Medical Monday with Dr. Randall Snook on Channel 2

Each Monday Dr. Snook picks a medical topic to discuss on the air live at 7:35 am on Channel 2.

List of Topics

• Topic for February 20, 2012 - "How Does Your Doctor Keep Track Of Prescriptions Written For Drugs That Are Controlled By The DEA?"
• Topic for February 13, 2012 - "Recreational Noise: Are You Using Your iPod/Ear Buds At Too High A Volume?"
• Topic for February 06, 2012 - "Vaccinate Against The Flu: It's Not Too Late!"
• Topic for January 30, 2012 - "Should We Be Lowering The Amount Of Salt In Our Diets?"
• Topic for January 23, 2012 - "Is Buying Medicines Over The Internet Safe?"
• Topic for January 16, 2012 - "Generic Drugs: Should You Be Taking These Cheaper Medications?"
• Topic for January 09, 2012 - "Memory Loss: When Should You Seek Help For Yourself or a Loved One."
• Topic for January 02, 2012 - "Simplify Your Life To Reduce Your Stress And Improve Your Health!"
• Topic for December 26, 2011 - "Tips On How To Keep That Weight-Loss New Year's Resolution!"
• Topic for December 19, 2011 - "Undrstanding The Symptoms Of A Heart Attack"
• Topic for December 12, 2011 - "How To Start Lowering Your Cholesterol Without Medication!"
• Topic for December 05, 2011 - "Diabetes: An Epidemic In America, What Can You Do To Prevent You From Developing Type 2 Diabetes!"
• Topic for November 28, 2011 - "Are You SAD? Do You Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?"
• Topic for November 21, 2011 - "How To Survive The Holiday Feeding Frenzy Without Completely Blowing Your Diet!"
• Topic for November 14, 2011 - "My Common Cold Won't Go Away!"
• Topic for November 07, 2011 - "It's Common Cold Season! (Part One)"
• Topic for October 31, 2011 - "Holloween: Can I Lose Weight Eating Candy?.....Well Maybe?"
• Topic for October 24, 2011 - "So You Think You Want Your PSA Tested?"
• Topic for October 17, 2011 - "The Spice of Life... and Health?"
• Topic for October 10, 2011 - "RELAX! It Could Improve Your Health!"
• Topic for October 03, 2011 - "STRESS: Constant stress can put your health at serious risk"
• Topic for September 26, 2011 - "Teens and Alcohol"
• Topic for September 19, 2011 - "An Epidemic in America: What Can Parents Do To Stop Childhood Obesity?"
• Topic for September 12, 2011 - "Are You Suffering From Allergies, This Time Of Year?"
• Topic for September 05, 2011 - "How can you protect yourself from flu?"
• Topic for August 29, 2011 - "Over-The-Counter Pain Medications: What's Safe and Effective For You"
• Topic for August 22, 2011 - "WATER: Do You EAT Enough Water?"
• Topic for August 15, 2011 - "Men's Preventative Health"
• Topic for August 08, 2011 - "Dr. Snook takes a look at preventative care for women"
• Topic for August 01, 2011 - "How do you know if you're sleep deprived"
• Topic for July 25, 2011 - "New guidelines for mammograms"
• Topic for July 18, 2011 - "Dr. Snook explains how to get a good night's sleep"
• Topic for July 11, 2011 - "Burning Calories at Work"
• Topic for July 04, 2011 - "Safe & healthy 4th of July cooking"
• Topic for June 20, 2011 - "Heat Cramps/Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke"
• Topic for June 13, 2011 - "Seasonal Allergies"

Topic for February 13, 2012 - "How Does Your Doctor Keep Track Of Prescriptions Written For Drugs That Are Controlled By The DEA?"

You may have been prescribed a pain, anxiety, insomnia or stimulant medication that is monitored by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

These medications are called 'controlled substances' as they require your Doctor to have a specific prescription license to write for these.

The reason why the have to have this special certificate is these medications have potential for causing problems with abuse, dependence and addiction.

Definitions:

• Drug abuse is the deliberate use of a medication beyond a Doctor's prescription.
• Drug dependence occurs when the body develops tolerance to the drug meaning higher doses are needed for the same effect.
• Drug addiction occurs when a person has drug dependence but also displays psychological effects--compulsive behavior to obtain the drug, craving for the drug, and use despite negative consequences such as legal problems and job loss.

There are four categories that the controlled medications fall into:

• Schedule II: high potential for addiction--morphine, opium, oxycodone, fentanyl, hydromorphone, methadone, meperidine, and the stimulants amphetamine, methamphetamine, and methylphenidate.
• Schedule III: moderate potential for addiction--hydrocodone (vicodin, vicoprofen) and codeine.
• Schedule IV: low potential for addiction--darvon, darvocet, the anxiety medications xanax, klonopin, valium, ativan, versed, and the insomnia medications halcion and restoril.
• Schedule V: low potential for addiction--the anti-cough, anti-diarrheal and analgesic preparations with limited amounts of codeine and hydrocodone.

How can your Doctor monitor how a patient has been filling their controlled substance prescriptions?

Your Doctor can login to a website hosted by the Colorado Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (CPDMP) to which all registered Colorado pharmacies must report to when dispensing all schedule II thru V medications.

The pharmacy must supply not only the name of the patient, specific medication and date filled but also the quantity and the Doctor who prescribed it.

A pharmacy can be fined for failure to comply with this requirement.

This website is accessible to all qualified Physicians, Dentists, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Veterinarians, Pharmacists, Podiatrists, and Optometrists practicing in Colorado.

Always be sure to follow the exact directions and warnings written on the bottle of all controlled substances and ask your Doctor if you are concerned about how you are taking any controlled prescription drug.

Topic for February 13, 2012 - "Recreational Noise: Are You Using Your iPod/Ear Buds At Too High A Volume?"

There are over 175 million iPod users in the world today.

Blasting your iPod or another portable music player has now been shown to cause temporary and possibly permanent hearing loss.

Occupational noise exposure can lead to noise-induced hearing loss but less is known about the long term and short term effects of recreational noise.

Here are some of the facts we've learned from the University of Colorado and the Children's Hospital of Boston research:

• Many people assume there device has a maximum volume default setting that is safe.
• Current devices will produce noise up to 115 dB at maximum volume, the level of noise from a chainsaw or rock concert.
• At full volume damage can begin after just 5 minutes.
• Listening at 80% of full volume or greater for more than 90 minutes per day can lead to damage to delicate hair cells in the inner ear.
• Many people listen for longer periods of time due to longer lasting batteries delivering power for 15 hours or more and larger play lists.
• The risk of damage increases the longer the period of time spent at higher volumes and can be permanent.

Here are some sound recommendations for use of portable music devices for you and your teens:

• Always keep the volume at less than 80% of full volume. I recommend no more than 50%!
• Limit the length of time you use your ear buds to less than 90 minutes.
• If you can clearly hear the lyrics of the songs your teen is listening to when standing next to them, it is too high of a volume!
• The louder the volume the less time it can take for your hearing to be affected.
• Avoid turning up the volume to block out noisy surroundings, you should always be able to hear people speaking near you.

One of the first signs of damage is ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or hear muffled speech.

Get your hearing checked as soon as you suspect you have acquired any hearing loss.

Always remember that hearing loss can sneak up on you and can be permanent.

Noise induced hearing loss from music devices is completely avoidable!

Topic for February 06, 2012 - "Vaccinate Against The Flu: It's Not Too Late! "

The peak time for people getting Influenza, the "flu", is just getting started in the United States.

Typically, the months of February and March are when the highest number of Americans suffer from the "flu" and the complications of this viral disease.

If you did not receive a flu shot back in the fall of 2011 it's not too late!

Getting your shot now will protect you within the next two weeks as the incidence of flu revs up.

Who should get it:

• The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone 6 months of age or older.
• Vaccination of high risk persons is especially important to decrease the risk of severe flu illness and includes young children less than 5 and especially less than 2 years, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and people over 65 years of age.
• Health care workers and people who live with or care for high risk people.
• People who care for children less than 6 months of age.

But what's the difference between the "flu" and a "cold" as this time of year many people catch a common cold?

The real flu has some very typical symptoms in people who truly have it:

• Fever (or feeling feverish with chills), and the majority of the time very high fever (>102F); colds usually are low grade fever (<101F).
• Cough from the very beginning that can be deep in the chest; colds may develop a cough later in the course of the illness.
• Severe body and muscle aches; less likely with most colds.
• Sore throat. This can be present with both.
• Runny or stuffy nose. This can be present with both.
• Headache. This can be present with both.
• Fatigue. Can be severe with the flu.
• Some people can have vomiting and diarrhea with the flu, though this is more common in children than adults.

Vaccination against the flu can protect you from getting the flu or decrease the severity of the flu if you contract it.

Your Doctor can test you for the flu and begin treatment if you are diagnosed with influenza.

The sooner the treatment is started the faster the flu will resolve.

The symptoms of the flu can last 2 weeks or longer, especially if left untreated.

Topic for January 30, 2012 - "Should We Be Lowering The Amount Of Salt In Our Diets?"

Salt has always been suspected of causing health problems if too much is consumed.

Recent studies have shed new light on how reducing salt intake can reduce blood pressure and ultimately the incidence of strokes and heart attacks.

Salt was originally discovered by the Chinese as a way to preserve food over 5000 years ago.

Signs of a trustworthy Web site:

• It is located in the United States.
• It is licensed by the state board of pharmacy where the Web site is operating.
• It has a licensed pharmacist available to answer questions.
• It requires a prescription for prescription medications from your Doctor.
• It provides contact information and allows you to talk to a person if you have problems or questions.

A way to check on a Web site is to look for the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy's (NABP) Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites Seal (VIPPS Seal) or visit www.nabp.info for a list of state boards of pharmacy to see if the Web site is licensed.

Using an unsafe Web site could result in:

• Receiving drugs with unknown quality or origin.
• Receiving the wrong drug or another dangerous product for your illness.
• Not providing any way for you to contact the Web site by phone.
• "To good to be true" dramatically lower prices than the competition for inferior quality medicines.
• Breaking the law by selling prescription drugs without a prescription!
• Your personal information being unprotected!

Be aware that some drugs sold online:

• Are too old, too strong, or too weak.
• Are not FDA approved.
• Are not made using safe standards.
• Are not safe to use with other medicines or products.
• Are not labeled, stored, or shipped correctly.
• May be counterfeit, fake, or copycat products!

Always be extremely cautious when looking for and purchasing prescription and over-the-counter medications online to protect yourself and your personal information.

Please report unsafe or suspicious sites to the FDA by going to http//www.fda.gov/Safety/ReportaProblem/ucm059315.htm.

Topic for January 16, 2012 - "Generic Drugs: Should You Be Taking These Cheaper Medications?"

Forty four percent of all prescriptions written in the United States are filled as generics.

Generics can cost 30 to 90% less than branded medications.

How do branded medications become generic:

• New drugs are developed by innovators.
• Patents protect these companies' investments by giving them sole rights to produce and sell the medication.
• When patents are near expiration other manufacturers can apply to the FDA to sell generic versions.

Commonly asked questions about generics:

• What are generics? They are simply a copy of the original drug.
• Are generics safe? Yes, the FDA regulates all generic manufacturers similar to brand name manufacturers.
• Are generics as strong as their branded counterparts? Yes, the FDA regulates generics to be within a very small percentage of the strength of the branded product.
• Why are generics cheaper? The generic manufacturer does not have the investment costs the branded company had to put up: research, development, marketing and promotion. Also competition among many generic manufacturers drives the price down as well.
• Where are generics made? Fifty percent of generic drugs are produced or linked to the original brand company. The FDA conducts inspections of all generic and brand name companies.
• Why do generics look different from the branded version? Trademark laws require that the generics do not look like the original branded medication.
• Does every brand name medication have a generic? No, because the patent on a branded drug lasts for 20 years and can be extended for variations of the original drug.

There are very few exceptions to not substitute a brand name for a generic.

Two medications where I recommend not substituting a branded for a generic:

• Synthroid/Levoxyl thyroid medications have very small increments between doses and potency can vary from one generic company to the next.
• Coumadin blood thinner medication has small graduations of dosage and requires it's effectiveness to be measured routinely. Potency can vary from one generic company to the next.

Other than these two medications, you can be confident your generic medication is safe, strong enough, as effective and cheaper then the branded counterpart.

Topic for January 09, 2012 - "Memory Loss: When Should You Seek Help For Yourself or a Loved One."

Memory Loss: When Should You Seek Help For Yourself or a Loved One.

Now that the holidays have passed, did you notice a visiting loved one who seemed to be having trouble with their memory?

Everyone forgets things at some time. How often have you misplaced your car keys or forgotten the name of a person you just met?

Some degree of memory problems, as well as a modest decline in other thinking skills, is a fairly common part of aging.

There's a difference, however, between normal changes in memory and the type of memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.

Some memory problems are the result of treatable conditions. If you're experiencing memory problems, talk to your doctor to get a timely diagnosis and appropriate care.

Memory loss and aging

Normal age-related memory loss doesn't prevent you from living a full and productive life.

For example, you may forget a person's name, but recall it later in the day. You might misplace your glasses occasionally. Or maybe you find that you need to make lists more often than in the past in order to remember appointments or tasks.

These changes in memory are generally manageable and don't disrupt your ability to work, live independently or maintain a social life.

Memory loss and dementia

The word "dementia" is an umbrella term used to describe a set of symptoms, including impairment in memory, reasoning, judgment, language and other thinking skills.

Dementia begins gradually in most cases, worsens over time and significantly impairs a person's abilities in work, social interactions and relationships.

Often, memory loss is one of the first or more recognizable signs of dementia. Other early signs may include:

• Asking the same questions repeatedly
• Forgetting common words when speaking
• Mixing words up - saying "bed" instead of "table," for example
• Taking longer to complete familiar tasks, such as following a recipe
• Misplacing items in inappropriate places, such as putting a wallet in a kitchen drawer
• Getting lost while walking or driving around a familiar neighborhood
• Undergoing sudden changes in mood or behavior for no apparent reason
• Becoming less able to follow directions

Reversible causes of memory loss

Many medical problems can cause memory loss or other dementia-like symptoms.

Possible causes of reversible memory loss include:

• Medications. A single medication or a certain combination of medications may result in forgetfulness or confusion.
• Minor head trauma or injury. A head injury from a fall or accident - even an injury that doesn't result in a loss of consciousness - may cause memory problems.
• Depression or other mental health disorders. Stress, anxiety or depression can cause forgetfulness, confusion, difficulty concentrating and other problems that disrupt daily activities.
• Alcoholism. Chronic alcoholism can seriously impair mental abilities. Alcohol can also cause memory loss by interacting with medications.
• Vitamin B-12 deficiency. Vitamin B-12 helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. A vitamin B-12 deficiency - common in older adults - can cause memory problems.
• Hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) slows the processing of nutrients to create energy for cells (metabolism). Hypothyroidism can result in forgetfulness and other thinking problems.
• Tumors. A tumor in the brain may cause memory problems or other dementia-like symptoms.

When to see your doctor

If you're concerned about memory loss, see your doctor.

He or she can conduct tests to judge the degree of memory impairment and diagnose the cause.

Your doctor is likely to have a number of questions for you, and you will benefit by having a family member or friend along to answer some questions based on his or her observations.

Getting a prompt diagnosis is important, even if it's a challenging step.

Identifying a reversible cause of memory impairment enables you to get appropriate treatment.

Topic for January 02, 2012 - "Simplify Your Life To Reduce Your Stress And Improve Your Health!"

How can you decrease your stress?

Simplify your life and de-clutter your life and mind and you can significantly improve your health.

Now that we are past the Holiday Season of hustle and bustle, it's time to simplify.

Discover the value of living a more balanced, less stressful, deliberate and thoughtful life.

Here's what to do:

• Clear the clutter. Pick one area of your home and take a hard look. Clear out the items you are not using and either donate, sell, store or throw away.
• Switch off the media. Turn off the TV's, radios, smart phones, laptops and video games. This is audio-visual clutter.
• Clear your calendar. Only say yes to activities you really care about and learn to say no. Too many activities is often the cause of great stress.
• Stop the multi-tasking. This is a form of mind clutter. This happens when our attention gets spread too thin and we are unable to get into the "zone".

Clutter not only causes us to be irritated by not being able to find something but also sends a visual message that our life is out of control.

Disorder brings about procrastination which only perpetuates more chaos.

To make matters worse, when you're under stress, cortisol, our main stress hormone, short-circuits your brain leading to forgetfulness, irritation and meltdowns.

It's not just the home that gets cluttered but your mind as well can be overcrowded with junk.

So simplify, simplify, simplify! The road to better health is as simple as that!

Topic for December 26, 2011 - "Tips On How To Keep That Weight-Loss New Year's Resolution!"

Is your New Year's resolution to lose weight in 2012?

It is not uncommon to approach resolutions with lots of enthusiasm at the start.

After a couple weeks however, your enthusiasm often lessens and it's easy to fall back into old habits.

These old habits seem comfortable and easy to fall back into, but they don't help you lose weight or improve your health.

Before you give up on this year's resolution to lose weight and even before you start, consider this:

• Are you ready? Is this a good time in your life to make that commitment? Can you devote time to planning and implementing the changes?
• Do you have a good plan? Much of your success is in the planning. Write your diet out and make exercise an actual appointment on your calendar you must keep, or else.
• Can you enjoy the process? Many find that when they exercise and lose weight they feel better. Also, there are lots of great tasting foods that are also healthy and abundant sources to find them.
• Focus on short term "process" goals while keeping long term "outcome" goals in mind. Losing 40 pounds is done one pound at a time. Examples are committing to eat one more serving of fruits and vegetables every day or walking 30 minutes per day. Emphasize short term process goals to eventually reach the long term outcome goal of losing weight.

Always remember that weight loss can be a slow process. Be patient as there is no "quick fix".

If you are struggling to keep up a diet and exercise program during the program, your chances of maintaining weight loss diminish considerably after the program ends.

Therefore, by developing sustainable strategies from the beginning, you will likely be able to maintain your weight loss.

Daily exercise should always be a part of a healthy lifestyle along with a healthy diet!

Topic for December 19, 2011 - "Undrstanding The Symptoms Of A Heart Attack"

About every 34 seconds, someone in the United States suffers from a heart attack!

Every year, tens of thousands of Americans survive heart attacks, and are able to enjoy a normal life.

Heart disease is when plaque forms in the arteries that bring oxygen to the heart muscle.

Symptoms of heart disease, which can be a warning of an impending heart attack, are when ordinary physical activity causes you to experience:

• Undue fatigue.
• Palpitations which are the sensation that your heart is skipping a beat or 'racing', beating too rapidly.
• Dyspnea which is difficult or labored breathing.
• Angina pain which is either classified as stable (chest pain with exertion only) or unstable (chest pain even at rest known as 'acute coronary syndrome').

Heart Attack!

Most heart attacks start slowly with mild pain or discomfort.

The signs that can mean a heart attack may be happening are:

• Chest discomfort or pain described as crushing, squeezing, burning pain or pressure, fullness or a feeling of an elephant on your chest.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as the neck, one or both arms, the neck and jaw or upper back.
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
• Other signs like nausea, heartburn or indigestion, sweating or clammy feeling, or dizziness, lightheadedness or even fainting.

Women are more likely than men to present with 'atypical' chest pain meaning symptoms other than chest pain. They can present with some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, back, neck or jaw pain.

Learn these signs as the key to survival is to get help fast. Even if your not sure it's a heart attack, call 9-1-1. Minutes matter and fast action can save lives....maybe your own!

Topic for December 12, 2011 - "How To Start Lowering Your Cholesterol Without Medication!"

42 million Americans have high cholesterol and another 63 million have borderline high cholesterol.

High cholesterol is a major risk factor for the development of a heart attack or stroke due to plaque formation in your arteries (atherosclerosis).

Here are some simple ways to reduce your cholesterol that are 'non prescription' to start lowering your risk for heart attack and stroke:

• Portion control: use your hand as a guide to the size of portions of meat (palm), fruit (fist), and veggies (cupped hand).
• Serve up mostly heart healthy foods: 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
• Go to the sea twice a week: eat fish twice a week, good for omega-3 fatty acids.
• Whole grains: oatmeal or whole grain cereal to start your day and brown rice, quinoa or whole wheat pastas/breads.
• Go nuts: a handful of almonds daily.
• Unsaturated fats: you need 25-35% of your calories to come from fat, use only canola, olive and safflower oils.
• Beans, beans: eat fewer potatoes and more beans.
• Exercise: 30 minutes of vigorous activity 5 times a week and walk or take the stairs instead of driving or elevators.
• If you are 'eating out' at a restaurant: pick a dish that is broiled, baked, steamed, or grilled, not deep fat fried.
• Reduce your stress.
• Lose weight.
• Follow your Doctors' advice.

Diet, exercise and weight loss are always 'sure fire' ways to help lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Here is also an extensive list of foods and other products known for lowering cholesterol:

Mayo Clinic Likely Effective List:

• Artichoke
• Barley
• Beta Sitosterol-from certain margarines and 'Promise'
• Blond Psyllium-from seed husks and 'Metamucil'
• Garlic
• Oat Bran-from oatmeal and whole oats
• Sitostanol-from certain margarines and 'Benecol'
• Others-Fish oil, flaxseed (ground), green tea extract, red yeast rice

WebMD Effective List:

• Niacin (Vitamin B3)
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

WebMD Likely Effective List:

• Beta Sitosterol
• Blond Psyllium
• Kefir
• Oats
• Sitostanol

WebMD Possibly Effective List:

• Alfalfa --Macadamia Nut
• Artichoke --Magnesium
• Avocado --Olive
• Barley --Pectin
• Beta Glucans --Red Yeast Rice
• Black Psyllium --Rice Bran
• Calcium --Safflower
• English Walnut --Soy
• Flaxseed --Soybean Oil
• Green Tea --Sweet Orange
• Guar Gum --Yogurt
• Jiaogulan
• Others: Red Wine, Almonds, Cashews, Beans, Chocolate, Spinach

Topic for December 05, 2011 - "Diabetes: An Epidemic In America, What Can You Do To Prevent You From Developing Type 2 Diabetes!"

By 2020, 1 in 2 Americans could have Diabetes!

Type 2 Diabetes (Adult Onset) can be prevented with weight loss, diet and exercise.

Always try to maintain a healthier weight: know your ideal BMI (body mass index) for your heighth and sex.

Exercise daily: 2 1/2 hours of moderate exercise per week.

Eat healthier.

Here are some ways to approach your diet to help prevent Diabetes:

• Total amount, not the type, of carbohydrate is key: limit the amount.
• Dish out proper portions of the food groups, no measurement needed: your plate has 1/2 vegetables, 1/4 starch/grains, 1/4 protein.
• The right "white" bread: white whole wheat flour only.
• Learn to love whole grains: whole wheat and brown rice.
• Instead of brown rice some strange but great alternatives: bulgur, quinoa, couscous, millet, barley, or wheat berries.
• Watch out for "faux" whole grains: "multigrain" or "cracked wheat" are mostly made of flour.
• Alternative sweet snacks: low fat yogurt with sliced banana and blueberries/blackberries.
• Can have all the "free food" you want: zero calorie foods like edamame.
• Drink smarter: replace soda with herbal tea or seltzer water, coffee (yes, coffee may increase insulin sensitivity).
• Add some spice to your life: cinnamon may increase your insulin sensitivity.
• Chromium in your supplements: this trace metal may also increase insulin sensitivity.
• Popcorn: yes, popcorn is a whole grain and a great alternative to chips (but hold the fattening butter).

The Bottom Line: lose weight, exercise daily, limit your carbohydrates, eat those whole grains and cut out the junk food and you can help stop this epidemic from becoming a reality!

Topic for November 28, 2011 - "Are You SAD? Do You Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?"

Some people experience a serious mood change during the winter months, when there is less natural sunlight.

This condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.

SAD is a type of depression.

Here are the symptoms of SAD:

• Sad, anxious or empty feelings.
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.
• Irritability or restlessness.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you would normally enjoy.
• Fatigue and decreased energy.
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Changes in weight.
• Thoughts of death or suicide.

SAD is a serious condition - a subtype of major depressive disorder in which life can be severely compromised.

Far more of us experience similar but less intense symptoms, becoming just short of clinically depressed.

What can you do to prevent being SAD?

• Stop hitting the snooze button. Keep the same sleep hours on weekdays and weekends.
• Eat at the same time every day and no later than 8:00 PM for dinner. Our biological clocks respond to meal timing and consistency is king.
• Schedule some outside time in outdoor light. Nothing beats real sunlight to help cure the winter doldrums.
• Exercise daily and try to avoid late day workouts.
• "Let there be light" and use a light-therapy box 30 minutes before work.

Light therapy probably won't cure seasonal affective disorder, depression or other conditions. But it may ease symptoms, increase your energy levels and help you feel better about yourself and life.

Light therapy can start to improve symptoms within just a few days. In some cases, though, it can take two or more weeks.

If you are still feeling blue despite actively trying to lighten your days, check in with your Doctor as you may have clinically significant depression.

Topic for November 21, 2011 - "How To Survive The Holiday Feeding Frenzy Without Completely Blowing Your Diet!"

Throughout the holiday season, temptations are everywhere -- a busy social schedule, office and school parties, family functions, and neighborly gestures of sweets and treats. You need a strategy for dealing with the abundance of calories that are part and parcel of the holiday season.

Most people gain 2-5 pounds each year during the feasting season that starts at Thanksgiving and ends New Year's Day.

The plan: Aim to hold steady at your current weight and focus on not gaining any additional pounds by Jan. 1.

It is so hard to resist temptation, but it gets easier if you're equipped with a plan. Follow these tips to help you survive family gatherings without sabotaging your diet:

• Review your eating plan and see if you can reserve a few food items during the week to save up for the holiday feast. Getting hungry between meals can lead to bingeing, and we sure don't want that to happen!
• Portion control is critical to prevent weight gain. Enjoy small portions of foods high in fat and calories, share a dessert, limit alcohol, and fill up on simply prepared, nutritious selections like turkey breast and vegetables.
• Enjoy a small but filling meal before the gathering to prevent overeating. A salad, a bowl of vegetable soup, or a sandwich on whole-grain bread are all good examples of mini-meals.
• Don't stand near the buffet or appetizers at a holiday gathering. It's hard to know when you've had enough food when you stand around nibbling!

Other ways to set the stage to eat less or maintain your same weight:

• Make time for exercise.
• Bring a healthy dish.
• Host a nutritious party.
• Don't fall for the "eat, eat, eat" from family members.
• Make new traditions, start the day with a family activity or a walk, make lighter recipes, and most important, move food out of the limelight and focus on the love and fellowship of family and friends.

Remember, the real reason we gather is to celebrate the holidays, together.

Topic for November 14, 2011 - "My Common Cold Won't Go Away!"

To review the symptoms of the common cold they are a runny nose, scratchy/sore throat, cough, watery eyes, sneezing, congestion, low grade fever, body aches and mild fatigue.

Last week we listed the things you can do to help you get through the 7-10 days a typical viral cold will last for.

When do you need to seek help from your Doctor?

In general adults should see your Doctor if:

• Your fever is greater than or equal to 103 degrees F.
• Your fever is accompanied by sweating, chills and colored secretions lasting more than 3-4 days.
• You have significantly swollen glands in the neck.
• You have severe face or sinus pain.
• Your symptoms have lasted more than 10 days.

For your children you have them see their Doctor if:

• They are 2 years or older and have fever greater than or equal to 103 degrees F.
• They are 6 weeks to two years of age and have fever greater than or equal to 102 degrees F.
• They are a newborn to 6 weeks of age and have a fever greater than 100 degrees F.
• Your child has signs of dehydration, not drinking enough fluids or is not urinating.
• Your child has a fever lasting more than 3 days.
• Your child has vomiting or abdominal pain.
• Your child has unusual sleepiness.
• Your child has a headache, stiff neck, or ear pain.
• Your child has persistent crying, a persistent cough, or difficulty breathing.

These are the complications that can occur from a common cold and likely do require antibiotics: (remember this started as a viral illness)

• Acute ear infections.
• Sinusitis.
• Wheezing.
• A secondary infection occurs such as strep throat, pneumonia, bronchitis in adults and croup in children.

Topic for November 07, 2011 - "It's Common Cold Season! (Part One)"

The common cold is an upper respiratory tract (nose and throat) infection caused by a virus.

The symptoms can be a runny nose, scratchy/sore throat, cough, watery eyes, sneezing, congestion, low grade fever, body aches and mild fatigue.

There are over 100 viruses that can cause a cold and preschoolers are at greatest risk to get frequent colds but anyone can be at risk during the most common seasons, fall and winter.

Colds can last seven to ten days and your secretions can thicken and turn yellow or green as it runs its course.

Treatment:

• There is no cure for the common cold.
• Antibiotics are of no use and do not hasten the recovery.
• Over the counter (OTC) medications won't cure or make the cold go away sooner and merely treat some of the symptoms and can often have significant undesirable side effects.
• Pain relievers, decongestant nasal sprays and cough syrups all have significant complications associated with them and are not recommended in children under four years of age without consulting your Pediatrician first.
• Lifestyle and home remedies are the best way to get through a cold.

Lifestyle and home remedies:

• Drink lots of fluids.
• Yes, chicken soup does help!
• Rest.
• Stay in a warm room with some humidity.
• Salt water gargles and saline nasal spray/drops.
• Zinc, vitamin C and echinacea.

Prevention:

• Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face.
• Scrub your stuff.
• Use tissues.
• Don't share your stuff.
• Steer clear of colds.
• Choose your child care wisely.

Next week we will go over how to know when your cold has gotten the best of you and when you need to see a Doctor.

Topic for October 31, 2011 - "Holloween: Can I Lose Weight Eating Candy?.....Well Maybe?"

Some weight loss studies show that including a little candy in your diet can make a diet easier to follow.

BUT, for the best results allow no more than 100-200 calories a day for your candy treat: a small snack-size chocolate bar.

The truth of the matter is CHOCOLATE can be HEALTHY!

Not all chocolate has the benefits. The best for your health is solid dark chocolate.

The health benefits come from the flavanoids, a phytochemical found in the cacao bean from which cocoa is produced.

Dark chocolate has the highest percentage of cocoa and therefore the highest percentage of flavanoids.

What does it help health wise?

• Heart health
• Blood pressure reduction
• Reduces LDL (bad cholesterol)
• Increases blood flow to the brain
• May improve blood sugar

How much chocolate per day do I get? One ounce of dark chocolate.

Amount of flavanoids depends on the concentration of cocoa:

• Inexpensive milk chocolate has a mere 7%
• Most milk chocolate has 50%
• Dark chocolate has 70%+!

So....Eat that dark chocolate daily and help you health!

Topic for October 24, 2011 - "So You Think You Want Your PSA Tested?"

Recently the US Preventative Task Force issued new guidelines for Doctors to follow regarding the use of PSA (prostate-specific antigen) for screening men for prostate cancer.

Their recommendation came from a communication actually dated November 2009, and now recommends against routine screening by the use of the PSA blood test in all men, not just those greater than 75 years old, as the old guideline stated.

This new recommendation is not supported by many in the medical community that deal with mens' health and prostate cancer on a daily basis.

Here are some of the facts surrounding this controversy.

• What is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA)? This a protein produced by the cells of the prostate gland and is used as a 'biological marker' to detect disease of the prostate.
• Why is the PSA test performed? The US FDA has approved the PSA to be used along with a digital rectal exam (DRE) to detect prostate cancer in men 50 years or older.
• For whom might a PSA screening test be recommended? Prior to the USPTF report, Doctors recommended routine screening by PSA and DRE for men 50 years of age and older or younger if they had a family history or were high risk for prostate cancer.
• What if the screening test results show an elevated PSA level? A man should discuss an elevated PSA test with his Doctor as there can different reasons for an elevation including prostate cancer, benign prostate enlargement, inflammation, infection, age and race.
• What are some of the limitations of the PSA test? Detecting tumors does not always mean saving lives as prostate cancer tumors can be very slow growing or fast growing and aggressive. There can be false-positive and false-negative tests leading to unnecessary tests or false reassurance.
• Why is the PSA test controversial in screening? It is not yet known for certain if this test actually saves lives and some of the follow up diagnostic tests and treatments for prostate cancer can cause harmful side effects.

The bottom line: PSA testing, by itself, is not recommended for screening for prostate cancer but requires discussion between the Doctor and the patient to determine his overall risk of prostate cancer and when this test should be performed.

Topic for October 17, 2011 - "The Spice of Life... and Health?"

Certain spices and herbs not only can make your food have zing to it but can also contribute to better health.

Using spices and herbs can help you cut back your use of fat, sugar, and salt in your cooking, helping your waistline, blood pressure and overall health.

Here are some examples of spices and herbs found in most kitchens that can have health benefits:

• Basil used in pizza and pesto has anti-inflammatory properties, contains flavonoids which can shield a persons cells from radiation, antibacterial capabilities.
• Cinnamon for baked treats and warm beverages, has implications it can help lower blood glucose levels, increase insulin sensitivity and improve lipid profiles.
• Cilantro found in salsas, guacamole and salads, contains anti-inflammatory properties, is a good source of iron, magnesium, and manganese, can also help control blood sugar and cholesterol.
• Chili pepper or powder used to turn up the heat in food does that to you as well, raising your temperature and heart rate thought to increase your metabolism. Capsaicin, found in peppers, accelerates energy expenditure, increases fat oxidation, decreases fat intake, and has anti-inflammatory capabilities.
• Garlic, for the Italian in all of us, has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral capabilities. It can also lower cholesterol, lower your risk for some cancers and fight heart disease.
• Parsley, sometimes sitting lonely at the edge of the plate, is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K and contains antioxidants for heart health.
• Mint seen in tea, ice cream, toothpaste and more, contains vitamins A and C, has antioxidants and can decrease your risk for some cancers, treat upset stomach and heartburn, loosen congestion and calm the soul.
• Ginger found in asian dishes has good gastrointestinal relief and may play a role in preventing inflammation. Due to its antioxidant properties it may also help prevent some cancers and boost immunity.
• Tumeric (curcumin) found in curry powder, the curcumin, which gives tumeric its yellow color, may reduce your risk for some cancers, reduce the incidence of Alzheimer's disease, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits as well.

So spice up you life and foods with this wonderful list of herbs and spices and get healthy!

Topic for October 10, 2011 - "RELAX! It Could Improve Your Health!"

There are tremendous health benefits to be had when relaxation techniques are used to reduce the stress of responsibilities and tasks or the demands an illness can have on the body and mind.

Relaxation reduces stress by:

• the heart rate.
• Lowering blood pressure.
• Slowing your breathing rate.
• Increasing blood flow to major muscles.
• Reducing muscle tension and chronic pain.
• Improving concentration.
• Reducing anger and frustration.
• Boosting confidence to handle problems.

Relaxation techniques involve refocusing your attention on something calming and increasing awareness of your body.

Types of relaxation techniques:

• Autogenic relaxation comes from within you and uses both visual imagery and body awareness. You repeat words or suggestions in your mind to relax and reduce muscle tension.
• Progressive muscle relaxation focuses on slowly tensing and then relaxing each muscle group. This helps you focus on the difference between muscle tension and relaxation.
• Visualization is when you form mental images to take a visual journey to a peaceful, calming place or situation. Try to use as many senses as you can, including smell, sight, sound and touch.
• Hypnosis
• Massage
• Meditation
• Tai Chi
• Yoga

Relaxation takes practice and as you perform these techniques you will become more aware of muscle tension and other physical sensations of stress.

Make a conscious effort to practice a relaxation technique the moment you start to feel stress symptoms.

AIM EXTRA
How to be happy: Tips for cultivating contentment

• Devote time to family and friends.
• Appreciate what you have.
• Maintain an optimistic outlook.
• Feel a sense of purpose.
• Live in the moment.
• Surround yourself with happy people.

Topic for October 03, 2011 - "STRESS: Constant stress can put your health at serious risk"

Our bodies stress reaction was meant to protect us.

When this system is constantly on alert, our health can pay the price.

Our stress response system produces chemicals in our bodies that have effects to help us deal with the stress.

The long-term activation of this system (caused by chronic stressors) can disrupt almost all of our bodies normal functions leading to health problems.

Common effects of stress:
On our bodies:

• Heart disease: chest pain.
• Sleep problems: insomnia.
• Digestive problems: stomach upset, ulcers.
• Obesity.
• Headache.
• Fatigue.
• Muscle tension or pain.
• Change in sex drive.
• Worsening of skin conditions, eczema.

On our mood:

• Depression or sadness.
• Anxiety and restlessness.
• Memory impairment and lack of motivation or focus.
• Irritability or anger.

On our behavior:

• Overeating or under eating.
• Angry outbursts.
• Drug or alcohol abuse.
• Tobacco use.
• Social withdrawal.

Your reaction to stress is likely different than anyone else.
Factors that can determine your response include genetics as your genes are unique to you, and life experiences like environmental factors and early stressful events.
Evaluate how you react to stress by determining what reactions/actions you have to stress.

Here are some unhealthy reactions to stressors:

• Pain from muscle tension, stomach upset, shortness of breath, back pain, headaches, insomnia.
• Overeating, even when you are not hungry and even under eating.
• Anger or a 'short fuse'.
• Crying spells or jags.
• Depression, feelings of hopelessness and anxiety.
• Negativity and expecting the worse in a negative situation.
• Smoking, drinking alcohol or drugs thinking this to be a way to relax.

These are some healthy reactions to stressors you should learn to develop:

• Eating a healthy diet.
• Get regular exercise.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Practice relaxation techniques.
• Foster healthy friendships.
• Having a sense of humor.
• Seek professional counseling when needed.

Next week we will outline the numerous benefits and types of relaxation techniques.

Topic for September 26, 2011 - "Teens and Alcohol"

Binge drinking wih teens:

• Teens drink alcohol less often than adults.
• But, they drink greater quantities when they do.
• Teens are more likely to mix different types alcohol.
• Binge drinking is defined as 5 or more drinks in one session.
• 24% of teens admitted to binge drinking in the last 30 days.
• All social and health problems related to drinking alcohol occur more frequently with binge drinking.

Teen stats:

• Alcohol is the number 1 abused substance among US teenagers, above smoking and drugs.
• Teens account for 11.4% of all alcohol consumed in the US.
• 8th graders: 51.7% have tried alcohol and 15.2% have had one or more binges.
• 10th graders: 70.6% have tried alcohol, 26.5% have had one or more binges and 1.9% have drank daily for at least a month.
• 12th greaders: 80% have tried alcohol, 30.8% have binged in the past 2 weeks and 3.6% use alcohol daily.

An adult is five times more likely to have alcohol dependence if their first drink is before age 15 than if at 21 years old.

Alcohol poisoning symptoms:

• Confusion, stupor.
• Vomiting.
• Seizures.
• Slowed breathing less than 8 x per minute.
• Irregular breathing with gaps between breaths greater than 10 seconds.
• Blue tinged skin or pale skin.
• Low body temp (hypothemia).
• Unconsciousness, "passing out".
• Slow heart rate.
• No gag reflex.
• Low blood sugar.

It is not necessary for all symptoms to be present.
A person unconscious or who cannot be aroused is at serious risk of dying.

When to call for help:

• CALL 911 if: is unconscious, breathing less than 8 x per minute, repeated and uncontrolled vomiting. NEVER assume they will sleep off the alcohol.
• CALL 800-222-1222 if conscious but have other symptoms of alcohol poisoning. This is Poison Control and all calls are kept confidential.
• Try to provide as much information as possible like kind and amount of alcohol consumed and over what timeframe.
• NEVER leave any unconscious person aloneand DO NOT try to make them vomit.

MYTHS of things to do that help: black coffee, a cold shower, walking it off, sleeping it off. None of these work and the best treatment is time or a trip to the ER.

Duke University has shown teenage alcohol can seriously affect brain development, leads frequently to unplanned or unwanted sex and sometimes pregnancy, higher fatalities due to drunk driving, greater teen violence, more suicide attempts, homicides, poisonings and falls.

Topic for September 19, 2011 - "An Epidemic in America: What Can Parents Do To Stop Childhood Obesity?"

In 1970 1 in 20 children were considered obese (defined as weighing 20% or more than their ideal weight)

NOW, 1 in 5 are considered obese and 1 in 3 are overweight!

The complications from this problem are not only physical but social and emotional for our kids.

The cause is simple, our children are eating too much and exercising too little.

We can fight this epidemic!

Seven Steps To Healthier Children:

• Model healthier eating: eat healthy by example and show them how to pay attention to when you are full.
• the home environment: change what you keep in the house to healthy, non processed foods, and limit the sweets.
• Use appropriate rewards: never use a food reward for recognizing an accomplishment and find reasons to praise their efforts.
• Monitor behavior: kids have feelings, be non-judgemental in the way you bring attention to the good and the bad.
• Sit down meals: reclaim control of what your kids are eating early on.
• Exercise is wise: do this by example, as a family unit, and through encouraging school activities and sports.
• Limit TV/recreational computer use: limit this and other sedentary activities to less than 2 hours a day.

Topic for September 12, 2011 - "Are You Suffering From Allergies, This Time Of Year?"

Although there are not many blooming flowers this time of year there are plenty of pollen and spores causing you to suffer:

• The Big One: RAGWEED begins pollenating in August with the warm days cool nights and is in peak season NOW.
• Molds: As we pile up dead leaves they will contain moisture, basements will have excess moisture, bathrooms may have moisture, all lead to mold.
• Dust mites: Microscopic spider-like insects that are stirred up with turning on the furnace.
• Children: Not as the cause, but kids suffer as they are exposed to dust mites, molds in ther schools from the summer heat, chalk dust.
• Food allergies: Always a threat for kids in the cafeteria with possible peanut butter, eggs, milk, and heaven forbid HALLOWEEN CANDY allergies!

The symptoms of allergies:

• Runny nose.
• Watery eyes.
• Cough.
• Itchy eyes and nose.
• Dark circles under eyes.
• Asthma.
• Hives.

Easing the effect of fall allergies:

• Stay indoors.
• Clean the heating ducts.
• Use a HEPA (High Efficiency Particilate Air) filter in your heating system.
• Use a humidifier.
• Wear a filter mask raking leaves.

Avoiding food allergies:

• Pack your kids lunches, insist no sharing.
• Inform their school of the allergies.
• Don't let kids eat their HALLOWEEN CANDY until inspected!

Treatment:

• Steroid nasal sprays.
• Antihistamines.
• Decongestants.
• Eye drops.
• Allergy shots.
• Salt water nasal spray.

Topic for September 05, 2011 - "How can you protect yourself from flu?"

Each year over 200,000 Americans are hospitalized for the serious complications from the flu and there were over 14,000 deaths resulting from the flu last year!

How can you protect yourself?

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.
• While there are many different flu viruses, the flu vaccine protects against the three viruses that research suggests will be most common.
• The 2011-2012 vaccine will protect against an influenza A H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus that emerged in 2009 to cause a pandemic.
• Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine as soon as the 2011-2012 vaccines are available.
• Vaccination of high risk persons is especially important to decrease their risk of severe flu illness.
• People at high risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and people 65 years and older.
• Vaccination also is important for health care workers, and other people who live with or care for high risk people to keep from spreading flu to high risk people.
• Children younger than 6 months are at high risk of serious flu illness, but are too young to be vaccinated. People who care for them should be vaccinated instead.

What's Stopping You From Getting Vaccinated!

• There are now hundreds of Pharmacies in Denver and many in your city that offer flu vaccines.
• Many offer walk-in customers.
• Many have evening and weekend hours.
• Most accept the major insurance plans.
• And after your shot, you can get discounts on groceries and other goods or even free doughnuts and coffee!

Topic for August 29, 2011 - "Over-The-Counter Pain Medications: What's Safe and Effective For You"

More than 75% of us take an OTC pain reliever at least once a month.

What is safe and effective and for what types of pains:

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

• Reduces fever.
• Relieves mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain.
• Relieves mild to moderate back pain.
• Relieves mild to moderate headaches.
• Often helpful with colds, sore throat pain, toothaches.
• Cautions: Alcohol and tylenol in excess can damage the liver; can interact with the blood thinner Warfarin (Coumadin).

Aspirin (Bayer, Excedrin, Ecotrin, St Joseph, Bufferin)

• Reduces fever.
• Relieves mild toothaches.
• Relieves moderately sore muscles.
• Relieves mild to moderate back pain.
• Relieves mild to moderate headaches.
• Cautions: DO NOT TAKE if less than 18 years old; must stop prior to any surgery; taking other NSAIDS may make aspirin less effective to prevent heart attacks.

Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) and Naproxen (Aleve)

• Relieves pain from acute muscle injury.
• Relieves arthritis pain.
• Relieves low back pain.
• Relieves moderate to severe headaches.
• Relieves moderate to severe menstrual cramps.
• Cautions: May worsen asthma; must stop prior to any surgery; DO NOT TAKE if you have an stomach ulcer history; prolonged use increases your risk for a heart attack.

How to avoid problems with OTC pain relievers?

• Always read and follow the instructions for amount to use per dose, and not to exceed daily on the label.
• Use them as breifly as possible and if pain lasts more than 10 days, consult your Doctor.
• Do not use NSAIDS daily for chronic pain lasting more than 10 days as you are more likely to experience serious side effects.
• Know when to consult your Doctor if you have health problems or take numerous other medications including supplements.

Topic for August 22, 2011 - "WATER: Do You EAT Enough Water?"

Water is the single most important nutrient we consume and a person cannot live more than a week without it.

The old way of thinking was "drink 8 glasses of 8 ounces of water daily", 8 X 8=64 ounces.

The truth is you can get almost all the water you need from FOOD? Yes!

Myths and Truths About Water Consumption:

• Myth: need to drink 8 glasses of 8 ounces of water daily.
• Truth: most individuals can get all the water they need from their diet alone.
• Myth: increasing water consumption can facilitate weight loss.
• Truth: consuming more water through water rich foods can reduce hunger, lowers calorie intake by feeling satisfied from hunger.
• Myth: you can not drink TOO MUCH water.
• Truth: if you drink too much water you can cause some very serious health problems.
• Myth: forcing yourself to drink more water during the day is healthy for you.
• Truth: our own thirst mechanism adequately tells us when we need more water intake (with two exceptions).

The New Guidelines on Getting The Water You Need To Stay Hydrated:

• Eat greater proportions of water rich foods, fruits and vegitables (most are 90% water!) and this will help you stay hydrated.
• Replace caloric beverages, particularly those with a high sugar content, with water rich foods which is much healthier for you.
• Consume more foods high in water content and have significant health benefits, and it will make you feel full faster.

So, EAT your water and stay healthy!

Topic for August 15, 2011 - "Men's Preventative Health"

Why Men Avoid The Doctor

• Stoicism
• High cost
• Busy schedules
• The challange of getting an appointment
• Embarrassment-getting the DRE
• Afraid of what the Doctor might tell them-stop smoking, eat too poorly, drink too much, not enough exercise

Men's Preventative Health Screenings

• Blood pressure check every 2 years starting at age 18
• Cholesterol blood test starting at age 20
• Fasting blood sugar test every 3 years starting at age 45
• PSA blood test and DRE starting at age 40
• Colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 50
• Skin exam if find any changing or irregular moles
• Testicular exam starting at age 20
• Immunizations-tetanus every 7-10 years

Topic for August 08, 2011 - "Dr. Snook takes a look at preventative care for women"

Five Simple Things To Do To Stay Healthy

• Eat a sensible diet including all the food groups
• Thirty minutes of exercise daily
• Protect your bones eating 3 servings of low fat dairy products daily, weight bearing exercise or activities 3 x a week
• Regular Health Screenings
• Take time out for yourself of at least 30 minutes a day to relieve stress

Current Recommended Regular Health Screenings For Women

• Thyroid screening blood test every 5 years starting at 35
• Blood pressure check every 2 years starting at 18
• Cholesterol screening blood test starting at 20 and then your Doctor to decide thereafter
• Bone Mineral Density test (DEXA) baseline at 40
• Fasting Blood Sugar test every 3 years starting at 45
• Mammogram every year starting at 40
• PAP/Pelvic every 1-3 years if sexually active up to age 65 then your Doctor to decide thereafter
• Colorectal health test (occult blood stool test) yearly starting at 50
• Colonoscopy every 10 years starting at 50
• Regular skin exam
• Glaucoma eye test every 2-4 years if healthy and less than 40 and if risk factors for glaucoma then your Doctor to decide

Topic for August 01, 2011 - "How do you know if you're sleep deprived"

Are you getting enough sleep?

Sleep Deprivation Effects

• Memory problems
• Depression
• Decreased immune system
• Increased perception of pain
• High blood pressure
• Adverse effect on cognition and performance
• 24 hours without sleep impairs you to the extent of or greater than if you are legally drunk (0.08% alcohol)

Facts

• Adults need an average 8.2 hours per 24 hours (infants 16, teenagers 9)
• Impairment occurs with as little as 2 hours of sleep lost
• Sleep debt occurs if get only 5 hours and as this accumulates your awareness of sleepiness declines
• Circadian timing of when you sleep is crucial
• sleep deprived individuals may not "feel" sleepy

Clinical Signs of Sleep Deprivation

• Irritability, moodiness, disinhibition
• Frontal lobe signs: apathy, impoverished speech,flat affect, impaired memory, inflexable thinking
• Intrusive sleepiness: microsleeps of 5-10 seconds, nodding off, hallucinations

56,000 motor vehicle accidents and 1,500 deaths per year are due to sleep deprived drivers.

Topic for July 25, 2011 - "New guidelines for mammograms"

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

• Previous recommendation was women age 40 to 49 get a mammogram every 1-2 years, 50 and older yearly.
• New recommendation is all women starting at age 40 get a yearly mammogram.
• Also recommend all women age 40 and older get an annual clinical breast exam, women 20 to 39 get a clinical breast exam every one to three years depending on their family history for breast cancer.
• Also recommend that women practice self awareness by doing regular self breast exam, NOT to replace the clinical breast exam in the Doctors office.

How does this compare to the US Preventative Services Task Force guidelines put out 2 years ago: Women in their 40s should not get routine mammograms but should talk to their Doctor. Routine screening not to start until 50 years and older.

40,000 women in their 40s contract breast cancer every year in the US.

Basis for the change:

• The rising number of breast cancer cases in the US, second leading cause of death of all cancer related deaths among women.
• The sojourn time for tumor growth and detection is the shortest between ages 40 to 49 (2 to 2.4 years).
• There is the potential to reduce the number of deaths using screening with mammogram and early detection, the 5 year survival rate is 98% when found early.

Topic for July 18, 2011 - "Dr. Snook explains how to get a good night's sleep"

Causes:

• Psychological: Tendency to insomnia, persistent stress, learned insomnia
• Lyfestyle: Stimulants (caffeine, nicotine, certain medications), alcohol, shift work, lack of exercise, sleeping pills
• Environmental Factors: Noise, light
• Physical Illness/Psychiatric Illness: Depression, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn)

Tips For Good Sleep Hygiene:

• Don't go to bed unless you are sleepy
• If you are not asleep after 20 minutes, then get out of bed
• Begin rituals that help you relax each night before bed
• Get up at the same time every morning
• Get a full night's sleep on a regular basis
• Avoid taking naps if you can
• Keep a regular schedule
• Use you bed only for sleep and sex
• Do not have any caffeine after lunch
• Do not have any alcohol within 6 hours of your bedtime
• Do not have any nicotine before bedtime
• Do not go to bed hungry, but no large meal before bedtime either
• Avoid any strenuous exercise within 6 hours of your bedtime
• Avoid chronic use of sleeping pills
• Take time during the day to deal with stressors
• Make your bedroom quiet, dark, and a little bit cool

Topic for July 11, 2011 - "Burning Calories at Work"

Fitness For Less:

• Everyday opportunities-walk instead of ride, stairs, park further out, household chores, play with the kids
• Consider modest investments-inexpensive fitness products like dumbbells, jump ropes, fitness balls, videos/DVDs/pod cast, video games

Office Exercises:

• Make the most of your commute
• Look for opportunities to stand
• Take 'fitness breaks' instead of coffee breaks
• Trade your office chair for a fitness ball
• Keep fitness products in your work area
• 'Get social'-bring along a coworker
• Conduct a meeting 'on the go'
• Pick up the pace
• If traveling for work-when waiting on a plane walk in the airport, and use hotel fitness rooms
• MAKE IT FUN!

Topic for July 04, 2011 - "Safe & healthy 4th of July cooking"

Causes:

• Food Processing causing bacteria to be on the food before you get it
• Food Growing again causing bacteria to be on the food before you get it
• Food Handling causing contamination from a person or a surface used to prepare the food
• From the Environment by contamination from dirt, dust and contaminated water

Prevention:

• CLEAN: Hot soapy water to clean hands, surfaces and tools
• SEPARATE: Keep uncooked meats from having contact with raw vegetables
• COOK: Rule of thumb for meat is center temp greater than 160 degrees F
• CHILL: Promptly put in cooler or fridge within 1-2 hours of preparation
• WHEN IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT

Treatment:

• Fluids and rest, Pedialyte or make your own rehydration drink
• Avoid foods high in fat and sugar
• Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, coffee for at least two days after symptoms resolve
• Anti-diarrheal meds except when have fever or bloody stool

Topic for June 20, 2011 - "Heat Cramps/Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke"

Here is the script for Heat Stroke:

Heat Cramps (Mildest) can lead to Heat Exhaustion can lead to Heat Stroke (Most Severe and can be a Life Threatening Condition!)

Who's at risk?

• Young: less than 4 years old
• Old: more than 65 years old with chronic illnesses and/or on medications
• Those on certain medications or taking certain illicit drugs or drinking alcohol
• Obese individuals
• Those exposed to sudden temperature changes, Heat Waves or travel to a hot climate

Causes:

• High Temperatures
• High Humidity
• Strenuous Activity
• Dehydration
• Alcohol Consumption
• Overdressing

Signs and symptoms:

• Body temperature of 104 degrees F or higher: seek immediate medical attention! This Is Heat Stroke!
• 'Goose bumps' and cool moist skin even in the heat
• Heavy sweating
• Faintness
• Dizzyness
• Rapid pulse
• Low blood pressure
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Headache

Treatment:

• Stop all activity and rest in a cool place
• Drink cool fluids
• Apply cool water or mist to skin
• Loosen or remove extra clothing
• If you do not feel better within 60 minutes or your temperature reaches 104 degrees F, seek immediate medical attention!

Prevention:

• Wear loose, light weight, light colored clothing
• Avoid getting sunburned with hat and sunscreen
• Seek cooler places
• Drink plenty of fluids
• If on certain medications take extra precautions to avoid overheating
• Avoid hot spots, hot parked car, unshaded areas
• If new to a hot and humid climate, acclimate before going out for long periods
• Best not to exercise or engage in strenuous activity in hot, humid environments

Topic for June 13, 2011 - "Seasonal Allergies"

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