Early detection of breast cancer can increase the success of treatment, so knowing what the signs and symptoms are is important. These can include a permanent lump in the breast that feels hard or tender and that might feel like it’s attached to the skin or chest wall, a lump in the armpit, visible changes such as dimpling, puckering, or thickening of the skin of the breast, redness or swelling in the breast, visible changes to the nipple, or itchiness of the nipple or breast. While these don’t necessarily indicate cancer, speak to your doctor if these symptoms do occur.
Community News
Plantar Fasciitis Pain
When tiny tears occur in the thick, fibrous band of tissue reaching from your heel to your toes (called “fascia”), inflammation and pain are the result. This is plantar fasciitis, and left untreated, it can produce heel spurs. A number of things can contribute to plantar fasciitis. While men can get plantar fasciitis, it’s more common in women. It is also more common in runners, people who are overweight, and those who wear shoes with inadequate support. VoxxLife socks and insoles are proven to reduce pain and improve circulation, thereby encouraging healing for those experiencing plantar fasciitis.
What is Respite Care?
Caring for a loved one is a rewarding experience but can sometimes have a negative impact on the health and well being of the caregiver. Respite care is a type of assistance that allows the family caregiver to take a break from care-giving. This type of care focuses on helping family caregivers recharge, ease their stress, and avoid caregiver burnout. Respite care can improve the long-term functioning of both the caregiver and the person receiving care, as well as prevent crisis situations.
Words to Live By
“Fear less, hope more, eat less, chew more, whine less, breathe more, talk less, say more, hate less, love more, and good things will be yours.”
~ Swedish Proverb
Words to Live By
“Every ceiling, when reached, becomes a floor, upon which one walks as a matter of course and prescriptive right.”
~ Aldous Huxley
Book Club
When You Need a Good Laugh: Finding Contagious Joy by Phil Callaway. Bestselling author Phil Callaway believes in making laughter a part of the everyday experience. By way of humorous and heartwarming stories, Phil addresses some of the issues that steal away the joy between friends and within the family. As readers learn to lighten their loads, they are encouraged to replace fear with faith, worry with prayer, and a frown with a smile. When paired with Kevin Rivoli’s candid, life-engaging, live-in-the-moment photos, readers find a sure way to pack a laugh with them wherever they go!
Matchmaking Testimonial
“I joined Camelot Introductions and found the love of my life! If it wasn’t for Lianne’s persistence, and her innate ability for matching people, then I would still be floundering. On-line dating was a waste of my time. Camelot was exactly what I was looking for – a professional service dedicated to matching people with similar interests and dreams. Getting married in November – I’ve never been happier! Thanks Lianne!”
~Brian.
Benefits of Companionship
Whether it is a close friendship or an intimate relationship, social interaction is needed to prevent health decline in seniors. Loneliness is a risk factor for functional decline in adults over the age of 60. Something as simple as a friendship can enhance aging hearts and strengthen the immune system. Companionship can decrease the physical risk of disease by lowering blood pressure, heart rate, and cholesterol. The psychological benefits include increased self-esteem, decreased stress, and a sense of belonging. If you are finding yourself lonely, while living on your own, you may want to connect with others by joining senior’s fitness classes, activity groups, or learning a new hobby.
Prescriptions From Your Pharmacist
Did you know that your doctor is not the only healthcare professional who can provide you with a prescription? The list of minor ailments that pharmacists can prescribe medication for continues to grow, helping to ease busy clinic waiting rooms and provide you with a convenient and safe alternative. Whether you have a rash or skin infection, are interested in birth control, or are dealing with cold or flu symptoms, your pharmacist can discuss your options with you to find the best treatment. Talk to your pharmacist today to get timely prescriptions for you and your loved ones.
The Hearing Loss/Alzheimer’s Connection
Recent research suggests that improving hearing loss with hearing aids reduces the risk for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In 2011, a team of Johns Hopkins medical school researchers discovered a significant association between hearing loss and the risk of developing these unwanted cognitive conditions. The worse someone’s hearing gets, the greater their risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia. The researchers believe their findings could have substantial implications for individuals and public health because hearing loss is treatable with hearing instruments. These findings underscore how important regular hearing tests are as part of preventative health care.
The Power of Touch
There are approximately 5 million touch receptors in your skin and 3000 on the tip of your finger. Whenever we get touched or when we receive a massage, our body releases endorphins that are natural pain- killers. Massage not only helps us relax, but it also gives our immune system a boost! Receiving a 45-minute massage has been found to increase the number of white blood cells that help defend the body from disease. Do you suffer from sleep problems? 60 minutes of massage have the same effect on your body as 7 to 8 hours of good sleep.
