March 31, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Getting Fit on Cape Ann Waterways

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Start your paddles!! Nothing like a meditative paddle on the beautiful waterways of Cape Ann!

Sun Setting on the Annisquam River

A sure sign of spring! Last Sunday I saw the first surf-ski on the Annisquam River. A stealth looking Epic V10 Sport, like the one in this photo from Gloucester’s Wings and Waves Photo Art – https://www.flickr.com/photos/wingsandwaves/9348952657/in/album-72157634766231655/ Maybe they were practicing for one of the upcoming rowing races! A Fitness Challenge!

Andrew’s Point

Whether on the Essex River, Ipswich Bay, Manchester and Rockport Harbors, Gloucester’s inner and outer harbor, or one of the many quiet coves, there are plenty of beautiful waterways to choose from. And a boat or board for someone of all ages and skill levels to paddle around Cape Ann! Continue reading →

March 29, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Fit Middle Aged Men Shown to Have Lower Cancer Risk

More Reasons to Get Fit Gloucester!

A Study Showed that Fit Middle Aged Men Were Found to Have Lower Risk of Colon and Lung Cancer!

In the news, March 26th… a study published on-line by the peer-reviewed Journal of the American Medical Association/JAMA Oncology showed a link between cardiovascular health and a decreased incidence of colon and cancer.

These findings were first presented June 2, 2013 at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in Chicago, Ill. The lead researcher, Dr. Susan Lakoski* reported at that time, “While poor fitness is already known to predict future cardiovascular disease, this is the first study to explore fitness as a marker of future cancer risk prognosis,” (*Susan Lakoski, M.D., assistant professor of medicine and director of the cardiovascular prevention program for cancer patients at the University of Vermont/Fletcher Allen Health Care.)

Source –

http://oncology.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=2203829&resultClick=3

http://www.uvm.edu/medicine/?Page=news&storyID=16136&category=comresne

Something to consider – men (and women!) who exercise may also be more likely to focus on an overall healthy lifestyle choices, such as healthy exercise, healthy eating, abstaining from smoking, and minimizing alcohol use lowers your risk of heart disease and cancer. Healthier Lifestyles for a Healthier YOU! Spring is a great time to focus on YOU and YOUR Good Health!

~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

March 24, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Are You at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

March is Colon-Rectal Cancer Awareness Month! Too many of my friends, relatives, patients, and clients have been affected by this disease. March 5th was National Colon Cancer Day. That date came and went, but I could not let the month pass without bringing attention to the importance of Prevention, Screening, and Early Detection of Colon-Rectal Cancer.

Prevent. Screen. Treat. Early Detection Saves Lives.

Cancer of the colon and/or rectum (colorectal cancer) can begin without symptoms, which is why early screening is important. Pre-cancerous and benign polyps can be removed before they become cancer. While routine screening often begins at 50, screening for those at higher risk may begin as early as 30’s. Having a family history of colorectal cancer puts you at higher risk. Increased Risk of Colorectal Cancer –

Family history of colon and/or rectal cancer
History of colorectal polyps
Obesity
Lack of Physical Activity
Smoking
High-Fat (Saturated/Trans-fat) Diet
Alcohol Use

Colon Cancer Facts from the American Cancer Society –

Approximately 5%, (1 in 20 Americans) will be diagnosed with cancer of the colon or rectum in their lifetime.
Second Leading Cause of Cancer Deaths in Men and Women
Approximately 9o% Cure Rate When Caught Early!

The Good News – Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment Improves Outcomes and Saves Lives!! ** Ask Your Doctor About Screening!

Colorectal Screening Includes (but not limited to):

Colonoscopy
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Fecal Occult Blood (FOB) (*Easily performed at home or in the doctor’s office.) **
Stool immunochemical test (FIT) **
Stool DNA test (sDNA) **

** According to the American Cancer Society, if these tests are positive a colonoscopy is recommended. Video of Katie Couric and a screening colonoscopy – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbUesuxT1IE

“An Ounce of Preventions is Worth a Pound of Cure.” Though at the time, this quote by Benjamin Franklin referred to fire fighting, the advice rings as true today as it did in the 1700’s

Decreasing the Risk of Colon-rectal Cancer –

(Many of the ‘cardiac risk factor reduction’ recommendations mentioned in earlier posts apply to ‘colorectal cancer risk reduction.’)

Physical Activity (of 30 minutes, 5 x a week)
Maintain Healthy Weight
Avoid Smoking
Minimize Alcohol (2 Drinks for Men, 1 for Women; per day. No need to start if you don’t currently drink.)

**Diet may also play a role in preventing colon cancer, but the study results have been mixed. Some dietary recommendations that may help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer:

- Minimize Red and Processed Meats
- Limit Saturated Fat in Your Diet
- Diets Higher in Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains may be beneficial

** Talk to your physician about colorectal screening and prevention!

** TREATMENT for Colorectal Cancer – Conventional Treatment for Colorectal Cancer May Include:

Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation

‘Integrative Health Therapies’ for Added Support – Integrative Health Therapies are complementary therapies offered ‘in addition to’ (not in place of,) conventional therapies for supportive care and to minimize side effects of treatment. Integrative therapies may include: acupuncture, massage, meditation, reiki, tai chi, and yoga. To learn more about supportive, integrative therapies offered during cancer treatment – www.nccih.nih.gov. Many hospitals now offer integrative therapies as part of comprehensive health care programs. Ask your physician about incorporating integrative therapies in your plan of care.

Finding an integrative health provider – https://nccih.nih.gov/health/howtofind.htm. and https://nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/selecting Warning: Some complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies may not be recommended with your condition. Some herbal and over-the-counter (OTC) products may even interfere with your treatment! ASK Your Oncologist, before pursuing complementary, alternative and integrative therapies. Let your physicians know if you are using CAM therapies or herbs/supplements.

The ‘Integrative Health Model’ is meant to incorporate conventional medicine with complementary therapies that have been demonstrated to be safe, effective and potentially minimize negative side effects, improve outcomes, and increase patient satisfaction.

Sources and More Information: American Cancer Society – http://www.cancer.org/acs/groups/content/@nho/documents/document/colorectalcancer.pdf

Center for Disease Control –

http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/colorectalawareness/

National Cancer Institute – http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/prevention/colorectal

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health –

https://nccih.nih.gov/health/cancer/camcancer.htm

Nip Colon Cancer in the Butt! Prevent, Screen, Detect and Treat EARLY!

Wishing you the Best in Health, Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

March 19, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Celebrating Spring and Healthy Herring

The Long-Awaiting Coming of Spring Begins Tomorrow!

As Joey mentioned, it’s time for the ‘Annual River Herring Count’ – April 1st – May 30th.

In honor of herring, here is information about their ecological importance and health benefits! Herring are –

High in Omega-3, (healthy fatty acids EPA + DHA, which are considered important for brain function, eye health, and may help decrease inflammation.)
Source of Vitamin D
Considered to be lower in mercury levels due to their small size (Note: Pregnant women need to check with there physician regarding fish consumption.)
Important part of the marine food chain.
Harvested sustainably
Extremely valuable to the fishing economy in Northeastern United States

Food Chain and Herring

http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/fish-herring-wcani

River (Alewife and Blueback) Herring –

Their health and well-being are a reflection of the overall state of the coastal ecosystem.
Their count can represent the health of marine life, as well as any watershed problems (such as man-made alteration of the natural hydrology, and water pollution.)

Fishing for Herring – Join the Count! April 1st – May 30th.

To become a volunteer monitor and help efforts to protect this important species, contact:

Dave Sargent/ Alewife Warden @ 978-282-8018 – dsargent@gloucester-ma.gov

or Max Schenk @ 978-282-8025 – mschenk@gloucester-ma..gov

Grilled (‘Nishin’) Herring

I don’t know about you, but I am craving some grilled herring as I write this! (‘Nishin’ is Japanese for herring.) – http://tokyostation-yukari.blogspot.com/2010/01/grilled-nishin-herring.html

Sources –

Association to Protect Cape Cod. – http://www.apcc.org/herring/

Dr Weil – http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400957/Herring-or-Sardines.html

Fisheries and Oceans, Canada – http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/education/lessonplans-lecons/whale-epaulard-eng.html

National Geographic – http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/fish-herring-wcani

Natural Resources Defense Council – http://www.nrdc.org/health/effects/mercury/guide.asp

NOAA Fish watch – http://www.fishwatch.gov/seafood_profiles/species/herring/species_pages/atl_herring.htm

Happy, Healthy Spring to All of You! And May the River Herring be Healthy Too!

~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

Owner and Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit. www.DreamtimeWellness.com Follow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

March 13, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Spring Cleaning for Your Health

Spring is Just One Week Away! A welcome sight after the long winter we’ve had in New England. The mountains of snow are beginning to melt and signs of spring are finally cropping up.

‘Bluebird of Happiness’. Photo Courtesy of Michael Chamness. © Wings & Waves Photo Art. Gloucester MA.

Did You Make A New Years Resolution to Exercise? Have you been able to keep it, or has it gone by the wayside, like the ‘disappearing sidewalks’ that made getting around this winter more difficult? Even if you LOVE winter and winter sports like I do, the brutal winter temperatures made it difficult to get outside to exercise. Hopefully, you found your way to one of the many local gyms and fitness centers on Cape Ann and stayed on-tack with your exercise and/or weight reduction goals! If not….

The GOOD NEWS – You Can ‘Jump-Start Your Good Health’ ANY Time of the Year!

Many people in New England feel as if they’ve been living in a cave during this, the second snowiest winter. Time to Take Off Your Winter Mask and Start SPRING CLEANING for Your Health!

Spring is a good time to take a closer look at the goals you set at the beginning of the year and reevaluate where you stand with them. With warmer temperatures and more hours of daylight comes a renewed sense of energy and hope springs forth!

The World Health Organization (WHO) Definition of Health –“a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” www.who.int/about/definition/en/print.html

Spring Cleaning generally is thought of as deep house cleaning, clearing out the cobwebs, sorting through your closets. Consider also a cleanse of mind, body and spirit to feel younger and rejuvenated!

SPRING CLEANING for Mind, Body, & Spirit

Sunlight Can Help Boost Serotonin, the brain chemicals that help you Feel Happy, Healthy and Well! Have you noticed an extra spring in your step since the clocks moved ahead? I know I have! Increased serotonin levels promote improved mood. (“Everything in moderation.” Unfortunately, while boosting serotonin and a source of Vitamin D too much sunlight can have risks. For sun safety advice – http://www.cancer.org/healthy/besafeinthesun/)

Get Moving. Enjoy Fresh Air, Exercise, the Company of Family and Friends as you enjoy the beautiful beaches and conservation land of Cape Ann. Along with physical benefits, exercise helps you think more clearly and improves mood. For a list of Cape Ann Beaches – http://www.seecapeann.com/beach_article.html and other places to walk – http://www.thetrustees.org

Healthy Eating. Enjoying a ‘Rainbow of Colors’ of Fruits and Vegetables allows you to enjoy a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and anti-oxidants. Fresh is Best! Check out local CSA’s (Community Sustainable Agriculture) and other local stores with fresh, locally grown and organic options.

Get Plenty of Sleep. Your body recharges while you sleep. You think more clearly after a good night’s sleep.

Think Positive! You have power over your own thoughts! Or, at least can train yourself to think more positively through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Self-Hypnosis. Choose Happy! Enjoy a Daily Attitude of Gratitude. Using a Gratitude Journal, list 3 things each day to be grateful This helps you to focus more on the positives, and let go of the negatives.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-qhRZbMe_s

Resources for SPRING CLEANING for Mind, Body and Spirit –

Boosting Serotonin Naturally – http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2077351/
Spring Cleaning for Mind, Body & Spirit – http://www.huffingtonpost.com/marie-pasinski-md/three-ways-to-spring-clea_b_841756.html
Exercise tips – http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/tips-for-getting-exercise-into-your-life/
Healthy Fruits and Vegetables – http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vegetables-full-story/ and http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vegetables-full-story/
Importance of Sleep – https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/sleep-health
Positive Psychology and happiness – https://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/happiness

A Sure Sign of Spring – The Cape Ann Farmer’s Market is Back! Indoor Cape Ann Farmer’s Market Saturday. March 21st! 21st!http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Time—Dates-of-the-March-Madness-Market-.html?soid=1102513894265&aid=29Fkb0PWAYU.

At the Cape Ann Farmer’s Market you will meet friends and neighbors coming out of hibernation after the long, cold winter. Shop for local fresh produce and seafood, fresh-cut flowers and crafts. Along with natural soaps and salves to soothe your tired muscles you may find a chair massage offered. The Cape Ann Farmer’s Market is sure to bring a smile to your face and warm your heart! Enjoy!

Wishing You a Happy, Healthy & Peaceful Spring! ~ Karen Pischke, B.S.N., R.N.

March 8, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Secrets to a ‘Long and Happy Life’

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Mind, Body and Spirit

‘Fukuju’ in Japanese means ‘Long Life and Happiness.’

The Longest Living Woman in the World Just Celebrated Her 117th Birthday! http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2015/03/04/worlds-oldest-person-117-birthday-japan/24362311/

Misao Ōkawa (大川ミサヲ) Born March 5th, 1898 is the oldest living woman. She currently resides in a nursing home in Osaka, Japan. (See link above for more of her story.)

When asked her advice on ‘longevity,’ Misao-san answered

“Eat and Sleep Well.” Misao-san reports sleeping 8 hours a day, and eating sushi. mackerel (‘Saba’) being her favorite. (Hey Joey, More ‘Good News’ for Gloucester Fisherman!)

SUSHI

Benefits Sushi is high in natural Omega-3 fatty acids which has been reported to help decrease inflammation. Information on Omega-3 and health benefits from Mayo Clinic – http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/omega-3/art-20045614 Over the past few years we have seen an increase in Sushi offerings on Cape Ann: Latitude 43, The Rudder, Madfish, the Franklin, Midori, and the Studio are some of the Cape Ann Restaurants offering Sushi.

Risks Sushi also has some risks involved if the fish is not properly stored and prepared. Raw (and even cooked) seafood is not meant for daily consumption due to levels of mercury. For more information on mercury in fish and shellfish – http://water.epa.gov/…/fishshellf…/outreach/advice_index.cfm Note: Woman who are pregnant or nursing, young children, and people on chemotherapy or otherwise immunosuppressed are advised to avoid raw/uncooked fish and meat. Check with your doctor for advice.

For more on healthy vs. unhealthy sushi – http://www.askmen.com/sports/foodcourt_250/259_healthiest-and-unhealthiest-sushi.html Note: FDA recommends women who are pregnant only eat fish and other seafood that has been cooked thoroughly. Also, it is recommended to avoid raw seafood or meat if you are on chemotherapy or otherwise immunosuppressed. For information on what is safe to eat when on chemotherapy – .http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000061.htm

Many studies on inflammation and fish use fish oil supplements to increase intake of omega-3. **Check with your doctor first if you are considering fish-oil supplements, especially if you are taking blood thinners! When in doubt, check it out and ask your doctor’s advice!

“Learn how to Relax” was Misao-san’s other advice. Though the article does not mention specific relaxation techniques, meditation is practiced daily in the Japanese culture in many forms. One common form is through ‘Sei Shin Toitsu’ – ‘mind-concentration.’ (More on Meditation, Reiki, Sei Shin Toitsu and other relaxation techniques in upcoming posts.)

A Relaxing Reiki Session

I wonder if Misao Ōkawa knows about ‘Reiki Ryoho?’ The Japanese Healing Method/Art for mind-body improvement. Founded by Mikao Usui Sensei (August 15, 1865-March 9, 1926.) Daily practice of ‘Reiki Ryoho’ in the form of self-Reiki is said to invite ‘Health and Happiness.’

Reflecting twice daily on the Reiki ‘Gokai’ or Precepts, also known as ‘Reiki (Kyogi) Principles,’ as part of Reiki practice helps create feelings of ‘inner peace and calm.’ A wonderful way to begin the day with ‘positive affirmations!’ ‘Work diligently’ refers to ‘working on self for self-improvement’ and greater levels of health. Inner peace has a way of ‘rippling out’ to others. May you enjoy peace and calm today!

Join me for a cup of tea! TODAY there is a Fund Raiser for the Continued Reconstruction Efforts in Japan held at Showa Institute in Boston. If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, contact Kyoko Wada – http://spouses.mit.edu/mit-events/event/15955591

Powered Macha

To Learn Simple Relaxation Techniques for Stress Reduction and Increased Calm Contact me – www.dreamtimewellness.com or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Next Reiki Training Shoden (1st Degree/Beginning Level): Sunday. March 22nd in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA. Reiki Ryoho Shoden Level focuses on ‘Self-Reiki.’ Only 12 More Days Until Spring!! Celebrate Spring by spending the day in peaceful relaxation and harmony as you learn simple techniques for Relaxation and Self-Care.

~ May You Enjoy a Long and Happy Life! – Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

February 28, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Importance of Controlling High Blood Pressure

More Information on ‘Cardiac Risk Factors’ in Honor of February ‘Heart Month.’

#1- STOP Smoking if you smoke. There are resources to help! (Contact us privately for confidential information on how to stop.)

This winter as people were out in the cold shoveling, I have overheard a number of them say as they were huffing and puffing, – “I wish I had never smoked!” Stopping smoking at any age can help improve your overall health! (www.lung.org)

#2- Control Blood Pressure

High Blood Pressure (HBP) has sometimes been called “the silent killer.” People typically do not have symptoms when they have HBP and may not be aware that it is damaging arteries, heart and other organs.

Have your physician check your blood pressure. Follow their advice for treatment. If they prescribe medication to treat HBP, take as directed. Do not stop taking your medication unless you discuss with your physician first. If you experience symptoms of lightheadedness or dizziness while on the medication, have your blood pressure re-checked and any medication adjustments under the guidance of your physician.

High blood pressure if left untreated can result in:

Heart Attack
Heart Failure
Aortic Dissection and Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
Stroke
Peripheral Artery Disease
Vision Loss
Erectile Dysfunction
Angina
Kidney Damage

Contact Your Physician if you have further questions about high blood pressure, other cardiac risk factors and how to stop smoking. (For more information about cardiac risk factors – www.aha.org)

Take Good Care of Your Heart All Year Round! ~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

At Dreamtime Wellness™, we offer education and tools for self-care, relaxation and stress management that are helpful for ‘heart health.’ Contact us with any questions – info@dreamtimewellness.com. or www.dreamtimewellness.com.

February 24, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

‘American Heart Month’ – Recognize the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

“Knowledge is Power” ~ Francis Bacon *More on Cholesterol and Heart Health in Upcoming Blog. (The irony of the source of this quote does not escape me)

Continuing to Bring You Health Information during ‘American Heart Month.’

Working as a nurse in intensive care units at Cape Ann’s Addison Gilbert Hospital, University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago, and St. Anthony’s in Denver, Colorado, it seemed that the cold winter season, and especially shoveling after snow storms brought increased complaints of chest pain, difficulty breathing, and even heart attack.

Extreme winter weather conditions along with exertion (outdoor exercise, shoveling and snow removal) can lead to heart attack. Those with cardiac risk factors* (*Smoking, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Diabetes, Obesity, Lack of Exercise, Family History, Genetics, History of Previous Heart Attack or Heart Disease) are at higher risk.

The strain and exertion of shoveling and snow blowing can lead to plaque rupture and cause heart attack.

*See my earlier GMG/Cape Ann Wellness Blog Post for more information on cardiac risk factors, safe shoveling and snow blowing.)

Atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis) is a disease in which plaque (made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood) leads to clogged arteries and decreased blood flow. This can happen in any of the major arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood to the heart and other vital organs. Narrowed and blocked arteries in the heart can result in angina (chest pain from lack of oxygen to the heart) and heart attack (where the lack of oxygen results in tissue damage.) Blocked arteries in the neck can result in stroke. (www.nhlbi.nih.gov/…/atherosclerosis. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.) Knowing the Symptoms of Heart Attack and Stroke and Prompt Treatment can Save Lives

Know the Symptoms of a Heart Attack and Call 9-1-1 Without Delay! “Time is Muscle!”

The sooner you get treatment, the less potential damage to heart muscle tissue!

(**The emergency services access # may be different in other parts of the country. It’s important to know the phone # to access emergency services where you live.**)

Symptoms of a Heart Attack:

Chest discomfort: pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain that does not go away after resting 3 minutes.
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body: one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Unusual pain in the teeth, throat and little finger have also been reported.
Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
Rapid or irregular heart beat
Other signs: cold sweat, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, weakness, anxiety, or light-headedness.

Men and women can experience heart attack symptom as chest pan or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Celebrate Women’s Heart Health

Ladies, note that the warning signs for men and women can be different! For more information – http://www.womenheart.org/?page=support_amihaving

Strenuous activity in extreme weather conditions can put you at an increased risk of heart attack. Especially if you have existing cardiac risk factors (smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, lack of exercise, prior history of heart disease or heart attack, etc.)

Check with your doctor to determine your cardiac risk factors and make the necessary changes to decrease your risk of heart disease and heart attack. http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/More/MyHeartandStrokeNews/Coronary-Artery-Disease—Coronary-Heart-Disease_UCM_436416_Article.jsp

If you have Chest Pain or Pressure that ‘comes and goes’ or is relieved by rest, let your doctor know! You could be experiencing ANGINA, or lack of oxygen to the heart.
If you are taking antacids daily and increasing amounts, this could be heart related; follow-up with your physician.
If you are experiencing increased fatigue, especially with exercise or even walking up a flight of stairs, let your doctor know. This could be an early sign of heart disease and blocked arteries.

When in doubt…CHECK IT OUT! Early intervention can help prevent heart attack and damage to heart tissue and other vital organs.

Here is important information from the NIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute; Information That Could Save a Life! – http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/heartattack/signs has information on when to call emergency services.

Contact your physician to assess your cardiac risk factors. Contact your physician prior to exercise and exertion, especially in extreme weather conditions. Contact your physician with any of the symptoms mentioned above. Call 9-1-1 when symptoms are severe and/or do not go away with rest. Even if you experience symptoms that go away with rest, follow-up with your physician.

Be Safe, Healthy and Well! ~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N.

Stay tuned for upcoming information on Decreasing Cardiac Risk Factors and How to Prevent and Recognize Stroke. If there are health issues you want to hear more about, contact me through the blog, or privately at http://www.dreamtimewellness.com or call 978.283.4258. Thank you for following!

February 19, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Winter Ice Safety Tips

  
This in from the National Weather Service - 
URGENT- WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE TAUNTON MA
1258 PM EST THU FEB 19 2015
  
ANOTHER BLAST OF ARCTIC AIR IS ON THE WAY!

Temperatures have been below freezing for a number of weeks, but CAUTION 
is still needed when considering going out onto ponds and rivers for ice 
skating, ice fishing, snowmobiling or walking on the ice. 

TAKE PRECAUTIONS! Here is a link for some 'ice safety' tips -   
http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/ready-massachusetts/ice-safety.html.

When walking on icy sidewalks and driveways, ‘walk with grace and ease.’ When walking around buildings, be mindful of potential falling ice and snow! Here are ‘safe walking’ tips from Mayo Clinic – The frozen harbors and rivers may look beautiful and inviting, but avoid walking on them! Teenagers in New Jersey had to be rescued when they ventured onto the icy harbor!! Don’t let that happen to you! Be Safe, Stay Warm and Take Precautions During Extreme Winter Weather. There’s an end in sight! Only 30 more days until spring! ~ Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N. Annisquam River Freezes Over – Not Safe to Walk on. Take only photos, leave no footprints behind! Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

February 16, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Safe Snow Shoveling and Snow Blowing Tips

The birds are singing a joyful song today! Gloucester and Cape Ann are buried under a blanket of snow, but also lucky!

Neptune has blown through and with less snow and wind than originally predicted, the snow is light, and today we have sunshine and blue sky.

As many people begin to venture outside and begin to unbury homes and cars, be careful out there! With high snow banks and limited side walks, visibility is limited. If you have to get out, drive slow! Walk safe and wear bright colors. Hopefully, it will be ‘business as usual’ soon. In the meantime, stay safe and warm!

Extra precautions are needed during extreme temperatures.With subzero temperatures and severe wind chill, there is added risk for frost bite and heart attack.

People with heart, lung and other illnesses should ask their physician for advice and recommendations before shoveling or snow blowing.

Avoid Heart Attack and Injury

Here are some tips from the American Heart Association and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons:

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Affiliate/Shoveling-Snow-Health-Hazards_UCM_426562_Article.jsp

http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00060

People at Increased Risk

Have had prior heart attack
Have heart or lung disease
Have cardiac risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and tobacco use
Haven’t been exercising

Ask for Help if You Are at Increased Risk

Whenever possible, seek the help of family, friends, neighbors or professional snow removal companies! Check on elderly and ill neighbors to be sure they are safe.

If you do venture outside –

Dress appropriately; cover skin
Limit your time outdoors
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Drink appropriate amounts of water to stay hydrated
Wait at least 90 minutes after eating before exerting yourself

Be Safe! When shoveling/snow blowing or exerting yourself outdoors follow the advice of your physician, physical therapist or chiropractor and check out safety tips (above links) from the American Heart Association and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Remember – Patience, Kindness, and Neighborhood Support Go a Long Way in Times Like These. We’re All in This Together. ~ Karen Pischke BSN, RN