Untreated obstructive sleep apnea is one of the leading causes of excessive daytime sleepiness. Obstructive sleep apnea is defined as episodes of apneas (not breathing) which last more than 10 seconds and that occur during sleep. These episodes may occur hundreds of times per night and can lead to fragmented sleep. During these events, the individual’s oxygen level can fall to dangerously low levels (hypoxemia) and may result in cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), which can at times be fatal. Also, individuals with obstructive sleep apnea are far more prone to heart attacks and strokes.

Varicose veins are usually due to improperly functioning valves within the veins. The veins typically appear prominent or look raised. The condition can cause swelling of the legs, ankles and feet. The skin may become discolored due to leakage of blood into the surrounding tissues, and ulcers may form on the skin. Your Podiatrist may advise use of regular compression stockings or other treatments. We can prescribe compression stockings or order them in for you at Central Alberta Podiatry. If the veins are smaller, we can also treat them with laser for immediate results.

The coronavirus is one of several viruses that cause respiratory infections and the common cold. The symptoms are like any other upper respiratory infection, including runny nose, coughing, sore throat and sometimes a fever. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for the virus, so the best solution is prevention. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, keep your hands and fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth and avoid close contact with people who are infected. Visit your Central Alberta Co-op Pharmacist for tips and tricks to prevent contracting the virus or over-the-counter medications to help with the symptoms.

It’s not carbs, sugar, or fat. It’s because we’re eating when we’re emotionally hungry (above the neck). Not when we’re physically hungry (below the neck). How do I know the difference? Emotional hunger comes on suddenly. We crave specific foods. We could eat a Costco-size snack mix and we’re still not satisfied. Why? Because we’re not hungry for food. We’re hungry for something else. It might be escaping boredom, stress relief, or a distraction from difficult emotions. It’s never about the food we’re craving. It’s about what the food allows us to avoid.

● “The Body Keeps the Score (Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma),” Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D.
● “You Can Heal Your Life (The Mental Patterns that Create Dis-eases in the Body),” by Louise Hay-
● “Choosing Happiness (Inspiration for a Woman’s Soul),” Compiled by Linda Joy, Edited by Bryna Rene.
● “When the Body Says No (The Cost of Hidden Stress),” – Gabor Mate M.D.
● “The Gifts of Imperfection (Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are),” Brene Brown

Without a Will, the “Intestate” laws of your province determine who will take the responsibility of managing your Estate. Sometimes it is clear, such as a spouse, child or sibling, as to who would be next in line to administer your Estate, however, there can be confusion as to who this should be to administer your Estate. The absence of a personal representative (Executor) can result in fighting between your loved ones. If it cannot be determined who is to best administer your Estate, the Honourable Court will appoint an Estate Administrator.

An aspect of our mental health, self compassion entails being warm and understanding toward ourselves when we suffer, fail, or feel inadequate. Try these four things to improve yours. 1. Self kindness – be a friend to yourself. 2. Recognize our common humanity –we all need to belong. Even as imperfect human beings, we are all worthy of compassion. 3. Mindfulness – being with what IS, in the moment. Notice when we cause ourselves pain through negative self talk. Self criticism activates a stress response; a perceived threat. 4. Recognize and take in the SAFE feelings – warmth, gentle, soft voices.