Educational Focus



Arthritis
What could be easier than being able to perform activities of daily living such as walking, turning your head or holding fork or spoon? These daily activities seem so effortless that most of us don't give them a second thought. Arthritis can make these small tasks difficult to perform. Fortunately there are things you can do to protect your joints, reduce pain, and improve mobility. There are several things that can increase the risk of Arthritis which include your age, sex, heredity, excess height, joint injury, diet and other illnesses. Arthritis can be a symptom of other illnesses, including Lyme Disease, other infections, and inflammatory bowel disease. Some symptoms might include joint swelling, limited range of motion, and a crunching sensation. There is no cure, but symptomatic relief can include exercise, weight control, hot and cold therapy and anti-inflammatory medications taken under the direction of your physician. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the .


Asthma
Breathing is something most of us take for granted. People with Asthma, however, know that this condition can make breathing difficult and even frightening. Fortunately lifestyle adjustments and proper medication will allow most people with Asthma to lead full, active lives. Asthma is a disease of the bronchi. These small tubes must be open to allow the free passage of air. There are more than 20 million Americans with Asthma. Many people with Asthma also have allergies. Although Asthma is not hereditary, it is a contributing factor. Outside events such as infection or exposure to dust or pollen can trigger an Asthma attack. As a result, treatment requires medication and life style adjustments to avoid triggers. It is critical that treatment plans are developed individually with your physician. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the .


Heart Disease: Angina & Heart Attacks
Statistics show that during the next 30 seconds, someone in America will have a heart attack. During the next minute, somebody will die from one. Some heart attacks come without warning, but others follow years of pain and disability. Either way, heart disease is an American tragedy, particularly since prevention and treatment can be helpful. Coronary Heart Disease (hardening of the arteries) develops when bad cholesterol (LDL) enters an artery wall and builds up causing fatty deposits (plaques) to adhere. If the artery is narrowed enough by fatty build-up, the heart muscle does not receive the blood it needs and this often causes angina (chest pain). Coronary Artery Disease affects about 13 million Americans and is a leading killer of men and women. Symptoms other than chest pain include, but are not limited to: sweating, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath. If your physician suspects Coronary Artery Disease he/she may order one or more of the following tests: Electrocardiogram (EKG), Echocardiograph (cardiac echo), Stress Test, and blood enzymes. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the .

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