Health Tips

Last week, we talked about the serious complication of diabetes called diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA.  We will continue our discussion today, focusing on how it is diagnosed and treated, along with ways to help prevent it. How is the diagnosis of DKA made? Your doctor will do blood and urine…

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes.  If you have diabetes, you are at risk of developing DKA.  If you or a family member has diabetes, you should know how to recognize this potentially life-threatening complication.  Let’s talk more about this condition, including how to recognize the warning…

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.  MS can cause a variety of symptoms.  It often begins with subtle symptoms that come and go.  Let’s talk more about it and how you can recognize it. What is multiple sclerosis (MS)? MS is a disease in…

March is Poison Prevention Awareness Month.  It is a time when people should take the time to make themselves aware of the potential hazards of poisoning, as well as understanding the potentially hazardous materials that are in your environment.  Everyone should have the Poison Help Line number easily accessible: 1-800-222-1222….

Last week we talked about cardiovascular disease in women.  This week, we will talk about strategies that you can use to help prevent cardiovascular disease.  This advice applies to both men and women. Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco This is one of the best things that you can do to…

February is American Heart Month.  Since 1964, this is an annual event designated to encourage Americans to focus on their heart health.  Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, remains the leading cause of death globally.  Many people incorrectly think that heart and vascular disease is something that only affects…

Last week we talked about some of the causes of birth defects.  Today we are going to focus on things that you can do to lower your risk of having a baby born with birth defects. Can all birth defects be prevented? Unfortunately, not all birth defects can be prevented. …

About 1 out of every 33 babies born in the US each year is born with a birth defect.  Birth defects range from minor abnormalities to critical, life-threatening conditions.  Let’s talk about what they are and what women need to know to decrease their chance of having a baby born…

National Blood Donor Month has taken place each January since 1970.  Donating blood saves lives and improves health for many people.  It is especially important now.  Last week the American Red Cross warned that the US is facing a “dangerously low” blood supply. Why is January National Blood Donor Awareness…

 Last week, we talked about the Omicron variant.  Hospitalizations and daily positive cases have continued to increase since last week. The CDC has recently changed its guidance for quarantine and isolation related to COVID-19.  This week I want to talk about those recommendations. What is the difference between quarantine and…