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Cancer Caregivers: Don’t Forget Yourself!

Calendar May 16, 2012 | Posted by laicos

Nothing can fully prepare you for caring for a loved one with cancer. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions. The National Cancer Institute reminds caregivers that it’s natural to become stressed, angry or depressed while caring for an ill loved one. Learn how to take time for yourself while acting as a caregiver. There’s nothing selfish about needing time to care for yourself. In fact, you’ll be a better resource for your loved one if you support your own needs.

Get support
Look into support groups, either online or in person. Talking to others who are in the same situation may help you. Find resources that will assist you in caring for your loved one, such as community resources or volunteers. Ask friends and family to help you with tasks like doing grocery shopping and cooking meals. You can’t do this alone.

Talk to your doctor
Make sure your doctor knows that you’re caring for a loved one with cancer. It’s important to have your mental health supported by a professional. Your doctor may recommend resources to you or may want to see you more often to see how you’re doing.

Get out of the house regularly
Whether you go on a walk or just run an errand, it’s important to get out of the house or out of the hospital, depending on where your loved one is staying. You need time alone to process your feelings, cry or simply distract yourself for a while. There’s nothing wrong with needing that time to decompress from the anxiety and sadness you may be feeling.

Continue your exercise routines
Don’t neglect physical fitness. Exercise helps you manage your emotions and helps you sleep. It helps you lower your risk of many chronic conditions and is good for your overall well being. If your time is limited, find ways to exercise indoors. Try stretching or doing some light strength training.

Focus on your own health
While caring for a loved one with cancer, you’ll likely be completely focused on your loved one’s health. Try to focus on your own health too. Remember to take your medications, to keep up with doctor’s appointments and to get plenty of rest and good nutrition. Stress and strong emotions can wear you down, and the last thing you want is to get sick when you’re caring for a loved one.

For information on our cancer care programs at the Medical Center of Lewisville, visit us online or give us a call at 972-420-1000.

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Cancer Caregivers: Don’t Forget Yourself!

Calendar May 15, 2012 | Posted by laicos

Nothing can fully prepare you for caring for a loved one with cancer. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions. The National Cancer Institute reminds caregivers that it’s natural to become stressed, angry or depressed while caring for an ill loved one. Learn how to take time for yourself while acting as a caregiver. There’s nothing selfish about needing time to care for yourself. In fact, you’ll be a better resource for your loved one if you support your own needs.

Get support
Look into support groups, either online or in person. Talking to others who are in the same situation may help you. Find resources that will assist you in caring for your loved one, such as community resources or volunteers. Ask friends and family to help you with tasks like doing grocery shopping and cooking meals. You can’t do this alone.

Talk to your doctor
Make sure your doctor knows that you’re caring for a loved one with cancer. It’s important to have your mental health supported by a professional. Your doctor may recommend resources to you or may want to see you more often to see how you’re doing.

Get out of the house regularly
Whether you go on a walk or just run an errand, it’s important to get out of the house or out of the hospital, depending on where your loved one is staying. You need time alone to process your feelings, cry or simply distract yourself for a while. There’s nothing wrong with needing that time to decompress from the anxiety and sadness you may be feeling.

Continue your exercise routines
Don’t neglect physical fitness. Exercise helps you manage your emotions and helps you sleep. It helps you lower your risk of many chronic conditions and is good for your overall well being. If your time is limited, find ways to exercise indoors. Try stretching or doing some light strength training.

Focus on your own health
While caring for a loved one with cancer, you’ll likely be completely focused on your loved one’s health. Try to focus on your own health too. Remember to take your medications, to keep up with doctor’s appointments and to get plenty of rest and good nutrition. Stress and strong emotions can wear you down, and the last thing you want is to get sick when you’re caring for a loved one.

For information on our cancer care programs at the Medical Center of Lewisville, visit us online or give us a call at 972-420-1000.

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Top Arthritis Myths

Calendar May 8, 2012 | Posted by laicos

Many people think arthritis simply means sore joints. According to the CDC, arthritis refers to over 100 rheumatic diseases and conditions that affect joints other connective tissue. Discover the top arthritis myths. You may be surprised by what you learn.   
           
Myth: If you crack your knuckles, you’ll get arthritis.
You may have been told as a child that cracking or popping your knuckles causes arthritis. According to the Library of Congress, the sound of cracking joints is caused by escaping gases and movement of joints, tendons and ligaments. Studies have not shown a correlation between cracking your knuckles and getting arthritis, but the habit may weaken your grip.

Myth: Arthritis is the name for common aches and pains.
Because nearly 1 in 5 US adults have arthritis, it can seem like it simply refers to common aches and stiffness. Arthritis is actually comprised of many different diseases. The CDC lists childhood arthritis, fibromyalgia, general arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. The common aches and pains of getting old aren’t necessarily arthritis, but they can be.

Myth: Only elderly people get arthritis.
Childhood arthritis, or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects kids under 16. According to Medline Plus, physical therapy and medicine can help treat kids with this type of arthritis, with the goal of maintaining movement and reducing swelling and pain. Though arthritis is common in older people, it can occur during many stages of life and should not be considered something that only affects the elderly.

Myth: Arthritis is untreatable.
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are many ways to treat the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Talk to your doctor about medications that can help relieve the pain of arthritis. Lifestyle changes, including exercise and diet, can help with arthritis symptoms. Arthritis Today discusses dozens of supplements that may provide relief and slow the symptoms of arthritis. Some patients do well with physical therapy while others may need surgery to overcome debilitating symptoms. It’s important to work closely with your doctor to establish the best regimen for your symptoms.

If you would life more information on treating and managing your arthritis, visit us online at the Medical Center of Lewisville Human Motion Institute. We offer rehabilitation and surgical services and our goal is to help patients get back to their daily functioning as safely and quickly as possible! You can also give us a call at 972-420-1800.

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5 Exercise Machines to Stay Away From + Alternatives

Calendar May 1, 2012 | Posted by laicos

Give yourself a nice big pat on the back! You've taken the first step to physical fitness by joining your local gym. Now, it's time to conquer the slew of scary-looking exercise machines sprawling the place. Here's a beginner's guide to which machines you should keep away from, and some alternatives that can get the job done.

The Seated Leg Extension
This machine is intended for use to strengthen the quadriceps, the four muscles in the front of the thigh. This machine can be dangerous because it encourages a motion that is unfamiliar to your legs and according to Women's Health, can put undue strain on the ligaments and tendons that surround the knee.

Instead: Squats with your own bodyweight.

Hip Abductor
This machine is supposed to work out your thighs, but it also creates a unnatural movement that can put stress on the spine.

Instead: Work the same muscles in a different way by using a resistance band. Men's Health recommends this exercise: loop a resistance band around both legs just below the knees and take small steps to the left 20 feet and then the right 20 feet to complete one set.

The Smith Machine
The Smith Machine is used to perform squats with a built-in barbell weight that is lifted on a track. This machine only allows you to move straight up and down, and correct squat format would have you squat more down and back. The unnatural movement can also put added strain on your lower back and knees, according to Men's Health.

Instead: Just do simple squats with your own body weight, as recommended by Women's Health.

The Seated Leg Press
The seated leg press is intended to work the quadriceps (front of thigh muscles), hamstrings (back of thigh muscles) and glutes. However, the motion of lying on your back and pushing a weighted plate with your knees bent can be dangerous if you bend your legs too far. According to WebMD, this can cause you to lose the proper form and can put stress on the back and knees.

Instead: Try doing squats or lunges with your own body weight.

Seated Lat Pull down
This is intended to work the lats (the large, flat muscles that span up the back), the biceps (muscles on the front upper arms) and the upper back. However, it can cause problems with the shoulder and may lead to injury of the rotator cuff.

Instead: Try pull ups or try just pulling the bar down in front of your head instead of behind the head. This will work the same muscle groups but with less possibility for injury.

Remember– Always talk to your doctor before beginning any new exercise program. If you're unsure which machines do what, most gyms will provide you with a tour of the facility or a brief introductory training session where you can learn about the machines. For more information on staying fit or beginning an exercise routine for the first time, give us a call at 972-420-1000 or visit the Medical Center of Lewisville online.

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Common Foot and Ankle Injuries

Calendar April 24, 2012 | Posted by laicos

Whether you are an athlete or you spend most of your day sitting down, you may find yourself at risk for foot and ankle injuries. Take time to learn about common foot and ankle injuries so you can prevent them when possible and treat them quickly if necessary. Never ignore foot pain. Your feet and ankles support you through everyday routines and the fitness activities that keep you healthy and happy. Be good to them.

Plantar Fasciitis
Symptoms: Experienced as heel pain, plantar fasciitis occurs when tendons in the foot deteriorate or are damaged. This can happen with age, obesity, diabetes or injury.

Treatment: FamilyDoctor.org recommends cutting back on activity, stretching the plantar fascia tendon and calf, and using over-the-counter pain relievers with the supervision of your doctor. If pain persists, talk to your podiatrist.

Sprains
Symptoms: This type of injury affects the ligaments around a joint. Commonly experienced in the ankle, a sprain is often felt as a sharp pain followed by swelling. Sprains can occur during sports activities or if a misstep is taking while walking or running.

Treatment: Medline Plus recommends icing a sprain right away to reduce swelling. A bandage can limit movement, but should not be used too tightly. It’s important to rest a sprained ankle, keeping it elevated and staying off it completely. If you believe you may have a broken bone or dislocated bone, have someone drive you to the ER or call 911 right away.

Achilles Tendinitis
Symptoms: Common in older individuals and those engaged in running or sports, Achilles tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendon that runs along the back of the foot and ankle. Pain is felt during walking, running and stretching. It may hurt to touch the area around the ankle and heel.

Treatment: According to Medline Plus, it can take up to three months to recover from Achilles tendonitis. It is very important to limit activity and rest while recovering. Talk to your doctor about pain relief and medicine to help with inflammation while you rest and regularly ice the area. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to alleviate the pain and inflammation.

For more information on foot and ankle injuries, visit us online at the Human Motion Institute at Medical Center of Lewisville. To find out more about the services we offer at the Medical Center of Lewisville, contact us at 972-420-1800.

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Ideas to Make Healthy Eating Fun for Kids

Calendar April 17, 2012 | Posted by laicos

No parent wants to constantly nag kids to eat their vegetables, but every parent hopes to provide kids with a healthy, balanced diet. How do you get kids to eat healthy without a fight?  Make it fun and get kids involved.

Teach basic biology
Even preschoolers can be taught that good foods equal happy bodies. Talk about the digestive system in basic terms or make an analogy, such as telling your little car lover that he needs fuel for his engine. It may take a while to sink in, but it helps for kids to know why they need to eat well.

Take kids shopping
Bring your kids to the grocery store. Explain where various foods come from. Invite older children to read labels. Talk about ingredients and which ones sound healthy. Focus on whole foods and make a game out of seeing how many you can incorporate in a meal.

Plan meals together
As your kids begin to understand nutrition, ask them to help with basic meal planning. Try one kid-recipe day a week. If your children want to put together a plate of raw veggies and bagels with peanut butter, allow them to. Just make sure they understand the basic food groups, as explained by the USDA.

Play down fast food
Don’t make a big deal out of fast food, especially the kinds geared toward kids. If you make these a treat or a big part of your diet, your kids will expect more of them. According to healthfinder.gov, kids are eating out more often. High-calorie prepared foods and fast foods contribute to the United States’ obesity epidemic.

Let kids graze
Don’t be afraid to allow kids to set the pace when it comes to eating. Before dinner, when kids are whining for a snack, allow only a vegetable option such as carrot sticks. For lunch, try offering kids cubed chicken breast, cubed cheese and chopped fruits and veggies on a small platter. Get creative and let your kids graze instead of focusing on big meals.

Get sneaky
Add healthy foods to recipes without bringing the healthy ingredients to your kids’ attention. Try grating vegetables into pasta sauce or adding some flax seed to homemade muffins. Depending on how picky your kids are, you can get away with making most of your family favorites healthier without kids ever noticing.

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Taking Diabetes on Vacation

Calendar April 10, 2012 | Posted by laicos

If you live with diabetes, you have probably wished you could take a vacation from it, but the reality is you have to think about it every day–even when you are on vacation. Planning and taking a vacation takes a bit more preparation for those with diabetes, but it does not mean you can't still have the time of your life! Here are some tips to make traveling easier:

Before You Leave
You are eager to get going and take a break from work (aren't we all?), but before you start your packing and hit the road, you should make sure you are in good health so no surprises come up during your trip.

  • Visit your doctor for a checkup and let him or her know you will be traveling. Your physician may have some good advice for you.
  • While you're at your doctor, get a letter stating you have diabetes and a copy of your prescriptions.
  • If you are getting any immunizations, schedule them a few weeks before you leave, as they may affect your blood sugar levels.
  • Research your destination so you know what healthcare facilities are available in the event of an emergency.
  • Depending on the length of your trip, you may need to ask your doctor for extra prescriptions.

Packing Tips
Packing for vacation is a chore for anyone, but diabetics have even more to think about! Here are some suggested tips for packing what you need:

  • Bring enough supplies and medicine for an extra week in case of travel delays.
  • Pack your medicine and medical supplies in your carry-on in case a checked back gets lost or delayed.
  • Remember to pack plenty of snacks in your carry-on or purse–crackers, raisins and granola bars are all travel-friendly.
  • Bring glucose tablets.
  • Keep your insulin packed in a well-insulated container.
  • Bring two pairs of comfortable shoes.
  • Bring insurance information as well as a card with your primary doctor's name and phone number.

Travel Tips
Here are some other things to keep in mind when traveling with diabetes:

  • If the location you are going is on another time zone, you may need to adjust your insulin schedule.
  • When taking a long flight, be sure to find out if food is served and request a special meal if needed.
  • Don't wear open-toed shoes if you will be walking a lot.
  • Travel with a friend or buddy at all times if possible.
  • If going through airport or port security, carry notes and prescriptions for all of your equipment, medications, syringes, etc.

Your diabetes doesn't have to put any limitations on your vacation. Preplanning and packing wisely can help you have the trip of a lifetime without worrying about your diabetes care the entire time. For more information on managing your diabetes, contact us at the Medical Center of Lewisville. Visit us online or call our Diabetes Self Management Center at 972-420-1091.

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Organ Donation: The Facts

Calendar April 3, 2012 | Posted by Medical Center of Lewisville

April is National Donate Life Month. According to organdonor.gov, each organ and tissue donor can save or improve the lives of as many as 50 people. Find out how and why you should register to become an organ donor and change lives.

What is organ donation?
Organ donation is when healthy tissue and organs are removed from one person and transplanted into another. Some organs, such as kidneys or parts of the liver can be donated while the donor is alive. However, most organ donations occur after the donor is deceased.

Who can donate organs?
Almost anyone can be an organ donor. Certain cancers, infections and AIDS prohibit organ donation, but beyond that donors can be any age or background. You don’t need to be healthy or young to donate. Even children and infants can be donors with parental consent.

Why do people donate organs?
According to womenshealth.gov, every day 18 people die while waiting for an organ donation. The number of people who need a transplant rises much higher than the number of donors. Organ donors choose to help give organs and tissues to those waiting for a transplant to live and function. Some organ donors have spoken to loved ones and know that donation may ease the family’s grief at the time of passing.

How do you become an organ donor?
Become a registered organ donor if your state has a registry. You should be able to designate whether or not you are an organ donor on your driver’s license. Even if you register, talk to your family about your wishes. Ensure that your family knows that you would like to be an organ donor. According to organdonor.gov, your family may be asked to give consent for donation or provide information to the transplant team.

Who receives organs?
There are now more than 105,000 people on the waiting list for solid organ transplants, according to womenshealth.gov. Recipients have different ages, backgrounds and ethnicity. The heart, liver and lungs are well-known organs that can be transplanted to save lives. However, according to the American Osteopathic Association, there are more than 25 different transplantable organs and tissues.

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Tips for Exercise During Pregnancy

Calendar March 27, 2012 | Posted by Medical Center of Lewisville

When you’re pregnant, it’s more important than ever to keep physically fit. According to WomensHealth.gov, healthy pregnant women should get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week. Exercise helps alleviate uncomfortable symptoms of early pregnancy, helps you sleep better, improves your mood and can help you recover more quickly after you have the baby. What are you waiting for? Try these tips to get moving.

Be Realistic
If you worked out regularly before pregnancy, you should be able to continue your workout routine during pregnancy. Just check with your doctor first. If you didn’t work out before, start easy and stick to activities that don’t wear you out or risk injury.

Be Safe
Avoid activities that have a high risk of injury or high impact. Activities like extreme sports, horseback riding and contact sports are not safe for pregnancy women. Avoid sports that have a risk for falling down such as skating or snowboarding.

Be Gentle
Moderate aerobics are fine as long as you take proper safety measures. If you’re not sure what’s safe, ask your doctor. According to KidsHealth.org, the pregnancy hormone relaxin loosens the ligaments in your body, making you less stable and more prone to injury. Be cautious when you choose your activities, and warm up and cool down properly.

Hydrate
It’s important to drink plenty of water during pregnancy, no matter how often you have to go to the bathroom. Exercise is no exception. Drink water before, during and after your workout.

Know When to Stop
If you notice any red flags during a workout, stop what you’re doing and call your doctor. If you aren’t sure what to look out for, ask your doctor for a list. It will include contractions, bleeding, dizziness, heavy fluid discharge, and decreased fetal movement.

Get Creative
You don’t need to go to the gym to get a pregnancy workout. Try walking around your neighborhood, going on a light hike, swimming or doing a pregnancy workout at home with a DVD or web video.

Do Your Kegels
Don’t forget to work out your pelvic floor during pregnancy. Kegels can help you during delivery, and can help during your recovery with issues like stress incontinence. Learn how to do a kegel correctly at the National Institutes of Health.

More Information
For more information on staying healthy before, during and after pregnancy, contact us at the Medical Center of Lewisville. Visit us online or give us a call at (972) 420-1880.

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Best Foods & Snacks to Help Lower Cholesterol

Calendar March 20, 2012 | Posted by Medical Center of Lewisville

Diet restrictions can seem intimidating when you’re trying to lower your cholesterol. Don’t despair! You can still eat plenty of things that taste great and satisfy your cravings. Use these suggestions to find the best foods and snacks to help lower cholesterol without skimping on flavor.

Snack on nuts
As long as you avoid salted nuts or nuts that have been coated in sugary substances, you’ll be doing your heart a favor. Try heart-healthy options like almonds, peanuts and walnuts. Add them to a leafy salad, eat them by the handful, or use them as a topping on your whole grain breakfast.

Enjoy fish
Fish can be prepared in heart-healthy ways, and it’s great for your body. Fish is low in saturated fat, so choosing fish twice a week can help lower your cholesterol. Avoid frying or breading fish. Try it steamed or broiled with delicious lemon and pepper that doesn’t add any sodium to the dish.

Open with oatmeal
Start your day with healthy oatmeal. Try a brand that’s low in sugar and high in fiber, or make your own with steel cut oats. They can be cooked overnight in a crock pot and enjoyed all week long, topped with healthy fruit and a little honey for flavor.

Eat your veggies
Try skipping red meat and any meat entirely at least twice a week. Make your favorite dishes with healthy meat substitutions. Introduce your family to new flavors, using a variety of vegetables cooked a variety of ways. Try steamed artichoke or asparagus broiled on a cookie sheet. Hit your local farmer’s market for inspiration, and try adding pureed fruits or chopped vegetables to your favorite baked dishes.

Go lean with meat
According to the American Heart Association, people who need 2,000 calories should eat no more than six ounces of cooked lean meat, poultry, fish or seafood a day. Six ounces isn’t very much. If you eat meat at lunch, skip it at dinner time. Measure your portions correctly and choose lean, healthier meats such as chicken or turkey.

Choose low fat dairy products
You don't need to cut dairy out entirely, but you should choose low fat options when you can. Consider skim milt, low fat cheeses and yogurt, and avoid excess dairy in your diet. Choose liquid fats for cooking instead of butter.  The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends fat-free or 1 percent dairy products.

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