Health
Answering common questions about medical alert systems
Using a medical alert system, also known as a personal emergency response system, is a great way to make living alone less stressful. Here’s what you should know.
What are they?
Medical alert systems are subscription-based services that allow you to contact an emergency response center with the press of a button. Basic models connect to your landline and include a portable alert button as well as a base unit that acts as a speakerphone. The alert button is usually worn as a pendant or a bracelet and some types can detect falls.
How do they work?
Medical alert systems can either be monitored or unmonitored. If your system is monitored, pressing the button on your wearable device or base unit will connect you with a live agent. If you request help, they’ll dispatch emergency responders to your location. If you’re unable to answer, they’ll either try to reach someone on your contact list and/or emergency services. Unmonitored systems will dial a pre-programmed list of phone numbers, including 911, and deliver an automated message.
What are the different types?
There are two types of systems: in-home and mobile. In-home systems are ideal if you tend to stay at home and can either work with your landline or a cellular network. Mobile models are better for those with active lifestyles.
How expensive are they?
Most service providers offer no-contract monthly subscriptions, although you can often get a discount for making a longer commitment. In-home services are the most affordable option and run between $25 and $45 per month, depending on the features selected. Mobile systems range from $65 to $75 per month and sometimes require a one-time activation fee. Some insurance policies cover the costs of medical alert systems, and there are charitable organizations that may help seniors who can’t afford them. You should also consult your tax professional, as these systems are considered medical expenses by the IRS.
Health
Facial Care for Men: Discover the Benefits of a Beauty Routine for Your Well-Being!
Are you a man whose personal grooming includes only combing your hair and the occasional sunscreen or skincare application? You should know that dermocosmetics can improve your appearance and overall well-being. A skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. You can see visible results and feel more confident with just a few products.
Why Skincare Matters for Men
Many men overlook the importance of a skincare routine, but caring for your skin has numerous benefits. Regular skincare can:
- Improve skin texture and tone
- Reduce the appearance of blackheads, wrinkles, redness, and acne
- Protect against environmental damage
- Boost your overall confidence and well-being
Where to Start
If you’re unsure where to begin, the best thing you can do is talk to someone specializing in skincare. Visit the cosmetics counter at your local pharmacy or a beauty salon that sells men’s skincare products. These professionals can provide valuable advice tailored to your needs.
Personalized Skincare Advice
When you speak to a skincare professional, they will consider your lifestyle and specific needs. For example, your skin might have different requirements if you smoke or work outdoors. The professional will analyze your skin and suggest effective products to improve its appearance. This personalized approach ensures you get the best results for your skin type and concerns.
Benefits of a Consistent Routine
You’ll likely notice improved skin appearance as you follow your new skincare routine. Over time, this can lead to increased confidence and a greater sense of well-being. Many men wonder why they didn’t start caring for their skin sooner!
A Variety of Products
There are various skincare products for men, each serving a specific purpose. Here are some essential items to consider:
- Cleansers: Remove dirt and oil buildup from your skin.
- Exfoliants: Help slough off dead skin cells, promoting a smoother complexion.
- Moisturizers: Keep your skin hydrated and protect against dryness.
- Aftershave Balms: Soothe and moisturize your skin after shaving.
- Eye Gels: Reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.
When shopping for skincare products, consider looking for local brands. They often offer high-quality options that support your community.
Take the First Step Today
Embarking on a skincare journey can seem daunting, but it can be simple and effective with the right guidance and products. Investing a little time in your daily routine can achieve healthier, more radiant skin. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from skincare professionals and start your journey to better skin today.
Health
Osteopathy: A Holistic Approach to Balanced Health
Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on restoring balance to the body and promoting physical and emotional well-being. This manual practice offers numerous benefits, making it a valuable option for many individuals seeking to improve their health naturally.
Who Could Benefit from Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is designed for a wide range of people, including infants, seniors, and pregnant women. It is also beneficial for athletes looking to optimize their physical performance. Osteopaths help patients improve their health by using gentle, hands-on techniques addressing the body’s natural healing ability. This practice can be especially useful for those who prefer non-invasive treatment methods.
What Are the Benefits of Osteopathy?
Osteopathy provides many benefits by treating imbalances in various body parts, such as the muscles, joints, and organs. Here are some key advantages:
- Pain Relief: Osteopathy can effectively relieve back pain, migraines, and other chronic pain conditions.
- Improved Mobility: It helps enhance mobility and posture by addressing musculoskeletal disorders.
- Digestive Health: Many people find relief from digestive disorders through osteopathic treatment.
- Holistic Prevention: Osteopathy aims to prevent health issues by treating the underlying causes of symptoms rather than just the symptoms themselves.
By focusing on the root causes of discomfort and imbalance, osteopathy treats current issues and helps prevent future problems.
Why Consult an Osteopath?
Consulting an osteopath can greatly benefit those looking to alleviate persistent pain, accelerate recovery from injuries, or improve overall mobility and posture. Osteopathy offers a personalized approach tailored to each individual’s specific needs. During consultations, osteopaths conduct thorough physical examinations to fully understand the patient’s condition. They then apply gentle manual techniques to restore balance to the body, promoting natural healing processes.
Osteopaths are qualified professionals who work closely with their patients to ensure effective treatment and care. Their goal is to provide relief and improve quality of life through non-invasive methods. If you’re experiencing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or seeking to improve your physical performance, an osteopath might be the right choice for you.
Finding an Osteopath Near You
If you are considering osteopathy, do not hesitate to consult an expert in your area. Osteopaths can provide the support and treatment you need to achieve better health and well-being. By addressing the body’s natural balance and promoting holistic health, osteopathy can be a valuable part of your healthcare routine.
Health
Microplastics in Bloodstream Linked to Higher Risk of Cardiovascular Events
Plastic, ubiquitous in everyday items from kitchenware to cosmetics, has been detected in an alarming new location: human blood vessels. Recent research highlights a concerning correlation between the presence of micro and nano plastics in the carotid artery plaques of patients and a significantly increased risk of major cardiovascular events, including strokes and heart attacks.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers discovered that patients with plastic-adulterated atheroma plaques—fatty deposits within arteries composed of proteins, cholesterol, and other substances—were four times more likely to suffer severe cardiovascular outcomes or death. This study was the first to identify plastic particles within such plaques, with nearly 60% of the 304 examined patients showing contamination.
While the exact role of microplastics in causing these health issues remains unconfirmed, the findings suggest a strong association that cannot be ignored. Scientists have considered various potential entry routes for plastics into the human bloodstream, including through ingestion or inhalation of contaminated food, water, and air, as well as through products like toothpaste and lip gloss that contain these tiny particles.
This emerging evidence points to the urgent need for further research to establish a definitive link and understand the mechanisms by which microplastics may contribute to cardiovascular diseases. The implications of such findings are profound, suggesting that the pervasive problem of plastic pollution could be contributing to health risks far more directly and personally than previously understood.
Health
Mosquito Season: Staying Safe with the Right Repellent
With mosquito season in full swing, the buzz isn’t just about the annoyance of itchy bites—there’s a serious side to these pests. Mosquitoes are notorious carriers of dangerous diseases like West Nile virus, malaria, and dengue fever, making effective repellents crucial for comfort and health.
DEET, developed by the U.S. Army in the 1940s and available commercially since the 1950s, remains one of the most effective ingredients in mosquito repellents. Despite early concerns about its safety, public opinion has largely shifted, favoring DEET’s effectiveness over potential risks, especially in areas prone to mosquito-borne illnesses.
How does DEET work? It doesn’t repel mosquitoes in the traditional sense. Instead, it confuses them. DEET interferes with the receptors on mosquitoes’ antennae, effectively dulling their ability to detect and feed on human blood. This makes DEET-based products a top choice for preventing mosquito bites.
The research underscores the superiority of DEET in prolonging the time until the first mosquito bite. A New England Journal of Medicine study found that DEET products were significantly more effective than other repellents. For instance, a product with just 6.65% DEET can protect for about 112.4 minutes, while options with higher concentrations, like OFF! Deep Woods, with 23.8% DEET, offers up to 301 minutes of protection. In contrast, citronella-based products lag behind, providing only 10 to 20 minutes of relief.
However, when it comes to children, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises caution, recommending that repellents for young users contain no more than 10% DEET. The debate continues among experts regarding the safety of DEET products for children, but the consensus is clear on one point: DEET is effective.
For those looking for more information on choosing the right mosquito repellent and understanding the safe use of DEET, resources such as health.harvard.edu provide valuable insights.
Staying informed and prepared is key as we navigate through peak mosquito season. Whether camping, hiking, or just enjoying an evening in your backyard, a good repellent can make all the difference between a pleasant outdoor experience and an uncomfortable, risky one.
Health
Sunblock for Your Eyes: Protecting Against UV Damage
Health
Treating Arthritis: Why Walking Can Be a ‘Walk in the Park’ for Your Health
May is National Arthritis Month, and the Arthritis Foundation encourages those with arthritis to focus on maintaining a high quality of life. Although arthritis can be challenging, there are steps you can take to manage its impact and prevent further joint damage.
General Tips for Prevention:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Excess weight can put extra stress on your knee and hip joints. - Exercise Regularly:
Staying active can help keep your joints strong and flexible. - Eat Well:
A nutritious diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables supports overall health.
Understanding Osteoarthritis (OA):
The most common form of arthritis, OA occurs when cartilage at the ends of bones deteriorates over time. Bones can rub together without this cushioning, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Walking is a simple yet effective way to manage OA and stay active. Other benefits include:
- Strengthening muscles and enhancing flexibility.
- Improving cardiovascular health.
- Keeping bones strong helps prevent osteoporosis.
- Improving insulin use to help prevent diabetes.
- Burning calories to aid in weight management.
- Building strong muscles around joints for extra protection.
Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
RA is an autoimmune disorder that causes early joint damage. The American College of Rheumatology recommends starting therapy within three months of diagnosis to relieve symptoms and prevent further damage to bones and joints. Medications can significantly reduce the effects of RA.
The Importance of Walking:
For those with arthritis, walking offers multiple health benefits while helping alleviate joint pain and stiffness. It’s an accessible and effective way to remain active and strengthen the body without putting undue stress on the joints.
Take Action This National Arthritis Month:
Use May to incorporate more walks into your daily routine, consult a healthcare provider about appropriate treatments, and celebrate your journey toward improved joint health.