Dreamtime Wellness

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Thank You for Your Service – Special Offerings for Veteran’s Day

Flags at Stacey Blvd

Photo ©  Jay Alpert. Reprinted with permission.

Thank You for Your Service – Promoting Security and Peace, Home and Abroad.

United States Military Offering Integrative Therapies as Adjunctive (Supportive) Therapies for Veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. (PTSD.)

Reiki has been offered at U.S. Military Bases and Hospitals as far back as 2005 through Integrative Therapy programs including at:

  • Fort Bliss
  • Fort Hood
  • Walter Reed Hospital

Use of Complementary Therapies and the Military – more information can be found at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Center for Integrative Health (NCCIH.) Integrative healthcare (IH) combine conventional therapies with supportive complementary therapies that have been studied and known to be safe and at least minimally effective and do no harm. The goal of IH is to provide ‘best outcomes’ and higher patient satisfactions. Studies have looked at safety and efficacy of a variety IH therapies for:

  • Relief of pain (improved comfort)
  • Relief of tension (emotional and physical)
  • Relief of anxiety (increased calm)
  • Improved sleep
  • Adjunctive treatment of PTSD
  • Adjunctive treatment of TBI

Note: A referral from your physician is recommended prior to seeking integrative therapies for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD.) Screening by a healthcare professional is recommended prior to referring to complementary therapies that may create deep relaxation (Eg. Hypnosis, Meditation, Reiki and Yoga.)

Professional Screening for Trauma – Recent study concludes that “clinical implications suggest that patients should be screened and treated for trauma-like symptoms including intrusive thoughts linked to anxiety and depression before referral to complementary programs that offer meditative or relaxation interventions.”  Ask Your Doctor Before Seeking Complementary Therapies such as Hypnosis, Meditation, Reiki and Yoga.

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Veterans, Thank You for Your Service!

We would like to ‘Give Back’ and offer you reiki for relaxation, stress and pain relief throughout the month of November with the following programs – 

DISCOUNTED Reiki Sessions and Reiki Training for Relaxation – offered through Dreamtime Wellness™ throughout the month of November for Veterans, Police, Fire Men and Women. (*)

Continue reading →

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‘The Art of Living; Life Beyond Cancer’ 6th Annual Conference this Saturday

Friends of Mels 2015 Conference

Friends of Mel 2016 Conference

Sponsored by Friends of Mel Foundation. www.http://friendsofmel.org

SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 12th at the Lombardo’s in Randolph, MA.

For anyone ‘touched’ by cancer, this conference is affirming, informative, supportive and empowering. This conference is designed to help survivors and their caregivers navigate the road to healing with a full day of professionally led workshops and skill building seminars.

To REGISTER ON – LINE and for a List of Workshops and Seminars – http://friendsofmel.org/conference/

To Learn More About Melanie Simmons, the inspiration behind Friends of Mel and to order Mel’s Bracelets – http://friendsofmel.org

Mels Bracelet

Mels Bracelet

Read About “The Impact of STRESS While Living with Cancer” from Friends of Mel’s Founder, Pauline Alighieri – http://huff.to/1EagW7z

For More Details, to Donate, or to Register for the Conference – http://friendsofmel.org/conference/

SAMPLE SESSIONS OF MASSAGE and REIKI – OFFERED at the FRIENDS of Mels’ Conference. Join me, Jean Walsh, RN, RM, Karen Lohnes LCMT, RMT (Gloucester MA,) and Advanced Reiki Practitioner Nikki Fleenor (Gloucester) other providers and volunteers. We will be there offering information, education and sample sessions of Integrative Therapies.

Integrative Therapies include Acupuncture, Hypnosis, Massage, Meditation, Reiki, Yoga. These evidenced-based therapies have been shown to aid in symptom management, relieve stress, improve comfort, and promote wellness during cancer treatment and beyond treatment for self-care and empowerment. They assist you in taking an active role in your health care.

NOTE – Consult your oncologist physician or nurse prior to using Complementary, Alternative or Integrative Therapies. Some therapies and supplements may be contraindicated for your care. Discuss with your doctor.

For Information About Complementary Therapies – https://nccih.nih.gov

Join Us Over the Bridge this Saturday. November 12th

Wishing You the Best in Health,   Karen

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.

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Breathe Easier – November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month.  Here are some statistics –

  • Lung cancer is the #1 cause of cancer death in men and women
  • The lung cancer death rate in women has more than doubled over the past 38 years.
  • More people die of lung cancer than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined
  • Average 5-year survival rate for lung cancer overall is 17%
  • Average 5-year survival rate with early detection (at STAGE 1) is more than 90%
  • Exposure to radon and other chemicals in the environment can also cause lung cancer.

The American Lung Association has been infused with new energy thanks to the LUNGFORCE campaign. Their goals – Raise Awareness. Educate. Empower. Raise Funds. Reverse the Course of Lung Cancer.

img_3648

LungForce Boston Expo – I recently attended the LUNGFORCE Boston Expo to hear medical providers give information about statistics, prevention, screening and treatment. Patients shared their stories about what it is lung to have lung cancer and go through treatment. There, I met people living beyond their prognosis; living and thriving.

Ways You Can Get Involved and Help Support Lung Health – 

Lahey Healthcare offers FREE screeningg for those at risk of lung cancer. Contact them to see if you qualify for free screening. Other hospitals also have lung cancer CT screening programs. Ask your doctor about screening if you think you may be at risk for lung cancer.

Risks for lung cancer (from Mayo Clinic) – 

  • Smoking. (Your risk of lung cancer increases with the number of cigarettes you smoke each day and the number of years you have smoked.)
  • Exposure to secondhand smoke.
  • Exposure to radon gas.
  • Exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens.
  • Family history of lung cancer.

The Centers for Disease Control has more information on lung cancer screening, who should be screened and pros/cons.

Continue reading →

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A Reason to Go Over the Bridge – LungForce Expo November 1st in Newton

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Attend the LungForce Expo and learn more about lung cancer, COPD, asthma and other respiratory issues, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Tuesday. November 1st.                        Boston Marriott Newton.  2345 Commonwealth Avenue. Newton, MA.                       For patients, care givers and health professionals. 

lungforce-images

Lung Cancer Statistics  –

  • Lung Cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
  • 1 out of 4 Cancer Deaths are from lung cancer.
  • More people die each year from lung cancer than colon, prostate and breast cancer combined
  • The rate of lung cancer in men has dropped 32% for men, but risen 94% for women

Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment Can Save Lives.

  • 5 year survival rate for lung cancer is 55% when detected early (localized to the lung.)

Lung Cancer DTW FB

Decrease Risk Factors –

  • Stop Smoking (Best thing you can do is ‘never start.’ )
  • Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke
  • Avoid exposure to radon* and other chemicals
  • Eat healthy, balanced meals with a variety of fruits and vegetables.
  • Exercise regularly. (Ask your doctor for recommendations.)

*Have your home tested for radon – Contact your local public health department or the American Lung Society for information on radon testing. More information on Radon Here.

‘Stop Smoking’ Today!  Help is Available – Tobacco use and nicotine addiction is complex. Stopping smoking may require a comprehensive, collaborative approach.

Stopping Smoking is the Single Most Important Step you can take to improve their longevity and quality of life.

The GOOD News – The minute you stop smoking, your health begins to improve.                    Help and support are available for those that want to stop smoking.

Ask Your Physician – about your lung health, prevention of disease, screening, diagnosis, treatment and recommendations to stop smoking. If you have lung disease or have undergone lung surgery, ask about Pulmonary Rehabilitation.**

Dreamtime Wellness™ – Offers Smoking Cessation Programs. Ask about our programs and Free Consultation. 

See you at the LungForce Expo!

Enjoy the Breath of Life, and a Healthier You,    Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC.  Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and 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.

Sources and More Information – 

 

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Reiki for Seniors at the Rose Baker Senior Center, October 21

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Reiki for Seniors at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Sept. 16th and every ‘3rd Friday’ of the month. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 pm. 15 minute chair reiki sessions for a nominal donation. Sign up in advance by calling – Rose Baker Senior Center Ph: ( 978) 281-9765.

Rose Baker Senior Center – 6 Manuel F. Lewis Street Gloucester, MA

Note: For people with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Dementia, family health agents may sign a simple consent form for their loved ones to receive Reiki. This Reiki Program for Seniors is coordinated by a registered nurse and Reiki will be offered by experienced, advanced Reiki Providers that are licensed or certified, and insured. Attention is paid to safety, hygiene and confidentiality. People receiving Reiki may feel free to stop a session at any time. Most people report feeling “very relaxed,” “calm” and “peaceful.”  According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Reiki is considered generally safe and has  the potential benefits of relief of stress and anxiety, improved comfort and increased calm.

Reiki (ray-kee) – A Japanese Healing Method/Art offered through gentle touch or non-touch, creates a quick relaxing and calming effect.

Rufus and Karen v1 Edited

Introduction to Reiki –  Last year’s ‘Introduction to Reiki’ Talk at Central Grammar Senior Housing in Gloucester MA was well received and featured in the Gloucester Daily Times. Residents of Central Grammar participated in a ‘needs assessment.’ With a 30% return rate, 62% of the residents indicated that they would like a Reiki program. Seventeen residents attended our ‘Intro to Reiki Talk’ and 16 out of 17 (94%) indicated they would like a Reiki Program.

Gloucester Seniors – stop by the Rose Baker Senior Center for a brief session of Reiki with me and Advanced (3rd Degree/Okuden) Reiki Practitioner Suzanne Sweeney. Enjoy the peace, comfort and calm Reiki has to offer.

Testimonial After a Reiki Session With a Patient with Alzheimer’s  – “This conversation is beautiful. I think I love you.”  (From a gentleman with Alzheimer’s who initially was sitting alone, disengaged then, after a brief Reiki Session he began to speak. The nursing director of the facility said “I have been here 2 years and never heard him speak before.”)

It was if a ‘window had opened,’ enough for him to relate some of his life story. This experience was one of many that makes my works so JOYful.  ~ Karen Pischke BSN, RN, Reiki Teacher

Things to Consider When Seeking Complementary and Integrative Therapies –  Continue reading →

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Walking in Nature Just Got Easier on Cape Ann

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Walking on Cape Ann Just Got Easier! CATA offers public transportation to some of the Essex Greenbelt Trails on Cape Ann. For more information 

Nature Offers Many Health Benefits for Mind, Body and Spirit. A favorite ‘go-to’ activity of mine is a walk in the woods. Luckily, living on Cape Ann one need only step outside to enjoy beautiful woodlands. Whether on a quiet, solo walk for meditation and contemplation, a trail run for aerobic exercise, or a hike with friends to explore the paths and virtues of Dog Town, walking in the woods calms the mind, energizes the body and lifts your spirits. The woods is my ‘happy place.’ 

karen-and-friends-hiking-in-dogtown

Walking Cape Ann. Cape Ann has hundreds of acres of public, wooded paths. While you can create a relaxing ‘walk in the woods’ through guided imagery, visualization and self-hypnosis, actually being in the woods heightens the experience. Here, you can literally experience your breathing slow and your blood pressure lower as everyday stressors seemingly melt away.

Lost in the Woods. While I personally enjoy literally and figuratively  ‘getting lost in the woods,’ I recommend you plan ahead and have a good map or a local to guide you and follow safety tips. ‘Thank you’ to Gloucester resident Claire who recently gave me a lift after I veered miles off my planned route! Join me for a walk in the woods if you like but do keep  in mind, walking me with me can be an adventure.  😉

Tips for Safely Walking in the Woods –

http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r5/recreation/safety-ethics/?cid=STELPRDB5365834

http://www.backpacker.com/skills/beginner/wilderness-threats/7-tips-from-female-solo-hikers/

http://www.outdoors.org

10 Essential for Your Hike (From the Appalachian Mountain Club) –

  1. Map
  2. Compass
  3. Warm Clothing
  4. Extra Food and Water
  5. Flashlight or Headlamp
  6. Matches/Firestarter
  7. First Aid Kit
  8. Whistle (Cell Phone)
  9. Rain Gear
  10. Pocket Knife

Dogtown Hiking GMG

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. ~ John Muir

I hope you make time to enjoy a relaxing walk in the woods this weekend.  ~ Karen

 

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC.  Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. info@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.

 

 

 

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Breast Cancer: Be Aware and Lower Your Risks

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast Cancer Statistics  – According to most recent statistics (2013) from the  Centers for Disease Control (CDC):

  • Breast cancer occurs in both men and women.
  • 230,815 women and 2,109 men in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer.
  • 40,860 women and 464 men in the United States died from breast cancer.

Early Detection Saves Lives – Research shows that early detection and treatment saves lives. Ask your doctor about prevention and routine screening for breast and other cancers.

“When breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 100%.  Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.” (National Breast Cancer Foundation.)

Lowering Your Risks of Breast Cancer. There are preventative measure for breast (and other) cancers. Tips from the Mayo Clinic for prevention –

  • Limit alcohol. Less than 1 drink per day is recommended.
  • Avoid smoking.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Engage in Physical activity. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week. Check with your doctor before exercising for guidelines and recommendations.
  • Breast-feeding might play a role in prevention.
  • Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy. Ask your doctor about recommendations and other non-pharmaceutical options.
  • Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution. Medical-imaging methods, such as computerized tomography, use high doses of radiation. Limit exposure.

Ask Your Doctor. Talk to your doctor about recommendations for prevention and screening to see is best for you. Check with your insurance company to see what type of screening they cover. If you think you might be pregnant, let your doctor know before having a mammogram.

Information for Those Undergoing Treatment for Breast Cancer –  

 Supportive Care When Undergoing Treatment for Breast Cancer – 

Ask your Oncologist about Integrative Therapies for adjunctive (supportive) treatment. Talk to your healthcare providers about any integrative, complementary or alternative therapies you are using. Let your healthcare providers know about any over-the-counter, herbal or vitamin supplements you are taking. Note: some may be contraindicated for your care. Discuss with your doctor/oncologist before pursuing.

Wishing you the Best in Health,   Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC.  Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and 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.

Sources and More Information –

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Reiki for Seniors at the Rose Baker Senior Center, 3rd Fridays

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

NEW – Reiki for Seniors at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Sept. 16th and every ‘3rd Friday’ of the month. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 pm. 15 minute chair reiki sessions for a nominal donation. Sign up in advance by calling – Rose Baker Senior Center 6 Manuel F. Lewis Street Gloucester, MA 01930. Ph: ( 978) 281-9765. Hours Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:00 pm.

Note: For those people with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Dementia, family health agents may sign a simple consent form for their loved ones to receive Reiki. This Reiki Program for Seniors is coordinated by a registered nurse and Reiki will be offered by experienced, advanced Reiki Providers that are licensed or certified, and insured. Attention is paid to safety, hygiene and confidentiality. People receiving Reiki may feel free to stop a session at any time. Most people report feeling “very relaxed,” “calm” and “peaceful.”  According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Reiki is considered generally safe and has  the potential benefits of relief of stress and anxiety, improved comfort and increased calm.

Reiki (ray-kee) – A Japanese Healing Method/Art offered through gentle touch or non-touch, creates a quick relaxing and calming effect.

Rufus and Karen v1 Edited

Introduction to Reiki –  Last year’s ‘Introduction to Reiki’ Talk at Central Grammar Senior Housing in Gloucester MA was well received and featured in the Gloucester Daily Times. Residents of Central Grammar participated in a ‘needs assessment.’ With a 30% return rate, 62% of the residents indicated that they would like a Reiki program. Seventeen residents attended our ‘Intro to Reiki Talk’ and 16 out of 17 (94%) indicated they would like a Reiki Program.

Gloucester Seniors – stop by the Rose Baker Senior Center for a brief session of Reiki with me and Advanced (3rd Degree/Okuden) Reiki Practitioner Suzanne Sweeney. Enjoy the peace, comfort and calm Reiki has to offer.

Testimonial After a Reiki Session With a Patient with Alzheimer’s  – “This conversation is beautiful. I think I love you.”  (From a gentleman with Alzheimer’s who initially was sitting alone and disengaged then, after a brief Reiki Session he began to speak. The nursing director of the facility said “I have been here 2 years and never heard him speak before.”) It was if a ‘window had opened,’ enough for him to relate some of his life story.

Things to Consider When Seeking Complementary and Integrative Therapies –  Continue reading →

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A Day for Quiet Reflection

img_4432
“Peace. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.”   -author unknown
Find a quiet spot to reflect, meditate, and pray today. Remembering the events of 9/11 can bring tears to some, fears for others. Hoping for peace in the hearts and minds of all those impacted.
Andrews Point GMG 3.2015

 

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC.  Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and 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.