than in women. Hair loss is believed to be primarily caused by a combination of the following:

·         Aging
·         Change in hormones
·         Illness
·         Family history of baldness
·         Burns
·         Trauma
·         Untreated ringworm of the scalp
·         Deficiency in iron or protein intake
·         Excess vitamin A intake
·         Rapid weight loss
·         However, hair loss is not caused by the following:
·         Poor circulation to the scalp
·         Dandruff
·         Excessive hat-wearing

Generally, the earlier hair loss begins, the more severe the baldness will become. According to Time Magazine, turning hair growth on its head — by transplanting hair follicles upside down — may provide hope for receding hairlines. Growing hair to cure baldness has always been a question.

It’s one of the more vexing problems in medicine — about half of men and women over age 50 experience hair loss, from thinning of their scalp to male pattern baldness. Their options, however, are few. Medications can only slow the rate of loss, without generating lush new growth, while surgical strategies essentially move hair-growing cells from one part of the scalp to another, with varying success. The ideal solution would be one that prompts defective hair follicles to sprout new hair, or that allows transplanted follicles to have a greater chance of laying down roots. More info is at this site: http://healthland.time.com/2013/10/21/closer-to-a-cure-for-baldness/.  

A full head of hair is associated with strength, virility, youth, and power. Though men aren't encouraged to openly discuss their emotional reaction to hair loss, it's there. Frustration, depression, loss of self-esteem, social withdrawal, even suicide. It's not just about looks, although that's certainly a part of it; it's about a loss of control, the passage of time, mortality. "When men lose their hair, it can be devastating," says Spencer Kobren, founder and president of the American Hair Loss Association and founder of thebaldtruth.com.

Kobren says, "Most guys would do just about anything to keep from going bald. We'd rather regrow our hair than lose body fat. If you told a balding guy he could keep his hair if he were to run five miles a day and eat a specific diet, he'd absolutely do it. An overweight guy? Maybe. Hair is different." More information about male baldness can be found at this website: http://www.mensfitness.com/gear/fashion-and-trends/your-diabolical-follicles-treating-male-pattern-baldness. 

Conventional treatments focus on promoting hair growth or hiding hair loss. First priority should be to recognize and treat identifiable causes of hair loss, such as medications, infections, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions or hormonal imbalances.

Certain drug treatments may help to slow or prevent the development of pattern baldness in men or women, according to Dr. Andrew Weil. Minoxidil (brand name: Rogaine), is available without a prescription and is used for pattern baldness and alopecia areata. It is directly applied as a liquid or foam to the scalp. New hair growth may be shorter and thinner than normal but sufficient enough to hide bald spots or blend with existing hair. It may take several weeks to notice an effect, and new hair growth slows down soon after you stop taking it.

Another drug, Finasteride (brand name: Propecia), is available by prescription only. It comes in pill form and is only indicated for men, as it poses a serious danger to women of child-bearing age - even skin contact can result in absorption of the drug and lead to birth defects in pregnant women. It works by stopping the conversion of testosterone into DHT.

Steroid injections are sometimes used as a suppressive treatment for patches of alopecia areata. Ointments and creams can also be used, but aren't as effective. Another topical treatment consists of using Anthralin ointment, a synthetic substance made from tar used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, that may stimulate hair growth in those with autoimmune hair loss. Surgical treatments involving hair transplantation or scalp reduction are often a last resort but may be effective in the right candidate, although they can be expensive. Much more information about baldness can be found at Dr. Weil’s website: http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03030/Hair-Loss-Alopecia-Baldness.html.

It is important to know what is causing the hair loss and become educated about the available treatment options, according to the American Ostheopathic Association.  Hair loss is caused when the hair follicle gradually becomes smaller, which results in shorter and finer hair and eventually no hair. While genetics does play a role in male pattern hair loss, the gene can come from either parent, not just the mother. In addition, males who experience hair loss usually have a high presence of endocrine hormones.

Symptoms of male pattern baldness may begin appearing in men as young as 20 years old and can consist of thinning hair; a receding hairline, usually from the front toward the back over time; loss of hair around the crown of the head; or progression of hair loss in a typical “M”-shaped pattern. “Unfortunately, there is no cure for male pattern hair loss,” says Dr. Phillip Ginsberg. “But, there are treatments available that may help to slow down the process or even make new hair grow.”

Baldness is common in many people, male and female, but even though it may cause embarrassment, you can embrace various options to help slow the process in many cases. And, you an even decide to go all with complete baldness and exuding a strong physical presence, especially for males. Women are much less apt to go hairless, but can use wigs and other methods to hide bald spots. Baldness is something that almost everyone sooner or later may deal with as part of the aging process.
Until next time.

Health Care and ElderCare

Are you one of those adults who is now responsible for taking care of older adults?  Are you responsible for overseeing parents or older family members who now look to you for care? Or, are you someone who is in the business of elder care, and that is either your profession as a caretaker or business owner? Regardless of your status, if you are dealing with issues related to helping seniors or older adults and their health care and lifestyle, then you may need some additional advice along the way.

 

According to LifeHealthPro, elder care planning is essentially a comprehensive strategy that helps define a senior’s wishes and assists designated caregivers and/or advocates in handling the physical, personal and financial affairs of a senior aging into the last phases of life. Long-term care (LTC) is just one, very important segment of total elder care planning.

Unfortunately, LTC as well as other elder care issues are topics of discussion often avoided or delayed by families. But planning for elder care is one of most important discussions a family can have. When planning takes place at the eleventh hour, mistakes can happen and opportunities are lost. Helping clients become aware of what issues should be in order and how important planning is for an elder’s comfort shows the client the total value you bring as an advisor.

Discussing long-term care and elder care issues takes time and should be done step by step, with compassion. Unless you also practice as an attorney, you likely won’t be the person to implement some of the elder care plan’s steps. But you can provide a checklist your clients should consider completing, and if your clients lack the appropriate professionals to help get their plan in order, you can refer them to one of your recommended contacts, such as an attorney. More info can be found at this site: http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2013/08/27/elder-care-planning-an-important-part-of-the-long-?t=ltci.

Senior citizens have difficulty at times processing information. Changes in physical and mental abilities that may occur with age can be difficult to detect—for older adults and their family members, friends, and caregivers too. To help in determining when an older adult may need assistance in the home, according to www.Eldercare.gov, their site has compiled a list of 10 warning signs. Any one of the following behaviors may indicate the need to take action. It is also important to inform the older adult’s physician of these physical or psychological behavior changes. Has your loved one:

·         Changed eating habits, resulting in losing weight, having no appetite, or missing meals?
·         Neglected personal hygiene, including wearing dirty clothes and having body odor, bad breath, neglected nails and teeth, or sores on the skin?
·         Neglected their home, with a noticeable change in cleanliness and sanitation?
·         Exhibited inappropriate behavior, such as being unusually loud, quiet, paranoid, or agitated, or making phone calls at all hours?
·         Changed relationship patterns, causing friends and neighbors to express concerns?
·         Had physical problems, such as burns or injury marks, which may result from general weakness, forgetfulness, or misuse of alcohol or prescribed medications?
·         Decreased or stopped participating in activities that were once important to them, such as bridge or a book club, dining with friends, or attending religious services?
·         Exhibited forgetfulness, resulting in unopened mail, piling of newspapers, not filling their prescriptions, or missing appointments?
·         Mishandled finances, such as not paying bills, losing money, paying bills twice or more, or hiding money?
·         Made unusual purchases, such as buying more than one subscription to the same magazine, entering an unusually large number of contests, or increasing purchases from television advertisements?

As people age and live longer, financial, legal, health care and long term care issues affect families, not just individuals. According to this website, http://www.eldercare.gov/ELDERCARE.NET/Public/Resources/Factsheets/Face_the_Facts.aspx   you can find significant details on this topics. And, here are some key considerations:

·         Figure out what financial benefits are provided by your parents’ Social Security and pension. Determine if they are eligible for other financial programs.
·         Ensure that each family member has a living will. Know where all your parents’ insurance policies, wills, trust documents, tax returns, investment and banking records are located.
·         Investigate what type of long term care insurance coverage may be best for your parents or for yourself! Generally, premiums are lower when policies are purchased at younger ages.
·         Identify what community services are available that can help your parents maintain independence in the home for as long as possible. Learn whether housing options are available to meet their changing needs.
·         Family members may not understand how their parents’ estate planning could impact their own financial status as well as that of their children.

Health care is a high-cost necessity, so it is crucial to know what is available to meet your family member’s needs, and what they are eligible to receive. Most adults over age 65 are covered by Medicare, the federal health insurance program that helps pay medical expenses for older Americans and younger people with disabilities. However, Medicare does not cover all needs, such as long term care including nursing homes or extended care, and Supplemental Insurance (also called Medigap insurance) might be necessary to cover additional health costs, according to Eldercare.gov.

Medicaid, on the other hand, is the federal and state insurance program that helps pay the health care costs of low-income individuals of any age. Long-term care insurance is available through the private market to assist individuals to cover the cost of long-term care services such as home health and nursing home care. Ask...

·         As your health status changes, are you prepared to meet your long term health care needs?
·         Do you have proper health insurance coverage (not too much or too little)?
·         Are you comfortably able to pay for prescription drugs and other out-of pocket health care costs?
·         Who are your doctors and how can they be contacted?
·         Where do you keep your insurance card, Medicare information, and other important health care documents?

One of the most difficult things you may ever have to do is to hand over or share the caregiving of the seniors in your life. For some reason, either you think you know them best and therefore can care for them the best; or because you really feel it is your responsibility, you are very reluctant to trust others to care for your elders, according to www.eldercare.com . But this attitude, although admirable, in most cases is not practical or even doable for the family caregivers. So what can you do to move forward mentally and then actively to change this situation? More details can be found at this site: http://eldercare.com/how-to-ensure-excellent-elder-care.

Eldercare can be a challenge, especially if you have special needs or limited resources. Find resources in your community and online. There are many organizations that can help you. Realize that millions more have walked in your shoes, so you are not alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and when you may start feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to reach out for assistance. Don’t try to go it alone, and remember that your senior relatives still love you even though they may have difficulty in expressing those feelings.

Until next time.

Health Care and Physical Stamina

How is your physical stamina? In other words, when you exercise or are engaged in any physical acitivity, are you breathless and exhausted within a few minutes, or can you keep going until the task is finished? Do you look for ways to help improve your physical stamina? Stamina means having the strength and energy to endure an activity, illness or stressful situation for an extended period of time.

People most commonly use the word stamina when referring to exercise, sports and other physical activities of the body or cognitive exercises of the brain. Generally, however, increasing stamina means decreasing fatigue when performing the activity. There are several ways to accomplish this task, according to health care writer Claire Walters:

Increased Physical Stamina is Beneficial for All Aspects of Health:

There are many aspects toa healthy lifestyle, and while the majority of the focus seems to be on diet and mental agility, it’s important not to underestimate the long term health benefits of maintaining a good level of physical stamina. Physical exercise has been proven to kick start the body’s basic systems into action and this is something that is particularly important as we grow older. Those who remain physically active for the longest tend to be much healthier in old age than those who have been very unfit for large portions of their later life, and there are many different reasons for this.

Fighting Obesity:

Obesity is one of the largest health issues in the US today, and again, while much of the blame is placed (rightly so) on the worsening standard American diet, a large portion of the blame can also be placed on the reduced amount of physical exercise that the average person is now engaged in. According to the American Health Rankings, two thirds of Americans are considered to be overweight or morbidly obese. The problem often stems from poor diet and lifestyle, both of which are controllable factors, however in most circumstances once a person becomes overweight , exercise becomes more difficult and the rate of exercise decreases with an increase in size. In essence, the bigger people get the less exercise they do, which is a vicious circle. Obesity is known to play a big role in the development of serious illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, and diabetes, so it’s vital for overall health to ensure that you are physically fit and active.

Positive Effects of Increased Physical Stamina:

Breaking the cycle of obesity begins with a change of diet and an increase in exercise. When increased physical stamina is the goal, and an exercise plan geared towards this is undertaken, the results can become exponentially positive. Not only does increased physical stamina result in weight loss, it also has numerous other health benefits. Exercise increases endorphin levels in the body, and this is has a positive effect on mood and motivation, and lowers stress. While working hard to increase your physical stamina, your body goes through a range of physical changes, both during and after the exercise, all of which promote a much better level of overall health. One of the reasons that many people opt to conduct exercise in the morning is that it leaves them feeling energized, and in good spirits, ready to take on the day with a positive attitude. This is down the ‘endorphin rush’ that is produced after exercise, and it not only improves mood but also many physical symptoms.

Lack of Physical Stamina can have Adverse Effects:

Many people feel lethargic and struggle with finding motivation and energy, and these are all things which can benefit immensely from an increased level of physical stamina. When a person is extremely unfit, it can affect all areas of their life as it can become extremely de-motivating to struggle to complete basic physical tasks such as walking up hills, running, climbing large flights of stairs, and even engaging in sexual activity. An increase in physical endurance will benefit not only the physical aspect of being able to complete these tasks, but also the mental effects of feeling able and capable once more. The human body was designed to be physical strong and active, and as such, all aspects of it work best when you are having enough exercise. Many people experience health problems which they do not attribute to poor physical fitness, but when exercise levels are increased, the health problems desist.

How to Increase Physical Stamina:

The good news is that there are plenty of different ways to increase physical stamina, and it can be and fun and interesting as you want it to be. The main concept is to increase your heart rate through physical activity for a sustained period of time. It’s a good idea to start off at a level that you are comfortable with and work up the intensity and time period from there. Don’t push yourself too hard at the beginning, but gradually increase over time as your body begins to get fitter. Activities which are beneficial for your physical stamina include strenuous walking, running, football, tennis, swimming, aerobics, cycling, or just about any other physical activity imaginable! 

Also, according to VibrantLife.com, twenty-five push-ups a day do not an athlete make, but combine those exercises you do for strength and endurance with a nutritious diet, aerobic conditioning, weight training, and a healthy lifestyle, and you can be at the top of your form-whatever your sport. Consider these 50 suggestions on their website; you may be in for a few surprises: http://www.vibrantlife.com/?p=152.

Here are some additional tips when you are participating in a program to increase physical stamina:

• Motivate yourself to exercise every day, even when you are not feeling very energetic.
• Increase training time by a few minutes each day.
• Give yourself plenty of physical or cognitive breaks: Switch between the two to avoid fatigue.
• Take daily relaxation breaks to help lower stress levels.
• Eat fruits every day.
• Practice meditation and breathing exercises daily.

Also, consider these warnings during any exercise program:

• Don't drink caffeinated drinks such as coffee or energy drinks before aerobic exercise. They speed up your heart rate; and once you start exercising, your heart may be beat too fast, putting you in danger.
• Keep a steady pace and don't break your routine. Taking a day off from the activity may be a helpful break, but allowing yourself to skip your routine for days at a time will make it much harder to get back in the routine.
• Energy drinks are not healthy when consumed on a daily basis. Avoid overuse if you want a strong, healthy body with plenty of stamina.

Improving your physical stamina is a good thing. However, make sure that you consult your doctor or health care specialist for any programs that involve strenuous activities related to exercise. Also, remember the motto: “All things in moderation.” Don’t try to overdo it just to show off or prove something to yourself. Recovering from injury due to overzealous physical activity definitely puts a crimp into your style.

Until next time.

Health Care and Coughing

A cough is a sudden and often repetitively occurring reflex which helps to clear the large breathing passages from secretions, irritants, foreign particles and microbes. The cough reflex consists of three phases: an inhalation, a forced exhalation against a closed glottis, and a violent release of air from the lungs following opening of the glottis, usually accompanied by a distinctive sound. Coughing is either voluntary or involuntary. A cough is the most common reason for visiting a primary care physician in the United States.

According to Healthline, coughing to clear the throat is typically an infrequent action, although there are a number of other conditions that can cause more frequent bouts of coughing. In general, a cough that lasts for less than three weeks is known as an acute cough. A cough that lasts between three weeks and eight weeks, improving by the end of the period, is known as a sabacute cough. A persistent cough that lasts for over eight weeks is known as a chronic cough.

Most coughs will clear up, or at least significantly improve, within two weeks. If you cough up blood or have a “barking” cough, consult with a doctor. Any cough that has not improved after a few weeks may be serious and you should see a doctor. More info can be found here at this website: http://www.healthline.com/health/cough .

Acute coughs can be divided into infectious (caused by an infection) and noninfectious causes, according to emedicinehealth.com. The easiest way to simplify the causes of chronic cough is to divide them into their locations with respect to the lungs. The categories are environmental irritants, conditions within the lungs, conditions along the passages that transmit air from the lungs to the environment, conditions within the chest cavity but outside of the lungs, and digestive causes. Much more detailed description can be found at this site: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/coughs/article_em.htm .

Coughs can be caused by a number of reasons, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Recent upper airway infections, such as the common cold and flu, can cause coughs. Other common causes include:

•ACE inhibitors (medications used to control blood pressure)
•Allergic rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nose or sinuses)
•Asthma
•Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema or chronic bronchitis)
•Cigarette smoking
•Exposure to secondhand smoke
•Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
•Lung disease such as bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, or tumors
•Lung infections such as pneumonia or acute bronchitis
•Sinusitis leading to postnasal drip

Although coughing can be a troubling symptom, it is usually your body's way of healing, according to the NIH. Here are some tips to help ease your cough:

•If you have a dry, tickling cough, try cough drops or hard candy. NEVER give these to a child under age 3, because they can cause choking.
•Use a vaporizer or take a steamy shower. Both these things increase the moisture in the air and can help soothe a dry throat.
•Drink plenty of fluids. Liquids help thin the mucus in your throat and make it easier to cough it up.

NOTE: Medical experts have recommended against using cough and cold drugs in children under age 6. Talk to your doctor before your child takes any type of over-the-counter cough medicine, even if it is labeled for children. These medicines likely will not work for children, and they may have serious side effects. Medications available without a prescription include:

•Guaifenesin helps break up mucus. Drink lots of fluids if you take this medicine.
•Decongestants help clear a runny nose and relieve postnasal drip. Do NOT give children under age 6 an over-the-counter decongestant unless specifically told to do so by your doctor. You should check with your doctor before taking decongestants if you have high blood pressure.

Do not expect a doctor to prescribe antibiotics for viral infections like colds or flu. Antibiotics do not work on viruses. Antibiotics also will not help coughs from allergies. More details about coughing can also be found at this website: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003072.htm .

A persistent cough (chronic cough) is a common symptom prompting people to visit the doctor. Annoying effects of coughing, such as loss of sleep, sore chest muscles and leaking urine, can affect your quality of life and interfere with your daily activities, according to About.com. What does it mean if you have a cough that just won't go away?

A persistent cough doesn’t necessarily mean you need to be worried about lung cancer. There are many possible causes of this symptom, only one of which is lung cancer. But since the less common causes are often missed for some time, it is important to make an appointment to see your doctor even if you believe there is a good explanation. More detailed info can be viewed on this site: http://lungcancer.about.com/od/symptoms/a/Persistent-Cough.htm .

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the following measures to contain respiratory secretions from coughing are recommended for all individuals with signs and symptoms of a respiratory infection.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing;
• Use in the nearest waste receptacle to dispose of the tissue after use;
• Perform hand hygiene (e.g., hand washing with non-antimicrobial soap and water, alcohol-based hand rub, or antiseptic handwash) after having contact with respiratory secretions and contaminated objects/materials.

Healthcare facilities should ensure the availability of materials for adhering to Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette in waiting areas for patients and visitors.

• Provide tissues and no-touch receptacles for used tissue disposal.
• Provide conveniently located dispensers of alcohol-based hand rub; where sinks are available, ensure that supplies for hand washing (i.e., soap, disposable towels) are consistently available.

More details about this topic can be found at this site: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/infectioncontrol/resphygiene.htm , and this one: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/covercough.htm .

Coughing may be very temporary or more serious. The determination of the cause of a cough usually begins by determining if it is specific or nonspecific in nature. A specific cough is one associated with other symptoms and further workup is dependent on these symptoms while a non specific cough occurs without other signs and symptoms. If your cough is consistent with no real apparent reason, it’s time to see your doctor. Always be pro-active with your health and practice preventive measures. See your family physician or go to a medical clinic to seek a diagnosis. Don’t try to figure it out on your own, especially if you are not a licensed health care practitioner. Coughing is inconvenient, but it can also be a sign of something more serious.

Until next time.

Health Care and Colorectal Cancer

A story in www.DoctorsLounge.com says that although significant progress has been made in treating cancer, more than 1.6 million Americans are projected to receive a cancer diagnosis in 2013, according to the third American Association for Cancer Research's Cancer Progress Report 2013. The number of cancer survivors increased from three million in 1971 (one in 69) to 13.7 million in 2012 (one in 23). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved 11 new drugs, three new uses for previously approved drugs, and three new imaging technologies, from Sept. 1, 2012, to July 31, 2013.

Despite this progress, in 2013, more than 1.6 million Americans are projected to receive a cancer diagnosis, and more than 580,350 are predicted to die of the disease. Cancer will account for nearly one in four deaths. More than half of cancers are related to preventable causes, including tobacco use, obesity and overweight, lack of physical activity, and poor nutrition. Cancer is the most costly disease to the United States, according to DoctorsLounge.com.

One of the most severe forms of cancer forms in the colon, often appearing there with no advance signs for months or years until the disease is discovered by medical tests. Getting a colonoscopy is not something most people look forward to, according to the Los Angeles Times -- but a new analysis suggests that it's worth it to follow screening recommendations and have the test done every 10 years (or every five for those at high risk.)

According to the Colon Cancer Alliance, no one knows the exact causes of colon cancer. Doctors often cannot explain why one person develops this disease and another does not. However, it is clear that colon cancer is not contagious. No one can catch this disease from another person. Research has shown that people with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop colon cancer. A risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease. Studies have found the following risk factors for colon cancer:

--Age over 50: Colon cancer is more likely to occur as people get older. More than 90 percent of people with this disease are diagnosed after age 50. The average age at diagnosis is 72.

--Colon polyps: Polyps are growths on the inner wall of the colon or rectum. They are common in people over age 50. Most polyps are benign (not cancer), but some polyps (adenomas) can become cancer. Finding and removing polyps may reduce the risk of colon cancer.

--Family history of colon cancer: Close relatives (parents, brothers, sisters, or children) of a person with a history of colon cancer are somewhat more likely to develop this disease themselves, especially if the relative had the cancer at a young age. If many close relatives have a history of colon cancer, the risk is even greater.

--Genetic alterations: Changes in certain genes increase the risk of colon cancer.

--Personal history of cancer: A person who has already had colon cancer may develop colon cancer a second time. Also, women with a history of cancer of the ovary, uterus (endometrium), or breast are at a somewhat higher risk of developing colon cancer.

--Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease: A person who has had a condition that causes inflammation of the colon (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease) for many years is at increased risk of developing colon cancer.

--Diet and Lifestyle: Studies suggest that diets high in red meat and fat (especially animal fat) and low in calcium, folate, and fiber may increase the risk of colon cancer. Also, some studies suggest that people who eat a diet very low in fruits and vegetables may have a higher risk of colon cancer. However, results from diet studies do not always agree, and more research is needed to better understand how diet affects the risk of colon cancer.

--Inactivity and obesity have also been linked to higher risk of colon cancer. Studies have shown that daily physical activity can decrease colon cancer risk by as much as 50 percent.

--Cigarette smoking: A person who smokes cigarettes may be at increased risk of developing polyps and colon cancer.

Because people who have colon cancer may develop colon cancer a second time, it is important to have checkups. If you have colon cancer, you also may be concerned that your family members may develop the disease. People who think they may be at risk should talk to their doctor. Much more material on this subject can be found at this website: http://www.ccalliance.org/ .

In order to understand colorectal cancer, it helps to know something about the structure of the digestive system and how it works. After food is chewed and swallowed, it travels to the stomach. There it is partly broken down and sent to the small intestine. The small intestine is only called small because it isn’t very wide compared to the colon. In fact, the small intestine is the longest part of the digestive system -- about 20 feet. The small intestine also breaks down the food and absorbs most of the nutrients.

What remains goes into the colon (large intestine), a muscular tube about 5 feet long. The colon absorbs water and nutrients from the food and also serves as a storage place for waste matter (stool). Stool moves from the colon into the rectum, which is the last 6 inches of the digestive system. From there, stool passes out of the body through the opening called the anus.

The colon begins at the end of the small intestine – on the right side of the body at a place called the cecum. It goes up and bends to go across the top of the belly and turns down again on the left side. The rectum is in the lower part of the pelvis. More details can be found at this site: http://www.cancer.org/cancer/colonandrectumcancer/overviewguide/colorectal-cancer-overview-what-is-colorectal-cancer .

According to the National Cancer Institute, the estimated new cases and deaths from colon and rectal cancer in the United States in 2013 are as follows:

• New cases: 102,480 (colon); 40,340 (rectal)
• Deaths: 50,830 (colon and rectal combined)

To learn more about colon and rectal cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and questions to ask, see your doctor. A significant amount of info on colorectal cancer can also be found at this site: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/colon-and-rectal . You’ll especially want to ask your physician about the following topics and focus discussion about details if you are diagnosed or have the potential to develop colorectal cancer:

--Prevention, Genetics, Causes: Information related to prevention, genetics, and risk factors.

--Screening and Testing: Information about methods of cancer detection including new imaging technologies, tumor markers, and biopsy procedures.

--Treatment: Information about treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and vaccine therapy.

Cancer is deadly, and not seeking regular checkups from your doctor can be fatal if you are diagnosed too late with the disease. Always use preventive care with your health care provider to keep your medical history up to date. Schedule a colonoscopy if you meet the typical criteria, and get regular blood tests as part of your annual medical screenings. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are serious, and getting regular checkups and exams help determine an early diagnosis for treatment. In cases like this, no news is not necessarily good news.

Until next time.