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How to Teach Your Child about Swim Safety

Calendar May 21, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Do your children know the basics of water safety?

Kids love to play in the water! Unfortunately, KidsHealth.org reports that drowning is the second most common cause of accidental deaths in the age range of 5 to 24. Teaching your children how to enjoy the water safely is crucial, especially during Recreational Water Injury Prevention Week, May 20-26. Here's how give them the knowledge they need.

  • Teach them to use the buddy rule. Young child should always be accompanied by an adult while swimming. As your child reaches his teens, he may not need adult supervision, but he should always have a buddy nearby while in the water.
  • Show them how to decipher the weather. It's not safe to swim during a lightning storm. Teach your children to stay out of the water if they've heard thunder any time during the last 20 minutes.
  • Help them test the waters. Not all waters are safe to swim in. Water that is too cold is especially unsafe for young children. If you are visiting the beach, teach your child how to determine when the water is too rough for swimming.
  • Explain to them when they will need a life jacket. Floatation devices are a must for beginning swimmers, especially in the ocean. If you are taking a boat trip, a life jacket must be available for each child.
  • Train them to be strong swimmers. Professional swimming lessons are the best way to protect your children from accidents in the water. Parents Magazine recommends starting lessons at age four.

Our pediatric department is available this summer, and the rest of the year, for your children. Learn more about our pediatric services and how we serve your family at our website, or call us with your questions at 972-420-1518.

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Top Five Tips for Osteoporosis Prevention

Calendar May 14, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Take steps now to help prevent osteoporosis in your future.

According to National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates, by 2020 half of all Americans over the age of 50 will have low bone density or osteoporosis. How can you help make sure you're not one of them? Here are some of the top tips for keeping your bones healthy and preventing the disease.

1. Get enough calcium. It's important to eat a balanced diet and get adequate calcium, a critical nutrient for building and maintaining strong bones. It's recommended that adults between the ages of 18 and 50 get 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily. Starting at age 51 for women and age 71 for men, they should get 1,200 milligrams daily. Good dietary sources of calcium include:

  • Collards
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Soy beans
  • Oranges
  • Low-fat milk or yogurt
  • Salmon or sardines
  • Fortified orange juice or cereal

2. Get enough vitamin D. This vitamin fosters your body's ability to absorb calcium. It's recommended that adults younger than 50 get between 400 and 800 International Units (IU) daily. People 50 and older should get between 800 and 1,000 IU daily. While your body makes vitamin D from sunlight, it's also found in foods such as milk, orange juice and cereals.

3. Exercise regularly. Do both weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening activities. Consider running, walking, dancing, stair-climbing, lifting weights or other suitable exercises.

4. Don't smoke and don't drink alcohol in excess. Both smoking and drinking more than two or three alcoholic beverages per day can compromise bone health.

5. See your doctor. Visit your doctor for regular checkups and to determine if you need a bone density test or other procedure to ensure the health of your bones.

To learn more about osteoporosis, talk with your doctor or visit our Health Information section online. If you need to find a doctor, use our online Find a Physician service or call our Physician Referral line at 1-855-880-4MCL (4625).

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How To Lower Your Risk of Stroke

Calendar May 7, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Knowing the risk factors for stroke can help you make healthy choices.

You've probably heard how serious a stroke can be. The American Stroke Association states that stroke is the leading cause of adult disability as well as the third leading cause of death in our country. While several risks for stroke—being male, being African American, being 55 or older and having a family history of stroke—are beyond your control, there are ways you can lower your risk. In honor of National Stroke Awareness Month, here are some things you can do.

• Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Hypertension and/or high cholesterol can significantly increase your risk for stroke. Have your blood pressure and cholesterol tested regularly, and talk to your doctor about maintaining acceptable levels by eating a healthy diet, exercising and, if necessary, taking medication.

• Eat right. Consuming a diet that is low in fat, sodium  and cholesterol while rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help you maintain a healthy weight as well as healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

• Exercise. Inactivity can contribute to an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as weight gain. Any of these factors can result in a higher risk of stroke.

• Don't drink alcohol in excess or smoke. Making these lifestyle choices can help keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check and your blood vessels and arteries healthy, all of which will decrease your risk of stroke. 

• Manage medical conditions. Health concerns including heart disease and diabetes can increase your risk for stroke, which makes it especially important that they be treated and managed effectively.

Learn more about the stroke services we offer at the Medical Center of Lewisville and our affiliation with the Texas Stroke Institute by visiting us online. To find out how you can reduce your risk, or to schedule blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, make an appointment with your doctor. If you need help finding one, call our Physician Referral line at 855-880-4MCL(4625).

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Is My Child on the Autism Spectrum?

Calendar April 30, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Learning the answers to some commonly asked questions may help you determine if your child is on the autism spectrum.

Wondering if your child is on the autism spectrum? In honor of National Autism Awareness Month, we share answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about autism.

Q: What is autism?
A: Autism, sometimes referred to as autism spectrum disorders, is a developmental disability that is defined by specific behaviors and can result in communication, behavior and social problems. While research is ongoing, there is no known cause of autism at this time. Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means it affects different people in different ways and to different degrees of severity.

Q: Is there a test for autism?
A: There is no test for autism. A physician typically makes a medical diagnosis based on evaluations and assessments while using the American Psychological Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual as a guide. Input from parents, teachers, caregivers, psychologists and medical professionals commonly provides important insight and information. 

Q: What are the signs of autism?
A: Symptoms of autism can vary significantly. Signs often surface in children when they are between the ages of two and six, and typically include delayed or unmet developmental milestones. Milestones to check for include babbling and gesturing by one year of age, single words spoken by sixteen months of age and two word phrases spoken by two years of age. Another thing to note is if your child losses communication skills at any point. Other signs can include lack of eye contact, social problems, obsessive tendencies, unusual and repetitive physical motions and other issues.

Q: What should I do if I suspect my child might be on the autism spectrum?
A: If you have any concerns at all, talk with your pediatrician. He or she can be a source of information and answers about next steps. While there is no cure for autism, treatment is available and is often more successful the earlier it's initiated.

Find out more about autism from the Medical Center of Lewisville’s online Health Information page. To learn all about the services offered in our Pediatric and Adolescent Unit, please give us a call at 972-420-1518.

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5 Important Facts About Infant Immunization

Calendar April 23, 2013 | Posted by laicos

It's important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to immunizing your baby.

Along with a newborn comes the need to be knowledgeable about all sorts of topics. You've likely researched diapers, cribs and car seats, but do you know the facts about vaccinating your baby? In honor of National Infant Immunization Week, here are five important things to know.

1. Infant immunizations are safe. A broad spectrum of health experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believe in the safety and potential life-saving power of vaccines and advise parents to have their infants immunized.

2. The benefits outweigh the risks. Immunizations can keep your infant safe from potentially life-threatening diseases. Side effects of these vaccines are typically mild such as soreness or low-grade fever.

3. There is no scientific link between infant immunizations and autism. Research has shown that there is no relationship between any infant immunization, including MMR (for protection against measles, mumps and rubella), and autism.

4. There is a recommended schedule. Some parents question why their child can't wait until school age to be vaccinated. Children are susceptible to diseases prior to reaching school age, so the American Academy of Pediatrics has a recommended immunization schedule.

5. Your pediatrician is a knowledgeable source of information. Your doctor can answer your questions regarding infant immunizations in general and can tell you what is advisable for your child specifically.

To learn about our Pediatric Services department, visit us online or call 972-420-1518. Talk to your child's pediatrician to find out which immunizations your baby needs. If you need to find a pediatrician, use our online Find a Physician service or call our Physician Referral line at 855-880-4625.

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Becoming a Volunteer at Medical Center of Lewisville

Calendar April 16, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Being a volunteer at Medical Center of Lewisville can be a very rewarding experience.

Looking for a way to lend a hand in the community? At Medical Center of Lewisville, volunteers provide valuable help enhancing the care of patients and the comfort of visitors. Sound interesting? Here are answers to some common questions and some information to help you decide if volunteering with us is right for you.

Q: Who can volunteer?
A: Volunteers for our Adult Volunteer Program must be at least 18 years old. Our Summer Volunteer Program accepts adolescents between the ages of 14 and 17. All applicants must be available to volunteer at least four hours each week.

Q: What do volunteers do?
A: Volunteers may do a number of things including staff our information desk, deliver flowers, distribute mail and newspapers, assist our nursing staff with indirect patient care, perform clerical duties and do other tasks.

Q: What are my next steps if I want to volunteer?
A: First, complete our Volunteer Application. You can also get an application at the front desk in our lobby or call (972) 353-1764 and request that an application be emailed to you. After we receive your completed application, you'll be contacted for a personal interview so that we can best match your interests and expectations with our current volunteer opportunities.

Q: What about training and screening?
A: Volunteers agree to a background check and complete a hospital-provided TB test. They also attend a four-hour hospital orientation program, training regarding the particular area they are to be placed in and meet other training and regulatory guidelines as needed.

For more information about becoming a volunteer, visit us online or call our volunteer services department at (972) 420-1528.

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What Can Occupational Therapy Treat?

Calendar April 9, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Occupational therapy can help treat a wide range of conditions and proves beneficial to many people.

Wondering if occupational therapy (OT) might be of benefit to you or someone you know? OT can help with physical, psychological, social and environmental matters. It can help with aspects of someone's occupation or profession, but can also help a child or an older adult with day to day functioning. It can be of great help when recovering from certain illnesses or injuries, and as a means of making everyday tasks easier for certain people. In honor of Occupational Therapy Month, here are a few of the many instances in which OT can improve your quality of life. It can help:

  • A senior adult manage daily tasks at home when adjusting to age-related challenges, including how to maintain independence
  • An injured adult with physical job-related functions in order to transition to a safe return to his or her workplace
  • A stroke victim restore mobility, relearn tasks and regain independence
  • Someone who suffers from arthritis or other source of chronic pain learn to adapt their environment and do things in new ways that curb discomfort
  • A person with mental health challenges manage stress or triggers and function to his or her fullest potential
  • A child with ADD, ADHD, autism, a birth defect, or behavioral or learning problems adapt to a social or school environment

Medical Center of Lewisville offers comprehensive rehabilitation services, including occupational therapy at the Rehabilitation Institute. For information regarding in-patient services, call 972-420-1005 and for information regarding outpatient services, call 972-420-1775.

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Are You A Distracted Driver?

Calendar April 2, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Being a distracted driver can be deadly.

Are you a distracted driver? If you can't definitively say no, then in honor of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, ask yourself the following questions to determine if you are and learn what you can do to drive safely.

Do you text while driving?
While sending a quick text message may seem innocent enough, research has shown that texting while driving diverts the driver's focus for approximately five seconds and increases your risk of an accident by 23 times the risk while not distracted.

Do you talk on the phone while driving?
Talking on a cell phone has become common practice these days, but that doesn't mean it's safe. Research has shown that driving while using the phone reduces the amount of brain power being dedicated to driving by nearly 40 percent.

Do you eat, tend to children or multitask in other ways while driving?
Beyond talking and texting, many other activities can distract from driving. It's wise to avoid any form of multitasking while at the wheel. Stop the car in a safe spot if you need to use the phone, eat, tend to a child's needs or do anything else that will take your focus off the road.

To show your commitment to driving safely, pledge to never talk or text while driving. If you are ever injured in an accident, be sure to call 911 immediately. Medical Center of Lewisville offers the best quality care from our highly trained specialists at our Emergency Services department. Our Flower Mound Emergency Center is the first and only emergency department in Texas to be recognized by the Emergency Nurses Association.

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Travel Safety Tips for Spring Break

Calendar March 26, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Travel safe so an accident or injury doesn't put the brakes on your spring break fun.

Ready for spring break? Remember to put safety first, because the last thing you want is for an accident or injury to stop you from having the memorable vacation that you've been planning.

Flying
If you're traveling by plane, be aware of and abide by the Transportation Security Administration security policies. Know what items are not allowed in carry-on and/or checked bags, and the rules for packing liquids, aerosols and gels. Also, remember that it's wise to arrive at the airport between one hour to 90 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. 

Driving
If you're traveling by car, be sure that it's in shape for the trip and keep a roadside emergency kit handy. Be aware of and abide by the rules of the road. Stay within the posted speed limit, wear your seat belt and don't drink and drive. Focus on the road and avoid texting, talking on the phone or any other activity that distracts you from driving. If you find yourself feeling drowsy, don't rely on caffeine, loud music or other means to keep you awake. Instead, stop and sleep until you're rested enough to safely resume your trip.

Visiting
Remember to pack any necessary medication before leaving the house. When away from home, remain with your travel companions. Don't wander off alone; if setting out solo, be sure your friends know where you're going and when to expect you back.

To prepare for safe travels this spring break, see what the experts, the Transportation Security Administration and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, advise. If you have any medical concerns about traveling, talk with your doctor. For help finding a doctor, use our online Find a Physician service or simply call our physician referral line at 855-880-4MCL (4625).

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Unexpected Household Poisons

Calendar March 19, 2013 | Posted by laicos

Some household poisons are obvious, but others may not be so apparent.

Sure you've secured all the obvious household poisons—bleach, paint thinner, gasoline and all those other substances that typically come labeled with the skull and crossbones warning. But what about the potential poisons that aren't quite so obvious? In honor of National Poison Prevention Week, we share some tips on some of the lesser known potential poisons you likely have around the house.

• Medication.  Not only prescription drugs, but also over-the-counter remedies can pose a problem. Keep them in childproof containers and out of reach of youngsters. And remember that even children's medications can be poisonous if administered in the wrong amount. 

• Toiletries. Everyday items ranging from anti-perspirant to mouthwash are potential poisons if not used properly. Be sure to store these in locked cabinets or in cabinets secured with childproof safety latches.

• Cosmetics. Know that innocent looking items such as certain makeup, nail polish, nail polish remover and perfume are potential poisons. 

• Magnets. Once swallowed, magnets attract each other and can form blockages and pose serious medical trouble.

• Button batteries. If ingested, miniature batteries can cause burning and choking.

• Cigarettes. While we know cigarette smoking is deadly, cigarettes themselves can be a potential household poison. If you smoke, be sure to keep cigarettes out of the reach of children.

• Plants. Greenery including rhododendron, lily of the valley, English ivy and common holiday season plants such as mistletoe, holly and poinsettias, are poisonous. They should be kept out of the reach of both children and pets.

For information about poisons or in the case of a poison-related emergency, call 1-800-222-1222. If you're experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, know that Medical Center of Lewisville offers skilled emergency care and call 911 immediately. Learn more about our Flower Mound Emergency Center and check ER wait times via our website.

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