How Does PCOS Affect Fertility?

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Posted by RobynNazarRN on May 2, 2013 at 2:15 pm

Can you get pregnant with PCOS? Does PCOS decrease your fertility? What are the treatment options for PCOS?

Dr. Norbert Gleicher, infertility expert at the Center For Human Reproduction, New York, discusses Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and its effect on infertility. He also answers these common questions listed above, which are often asked by women, with PCOS, who are trying to conceive.

To see more educational videos about infertility issues and treatment options, visit the CHR Youtube channel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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What is the Mediterranean Diet?

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Posted by Jeana Brookes on March 5, 2013 at 9:21 am

The Mediterranean diet, recently called the healthiest diet in the world, is a way of both enjoying the lifestyle of and eating based on the traditional foods (and drinks) of the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. This includes Italy, Greece, Spain, and Morocco.

The health benefits of a Mediterranean diet have been studied extensively in the last 10 years, resulting in better science and more clinical evidence.

What Foods are Included in the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean diet includes extra virgin olive oil, chickpeas, nuts (i.e. hazlenuts and walnuts), vegetables, fruits, fish, and whole grains are all included. There is a moderate consumption of dairy products (mostly as cheese and yogurt). Additionally, there is an emphasis on a variety of minimally processed and, wherever possible, seasonally fresh and locally grown foods (which often maximizes the health-promoting micronutrient and antioxidant content of these foods).

Opposed to many diets which exclude alcohol, the Mediterranean diet allows for moderate consumption of wine, normally with meals; about one to two glasses per day for men and one glass per day for women. From a contemporary public health perspective, wine should be considered optional and avoided when consumption would put the individual or others at risk.

Does the Diet Include Exercise?

Regular physical activity at a level which promotes a healthy weight, fitness and well-being is generally included in the diet as well. The Mediterranean diet, according to many nutritionists and health specialists, is more of a lifestyle than a traditional diet.

What Diseases Does the Diet Prevent and/or Reduce?

The February 25 New England Journal of Medicine published the results of a large Spanish study that found persuasive evidence that the Mediterranean lowers the risk of strokes and heart disease. In the featured study, participants who enjoyed plentiful amounts of these foods had less cardiovascular disease than subjects who followed a more conventional low-fat diet that included red meat. The results were so overwhelmingly clear that researchers study ended the study early. The researches concluded that among persons at high cardiovascular risk, a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil or nuts reduced the incidence of major cardiovascular events.

A separate but also recent analysis of more than 1.5 million healthy adults demonstrated that following a Mediterranean diet was associated with a reduced risk of overall and cardiovascular mortality, a reduced incidence of cancer and cancer mortality, diabetes, and a reduced incidence of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

Is This Diet New?

Although filed in with the myriad of fad diets, the Mediterranean diet is far from new. In 2010, UNESCO recognized this diet pattern as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Italy, Greece, Spain and Morocco.

For thousands of years, residents along the Mediterranean coast have enjoyed the delicious diet and engaging in regular physical activity. They don’t think of their eating habits as a diet plan; it’s simply a way of life that can lead to long, healthy lives with less chance of chronic disease.

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At What Age Should I Start Getting Checked for Cancer?

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Posted by Amanda Guerrero on February 8, 2013 at 9:09 am

Cancer screening testAccording to statistics from the American Cancer Society (ACS), approximately 1.6 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in 2013 – and more than 500,000 lives are expected to be lost to the deadly disease this year alone. Many of these deaths can be prevented by avoiding risk factors and by undergoing regular screening tests for certain types of cancers.

Following are some recommendations from the ACS for when to start getting screened for cancer:

Breast

  • Breast self-examination: This type of exam involves checking the breasts regularly to help detect problems or changes. It is recommended for women over the age of 20, but not required.
  • Clinical breast examination: It is recommended that this type of exam be performed by a healthcare provider at least once every three years for women in their 20s and 30s.
  • Mammography: Women over the age of 40 should have one done each year.

Cervix

Cervical cancer screenings for women should begin at the age of 21 and can be done every three years with a regular Pap test. Between 30 and 65, tests can be done every five years with both the HPV and Pap tests, or every three years with just the Pap. Depending on different factors, women may be able to stop screening for cervical cancer after 65.

Colorectal

There are different tests that can be performed to screen for colorectal cancer (from a fecal occult blood test to colonoscopy); however, it isn’t necessary for men or women to start getting tested until the age of 50. How often screenings occur, depends on the type of test and recommendations from your doctor.

Lung

Past and current smokers ages 55 to 74 with at least a 30 pack-year history can undergo a low dose helical CT test to screen for cancer after being informed by their physician of potential harms and limitations. The ACS recommends smoking cessation as the  foremost form of lung cancer prevention.

Prostate

Men over the age of 50 should talk to their healthcare provider about prostate cancer screenings such as rectal exams and PSA blood tests, including benefits and potential risks. African-American men and those with a strong family history of prostate cancer should have a discussion with their doctor at 45.

For specific questions or concerns about the different cancers and their related screening methods, talk to your doctor.

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What Is the Difference between a Patient Portal and a PHR?

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Posted by Amanda Guerrero on January 31, 2013 at 11:21 am

What is PHR? What is patient portal?There are a lot of buzzwords being thrown around in hospitals, physician practices and medical facilities across the United States, and it can be easy for patients to get confused about which terms matter and what they mean. With federal programs incentivizing healthcare providers for engaging patients in their health, two terms that caregivers are using a lot lately are “personal health record” and “patient portal” – both extremely relevant to patients and crucial for getting them involved in decisions about their health. But what does each one mean?

Personal Health Record (PHR)

A PHR is an electronic record of an individual’s health information that can draw information from various sources. This can include data obtained by the patient (weight, height, current medications, emergency contact information and family medical history), as well as data obtained from providers (diagnoses, immunizations and lab results).

In stark contrast to an electronic health record (EHR), which contains data entered and controlled by a healthcare provider, many PHRs are managed primarily by the patient. The patient can share the data with a physician if they choose to, but they are not required to. This type of PHR is referred to as “standalone.”

The other type of personal health record, which is slowly becoming more common, connects to a healthcare organization’s EHR system so that both the patient and their provider can access and update data contained within the record, resulting in a more accurate and comprehensive medical record.

Patient Portal

An online patient portal is a tool that connects to a healthcare organization’s electronic health record software. It allows patients to view certain portions of their medical record, similar to a PHR. However, unlike a PHR, patients cannot always make changes to their record. Instead, they can view data such as clinical summaries and test results and benefit from features such as:

  • Secure electronic messaging
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Prescription refill request
  • Online bill pay

Though patient portals appear to be more comprehensive resources than patient-maintained PHRs, a major downside is that they do not contain data from all of a patient’s physicians. In fact, each healthcare group will have their own portal with data pulled from that organization’s own EHR.

Do your providers use a patient portal or EHR-connected PHR? Do you maintain your own personal health record? Which method do you prefer?

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Does Cell Phone Use Increase the Chances of Developing Cancer?

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Posted by Health News Watch on January 21, 2013 at 8:04 am

Since the introduction of the cell phone in the 1970’s there has been controversy and debate over the link between cell phone use and cancer development. Although numerous studies have been completed, there is no hard evidence to prove the link between cancer and cell phones is true.

There are three main reasons why concern has been raised over cell phone use and caner:

  • Cell phone technology is constantly changing at a very fast rate. The way people use their cell phones is not stationary. The number of calls made each day, the length of each call and the amount of other time people spend on phones is constantly increasing, especially as cell phones become more interactive. The type of technology used in cell phones is also constantly transforming.

 

  • Cell phones emit a form of radiation called radio-frequency energy (non-ionizing radiation). The tissues near to where the phone is held can absorb this energy. Ionizing radiation, such as that used for x-rays has been proven to increase a person’s cancer risk. Non-ionizing rays- also the type of rays used in microwaves-has only been proven to have a heating effect.

 

  • The number of cell phone users is constantly on the rise. The amount of users, according to the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association, has increased 3 fold since 2000.

The National Cancer Institute has summarized the most recent and relevant studies to ascertain what exactly is the current scientific consensus on cell phone use and cancer. Out of six studies, only one found a statistical association between brain cancer development and cell phone use.

The reasons for the inconsistent findings in this research are numerous:

Bias: There is an element of recall bias when individuals diagnosed with brain tumors recall how they used their cell phones. Completing questionnaires about habits once a person is diagnosed with a disease does not lead to a very subjective opinion.

Inaccurate recall: People may genuinely forget to what extent they used their cell phones when reporting their habits to researchers.

Morbidity and Mortality: Brain cancers can be difficult to study as they have a high death rate. People diagnosed with brain cancers often have a short survival period. Those who survive can often have impaired cognitive function caused by brain cancer. Family members of brain cancer victims often find it difficult to accurately report the cell phone use of their relatives. This all leads to inaccurate reporting of statistics.

Fast Changing Cell Phone Technology: The earliest phones operated on an analog system. However these days phones operate on digital technology. There is a big different between the analog and the digital systems, as the digital system uses a lower radio-frequency and power level than the early cell phone. Therefore studies completed on the early cell phones do not really apply to the cell phone of today. Also the ways cell phones are used is constantly changing. Texting, hands-free technology and internet use in cell phones mean that the cell phones proximity to the head is decreased.

Currently, studies are being completed to obtain a better understanding of cell phone use and cancer development. A large study was launched in Europe in 2010 and will follow a group of 250,000 cell phone users over the course of 20-30 years. Although this kind of study will face some of the challenges listed above, it has the advantage of being a prospective study, one that looks into the future and studies the participants as they currently use their cell phones. Perhaps this kind of study and others like it will be able to clarify, more conclusively, the link between cell phone use and cancer.

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How Do I Remove a Fallen Tree?

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Posted by Tim Ruben on January 14, 2013 at 12:03 pm

Winter storms can be destructive, especially for trees. Winter storms are one of the most challenging forms of emergencies as they may include blizzards, communications system failures, electrical storms, hail, high winds, ice, power outages, road closures, sleet, snow, and transportation accidents that pose risks to buildings, collections, and people.

On average the United States has roughly four catastrophic winter storms annually with storms occurring most commonly in the northeastern US. Trees can pose certain threats during winter storms, including damage to houses and property, as well as being an eyesore.

Removing a large fallen tree by yourself tends can be very difficult and dangerous, especially if you don’t have much experience with tree removal. Using a chainsaw is also extremely dangerous, and if you’re a novice, you should never try to remove a large tree by yourself. Professional help is highly recommended, as fallen trees can occur in many different dangerous scenarios that can’t all be covered in one article. Partially fallen trees are the most dangerous, as they are usually supported by a few branches under great tension and can resume falling at any time.

However, for certain trees, it may make sense to avoid the cost of tree removal and just do the job yourself. Below, are some tips on how to remove fallen tree:

1. Make sure you are allowed to remove the tree. Most cities and counties have ordinances related to the removal of any tree from a property, fallen or not. Since removing a tree from a property may have significant effects on water absorption and runoff, it is best to check with your local government office regarding any permits that might be required to remove the tree.

2. Safety first. A fallen tree can be dangerous. The tree might be resting precariously on some unseen obstruction or only be partially fallen. Make sure the area is safe before you start working to remove it. If you are not certain that the area is safe, tree removal Bellevue services should be contacted for assisting the removal. Also,always have at least another person work with you. That why, in case you get trapped or injured, there is someone to assist or call for help. If using a chainsaw, make sure you have the appropriate safety gear. Never use a chainsaw on a fallen tree unless you are well protected.

3. Start chopping.  Once you are ready, begin from the top to remove the tree’s branches. Work your way down until you have stripped the tree’s trunk of all branches. Then divide the tree into manageable slices (which should get narrower towards the tree’s trunk). Use a chain or hand saw to cut the tree into these slices. If the wood is good and dry, you can save it for firewood. It is best to continually clear the debris from where you are working, as tripping or stepping on a branch could result injuries.

4. Dispose the debris. There are a number of ways to deal with the resultant chopped wood from a fallen tree. You can use a professionally equipped tree service to come and grind the chunks of the tree to sawdust and haul it away, or you can store it for firewood. Some local governments will pick up smaller-sized dead branches and wood debris with trash collection or special recycling runs. Check to see if this is true for your area.

In the future, tree service Bellevue specialists recommend to avoid planting any large bushes or trees near your home or business, and cut back all dead branches on trees in the surrounding areas. If you are ever unsure on the removal of a fallen tree, it is best to consult with your local tree removal services to see what option is best for you.

 

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Is massage therapy dangerous in the treatment of cancer associated pain?

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Posted by RobynNazarRN on January 10, 2013 at 10:02 am

There is a common misunderstanding that the use of massage therapy to treat cancer pain is dangerous, as, it could cause cancer to spread.

Massage therapy is one of the most common alternative therapies offered to patients in a clinical setting to help relieve the pain associated with cancer. Massage is often used in conjunction with other pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain treatments, such as these listed by this pain clinic in Minnesota.

Massage use in the clinical setting has been associated with relieving pain, encouraging relaxation and reducing anxiety. Massage carries out a manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, which produces effects on the vascular, muscular and nervous system. However, massage therapy contraindications for cancer have been raised as it was suggested that the massaging of the soft tissues of the body could help spread the cancer through the circulatory and lymphatic systems.

Many studies have proven that the stimulation of these systems, via massage, is no more than what would be caused by gentle daily exercise. However message directly over the tissue of a tumor is not recommended due to associated localized pain.

Although not contraindicated for cancer treatment, research suggests that in some cases of cancer, massage technique should be adjusted, for example, in patients with coagulation disorders. Deep tissue muscle massage should be replaced by a lighter tissue massage, as not to influence the development of DVT’s, hematomas and superficial bruising.

Massage for relief of cancer pain, is rarely used alone to treat cancer pain; however with other pain relieving therapies it is considered an effective and safe practice.  Although like any treatment, it is not risk free, there are very few reports of patients suffering adverse effects secondary to massage therapy for cancer pain. Also, unlike pharmacological treatment for cancer pain, massage therapy does not carry the side effects of nausea and constipation.

Some precautions need to be taken when providing massage therapy to a cancer patient, however treatment is not considered high risk or dangerous.

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What Happened with the Fiscal Cliff?

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Posted by Jeana Brookes on January 4, 2013 at 10:34 am

The fiscal cliff has been averted — at least for the time being — after a year of worrying, debating, and discussing. Congress and President Obama decided to raise taxes a bit, delay the scheduled budget cuts that promised to crush the economy, and create a plan that will delay (for now) a total economic meltdown.

The “fiscal cliff” is the term used to describe the situation our government faced at the end of 2012, when the terms of the Budget Control Act of 2011 were scheduled to go into effect (December 31 at midnight). In the beginning of the 2013, about $500 billion in tax increases and $200 billion in spending cuts were scheduled to take effect. Now that the House has passed a Senate deal to avert the fiscal cliff, it will become law when President Obama signs it.

According to CNN, there are five things to know about the complex bill, and what it does and doesn’t do:

1. No side won: Republicans accepted higher taxes for the wealthiest Americans. Democrats accepted a higher threshold for how much income will face a higher tax rate. President Obama broke a vow to raise tax rates on annual household income over $250,000 and individual income over $200,000.

2. We may have a new definition of the ‘wealthiest’: President Obama made raising tax rates on the top 2% of earners in America a centerpiece of his re-election campaign. The 2% figure includes those with income over $250,000. The compromise bill changes that figure. Tax rates will go up only for individuals with income over $400,000 and families earning more than $450,000. The deal does, however, cap some deductions for individuals making $250,000 and for married couples making $300,000. That allows the president bragging rights to say the deal raises taxes on people at those income levels. But he said just weeks ago that capping deductions at the $250,000 level would not be enough and that tax rates would rise.

3. Three more fiscal cliffs are on the way: The deal delays the sequester, a series of automatic cuts in federal spending, for two months. In the meantime, the Senate plan calls for $12 billion in new revenue and another $12 billion in spending cuts. The spending cuts are to be split between defense and nondefense spending. The other two: the debt ceiling and a continuing budget resolution.

4. The majority of House Republicans opposed it: Although House Speaker John Boehner supported the bill, the No. 2 Republican in the chamber, Majority Leader Eric Cantor, opposed it, as did most Republicans in the House. So while the Senate vote was an overwhelming 89 to 8, the House vote was 257 to 167. The vast majority of House Democrats supported the bill.

5. Your paycheck is still likely to shrink: The deal does not address an increase in payroll taxes. No legislation to address the fiscal cliff is expected to. Now, the cut on those taxes has expired. In monetary terms, those earning $30,000 a year will take home $50 less per month, and those earning $113,700 will lose $189.50 a month.

 

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How Can I Keep My New Year’s Resolutions?

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Posted by Suzy Mage on December 28, 2012 at 1:31 pm

People set New Year’s Resolutions each January but they are essentially forgotten within a few months of the New Year. Recent studies show a misfortunate pattern of resolution fallout: after six months fewer than half the people who make New Year’s resolutions have stuck with them, and after a year that number declines to around ten percent.

If you want to keep your New Year’s resolutions this year, follow these 4 simple steps created by Jeff Doubek, a spokesman for Day Timer:

1. Set smart resolutions. Choose realistic goals and give them measureable outcomes. It’s a vital step that, unfortunately, most people overlook. Oftentimes, people set vague goals that are difficult to address, or unrealistic expectations that are nearly impossible to meet. It is best that from the start you’re specific and the outcome is clarified. Don’t just say that you want to lose weight, say how much. And be pragmatic, if you work 40 hours per week, exercising every day may be unrealistic. Rather, set a goal to work out 3 days per week, and go from there. It’s also best to set a measurable time frame for when to complete the goal.

2. Create a goal sheet. Don’t just tell yourself your resolutions, write them down! Include your goal, description, and deadline. In writing down your goals, you are creating a state of personal investment. By contrast, typing goals on your computer often creates a “digital cushion,” an emotionless barrier that distances you from your responsibilities. It may be easier to create and file, but it’s also easier to forget. Then, post this sheet where you may see if often.

3. Break it down. Most people fail to get their resolutions off the ground because they focus too much on the outcome, and not enough on the activities that reach this outcome. You can overcome this by transferring your resolutions into daily tasks. For example, if your goal is to lose 10 pounds, how do you plan to get there? Write out step-by-step action plan, detailing all the steps that can take you from your goal to reality. Each step then becomes a new goal to reach! Rather than just jump to ‘losing 10 pounds’, write out how it will happen. For example, Step 1. Join a gym. Step 2. Create a diet and exercise plan – and so on. From there you can also create mini-goals, which you can achieve by taking these steps towards your overarching goal.

4. Celebrate successes.  Once you’ve made it a step further to reaching your resolution, take some time to celebrate!  It is important to take time to celebrate your growth, no matter how seemingly insignificant it feels. After all, if you’re not having fun, the odds are higher that you will put off your progress. You chose to make something better happen in your life, and you’re doing it. However, it is important to make sure that any reward that you give yourself doesn’t stifle your progress. For example, if your goal is to lose 10 lbs, celebrate by having a piece of your favorite treat or buying a new piece of clothing to show off, rather than a weekend of eating whatever you want with no restraints.

There is no better feeling than knowing that you’re on your way to a better year. Start achieving your goals today, and you’re already off to a great start. Good luck!

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What is Bookkeeping?

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Posted by Jeana Brookes on December 18, 2012 at 2:12 pm

Most people are involved in some sort of bookkeeping, whether for their personal use or for their organization, yet there are many misunderstandings about what bookkeeping actually is.

Many San Diego accountants believe that their clients should be educated on bookkeeping in general, so that they can have better understanding of why they do things and what the finances of their own business need to do.

Bookkeeping is the recording of all financial transactions undertaken by an individual or organization. The organization may be a business, a charitable organization or even a local sports club. A financial transaction is any event that involves the exchange of money.

In short, bookkeeping is “keeping records of what is bought, sold, owed, and owned; what money comes in, what goes out, and what is left.”

The name comes from the fact that financial information used to be recorded using pen and ink in paper books – hence “bookkeeping.” However, these days it is more commonly recorded in a computer system.

Individual and family bookkeeping involves keeping track of income and expenses in a cash account record, bank account statements, credit card statements, or savings account passbook. Individuals who borrow or lend out money also track how much they owe or are owed from others.

Two most common bookkeeping methods used are the single-entry bookkeeping system and the double-entry bookkeeping system:

  • Single-entry bookkeeping uses only income and expense accounts. Its is a simple method of bookkeeping relying on a one sided accounting entry to maintain financial information.
  • Double-entry bookkeeping requires recording each transaction twice, as debits and credits. It is a set of rules for recording financial information in a financial accounting system in which every transaction or event changes at least two different nominal ledger accounts.

While many companies outsource their bookkeeping to accountants, bookkeeping San Diego specialists agree that any individual or organization involved in bookkeeping should be aware of the process and what goes into it. A more informed client can assure that his or her accounting services are the most appropriate for their needs.

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