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!

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 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

February 14, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Celebrating Valentines’s Day and Heart Month

Happy Valentine’s Day!

“Loving Others Begins With Loving Your Self. Self-Love Begins with Self-Care.”

February is ‘Heart Month’ and Valentine’s Day is a great time to remind everyone to take good care of themselves. This month Dreamtime Wellness™ is focused on ‘Heart Health’ because heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. (http://www.cdc.gov)

YOU CAN Control Some of the Risk Factors, Such as –

High Blood Pressure; when uncontrolled is the #1 Cause for Heart Disease
- THE GOOD NEWS- You can better control blood pressure through diet, exercise, healthy weight, relaxation and when needed, medication as prescribed by your doctor.

Tobacco Use; Smokers are at 2-4 x the Risk for Developing Heart Disease (www.aha.org)
- THE GOOD NEWS – Within minutes of stopping smoking you experience health benefits! Contact us with advice on how to stop.

High Cholesterol – levels are affected by affected by age, gender, heredity and diet. Recent news reports remind us that a diet high in saturated and trans fats that raises the unhealthy LDL cholesterol. (Good News for our local fishermen and lobstermen!)
- THE GOOD NEWS – You can help control your cholesterol levels through exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding saturated and trans fats.

Obesity – People with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese. (www.aha.org)
- THE GOOD NEWS – By losing even 10% from your current weight, you can lower your risk of heart disease.

Inactivity – Studies show that 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every week will reduce your risk of heart disease by about 30%.(www.world-heart-federation.org)
- THE GOOD NEWS – Regular, moderate physical activity helps prevent heart and blood vessel disease.

Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, If you have diabetes, it’s especially important to work with your healthcare provider to manage it and control any other risk factors you can.
- THE GOOD NEWS – The risks are lessened through healthy diet, healthy weight, exercise, relaxation and when needed, medication as prescribe by your doctor.

Notice, ALL of these risk factors helped through EXERCISE! On Cape Ann there are plenty of places to enjoy indoor and outdoor activity. We’ll be sharing more health tips on GMG in the coming days, weeks, and months. And local CSA’s help provide ‘farm to table’ fresh food. The Farmer’s Markets and http://www.farmfresh.org/food/farm are great resources for local healthy food.

For YOUR HEALTH, you can find more health tips, special promotions, and calendar of events on our Website (www.dreamtimewellness.com) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199.)

Be Safe and Warm in the Coming Storm. Be Sure to Check on Your Elderly Neighbors!

Happy, Healthy Valentine’s Day Cape Ann! ~ Karen Pischke, B.S.N., R.N.

February 9, 2015 by Joey Ciaramitaro

222 Arts & Wellness Center Newsletter

You have the key to your heart health. February has arrived…roaring in like a Lion…with the heart of a Patriots player. Ok, I had to throw in the football reference. It is a month of hearts, roses and romance…all very important to us all…nobody deserves to be loved more than you.

Most importantly, the American Heart Association would like to remind us that heart disease is on the rise and is the #1 killer of women…above all kinds of cancer combined. Even if your New Year’s resolutions have fizzled out, please resolve to make at least one lifestyle improvement each month. In this way you can mindfully make them a part of your life and keep them there.

May we suggest these: taking a brisk 30-minute walk 3x per week(increasing to 5X), check your cholesterol levels, reduce TV watching after 7 pm, consume only water or decaf tea after 6pm, be in bed and ready to sleep on or before 10pm. Studies have shown that your sleep from 10pm-2am is physically restorative, while your sleep from 2-6am is neurologically restorative…(your brain, etc.) We are here to support you in any way we can.

It’s time to get back out into the sun! Discoveries have shown that vitamin D from the sun has amazing weight loss properties. Actually, some of these extra pounds we have packed on may not be totally our fault. Many of us are actually vitamin D deficient. Blood tests are available that can answer this question. Another tough obstacle is that if we try to supplement vitamin D, it is a fat-soluble vitamin and gets stuck in our fat stores! Vitamin D supplements are available in D2 (most common) and D3. D2 is a plant-based form and processes too quickly to be helpful. D3 is the form our bodies naturally make from the sunshine and lasts much longer in the bloodstream.(try Life Extension Vitamin D3…or Natrol vitamin D3…check with your doctor) Take them with food as the bile acids enhance D absorption.

Other healthy side effects of Vitamin D: Reduces: osteoporosis risk, diabetes risk, heart disease risk, respiratory infections, blood pressure, joint pain, cancer risk and the winter blahs…;-)

Just for fun, I will leave you with this for this evening. Providing these feathered comedians with feeders, perches and food has provided me with more than a few moments of delight. I will warn you that taking some peaceful moments to watch them flit about and interact with one another can be addicting. So far we have collected 3 feeders, a suet cage and I am searching for covered platforms for the bigger ones to snack comfortably. I sincerely suggest that you give this a try if you like to smile or laugh out loud…bring your coffee along…you will feel all the tension of the day melt away.

Please look for our new website which will be online later in March with new programs and events and regular classes. Thanks for joining us! Good night and good health.

Well Hello! Welcome to 2015 (Year of 8) and the year of the Goat. We are very excited to see this year unfold and I hope you will join us. The Goat year, which begins Feb. 19th is all about peace, tranquility, mending fences and seeking out loving spiritual persuits. Folks will find themselves taking a bit more time to think things through…brains over braun if you will.

The 8 is a balanced number and brings and encourages us to look more closely at our lives and provide more balance around work, family, outdoor activities, our physical health, spiritual lives and community contributions. It is about accomplishments, power, inner strength, self-empowerment and personal successes. Moreover, this is the year for self-realization ladies and gentlemen. Find out who you are and let that shine! Are you a guest in your own life story? Have you been under the influence of others and their opinions as to who and what you are? This is the year that things change for all of us.

Promise to be kind to yourself:

1. Do something loving for yourself each day.

2. Tell yourself “I love you” each day

3. Speak kindly to yourself

4. Write down something you love about yourself each day

Massaaaage...just the sound of it makes me relax and smile to myself. We all know massage work as a favorite part of our spa experiences, but perhaps you don’t know of its many health benefits. Stress has become an integral part of all of our lives…but did you know that it routinely causes physical pain in our bodies as a result? Stress and tension go hand-in-hand.

Getting those tense and painful tissues calm and relaxed again offers many health benefits such as lowered blood pressure, better sleep, intestinal health, increased metabolism and circulation, aids in digestion and weight loss, restores range of motion, reduces scar tissue from injury, enhances ability to focus, reduces or eliminates headaches, reduces inflammation of some arthritus and carpal tunnel issues, diminishes symptoms of depression, reduces the anxiety and confusion in Altzheimers patiences and strengthens your immune system…and creates a general sense of well-being. From there we usually make other positive choices for ourselves as well.

Call Lin at 978-852-6228 to see what massage can do for you. Massage specials available through March 8th. Ask for the “I Love Me” special offers.

(gift certificates are available to keep the savings going!)

Your 222 Arts & Wellness Center is all about supporting you in any way possible. We continually seek opportunities to provide new services and educational opportunites to help you learn and grow healthier each year.

THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN GET INVOLVED. If you or someone you know would like to teach a class, instruct a movement/yoga class, or be a wellness practitioner (chiropractor, acupuncturist, massage therapist, esthetician, etc.) please let us know. If they decide to work here, you will get a cash or equivalent service award (gift certificate, etc.) Feel free to call for details if you have something in mind.

We are conveniently located on 127 in North Gloucester among many fine health and wellness facilities. We would love to hear from you if you would like to be a member of our close knit group of highly qualified professionals.