The Price of Beauty
All of us use something to try to improve our appearance on a regular basis; whether it’s make-up, lotion, perfume or even deodorant. This day in age both men and women have their beauty secrets. What we often don’t realize is that many times these products we use to enhance, shape, or even tone our bodies can have very negative effects on our health. In recent studies dangerous chemicals have been found in products that we use daily. According to “ChemicalSafeSkincare” there are three ingredients, which are especially hazardous. Parabens (preservatives used in many moisturizers and body creams) have been linked to both cancer and to skin irritation. Sodium lauryl sulfate (a foaming agent used in shampoos) can irritate the skin, as can formaldehyde (used in hand soap and shampoo). (Alliance for Natural Health, 2012)
Many organizations have tried to bring awareness to the dangers of these chemicals. For example, the Breast Cancer Fund has provided extensive information on research that suggests that the long term use of many skin care products can be linked to breast cancer. Commercial companies have been asked to find safer alternatives for their products; however, like many business people they claim that they use more health conscious chemicals, but that doesn’t mean that this is necessarily true. To view some of the safety scores on cosmetics visit:
www.cosmeticdatabase.com
I bring this to your attention for two reasons. The first is so that you are more conscious of the products that you use on a daily basis. I’m not saying that lotion gives you cancer. However, I am saying that you should check the ingredients in anything you use because you could really be harming yourself in the long run. The second is because as you all know Halloween is next week and many of you use make up on yourselves and your loved ones to enhance your costumes. I think this is great but just take the time to double check the ingredients on those things.
Of course, always remember that First Care of New York provides the proper care for our clients affected by an array of medical issues by utilizing our Certified Home Health Aides or Personal Care Aides to help our clients with their activities of daily living such as: visiting their doctors regularly, assisting with medication reminders and also preparing meals with the dietary necessity to help lower blood pressure and other ailments. If you or a loved one can no longer manage on your own or are having health issues due to medical conditions, do not hesitate to give us a call to find out how we may be able to help. Our number is 718-741-5956.
For more information on this subject visit:
http://www.pureprevention.org/documents/cosmetics_and_breast_cancer_2007.10.10.pdf
Friday, October 19, 2012
6 Myths About Breast Cancer
As you all may or may not know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. That is why this week I would like to discuss a lot of the myths that have been created about this disease. Sadly, many misinformed people have circulated all types of theories and false information about this particular type of cancer. Like any other type of Cancer, breast cancer is a life changing and terrifying disease. Although women have the most occurrences of this disease, they are not the only ones who can develop it. This brings me the first myth about breast cancer.
As you all may or may not know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. That is why this week I would like to discuss a lot of the myths that have been created about this disease. Sadly, many misinformed people have circulated all types of theories and false information about this particular type of cancer. Like any other type of Cancer, breast cancer is a life changing and terrifying disease. Although women have the most occurrences of this disease, they are not the only ones who can develop it. This brings me the first myth about breast cancer.
Myth #1: Only women get breast cancer. Absolutely false! Overall, women have the most reported cases of breast cancer, but men can get it too. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation approximately 2,190 men are diagnosed with breast cancer and 410 die every year. Although this may seem like a small percentage, it should not be ignored. Men should learn to self-examine themselves and be more aware of the changes that occur in their bodies.Moving along to myth #2 Underwire bras cause breast cancer. Years ago, someone started a rumor that the underwire found in bras could cause breast cancer. There are many claims that these types of bras compress the lymphatic system of the breast, causing toxins to accumulate and cause breast cancer. This is absolutely false! There is no scientific evidence that connects the tightness or the wiring in a woman’s undergarments to breast cancer.
Myth #3 is closely related to #2 because it involves a product that we use on a daily basis. A vicious rumor has been spread that states that wearing antiperspirant increases your chances of getting breast cancer. It is believed that a chemical found in deodorant, when absorbed by the body, can trigger an effect that would produce cancer. Like the underwire bra there is no scientific information stating that this is the case. So don’t stop using your deodorant just yet! Myth #4 is that only people with a history of breast cancer in their family are at risk of getting breast cancer. “While women who have a family history of breast cancer are in a higher risk group, most women who have breast cancer have no family history. Statistically only about 10% of individuals diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of this disease” (National Cancer Institute, 2012). This means that we are all still at risk and should be going to our regular checkups.
Moving along to breast cancer myth #5, people believe that breast cancer always comes in the form of a lump. A lump may indicate breast cancer, but women should also be aware of other kinds of changes that may be signs of cancer. These include: swelling, skin irritation or dimpling, breast or nipple pain, the nipple turning inward, redness, scaliness, or a discharge from the nipple other than breast milk. Breast cancer can also spread to underarm lymph nodes and can cause swelling there before a tumor in the breast is large enough to be felt. Luckily, a mammogram can pick up breast cancer that has no outward symptoms at all. So make sure you get checked! Last but not least…Myth #6: Breast cancer is a death sentence. Medicine has advanced so much that being diagnosed with cancer no longer means that you are going to die. There are many treatment options and procedures nowadays, this should give you hope! I know that knowing these things doesn’t make cancer any less terrifying, but I share this information with you in the hopes that you will be more motivated to continue to do more research and pay more attention to your health. To learn more about Breast cancer visit:
You are a part of our First Care family and we not only want you to be educated, but we always want you to know that First Care of New York provides the proper care for our clients affected by an array of medical issues. By utilizing our Certified Home Health Aides or Personal Care Aides to help our clients with their activities of daily living such as: visiting their doctors regularly, assisting with medication reminders and also preparing meals with the dietary specifications necessary to help assist with any medical needs. If you or a loved one can no longer manage on your own or are having health issues due to medical conditions, do not hesitate to give us a call to find out how we may be able to help you. Our number is 718-741-5956.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE
First Care of New York is proud to have received a report card for 2012 with the recognition of exceptional service, by one of its top contracts “Senior Health Partners”, a managed care organization.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Cancer
Although this is a topic that many of us are familiar with, I thought it would be good idea to revisit it so that we can all have a clear idea of what this disease is all about. More often than not you hear people saying cancer can spread and it can kill you. However, most of us wonder how it spreads? And how does it literally kill you? According to the American Cancer society, all cancers start because abnormal cells grow out of control. Untreated cancer can cause serious illness and death. As we all know, the body is made up of millions of little cells. These cells are constantly growing, dividing, and dying. At different stages of our lives, this cellular process goes about differently. For example when you are young, the cells divide and multiply at a faster rate to allow you to continue growing. But once we reach adulthood this process slows down and most cell division only occurs to replace damaged or dying cells. Cancer begins when cells in a particular part of the body grow out of control. This type of cell growth is very different from normal cell growth. Instead of dying off, cancer cells continue to grow and form new abnormal cells. These cancerous cells can also grow and invade other tissue cells, which is what makes them even more dangerous. In most cases, these cancer cells will eventually form a tumor.
Cancer cells often metastasize or travel to other parts of the body where they begin to grow and form new tumors. This happens when the cancer cells get into the body’s bloodstream. Over time, the tumors replace normal tissue. Different types of cancer can behave very differently. For instance, bone cancer and skin cancer are very different diseases. They grow at different rates and respond to different treatments. This is why people with cancer need treatment that is aimed at their specific form of cancer. It is also important to remember that not all tumors are cancer. Tumors that are not cancerous are considered benign. Benign tumors can cause problems, but they cannot invade other tissues within the body; meaning that they also cannot spread to other parts of the body. These tumors are almost never life threatening.
Many men and women either know someone, or suffer from cancer themselves. This disease has become very common and this is why it is important to educate yourself about it. The best thing to do is to have an open line of communication with your doctor. Let him or her know if you see or feel something different with your body. Early detection may be the difference between recovery and the need for treatments.
At First Care of New York, we care for many cancer patients and can be there for you and your family, if they have been suffering from cancer and can no longer care for themselves or others. Our highly trained certified home health aides and personal care aides can be there to help them lead the most enriching life possible. You can count on First Care of New York to be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for any and all Live in Care, Personal Care, Home Health and Companionship needs. For your convenience, we may even schedule a nurse to visit you or your loved one’s at home and evaluate the level of care that is needed. This will help clarify some questions you or your loved one may have. First Care is a licensed home care service agency that provides top quality aides to all our clients. If you would like to have more information, please feel free to contact us by phone at 718-741-5956 or on our website at www.1st-care.org.
Although this is a topic that many of us are familiar with, I thought it would be good idea to revisit it so that we can all have a clear idea of what this disease is all about. More often than not you hear people saying cancer can spread and it can kill you. However, most of us wonder how it spreads? And how does it literally kill you? According to the American Cancer society, all cancers start because abnormal cells grow out of control. Untreated cancer can cause serious illness and death. As we all know, the body is made up of millions of little cells. These cells are constantly growing, dividing, and dying. At different stages of our lives, this cellular process goes about differently. For example when you are young, the cells divide and multiply at a faster rate to allow you to continue growing. But once we reach adulthood this process slows down and most cell division only occurs to replace damaged or dying cells. Cancer begins when cells in a particular part of the body grow out of control. This type of cell growth is very different from normal cell growth. Instead of dying off, cancer cells continue to grow and form new abnormal cells. These cancerous cells can also grow and invade other tissue cells, which is what makes them even more dangerous. In most cases, these cancer cells will eventually form a tumor.
Cancer cells often metastasize or travel to other parts of the body where they begin to grow and form new tumors. This happens when the cancer cells get into the body’s bloodstream. Over time, the tumors replace normal tissue. Different types of cancer can behave very differently. For instance, bone cancer and skin cancer are very different diseases. They grow at different rates and respond to different treatments. This is why people with cancer need treatment that is aimed at their specific form of cancer. It is also important to remember that not all tumors are cancer. Tumors that are not cancerous are considered benign. Benign tumors can cause problems, but they cannot invade other tissues within the body; meaning that they also cannot spread to other parts of the body. These tumors are almost never life threatening.
Many men and women either know someone, or suffer from cancer themselves. This disease has become very common and this is why it is important to educate yourself about it. The best thing to do is to have an open line of communication with your doctor. Let him or her know if you see or feel something different with your body. Early detection may be the difference between recovery and the need for treatments.
At First Care of New York, we care for many cancer patients and can be there for you and your family, if they have been suffering from cancer and can no longer care for themselves or others. Our highly trained certified home health aides and personal care aides can be there to help them lead the most enriching life possible. You can count on First Care of New York to be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for any and all Live in Care, Personal Care, Home Health and Companionship needs. For your convenience, we may even schedule a nurse to visit you or your loved one’s at home and evaluate the level of care that is needed. This will help clarify some questions you or your loved one may have. First Care is a licensed home care service agency that provides top quality aides to all our clients. If you would like to have more information, please feel free to contact us by phone at 718-741-5956 or on our website at www.1st-care.org.
Friday, September 21, 2012
What is Cerebral Palsy?
In this week’s blog we will be discussing Cerebral Palsy. Every so often we meet an array of people who are branded with this disability, each of them reflect different physical conditions and even different levels of understanding. So much so that at times it makes you wonder what this diagnosis really means. And most importantly, how exactly does it affect the quality of life of the patient and the family? According to the U.S. National library of medicine, Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that can involve brain and nervous system functions, such as: movement, learning, hearing, seeing and thinking. There are several different types of cerebral palsy, including: spastic, dyskinetic, ataxic, hypotonic, and mixed.
Cerebral palsy is caused by injuries or abnormalities of the brain, which are related to problems that occur during pregnancy. However, the child is still at risk of developing this illness within the first two years of his/her life. In fact, cerebral palsy can be diagnosed before a child reaches the age of two. In some cases the brain is injured due to loss of oxygen, there is no known reason as to why this occurs. It is believed that premature infants are at a higher risk of developing cerebral palsy. It can be caused by bleeding in the brain, brain infections, head injuries, infections in the mother during pregnancy and severe jaundice. Because there are so many variables, cerebral palsy affects people in many different ways. It can range from almost unnoticeable to very severe. Some of the symptoms include abnormal movements like twisting or jerking of the hands, feet, or arms. As well as tremors, unsteady gait, speech and hearing problems.
To learn more about the symptoms of cerebral palsy visit:
www.cerebralpalsysource.com.
Although, there is no real treatment for cerebral palsy, there are things you can do to improve the patients’ quality of life. The goal in each case is to make the person as independent as possible. This requires a lot of effort from both the family and a team of medical professionals. In most cases patients receive physical, speech, and occupational therapy. Cerebral palsy is a lifelong disorder. Long-term care may be required. The disorder does not affect expected length of life. Many adults are able to live in the community, either independently or with different levels of help. In severe cases, the person may need to be placed in an institution.
First Care of New York is a licensed homecare service agency that can help individuals that are having difficulties with activities of daily living. Our HHA’s and PCA’s can help with bathing, cooking, cleaning and even medication reminders, as well as other assistance, depending on one’s needs. One very important factor is that our HHA’s or PCA’s can accompany our clients to their doctor’s appointment to help our clients get the medical attention that they would need. Please feel free to contact us and find out how we can help. You can find out more about First Care of New York Inc. by visiting us on the web at www.1st-care.org or you can call us at (718) 741-5956.
In this week’s blog we will be discussing Cerebral Palsy. Every so often we meet an array of people who are branded with this disability, each of them reflect different physical conditions and even different levels of understanding. So much so that at times it makes you wonder what this diagnosis really means. And most importantly, how exactly does it affect the quality of life of the patient and the family? According to the U.S. National library of medicine, Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that can involve brain and nervous system functions, such as: movement, learning, hearing, seeing and thinking. There are several different types of cerebral palsy, including: spastic, dyskinetic, ataxic, hypotonic, and mixed.
Cerebral palsy is caused by injuries or abnormalities of the brain, which are related to problems that occur during pregnancy. However, the child is still at risk of developing this illness within the first two years of his/her life. In fact, cerebral palsy can be diagnosed before a child reaches the age of two. In some cases the brain is injured due to loss of oxygen, there is no known reason as to why this occurs. It is believed that premature infants are at a higher risk of developing cerebral palsy. It can be caused by bleeding in the brain, brain infections, head injuries, infections in the mother during pregnancy and severe jaundice. Because there are so many variables, cerebral palsy affects people in many different ways. It can range from almost unnoticeable to very severe. Some of the symptoms include abnormal movements like twisting or jerking of the hands, feet, or arms. As well as tremors, unsteady gait, speech and hearing problems.
To learn more about the symptoms of cerebral palsy visit:
www.cerebralpalsysource.com.
Although, there is no real treatment for cerebral palsy, there are things you can do to improve the patients’ quality of life. The goal in each case is to make the person as independent as possible. This requires a lot of effort from both the family and a team of medical professionals. In most cases patients receive physical, speech, and occupational therapy. Cerebral palsy is a lifelong disorder. Long-term care may be required. The disorder does not affect expected length of life. Many adults are able to live in the community, either independently or with different levels of help. In severe cases, the person may need to be placed in an institution.
First Care of New York is a licensed homecare service agency that can help individuals that are having difficulties with activities of daily living. Our HHA’s and PCA’s can help with bathing, cooking, cleaning and even medication reminders, as well as other assistance, depending on one’s needs. One very important factor is that our HHA’s or PCA’s can accompany our clients to their doctor’s appointment to help our clients get the medical attention that they would need. Please feel free to contact us and find out how we can help. You can find out more about First Care of New York Inc. by visiting us on the web at www.1st-care.org or you can call us at (718) 741-5956.
Friday, August 31, 2012
Labor Day Weekend Safety Precautions
Hello fellow bloggers! As you all know, this weekend is Labor Day weekend. Before you jump out of your seats, I want you to take a few safety precautions as you head out to celebrate the holiday. First and foremost remember to drive safe! There will be a lot of families on the road this weekend. This of course opens the door for all types of road rage and irresponsible driving. Please “be the change you want to see”-Gandhi-. If someone cuts you off, don’t make it your mission to get back at them, just let it go and move on. "As we begin this last summer weekend of heavy travel, drivers need to operate their vehicles much more defensively than usual because more vehicles on the roadways will increase the potential for accidents" (Melody A. Currey Dept. Motor Vehicles). With that being said, remember that this weekend is all about family and fun!
For those of you heading out to the beach; don’t leave home without your sun block/screen. News weather forecasts indicate that it will be a weekend full of sun and clear skies. Also make sure you keep an extra eye on the kiddies, especially when they are in the water. There will be a lot of people out there, some just trying to enjoy the long weekend and others that have bad intentions. Moments like these call us to be aware of our surroundings.
Most importantly let us not forget the true meaning of Labor Day. Remember that people that fought for those things that we often overlook today. The American worker was not always entitled to a lunch break or to receive minimum wage. Things like Pension plans, workers compensation, and even the right to work in a safe environment, are all things that were earned with sweat, blood and tears.
During this time of remembrance, let us not forget those that are not able to travel to their loved ones. Many people are home alone or have no family to celebrate with. Also, let us remember our fellow Soldiers who are serving around the world, especially those engaged in combat in Afghanistan.
Hello fellow bloggers! As you all know, this weekend is Labor Day weekend. Before you jump out of your seats, I want you to take a few safety precautions as you head out to celebrate the holiday. First and foremost remember to drive safe! There will be a lot of families on the road this weekend. This of course opens the door for all types of road rage and irresponsible driving. Please “be the change you want to see”-Gandhi-. If someone cuts you off, don’t make it your mission to get back at them, just let it go and move on. "As we begin this last summer weekend of heavy travel, drivers need to operate their vehicles much more defensively than usual because more vehicles on the roadways will increase the potential for accidents" (Melody A. Currey Dept. Motor Vehicles). With that being said, remember that this weekend is all about family and fun!
For those of you heading out to the beach; don’t leave home without your sun block/screen. News weather forecasts indicate that it will be a weekend full of sun and clear skies. Also make sure you keep an extra eye on the kiddies, especially when they are in the water. There will be a lot of people out there, some just trying to enjoy the long weekend and others that have bad intentions. Moments like these call us to be aware of our surroundings.
Most importantly let us not forget the true meaning of Labor Day. Remember that people that fought for those things that we often overlook today. The American worker was not always entitled to a lunch break or to receive minimum wage. Things like Pension plans, workers compensation, and even the right to work in a safe environment, are all things that were earned with sweat, blood and tears.
During this time of remembrance, let us not forget those that are not able to travel to their loved ones. Many people are home alone or have no family to celebrate with. Also, let us remember our fellow Soldiers who are serving around the world, especially those engaged in combat in Afghanistan.
If you or someone you know is having a difficulty with activities of daily living, please feel free to reach out to us and see how we can help. Or you can visit our website http://www.1st-care.org/
At First Care of New York we would like you to have a safe, healthy and enjoyable Labor Day holiday.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Avoiding Depression
Fall is right around the corner and it’s safe to say that stress is at an all-time high. Children are going back to school; adults are coming home from vacation. The world is upside down! With emotions at an all-time high, it is very easy to fall into a pattern of mood swings and maybe even depression. That is why this week I want to take a moment out to give you a few pointers that could help you battle the emotional ups and downs you might be going through. First and foremost, CALM DOWN! Things are out of whack and you have 1001 responsibilities but guess what? Stressing about it isn’t going to make your problems disappear. One of the things that I find helps me when I am stressed out is organizing. For instance, making a “To do” list, or putting things in order from greatest importance to least can be helpful. However, realistically speaking, making a list isn’t for everyone, but don’t fret, there are other ways to cope with stress.
Since life is an emotional roller coaster, some days you feel like nothing can stop you. Other days you feel completely hopeless. Most of the time, you are somewhere in between both extremes. Understanding the pattern of positive and negative emotions will help you put your feelings in perspective. Next time you feel down, just remember that it’s a natural emotion that will inevitably pass. Knowing that a feeling of depression is only temporary makes it less dreadful. Also, even though you may be pressed for time, try to include some leisurely time in which you can meet up with positive people. Nothing affects the way you think and your emotions more than the people you interact with. Thoughts (both positive and negative) are contagious. If you are surrounded by negative people, it’s only natural that you will start to think and feel the same way. To improve your outlook on life, spend time with positive people. Try to understand the way they see the world. Most likely their happiness will rub off on you. Above all, the best way to stop feeling depressed is to take action. What is your biggest problem? How can you alleviate it? Once you decide to stop moping and start moving forward you won’t have time to feel depressed. Action will occupy your mind and give you something to look forward to. Once you get some results, you’ll build momentum and positive thinking will keep getting easier.
Always remember that First Care of New York provides the proper care for our clients affected by an array of medical issues by utilizing our Certified Home Health Aides or Personal Care Aides to help our clients with their activities of daily living such as: visiting their doctors regularly, assisting with medication reminders and also preparing meals with the dietary necessity to help lower blood pressure and other ailments. If you or a loved one can no longer manage on your own or are having health issues due to medical conditions, do not hesitate to give us a call to find out how we may be able to help. Our number is 718-741-5956.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Understanding Cataracts and how they affect us
Often, as we increase in age many changes begin to occur to our bodies. Of the many things that plague us in our older years, cataracts are a very prevalent issue. Cataracts are a change in the clarity of the lens inside the eye. What happens is that the lens becomes partially clouded eventually blocking and distorting light passing through the lens. This of course, causes visual impediments. The lens is made mostly of water and protein. There are specific proteins within the lens that are responsible for maintaining clarity. Over the course of time these proteins are altered, eventually leading to the clouding of the lens. Since cataracts develop very slowly most people do not know they have them at first. However, the clouding progresses and vision will gradually get worse.It is important to note that even though this is an event that most commonly occurs during old age. There have been a few cases in which cataracts have been detected at birth or in early childhood. Some, factors that can lead to cataracts at an early age are excessive ultraviolet light exposure, diabetes, smoking, and or the use of certain medications like oral, topical or inhaled steroids.
There is no proven way to prevent cataracts, but there are certainly ways of slowing cataract development. You simply have to make small changes in your life style, for example…don’t smoke, wear hats or sunglasses when you are in the sun, avoid sun lamps and tanning booths, eat healthy foods, avoid the use of steroid medicines when possible and keep your diabetes under control. The standard treatment for cataracts is surgery. The most common type of cataracts surgery today is called Phacoemulsification. With the use of a microscope, the surgeon will make a tiny incision in the surface of your eye or near the cornea. They insert a small ultrasound apparatus which emits small ultrasonic vibrations, in this pocket that dissolve the clouded lens. “Once the cataract is removed, an artificial lens is placed into the same thin capsular bag that the cataract occupied”. There are also two other types of surgery: extra capsular and intracapsular. The type of surgery you require depends on how severe your cataracts are. This can be determined by receiving regular eyes exams. Although, an eye test may help confirm a cataract diagnosis, it may not always reflect the patient's quality of life. Some patients who do badly in a test seem to have no problem with daily function; while others who may do well insist that their eyesight is poor and does interfere with ordinary activities. You can find more information on this subject by visiting the following link:
http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/cataract/cataract_facts.asp
First Care of New York is a licensed home care service agency that can help individuals that are having difficulties with activities of daily living. With our certified home health aides (HHA) and personal care aides (PCA), we can provide the services needed. Our HHA’s and PCA’s can help with bathing, cooking, cleaning and even medication reminders, as well as other assistance, depending on one’s needs. You can find out more about First Care of New York Inc. by visiting us on the web at www.1st-care.org or you can call us at (718) 741-5956.
Friday, July 20, 2012
Home Remedies…Are they really effective?
Everyone has a grandmother, aunt, or even a mother who swears she can cure anything by creating some sort of weird concoction. Almost always we laugh at them and just disregard what we consider as old wives tales. However, when we are down and out and we take those home remedies; more often than not we get cured. So what is it about these remedies that cure us? Is it that these crazy concoctions actually have medicinal properties? Or is this just some sort of mind trick, where if you believe something will cure you it does? Extensive research has been done on this subject for the simple fact that some home remedies are just out of this world. For example in my household the simple cold can be cured in many ways: for initial symptoms honey and a lime cut in the form of a cross will do. However, if this has developed into an actual cold, it requires a mixture of onions, aloe, and honey. Home remedies go much farther than lime and honey or aloe. There is an entire civilization out there that has survived on natural medicine. In fact, the National Geographic wrote an article in which they discussed the fact that some of the over the counter medicines we use today is rooted from a form of natural medicine. For example “Digitalis”, which is used to treat chronic heart failure, comes from the leaves of the foxglove plant, and ephedrine, a component of many commonly prescribed respiratory medicines, is derived from a chemical formula from the ephedra plant” (Swerdlow, Joel NGM).
Although, the nature of home remedies has evolved over time, the main principle remains the same. People have the ability and resources to cure themselves of many diseases. Of course some illnesses require more than a few herbs, so don’t stop going to your doctors just yet. We can however entertain the idea that maybe grandma had a point. On the other hand it’s important to note, that like any type of medicine usage, this practice shouldn’t be abused. It’s not safe to decide you’re just going to stop going for your regular checkups. Always consult with a doctor before deciding to treat anything on your own. At least, now you know that you have options, and that sometimes Mother Nature can help you get better.
Always remember that First Care of New York provides the proper care for our clients affected by an array of medical issues by utilizing our Certified Home Health Aides or Personal Care Aides to help our clients with their activities of daily living such as: visit their doctors regularly, assisting with medication reminders and also preparing meals with the dietary necessity to help lower blood pressure. If you or a loved one can no longer manage on your own or are having health issues due to medical conditions, do not hesitate to give us a call to find out how we may be able to help. Our number is 718-741-5950.
Everyone has a grandmother, aunt, or even a mother who swears she can cure anything by creating some sort of weird concoction. Almost always we laugh at them and just disregard what we consider as old wives tales. However, when we are down and out and we take those home remedies; more often than not we get cured. So what is it about these remedies that cure us? Is it that these crazy concoctions actually have medicinal properties? Or is this just some sort of mind trick, where if you believe something will cure you it does? Extensive research has been done on this subject for the simple fact that some home remedies are just out of this world. For example in my household the simple cold can be cured in many ways: for initial symptoms honey and a lime cut in the form of a cross will do. However, if this has developed into an actual cold, it requires a mixture of onions, aloe, and honey. Home remedies go much farther than lime and honey or aloe. There is an entire civilization out there that has survived on natural medicine. In fact, the National Geographic wrote an article in which they discussed the fact that some of the over the counter medicines we use today is rooted from a form of natural medicine. For example “Digitalis”, which is used to treat chronic heart failure, comes from the leaves of the foxglove plant, and ephedrine, a component of many commonly prescribed respiratory medicines, is derived from a chemical formula from the ephedra plant” (Swerdlow, Joel NGM).
Although, the nature of home remedies has evolved over time, the main principle remains the same. People have the ability and resources to cure themselves of many diseases. Of course some illnesses require more than a few herbs, so don’t stop going to your doctors just yet. We can however entertain the idea that maybe grandma had a point. On the other hand it’s important to note, that like any type of medicine usage, this practice shouldn’t be abused. It’s not safe to decide you’re just going to stop going for your regular checkups. Always consult with a doctor before deciding to treat anything on your own. At least, now you know that you have options, and that sometimes Mother Nature can help you get better.
Always remember that First Care of New York provides the proper care for our clients affected by an array of medical issues by utilizing our Certified Home Health Aides or Personal Care Aides to help our clients with their activities of daily living such as: visit their doctors regularly, assisting with medication reminders and also preparing meals with the dietary necessity to help lower blood pressure. If you or a loved one can no longer manage on your own or are having health issues due to medical conditions, do not hesitate to give us a call to find out how we may be able to help. Our number is 718-741-5950.
Friday, July 6, 2012
What is Hepatitis C?
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) - “Hepatitis” means inflammation of the liver. Toxins, certain drugs, some diseases, heavy alcohol use, and bacterial and viral infections can all cause hepatitis. Hepatitis is also the name of a family of viral infections that affect the liver; the most common types are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.
Luckily for us in the U.S. and other developed countries, we can enjoy the benefits that exist, such as vaccines to help prevent Hepatitis A and B. Nevertheless, there is no vaccine available for Hepatitis C. So why is Hepatitis C so bad? The CDC defines Hepatitis C as a contagious liver disease that ranges in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong illness that attacks the liver. It results from infection with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is spread primarily through contact with the blood of an infected person. Hepatitis C can be either “acute” or “chronic.” Those affected by hepatitis may have symptoms of dark urine, clay-colored bowel movements, joint pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, fever, and/or jaundice (which is yellow color in the skin or eyes)
Chronic Hepatitis C is a serious disease that can result in many different long-term health problems such as: liver damage, liver failure, liver cancer, or even death. It is also the leading cause of cirrhosis, as well as liver cancer and the typical reason for liver transplantation in the United States.
According to the CDC the long-term effects of Hepatitis C:
Of every 100 people infected with the Hepatitis C virus, about
• 75–85 people will develop chronic Hepatitis C virus infection; of those,
o 60–70 people will go on to develop chronic liver disease
o 5–20 people will go on to develop cirrhosis over a period of 20–30 years
o 1–5 people will die from cirrhosis or liver cancer
Therefore, you should always get yourself checked out. At First Care of New York, we believe everyone’s health is important, which is why we have all our Certified Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides tested for Hepatitis, to provide you the peace of mind that you or your loved ones are getting the right health professionals in your home to provide safe care. If you or someone you know is having a difficulty with activities of daily living, please feel free to reach out to us and see how we can help. Or you can visit our website http://www.1st-care.org/
Luckily for us in the U.S. and other developed countries, we can enjoy the benefits that exist, such as vaccines to help prevent Hepatitis A and B. Nevertheless, there is no vaccine available for Hepatitis C. So why is Hepatitis C so bad? The CDC defines Hepatitis C as a contagious liver disease that ranges in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong illness that attacks the liver. It results from infection with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is spread primarily through contact with the blood of an infected person. Hepatitis C can be either “acute” or “chronic.” Those affected by hepatitis may have symptoms of dark urine, clay-colored bowel movements, joint pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, fever, and/or jaundice (which is yellow color in the skin or eyes)
Chronic Hepatitis C is a serious disease that can result in many different long-term health problems such as: liver damage, liver failure, liver cancer, or even death. It is also the leading cause of cirrhosis, as well as liver cancer and the typical reason for liver transplantation in the United States.
According to the CDC the long-term effects of Hepatitis C:
Of every 100 people infected with the Hepatitis C virus, about
• 75–85 people will develop chronic Hepatitis C virus infection; of those,
o 60–70 people will go on to develop chronic liver disease
o 5–20 people will go on to develop cirrhosis over a period of 20–30 years
o 1–5 people will die from cirrhosis or liver cancer
Therefore, you should always get yourself checked out. At First Care of New York, we believe everyone’s health is important, which is why we have all our Certified Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides tested for Hepatitis, to provide you the peace of mind that you or your loved ones are getting the right health professionals in your home to provide safe care. If you or someone you know is having a difficulty with activities of daily living, please feel free to reach out to us and see how we can help. Or you can visit our website http://www.1st-care.org/
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