"As doctors and nurses around the country continue caring for COVID-19 patients, public health experts are advising people to prepare for another respiratory illness: influenza, more commonly known as flu, which impacts us every year. Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself during flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting vaccinated as early as September since it can take about two weeks for the shot to be fully effective. Amid the pandemic, most doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and other locations are taking precautions in order to safely provide vaccines as well as other necessary health care services.
Anyone 6 months or older should get a flu vaccine. Groups who are at higher risk of flu-related complications include adults over 65, toddlers, pregnant women, nursing home residents, and individuals with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, liver disorders, and weakened immune systems. Essential workers should also make sure to get vaccinated...."
Monday, December 28, 2020
Monday, December 21, 2020
Fulfilling your mission: The role of an on-site pharmacy in your health center’s strategy
An on-site pharmacy can be a great way to achieve your mission by enabling your Community Health Center to generate savings, improve patient care and expand services within your community.
For example, Mountain Laurel Medical Center leveraged its pharmacy to drive savings to improve the quality of care for patients and to expand services to reach even more people in their community. To read Mountain Laurel Medical Center’s full story, click here.
Cardinal Health offers a variety of Pharmacy Service Models - from opening assistance and consultation to managing the day to day pharmacy operations, our team of experts can walk with you every step of the way.
Our process is centered around what’s best for your Health Center. We’ll start by understanding your specific needs, then work with you to evaluate the opportunity and design a pharmacy solution that is tailored to fulfilling your mission.
Ready to get started? Click
here to connect or contact Kelly Truong at kelly.truong@cardinalhealth.com.
Other Links:
Thursday, December 17, 2020
Paramount Helps Ohio Health Center Address Food Insecurity
Driven by the vision of Cliff Edwards, CEO, and their
mission to improve the health of the community beyond the walls of the health
center, Center Street Health Center wanted to help address the ongoing issue of
food insecurity in Marion, Ohio. They made the commitment to eliminate a
downtown Marion food desert.
Over two years ago, Tim Petee, director of regional
operations for Paramount Advantage, learned of Cliff’s aspirations to open a
grocery store and quickly jumped on the opportunity to help. Center Street
Health Center had already purchased property across the street in downtown
Marion. Paramount Advantage helped to identify this area as a food desert,
which allowed Center Street Health Center to secure funding for establishing
their food market. In addition, Paramount Advantage connected Center Street
Health Center with ProMedica’s Market on the Green.
ProMedica, Paramount’s parent organization, opened their
Market on the Green grocery store in UpTown Toledo in 2015. After years of work
addressing food insecurity in the community and patient-care settings,
ProMedica identified a need to fill a void in the UpTown Toledo neighborhood, a
disadvantaged community with poor health outcomes which lacked access to a
grocery store for years.
During planning of the Marion grocery store, Center Street
Community Health Center leadership and board members visited ProMedica’s Market
on the Green to get ideas for their store. The visit led to a consulting
engagement with ProMedica to provide support for the opening of Center Street’s
store. Over the course of 12 months, ProMedica provided advisory support on the
project which included business plan and operating model development, store
layout, vendor selection, merchandising, and staff training.
Through this effort, Paramount Advantage was honored to
cover all Market on the Green consultative expenses incurred by Center Street
Community Health Center.
Center Street Corner Market opened to serve the Marion
community on November 6, 2020 offering fresh produce, meat, dairy, grocery and
a variety of basic household items.
Read the complete story by visiting ProMedica’s
newsroom.
Tuesday, December 8, 2020
Toy Safety
The holiday shopping season is among us! When shopping for gifts for children, it is important to recognize whether or not the item is age-appropriate, if the item is safe and what other things you may need to include with the item to ensure its functionality. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 220,000 toy-related injuries were treated in emergency departments in 2019. These injuries were due to ingestions, broken bones, cuts, and more. Prevent Child Injury has put together a great list of things to keep in mind when purchasing gifts. Learn more below!
- Avoid magnet sets
- Make sure button batteries are secure
- Buy a helmet if purchasing a bike, hoverboard, scooter, or something similar
- Read the label
- Listen for loud noise: Loud noises can be frightening to a child and they can permanently damage a child’s hearing.
Helpful Links:
Saturday, November 28, 2020
World AIDS Day
Every December 1st is recognized as World AIDS Day. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome or AIDS is the advanced stage of the infection caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus or HIV. Over 1 million people nationwide have HIV or AIDS and 1 in 4 do not know they are living with it. There is currently no cure for AIDS however there are more ways to live a long full life with disease management. Using antiretrovirals can help prevent the spread of HIV by preventing the replication of the HIV cycle in your system if you have HIV.
World AIDS Day was started in 1988 to help increase awareness and knowledge about the disease. Check out the resources below to help share information for the whole month of December.
Helpful Resources:
Monday, November 9, 2020
Diabetes & COVID-19
There are 2 types of diabetes that affect more than 34 million Americans currently. This illness can be caused by hereditary issues and or by poor health conditions. 1 in 5 people don't know that they have diabetes and 88 million adults have prediabetes. These statistics seem alarming but with today's advances in technology, and by living a healthy lifestyle, more and more people are able to keep their diabetes under control.
As the pandemic continues to permeate throughout the world, people with diabetes may be at a higher of developing complications due to COVID-19 or other ailments due to the upcoming flu season. There is still very limited information about COVID-19 however the best way to keep yourself safe and healthy is to keep your diabetes under control. The first step to doing this is to consult your primary care physician. Also, learn the symptoms of COVID-19 and learn more about whether you are at risk of having diabetes or another underlying medical condition that could leave you immunocompromised.
Helpful Links:
Monday, November 2, 2020
Breathe Easy
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and now more than ever, it is important to take care of your lungs. Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in the US and the second most diagnosed cancer in both men and women. Smoking cigarettes is the main cause of lung cancer however the lung cancer rates have been decreasing as smoking rates have been going down.
So what can you do to fight lung cancer? First off, take control of your life! Make sure you are living a healthy lifestyle and support those around you as well to do the same. Quitting smoking and refraining from being around smoke is just one step in being healthy. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen is also important in taking care of yourself as well. As this is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, spreading awareness for those battling lung cancer is important too. Learn More about Lung Cancer, healthy habits, and spreading awareness below.
Helpful Links:
- Basic Information about Lung Cancer
- Lung Cancer Awareness Month
- What Can I Do to Reduce My Risk of Lung Cancer?
- COVID-19 & Lung Health
Tuesday, October 27, 2020
Paramount Advantage Medicaid - Open Enrollment is Here!
Medicaid members can switch to Paramount Advantage during open enrollment from Nov. 1 – 30. All they need to do is call the Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline at 800-324-8680 or visit www.ohiomh.com. Representatives are available Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 8 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Why choose Paramount Advantage? Our members and their families receive the following benefits at NO COST to them
- Exceptional customer service: Speak to the same rep every time. Someone who really understands your story.
- Medical coverage: Access to many local doctors, hospitals, dentists, and pharmacies.
- Additional coverage: Prescriptions, dental cleanings, new glasses, flu shots, and immunizations are all covered.
- Transportation assistance: Get rides and reimbursement for trips to and from medical and wellness appointments, the pharmacy, WIC, and more.
- Rewards: Get rewarded just for going to routine appointments like wellness visits and prenatal/postnatal checkups.
- 24/7 Nurse Line: Paramount has a team of nurses available to answer your medical questions 24/7.
- Online doctor visits: We offer convenient video visits with a provider through our ProMedica OnDemand service.
If you know someone who is interested in Paramount Advantage Medicaid, they can visit paramounthealthcare.com/medicaid to learn more!
Thursday, October 22, 2020
Fall for Outdoor Fun!
Fall is quite possibly the best season in Ohio! The weather is cooling off, the leaves are changing colors and there are still plenty of activities to do outside before the winter comes along and freezes everything over.
From corner to corner, you can travel across the great buckeye state in less than 6 hours and see lots of amazing things along the way no matter where you are coming or going. Ohio has 75 state parks, Native American heritage sites, and scenic rivers.
Find your wanderlust before it gets too cold!
Helpful Links:
- 100 Things to do in Ohio this Fall
- Butler County Donut Trail
- Ohio State Parks
- Trip Advisor - Things to do in Ohio
- COVID-19 Guidelines for Ohio
Tuesday, October 13, 2020
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and was first observed in 1981 as a day of unity. According to the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, this month of recognition was brought on to connect battered women's advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children.
In Ohio, there were 109 domestic violence fatalities from July 2019 to June 2020. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the US. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men will experience severe intimate partner physical violence in their lifetime. If you or someone you know is in an unsafe situation, check out the resources below for information on how to get help.
Ohio recognizes Health Cares About Domestic Violence Day on October 14. Watch the video below for more information.
Helpful Links:
ODVN (Ohio Domestic Violence Network)
NCADV (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)
State-by-State Resources on Violence Against Women
Monday, October 5, 2020
All Treats! No Tricks!
As masks have been an ongoing part of our lives for the past few months, they may be part of your Halloween costume too! Make sure you have on a costume that is breathable and does not restrict your movement or vision. When consuming food and other substances, again, double check your local health department for guidelines on consumption. Ensuring safety is everyone's main goal of any exciting activity!
Helpful Links:
This blog post is sponsor by Executive Interiors, LLC
Contact:
Susan Queen, Director of Sales + Design
614.774.2079
squeen@executiveinteriorsco.com
www.executiveinteriorsco.com
Wednesday, September 30, 2020
2020 Virtual Fall Operations Conference
Thank you SO much to everyone who helped make our first large digital event possible! We were able to hold 22 sessions across 5 days....
With fun activities as breaks...
An engaging Virtual Scavenger Hunt with our Sponsors and Exhibitors...
And, we celebrated some of our health center award recipients!
Thank you for *gathering* with us this Fall!
We can't wait to *see* you all again in April at our Annual Conference!
Monday, September 21, 2020
Paramount Advantage: Transportation Assistance Program
Paramount Advantage Honors Commitment to Members with Transportation Assistance
Medicaid members often need support getting to and from appointments. That’s why Paramount Advantage Medicaid has designed a transportation program with easily accessible options. Paramount’s goal is to help members stay healthy by improving medical appointment adherence.
Paramount Advantage members have access to 30 one-way trips (or 15 round trips) per year. Several transit options are available, including: Bus pass, cab, Lyft, mileage reimbursement, van, and wheelchair-accessible services.
- Dental, medical, mental health and addiction, therapy, and vision appointments
- Health and disease education
- Pharmacy (stand-alone, added during trip scheduling, or called in by provider for return ride)
- Prenatal and postpartum appointments, as well as NICU visitation and prenatal/postnatal education
- WIC, food clinics, grocery store, and delivery, emergency food banks (call Member Services to set up)
- Medicaid redetermination and SSI appointments
- Summer cooling stations
Member scheduling: To
schedule, members just need to call 866-837-9817, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 7
p.m. We ask that they schedule at least two full business days and up to 30
days in advance.
Provider scheduling: We
offer a provider-only scheduling line, in the event you need to request
transportation on behalf of a member for things like urgent sick visits, same
day appointments, hospital discharges, lab, pharmacy, or radiology
appointments. Using this scheduling line you may also request trip statuses or
even re-dispatch a cab or Lyft if a member is a “no show” patient.
COVID-19 guidelines: Due to COVID-19 we have some special guidelines in place. All members/patients and drivers must wear a face-covering during all points of transit. If a patient is COVID-19 positive or suspected to be, please refer them to BLS ambulance transit.
Paramount is glad to have the opportunity to help its members, who are very grateful for this program. It thanks you for your continued partnership to improve the health and well-being of our most-at-need and vulnerable Ohioans.
If you have any questions about Paramount’s transportation
assistance program, don’t hesitate to contact Tim Petee, Paramount, Director of
Regional Operations at tim.petee@promedica.org. Learn
more by visiting paramounthealthcare.com/medicaid. Download the brochure!
Thursday, September 3, 2020
National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month. From natural disasters to national emergencies, it is important to be prepared for literally anything. Below are resources on how to prepare ahead time for an emergency and how to handle a situation that might arise out of nowhere.
- OACHC's Emergency Preparedness Info
- Ohio EMA Releases New School Tabletop Exercise Toolkits
- Ready.gov
- Energy.gov
- Disaster Safety for People with Disabilities
Monday, August 24, 2020
Humana: Corporate Sponsor Spotlight
Humana is a leading national provider of Medicare, Medicaid, commercial, and military health plans. We have over 200,000 members across Ohio, and employ 2,600 Ohioans in every corner of the state. Humana supports physicians and other health care professionals as they work to deliver the right care in the right place for their patients, our members. Our range of clinical capabilities, resources and tools – such as in-home care, behavioral health, pharmacy services, data analytics and wellness solutions – combine to produce a simplified experience that makes health care easier to navigate and more effective.
Max Fletcher, Strategy Advisor
773.680.4141
mfletcher24@humana.com
www.humana.com
773.680.4141
mfletcher24@humana.com
www.humana.com
Thursday, August 13, 2020
Music & Health
If you haven't been watching the news lately, there is a viral video of twins listening to Phil Collins "In The Air Tonight" for the first time EVER. For most people over the age of 30, this might seem like an "uhhhh how have they never heard that song??" but just remember hearing some of your favorite songs for the first time and all the feels it gave you.
According to NAMI, music can act as a medium to help people process emotions. It can also work as a "regulating or calming agent" when you are experiencing anxiety. Just think, how often are you doing a task and think to yourself 'Dang, I would be able to focus soooo much better if only I had some music.'
Helpful Links:
Twins React to Phil Collins
The Impact of Music Therapy on Mental Health
Music Can Be a Great Mood Booster
Music and Mood
Monday, August 3, 2020
The New Age of Telehealth
- Telehealth Implementation Quick Guide
- HHS Telehealth Resources
- Telehealth Emergency Rule
- ODM Telehealth FAQ
- Updated Telehealth Information
- Filed Telehealth Appendix
- ODM Emergency Telehealth Infographic Medicare FQHC Telemedicine Update from PMG
Thursday, July 30, 2020
Celebrate.......Responsibly.
Statistics show the more birthdays you have, the longer you live! :)
As we all know, states have been shut down for a bit and have been gradually reopening and closing. Knowing the guidelines for your locale can greatly impact your health and safety when interacting with others and how you can go about your regular life when leaving the house.Considering celebrating a holiday, birthday, or any other upcoming special occasion? There are lots of ways you can celebrate while still staying safe. Check out some ideas here!
Also, in this day in age, it's easy to forget those around us. It's easy to forget about yourself most days. Check your calendar or social media accounts and see if an important day is coming up for a loved one. Even a simple greeting can greatly impact someone's mental health during these times.
Helpful Links:
Monday, July 20, 2020
Germane Solutions: Corporate Sponsor Spotlight
Germane Solutions is an industry-leading national consulting firm providing expertise in Graduate Medical Education (GME), public health and the Community Health Center program. The rapid growth of our FQHC-related business led to our recent acquisition of the experienced group of subject matter experts, now operating as FQHC Germane (www.FQHC.org). The FQHC Germane team brings decades of multi-faceted FQHC experience to a variety of clients in the health care industry, including FQHCs, Look-Alikes, PCAs, hospital systems, behavioral health centers, academic institutions, health departments, clinically integrated networks, Ryan White programs, and medical practices. The addition of FQHC Germane to the Germane Solutions team allows us to provide a full range of services to our many health centers, PCA, and HCCN Clients.
Thursday, July 16, 2020
Water, Water, Everywhere!
Have you ever just had the casual feeling of dry mouth, dizziness, and just very unusual exhaustion? There is a good chance you could just be dehydrated.
Dehydration is a symptom that can occur in conjunction with many other diseases and ailments but you also might just not be taking in enough fluids. Did you know that 60% of your body weight is liquid? You need water to help your body control your temperature, protect tissues and organs, and help get rid of waste.
According to the Mayo Clinic, men need approximately 15 cups of fluids a day and women need 11 cups to stay healthy. Only 20% of your daily intake of fluids comes from food. People need to consume liquid to function due to the amount of water they lose through just breathing, perspiration, and using the restroom. As the weather gets warmer and more of us are spending time outdoors, staying hydrated is more important than ever!
For more information on Dehydration and How to Stay Hydrated:
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Paramount Advantage Medicaid Supplies All FQHC’s with COVID-19 Patient Kits
Our new normal may be anything but ordinary. However, our Ohio FQHC’s continue to provide excellent care to patients every single day. Paramount Advantage Medicaid appreciates everything that you do, not just for their members, but for all of your patients.
As an FQHC, you and your team are highly essential for our
communities. And, Paramount wants to ensure it is doing everything possible to
make your job easier.
To show support, Paramount Advantage Medicaid is providing
all Ohio FQHC’s with 50 COVID-19 supply kits to give to patients. The supply
kits will be delivered by mail throughout the month of July. A total of 10,000
kits will be given to provider and community organizations, as well as
Paramount members in need.
Each kit includes disinfectant wipes, face masks, hand
sanitizer, gloves, and soap. For your reference, the information card will be included in each kit. Click here to view the card.
Paramount hopes that this small token will help you continue
doing what you do best, which is keeping our communities healthier.
Thank you, on behalf of Paramount Advantage Medicaid.
www.paramounthealthcare.com/medicaid
Monday, June 29, 2020
Centerprise, Inc: Corporate Sponsor Spotlight
Centerprise connects you to team insights built with over more than 50 years of healthcare and center management. Created out of Ohio’s largest FQHC, we opened for business in 2014. We are the experts, community health centers, and their national and state associations, call on for leading-edge expertise, education, and training on successful health center operations in a highly regulated, competitive, and dynamic environment.
Contact:
Josh Herbert
Associate Director of Operations
513-707-5674
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Sun Safety
This past weekend was the Summer Solstice. This happens on June 21st every year and is typically when the solar radiation peaks here on earth. The hottest days of the summer or the dog days of summer are farther into the summer, around mid-July and mid-August. Regardless of the time of the year or season, if you are staying in the sun, wearing protective gear and staying hydrated is key for staying safe!
SPF or sun protection factor, is a measure of how long a sunscreen will protect you and your skin from the UVB rays from the sun. If used properly, an spf 30 sunscreen would protect for approximately 10 hours. However, different brands of sunscreen may not be waterproof and could need to be reapplied. It is best to follow the instructions labeled on the bottle that you purchase.
There are many myths that you may not need sunscreen. However, sunburns and skin ailments can affect anyone! Dermatologists recommend that EVERYONE use at a minimum a sunscreen with at least an SPF 
30 that has a broad spectrum of coverage. This will help block both UVA and UVB rays, which can be harmful and damaging to the skin.
Other tips for staying safe in the sun include:
- Limit your time in the sun, especially when the sun is at its peak
- Wear loose-fitting breathable clothing to cover your skin if possible
- Reapply sunscreen if you are getting in and out of water or profusely sweating
- Drink water and stay hydrated. Consume electrolytes if you feel you might run the risk of dehydration.
Helpful Links:
Monday, June 15, 2020
Buckeye Community Health Plan: Corporate Sponsor Highlight
Buckeye Community Health Plan
For More Information, Contact:
Lisa Hunt, Provider Network Specialist
614-220-4900
Thursday, June 11, 2020
Migraines!
Throbbing 1 sided discomfort. Nausea. Shooting pain down your neck. Aura. Strained vision.
If all of this sounds familiar, then you may be one of the 3 million people that suffer from migraines each year. Migraines are often misunderstood as there can be so many different causes for them yet no specific cure. Lifestyle changes can help to mitigate the pain even lessen the frequency, but finding the best way to cope with migraines may be the best way to handle them.
Ways to cope:
- avoid triggers; caffeine, alcohol, stress
- get plenty of sleep
- keep track of your medications and side effects
- maintain a healthy diet
- learn your family health history
It is also important to take charge as soon as a migraine strikes. Do not wait to treat it as it could potentially worsen. There are several proven medications that can quickly dissipate your headache, however, you should consult a physician before deciding on a medicinal treatment. Home remedies are also good too! Ice packs and essential oils may or may not relieve your symptoms but they could help to alleviate some of the stress caused by a painful migraine.
Migraine Information
Wednesday, June 3, 2020
June-Bug
If there is one thing people can agree on about bug bites, its that scratching them can be sooooooo satisfying. One thing we should always be on the lookout for and concerned with are all the bugs that come out as the weather gets warmer. Most bug bites are benign, however, it is important to know how bug bites can affect you.
There is a chance that you could be allergic to stings from insects. People with severe allergic reactions have between a 25 to 65% chance of getting anaphylaxis or an intense allergic reaction when they are stung. This can result in swelling, rash, difficulty breathing among other things. So how would you know if you are allergic to insect stings? Getting an allergy test and blood work can help determine if you are allergic but it is also good to just use general precautions with the outdoors to lower your risk for stings:
- Don't wear sandals or walk barefoot in the grass.
- Don’t swat at or run from bees.
- Cover outdoor garbage cans with tightly fitting lids.
- Avoid wearing sweet-smelling perfumes and colognes
- When doing yard work, wear socks, shoes, and gloves.
- Use screens on doors and windows.
- Keep car windows closed.
- Wear long pants and long sleeves outdoors.
Another bug concern to keep on your radar are bites! Not just the kind that makes you itchy, but the kind that carries diseases. Ticks carry Lyme disease and its more common than you think. A tick must be attached to you for more than 24 hours before Lyme disease can be transmitted so it is important that you do a check for ticks after you have an outdoor adventure. Ticks are tiny and can range in size. When removing them from your skin, you will need to remove the entire tick to ensure the bug is no longer attached to you and thus causing disease transmission. With that being said, just because you get bitten by a tick does not mean you are 100% positively going to get Lyme disease. It is always better to just be prepared. 
All in all, when having any outdoor adventure, be sure to carry a first aid kit, water, and an EpiPen!
Helpful Links:
Thursday, May 28, 2020
Gesundheit!!!
Its everyone's favorite time of year, allergy season! Did you know that allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the US! Over 50 million people in the US are affected by allergies each year. Seasonal allergies include sneezing, stuffy and or runny nose, watery eyes, itchy nose, mouth, and or eyes.
Allergies can be diagnosed by an allergist using a skin test. These can detect hay fever, dermatitis, food allergies, and many other allergens depending on the severity of your condition. In order to prepare for a skin test, it is recommended that you do not consume any antihistamines within a specific amount of time prior to the test in order to receive the best results. You should also anticipate having a fairly decent-sized portion of your back available as this is where the skin prick test tends to take place. Up to 50 different substances can be tested at the same time with this method with very mild to no pain.
People can be affected by allergies in different ways and allergies are not a "one size fits all." There are food allergies, seasonal allergies, animals, dust, and so on. Sometimes you can just treat yourself with over the counter antihistamines but more severe cases will require you to see an Allergist or possibly an ENT.
So how do you know if it is a cold or flu and not allergies? Here are a few clues:
For more information:
Thursday, May 21, 2020
Asthma Awareness
This month is Asthma Awareness Month. With the COVID-19 pandemic currently adversely affecting people with lung disorders at a disproportionally high rate, it is essential that we educate ourselves on lung health.
According to the Ohio Department of Health, Asthma is one of the most common lifelong chronic diseases. More than 1 million people in Ohio have been diagnosed with Asthma. Despite this being an incurable disease, people can live long happy, and healthy lives by having good self-management and getting proper treatment from their physician.
So what is Asthma? It is a condition where your airways are narrowed and swell and make breathing difficult. This can cause coughing, wheezing, and or shortness of breath. There are 2 types of Asthma; Intermittent and Persistent. The main difference between the 2 in the frequency in symptoms.
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As with any medical condition, the first step is to always contact your primary care physician for more information on diagnosis and how to manage your symptoms. A few suggestions on ways you can manage your symptoms are:
- Create an Asthma management plan with your healthcare provider
- Reduce your Asthma triggers
- Monitor your symptoms
For more information on how to take control of your Asthma, visit lung.org
Learn More About Asthma:
Friday, May 15, 2020
What is Lupus?
90% of people that have Lupus are women. Over 1 million Americans currently have it.
Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because its signs and symptoms are often similar to those of other illnesses. The most distinctive sign of lupus is a facial rash that resembles the wings of a butterfly unfolding across both cheeks. Just because someone has this rash does not mean they have Lupus.
Some people are born lupus and there is currently no cure but treatments can help control symptoms.
The signs and symptoms of lupus that you experience will depend on which body systems are affected by the disease, but you should always consult a doctor before self-diagnosing.
There are a couple types of Lupus:
- Cutaneous
- Drug-induced
- Neonatal
Understanding the differences and how you can stay healthy is your best bet when battling Lupus.
Helpful Info
Thursday, May 7, 2020
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
#breakthestigma
May puts a focus on mental health and helps to bring awareness to the millions of people who are affected each day. Mental health includes a number of aspects that ultimately affect your overall wellbeing. The state of your mental health can affect how you act, feel, and think about different situations. It is important to know that you are not alone in what you are going through. 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness in any given year.
There are many causes for mental illnesses but ultimately, if you are experiencing something, it is crucial to seek help as soon as possible! Some people are predisposed due to biological factors or trauma and sometimes there really isn't a reason at all. It is essential to know that there is no single cause for mental illness.
It is also helpful to know the warning signs of someone who may be experiencing a mental health crisis. Sometimes people need help and don't know how to ask. Some of the signs can include: sleeping too much or not enough, feeling hopeless, smoking or drinking more than usual, fighting with friends and family for no reason, self-harm, and inability to perform daily tasks (i.e. taking care of children, going to work).
For more information on Mental Health:
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Hobbies, Habits and New found activities
As each day brings something new to all of us, we adapt right along with it. Spending so much time at home can be daunting for some and comforting for many others. Trying to look at a situation with rose-colored glasses isn't always easy either, but many of us have been coping by trying out new activities and creating new routines to keep us motivated each and every day. Is there a certification you have been putting off? Do you have a recipe book from your great Aunt Bertha that has been collecting dusk but is full of gems? Is your sister having a baby and you need to get her something 'meaningful' but you don't know what to craft?
Now-a-days people pride themselves on having "Masters' in YouTube" but perhaps there is something to that. There is so much free and original content on there, that you can essentially find the answer to anything you want. Some suggestions for how-tos to look for on you-tube are:
Check out other learning platforms with certified instructors and ideas for new hobbies:
Now-a-days people pride themselves on having "Masters' in YouTube" but perhaps there is something to that. There is so much free and original content on there, that you can essentially find the answer to anything you want. Some suggestions for how-tos to look for on you-tube are:- workout, exercise or dance videos
- food reviews
- music videos
- household fixes
- learn an instrument
- woodworking
Check out other learning platforms with certified instructors and ideas for new hobbies:
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