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BEST DECISION I EVER MADE. I have the freedom to do whatever I

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want, with whomever I want. I get to enjoy great food and fun activities. And if I need some extra help down the road, I can get that too. This is my world, and it’s a real community. 2021 Albany Ave, West Hartford w w w.TheMercyCommunity.org 860-570-8400

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| HEALTH&WELLNESS | THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

Make waves and great friends at The Heights. The Marjorie B. Doty Aquatic Center at The Heights senior living community has become the meeting place for exercise, relaxation and healthy get-togethers our residents enjoy, including: • Aquacize Class

• Arthritis Class

• Water Walking Class

• Open Swim

Our Doty Aquatic Center is just one of the highlights of the wellnessoriented, active lifestyle at The Heights. As a resident you’ll also enjoy a beautiful, spacious apartment or cottage, exceptional dining, clubs, lectures, special events and healthy outdoor activities. Rental living at The Heights means peace of mind with no entrance fee and priority access to our full continuum of health care services.

Get into the swim of things at The Heights

Move to The Heights and get up to $1,000 towards our moving company services, including our downsizing specialist who will help set up your apartment or cottage, so when you arrive, your new home will be ready. Enjoy all of this plus one month’s FREE rent! 550 Avery Heights • Hartford, CT 06106

Come explore The Heights Join us for an Open House and Luncheon: Sat., Sept. 10th, Wed., Sept. 21st and Sat., Oct. 8th Event starts at 10:45 a.m.

For more information, or to RSVP for upcoming events, call:

860-953-1201 ext 403

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

| HEALTH&WELLNESS | 3

MOVING FORWARD

Americans upbeat on making progress in their lives While everyone has their own idea of what success and progress look like, you can get inspired by those around you — from world class athletes to the people in your life. StatePoint

Free educational seminar

End Your Long-term Struggle with Dry Eyes! Millions of people suffer from dry eye. Are you one of them? Solinsky EyeCare is hosting free educational seminars about the Who, What and Why of Dry Eye Syndrome.

If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. That’s the spirit Americans are embracing in pursuit of their own progress. A new survey for Citi’s #StandForProgress campaign shows nine in 10 Americans are optimistic about making progress in their lives in the next year. Just as many Americans agree that progress comes from within (93 percent) and that it’s the small steps every day that lead to success (94 percent). More than half of the Americans surveyed by Toluna, the online insights platform, also believe that the road to progress passes through the lessons you learn from setbacks. “You can spend your life either focused on your limitations or work hard to overcome them and reach your full potential,” said Rudy Garcia-Tolson, a twotime Paralympic Gold Medalist who will be competing at the Games for the fourth time. Garcia-Tolson, who is participating in the Citi campaign, added: “I’m inspired by encouraging oth-

ers to take on a challenge. I than men to say that people love to prove people wrong.” close to them are making more progress than they Better Health, More are. Some 75 percent of men Money said they were doing better than their spouse or partAsked to identify the ner and friends, against 62 three areas where they most percent of women. wanted to make progress over the next year, Ameri- Sharing Progress cans listed better health (59 #StandforProgress is depercent), more money (47 signed to inspire people percent) and better family across America to celebrate relationships (44 percent). personal achievement. And while many Ameri- Members of the public can cans say the economy needs set goals for themselves to improve before they can alongside the nation’s elite make real progress, or that athletes. they don’t know how to go The campaign invites about it, other respondents Americans to use #Standsay that tracking progress, ForProgress to share the planning and organizing small or big steps they and celebrating the mile- want to take this year or stones all contribute to recognize others who supsuccess. More than half port and inspire their efof Americans agree that forts – from finding a new progress is hard to achieve job to saving for a vacation, alone. buying a home or starting Men and women, mean- a business. while, see progress difReaders can follow ferently. Nearly eight in #StandForProgress and 10 men (78 percent) say see video content @Citi on they are satisfied with Facebook, Twitter and Intheir progress in life, stagram or visit citi.com/ against fewer than seven progress. in 10 women (67 percent). Women are also more likely Courtesy of StatePoint

Solinsky EyeCare is a nationally accredited Dry Eye Treatment Center of Excellence. We invite you to spend some time with Lyndon Lee, MD, and Susan Janik, OD, at one of our five office locations as they discuss the causes of dry eye syndrome, environmental modifications to decrease symptoms and the latest in dry eye therapy.

Wednesday, September 14, 5:00pm West Hartford Center: 1013 Farmington Ave.

Thursday, September 15, 12:00pm Enfield: 139 Hazard Ave., Bldg. #6

Monday, September 19, 12:00pm East Hartford: 477 Connecticut Blvd.

Tuesday, September 20, 12:00pm Newington: 505 Willard Ave., Bldg. 2B

Thursday, September 22, 12:00pm West Hartford Center: 1013 Farmington Ave.

Dry Eye often causes more than just a sensation of dryness, people can experience other symptoms such as: • Eye redness • Stinging, burning or scratching sensation • Watery eyes • Sensitivity to light • A feeling of having something in your eye • Blurred vision or fatigue • Difficulty wearing contact lenses • Difficulty with driving at night

Please register

www.solinskyeyecare.com or call 860.236.9111 Light refreshments will be served

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| HEALTH&WELLNESS | THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

GERM FREE

5 health and wellness rules to live by this school year and beyond At school, kids are exposed to an influx of germs that can cause a number of preventable sicknesses, including cold and flu. The top germiest school-based culprits include water fountains, plastic reusable cafeteria trays, keyboards, toilets and…students’ hands. To keep your family free from the sniffles all year

long, here are five easyto-follow tips to ensure a healthy, happy and absentfree school year.

1. Teach Kids to Wash Hands the Right Way. It seems simple enough, but research shows that only 5 percent of people wash their hands properly.

The CDC recommends following five simple steps: wet, lather, scrub (for at least 20 seconds), rinse and dry. Don’t forget backs of hands, between fingers and under the nails. Handwashing is the best defense against germs, but if soap and water aren’t available, hand sanitizer is a good alternative.

2. Sanitize School Supplies.

Sanitize school supplies, lunch boxes, bottoms of backpacks, etc., weekly. These items are exposed to a variety of germs lurking in places like gym lockers, on desks and in bathrooms. Use disinfecting wipes on plastic objects,

and throw items like lunch boxes and backpacks in the washing machine. Send kids to school with disposable wipes so they can clean surfaces like desks, cafeteria trays and other surfaces throughout the day.

3. Set a Sleep Schedule.

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4. Keep Healthy Snacks and Meals on Hand. A healthy, balanced diet has been proven to keep kids mentally sharp and focused, but fast-paced schedules during the school year can sometimes result in quick-fix, and often unhealthy, food choices. Keep nutritious grab-and-go snacks like trail mix and fruit at the ready. And don’t skip breakfast. It can mean decreased cognitive performance in areas like alertness, attention, memory and problem solving.

5. Nurse Kids Back to Health.

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A regular bedtime and an alert morning go hand-inhand. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a calming nighttime routine like reading a book or taking a bath to signal the brain that it’s bedtime, and leave technology like tablets, laptops and cell phones out of the bedroom. If you’re wondering how much sleep your child needs each night, it’s recommended that toddlers receive 11 to 14 hours, preschoolers 10 to 13 hours, school-aged children nine to 11 hours, and teenagers eight to 10 hours.

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Germs are lurking everywhere — school, preschool and daycare, so be prepared if sickness does strike. Tools like TempTraq come in handy for unexpected fevers, giving parents peace of mind and children the rest they need to get better. This wearable, Bluetooth temperature monitor conTIPS >> PAGE 8

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

| HEALTH&WELLNESS | 5

SEASONAL FLU CLINICS

PEACE OF MIND

Featuring Flublok

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• September 30 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Senior Center, 61 Durant Terrace, Middletown • October 4 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM City Hall Council Chamber, 245 deKoven Drive, Middletown • October 11 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Westfield Fire Station, 653 East Street, Middletown • October 18 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM City Hall Council Chamber, 245 deKoven Drive, Middletown PIXSOOZ - FOTOLIA.COM

Every home should contain a supply kit that includes a surplus of nonperishable food items, as well as fresh bottled water. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends one gallon per person in your household per day for three days.

Are you ready for National Preparedness Month? While most people don’t like to think about worst case scenarios, giving them their proper consideration can ultimately offer peace of mind. September is National Preparedness Month and it is a great time to get your home and family ready for a range of emergencies. Here are three steps to take.

Stock Up

Every home should contain a supply kit that includes a surplus of nonperishable food items, as well as fresh bottled water. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends one gallon per person in your household per day for three days. FEMA also recommends that the kit include prescription medications for everyone in the family,

personal hygiene items, a flashlight, extra batteries and matches, amongst other items. For a complete list, visit fema.gov.

Free Yourself of Your Phone While we all know that smartphone technology and other mobile devices offer us useful information, in an emergency scenario these devices may lose their signal or their battery life. Stay prepared and informed no matter what happens with wearable technology that is not at the mercy of a cellphone tower or a battery that needs to be recharged every few hours. For example Casio’s PRO TREK PRG300 timepieces feature functions like an altimeter, compass and barometer (great for staying aware of changes in tem-

perature or air pressure). They also deliver this information hands-free, which can be useful any day of the week but extra valuable in an emergency.

Get Insured

Is your home and property properly insured? Know what your homeowners insurance covers and determine whether it is sufficient to meet your needs. For example, homeowners insurance policies do not typically cover flooding, which requires separate coverage. Learn more about your home’s primary risks and get covered now, before it’s too late. No one has a crystal ball that can see into the future, so to best protect your family and your home, get prepared for everything. Courtesy of StatePoint

• October 25 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Town Hall Gymnasium, 41 West Street, Cromwell • November 1 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM South Fire District Fire Station, 445 Randolph Road, Middletown • November 8 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Activity Center (2nd floor) 350 Main Street, Durham • Must be at least 4 years of age, and in good health • Flublok influenza vaccine will be administered for participants 18 years of age and over. • Bring valid ID (e.g. driver’s license) and insurance card (co-payment not required) • Participants without insurance may be eligible to receive a flu shot at no charge • Vaccine administered by injection only (FluMist not available) • First-come, first-served (appointments not taken); residency not required • Save time: download and complete the Immunization Consent Form on-line @ www.cromwellct.com; www.townofdurhamct.org; www.middlefieldct.org; or www.middletownct.gov Flu Clinics sponsored by Mass Dispensing Area 36 (MDA 36): Cromwell, Durham, Middletown health departments. For more information: 860.632.3462 (Cromwell Residents) 860.349.8253 (Durham Residents); 860.349.7123 (Middlefield Residents) 860.638.4960 (Middletown Residents) For more information about Flublok, visit www.flublok.com

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| HEALTH&WELLNESS | THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

MICROBIOME

Know about your gut health Your gut health affects more than just how your stomach feels. Recent scientific breakthroughs have uncovered links between the state of the gut microbiome and a range of human health issues such as obesity, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, cardiovascular disease, immune system disorders, asthma and even cancer and its treatment. Experts say that understanding the gut microbiome may change how these diseases are diagnosed and treated. Additionally, specific microbes have been linked to good digestive health. “The gut microbiome is currently subject to intense and growing interest within

Farrell says that with the right tools and knowledge, anyone can positively influence and manage his or her own gut microbiome in the pursuit of better overall health. He is offering the following tips: • Assess your existing gut health and monitor changes over time. New tools, like the Gut Microbiome Sampling Kit, from Biome360, make it possible to do so at home. The sample collection process requires no training KEI907- FOTOLIA.COM or preparation and the BiExperts say that understanding the gut microbiome may ome360 dashboard allows change how these diseases are diagnosed and treated. users to learn about and explore their gut microbiome, the medical and pharmaceu- rell, PhD, Managing Direc- and compare it to age and tical industries, but is also tor of Biome360, an emerg- gender-matched healthy of great interest to average ing biotechnology and pro- peers. people,” says Michael Far- biotics company. • Supplement your gut

health with targeted probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus. Probiotics support digestive and immune health, can aid in weight loss and can lower the bad bacteria in your body that can cause infections and other problems. Probiotic supplements are especially important after a course of antibiotics. • What you eat matters. Make sure you get highquality fiber in your diet -the recommended daily intake of 25 to 38 grams -- and take steps to limit processed carbohydrates. Include fermented foods in your diet, which are packed with beneficial bacteria. Good choices include yogurt, cot-

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tage cheese, kimchi, tempeh, natto, kambucha, sauerkraut, miso, milk kefir and pickles. • Exercise early and often. Exercise, early in life, can alter microbial communities for the better, promoting healthier brain and metabolic activity over the course of a lifetime, according to recent research at the University of Colorado. You may not realize how much control you have over your own health. With the right information at your fingertips, you can learn more about what is happening inside your gut, and take informed action to improve your health. Courtesy of StatePoint

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

| HEALTH&WELLNESS |

7

The best exercise? Swimming. The best place to swim? Cornerstone Aquatics Center. The best water & more ways to use it. We’re more than just swimming — we’re the next level of health & fitness.

55 Buena Vista Rd. West Hartford

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| HEALTH&WELLNESS | THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

GET ‘ER DONE

Tips to boost your productivity If you are like most people, you could use more hours to get things done. But while the day isn’t getting any longer, there are plenty of ways to supercharge your routine and boost productivity, say lifestyle experts. “I’m a busy full-time working mom so anything that requires too much effort and time will not f ly with me,” says Janise Burrafato, the “Mama in Heels” blogger, who re-

cently participated in the #MyWalgreensApp campaign. “Mobile apps keep me organized and ahead of schedule, and believe it or not, having just one less task to tackle really does make a difference.” Here are a few ways to make life easier from the palm of your hand. • Make shopping simple: You can ignore all those coupon mailers that arrive at home. Drop the scissors and spend some

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time with your family instead. Now you can virtually and quickly “clip” coupons through mobile apps like the Walgreens mobile app. You can use the app when you shop instore to access your coupons, which can be seamlessly applied at checkout when you use your Balance Rewards card, and pay for items directly from your smartphone. • Sync calendars: Get the entire fa mily up to -speed on upcoming events, commitments and projects. A synced calendar system can alleviate anxiety and ensure everyone knows who is where, when. • Permanent records: Ma k ing family memo ries last is easier than ever. Create prints, photo cards, wood panels and other personalized photo pro duc t s by order i n g these items through the Walgreens mobile app directly from Facebook, Instagram or your smartphone. “No more fussing with trying to print photos myself, which rarely works,” says Seri Kertzner blogger at “Little Miss Party Planner.” “This app saves me time and money!” • Stay fit: W hen juggling work responsibili-

Tips FROM PAGE 4

SERI KERTZNER, LITTLE MISS PARTY PLANNER

Don’t get overwhelmed. These days, there are high-tech tools to help you strategically plan your day and organize your life. ties with family life, it’s easy to forget your own he a lt h a nd wel l ne s s . Schedule time to work out and stick to these commitments as you would any other appointment. It ’s helpf u l i f you have an app that tracks your progress and offers friendly reminders to hit the g ym. Many fitness apps sync with other programs to offer you dis-

unsafe level. Visit Target or CVS to stock your medicine cabinet with this useful musthave, or order online at TempTraq.com. From hectic schedules to germ-ridden classrooms, the stress and environment of school can take a toll on kids’ health.

tinuously senses, records and transmits body temperature for up to 24-hours. It can even send alerts to your smartphone via its free mobile app to notify you immediately if your child’s fever reaches an Courtesy of StatePoint

counts on other products and services when you meet benchmarks. • Automate: Automating certain to-do’s can free your time and energy for other more creative tasks. For example, these days, you can program apps to make automatic payments on credit card balances and utility bills. Likewise, refilling pre-

scriptions is no longer a matter of waiting on hold or in line at the store. Now you can do it with the touch of a button your phone. For more information or to download the app, visit the Walgreens website. “The right apps on your phone can be almost like having a personal assistant,” says Burrafato. Courtesy of StatePoint

This wearable, Bluetooth temperature monitor continuously senses, records and transmits body temperature for up to 24-hours. It can even send alerts to your smartphone via its free mobile app to notify you immediately if your child’s fever reaches an unsafe level. STATEPOINT

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

| HEALTH&WELLNESS | 9

Omega-3 powerhouses

KNOW YOUR PILLS

Omega-3fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that play an important role in relation to many functions of the body. The fatty acids EPA and DHA are well-known and found in fatty seafood, such as tuna, salmon and some shellfish. These fatty acids may be added to different foods as well, including dairy products and infant formulas. Studies have shown that diets rich in omega-3s may reduce a personÕs risk for heart disease. Omega-3s have been associated with lower triglyceride levels, which can contribute to heart health. Consuming seafood or fish oil supplements also may be helpful in curbing the joint pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, fatty acids may promote neurological health that can ward off depression and anxiety and may help people with ADHD manage their symptoms. Omega-3s also are crucial in the development of brain health for young children, which may translate into decreased risk of developmental delay and improved communication and social skills.

Polypharmacy, or the taking of multiple medications for different conditions, can be a potential health hazard for the thousands of seniors who must manage health conditions with prescription drugs.

Manage your meds properly Medication management is an important issue for seniors and their families. Failure to properly manage medications can threaten the lives of seniors, highlighting the emphasis families must place on ensuring seniors take their medications in strict adherence to their physicians’ instructions. Polypharmacy, or the taking of multiple medications for different conditions, can be a potential health hazard for the thousands of seniors who must manage health conditions with prescription drugs. Harmful drug interactions are a result of the confusion that can arise when seniors take multiple medications at the same time. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists estimates that more than 34 percent of senior citizens are prescribed medications by more than one physician, and 72 percent use medications they were prescribed more than six months prior. Many people also have begun “pharmacy shopping” to save money. According to a study published in 2010 in American Nurse Today, 44 percent of men and 57 per-

cent of women older than age 65 take five or more medications per week, with some taking as many as 10. Medication confusion is one risk, but older adults also metabolize medications differently than young people. As a result, they may be more susceptible to overdose or other ill effects. Families looking to help seniors effectively manage their medications should consider the following tips. ● Keep a running list of medications. Maintain a list of all medications being taken, noting both prescription and over-the-counter medications and any supplements and herbs. Provide a copy to any new doctors you visit and any new pharmacies you patronize. ● Use pill sorters. Medication sorters can keep medications organized and eliminate some of the personal error in medication management. Organizers have daily slots and may also differentiate between nighttime and daytime medications. ● Understand why each medication is being prescribed. Ask your pharmacist and doctor to exMEDS>> PAGE 14

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| HEALTH&WELLNESS | THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

EXERCISE Staying motivated and avoiding injury can help people get in shape and maintain healthy lifestyles for years to come. METRO CREATIVE

Get fit the smart way Exercise is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. Many people establish bold fitness goals with a mind toward getting in shape. It’s tempting to jump right in, especially when friends or relatives reach their own fitness goals. However, inactive men and women risk injury when diving right in and not taking a gradual approach to fitness and weight loss regimens. To reap the most rewards from exercise, take the proper precautions and follow these guidelines. ● Speak with your doctor before beginning an exercise regimen. Get medical clearance before you begin a new exercise regimen, especially if you have any preexisting medical conditions. Your doctor may suggest certain modifications that can reduce strain on certain parts of the body or advise you on the most

effective activities for people with your condition. Healthy individuals may be cleared outright and can begin their fitness regimens immediately. It’s also wise to inform doctors of fitness plans and goals so they can help track your progress. ● Don’t eat heavy meals before exercising. Avoid large meals before engaging in strenuous physical activity. A light, healthy snack gives you a little fuel without affecting your ability to exercise. After eating, the body diverts blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract to aid with digestion. Exercising while this blood flow is centralized in the gastrointestinal tract may cause muscle cramps or generalized weakness. Nutrition experts at the University of California, Los Angeles, say that people who exercise strenuously on a full stomach also may experience re-

flux, hiccups, nausea, and vomiting. Wait at least an hour after eating full meals to exercise. ● Warm up. It’s important to warm up muscles before beginning a workout. Stretches, light movements and range of motion exercises can improve flexibility and prepare the body for more to come. If muscles aren’t fully stretched and warm, injuries like strains and tendon tears may occur. Take the time to warm up; otherwise, you may find yourself on the sidelines. ● Wear the appropriate equipment. Invest in quality athletic shoes and other equipment made for the activity you will be performing. The right equipment can help prevent injury. Athletic shoes that fail to provide adequate support can increase your risk of injury. Good shoes do not have to cost a fortune, as there

are plenty of brands that will work quite well. If you need suggestions, discuss your exercise regimen and goals with a podiatrist or orthopedist. Orthotic inserts can be used to modify footwear and provide additional support. You also may need equipment specific to a given activity. For example, wrist supports and quality gloves are essential for kickboxing classes. Speak with a trainer or gym employee if you need assistance. ● Take weather into consideration. Ice, snow, rain, and wind can make jogging or other outdoor activities more challenging, if not dangerous. Always exercise caution when your workout regimen involves exercising outdoors. Stay indoors if you see thunder and lightning. ● Stay hydrated. The Better Health Channel of the Victoria

State Government says a person can lose around one and a half liters of fluid for every hour of exercise. Drink water before, during and after each exercise session. If you need water while exercising, take small sips. ● Be aware of your body. Take notice of how you feel. If something doesn’t feel just right, then stop immediately, rest and/or seek medical attention. ● Pace yourself and take the time to rest. Don’t try to do everything all at once. Slowly build up your durability and stamina by gradually increasing the intensity of your workouts. Give yourself time to recover between workouts as well. Exercise is a key part of a healthy lifestyle. Remember to do so safely and effectively. Courtesy of MetroCreative

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

| HEALTH&WELLNESS | 11

Considering

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| HEALTH&WELLNESS | THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

ROBO DOC

Robotic surgery has its advantages Certain illnesses or injuries require surgery to correct the problem or prevent further damage. Surgery is not something many people would volunteer for, but it can be a necessity in certain instances. Patients may have many questions when they learn that surgery is on the horizon. Robotic surgery in particular may raise patients’ eyebrows. Robotic surgery is a relatively re-

cent development. According to UC Health and Mount Carmel Medical Center, robotic surgery is an advanced form of minimally invasive or laparoscopic (small incision) surgery. Compared to open surgeries, robotic surgery offers many benefits to patients, some of which include: ● minimal scarring ● reduced blood loss ● faster recovery time ● reduced risk of

infection ● reduced pain and discomfort ● possibly shorter hospitalization ● faster recovery time Robotic surgery works similarly to traditional surgery, but instead of the surgeon working manually, robotic arms take over. During robotic surgery, typically three robotic arms are inserted into the patient through small incisions. One arm

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is a camera and the other two ser ve as the surgeon’s “hands.” In some instances, a fourth arm is used to clear away any obstructions. Surgeons will perform the procedure using a computer-controlled console. Robotic surgery does not mean that a robot is taking the place of a surgeon. Rather, robotic surgery combines the skills and knowledge of surgeons with advancements in technology in an effort to improve surgical procedures. Many surgeons prefer robotic surgery because of its precision and the superior visualization of the surgical field that the procedure provides. It’s also easier to account for tremors in the hands, and the machinery enables greater maneuverability. UC Health explains how robotic surgery works: The surgeon will work from a computer console in the operating room, controlling the miniaturized instruments mounted on the robotic arms. He or she looks through a 3-D camera attached to another robotic arm, which magnifies the surgical site. The surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements will be transmitted through the computer console to the instruments attached to the robot’s arms. The mimicked movements have the same range of motion as the surgeon, allowing for maximum control. While the surgeon is working, the surgical team will supervise the robot at the patient’s bedside. Men, women and children can benefit from robotic surgery, which has become especially helpful for gynecologic conditions. Robotic surgery has been

METRO CREATIVE

Robotic surgery has been used in the treatment of cancers of the abdomen, as well as pelvic masses, fibroids, tumors, and tubal ligations. used in the treatment of cancers of the abdomen, as well as pelvic masses, fibroids, tumors, and tubal ligations. Robotic surgery also can be used for pelvic reconstruction surgeries and to treat incontinence and organ prolapse. Although the success rates of traditional sur-

gery versus robotic surgery have been relatively similar, many people are now leaning toward robotic surger y because of its advantages — and seeking doctors and hospitals trained in robotic surgery. Courtesy of Metro Creative

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

| HEALTH&WELLNESS | 13

PRIVACY

Disclosing a diagnosis on social media can impact your career Social media has changed the rules of privacy for almost everyone. But for people diagnosed with cancer, social media use comes with the additional complications of online disclosure, which can have unintended consequences. As part of their annual survey, Cancer and Careers, a national nonprofit that empowers and educates people with cancer to thrive in their workplaces, polled survivors on their experiences with disclosing their cancer online. Nearly one in five cancer

Nearly one in five cancer survivors polled said that revealing their diagnosis on social media negatively impacted their careers.

survivors polled said that revealing their cancer diagnosis on social media negatively impacted their careers, and one in 10 said they experienced repercussions at work because of their disclosure; but 77 percent of respondents who posted about cancer or disclosed their diagnosis online felt supported by friends and family or found a support group as a result. Please note sample size varied; for more information on the study methodology view the infographic here: bit.ly/2bNKanA. As with any aspect of the cancer journey, the decision to disclose, whether online or in-person, is a personal one based on a variety of factors. For more information on Cancer and Careers’ expert resources, interactive tools and educational events visit CancerandCareers.org. If you have cancer or are a cancer survivor, learning more about the possible consequences of online disclosure can help you make decisions that are right for you. Courtesy of StatePoint

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| HEALTH&WELLNESS | THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

LISTEN UP

How music may improve health Plato said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” Music often communicates messages that are not easily expressed, which is one reason why music is such an integral part of so many

people’s lives. While many people love music for its entertainment value, there is growing evidence that music can be good for overall health as well. A study from researchers at the Cleveland Clinic focused on the use of music for brain

surgery patients who must be awake during their procedures. Researchers found that music enabled the patients to manage anxiety, reduce pain and relax more fully during their procedures. In a study titled, “The ef-

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fect of music intervention in stress response to cardiac surgery in a randomized clinical trial,” a team of Swedish researchers measured serum cortisol, heart rate, respiratory rate, mean arterial pressure, arterial oxygen tension, arterial oxygen saturation, and subjective pain and anxiety levels for patients who had undergone cardiothoracic surgery. Those who were allowed to listen to music during recuperation and bed rest had lower cortisol levels than those who rested without music. Many doctors now play music while operating or enable patients to listen to music to calm their nerves during in-office procedures. According to Caring Voice Coalition, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of patients with chronic illnesses, music has also been shown to enhance memory and stimulate both sides of the brain, which may help individuals recover from stroke or those suffering from cognitive impairments. Music also can have a positive impact on mood. Neuroscientists have discovered that listening to music heightens positive emotions through the reward centers of the brain. Music stimulates the pro-

Meds FROM PAGE 14

plain why each medication is prescribed. This information should be printed on the prescription label. Some drugs designed for one symptom may actually be used to treat other issues as well. ● Ask for help. Some seniors may benefit from friendly reminders from a

METRO CREATIVE

Music may have the ability to soothe, heal and inspire physical activity. duction of dopamine, creating positive feelings as a result. Some researchers think that music may help improve immune response, promoting faster recovery from illness. Undergraduate students at Wilkes University measured the levels of IgA — an important antibody for the immune system’s first line of defense against disease — from saliva. Levels were measured before and after 30 minutes of exposure to various sounds, including music. Soothing music produced significantly greater increases in IgA than any of the other conditions.

Another way music has been linked to improved health is its ability to make physical activity seem less mundane. Listening to songs can distract one from the task at hand, pushing focus onto the music rather than the hard work being done. When exercising, upbeat music can help a person go a little further as they work to achieve their fitness goals than working out without music. The benefits of music extend beyond enjoying a favorite song, as music can do much to contribute to one’s overall health.

loved one regarding when to take certain medications, especially if they need to take multiple doses throughout the day. Cognitively impaired seniors may require the services of a visiting nurse or another caregiver. ● Recognize that not all medications are right for seniors. The American Geriatrics Society maintains a list of medications that older adults should avoid or take with extreme caution. Some

drugs pose a high risk of side effects or interactions, while others are less effective. Discuss alternatives with your physician if you are prescribed one of these medications. ● Keep a medication diary. Record any side effects that occur and how the medications make you feel. Always bring up issues promptly with a doctor.

Courtesy of Metro Creative

Courtesy of Metro Creative

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS & WEST HARTFORD NEWS

| HEALTH&WELLNESS | 15

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| NEWS | THE MIDDLETOWN PRESS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016

#1

Endometrial cancer is the most common GYN cancer in the U.S.*

60,000+ estimated new cases in the U.S. in 2016**

ARE YOU AT RISK FOR CE ENDOMETRIAL CANCER? Obesity increases endometrial cancer risk by more than

3x

**

62

is the median age of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer*

Early detection is key. 5-year survival rate for early Stage 1 is

95%**

At Middlesex Hospital, You’ll Never Feel Like Just a Number Our award-winning Cancer Center has the expert physicians and technology to treat and cure endometrial cancer. But we also understand that sometimes it takes more than medicine to make you feel better. So you’ll receive dedicated, personalized attention from our Nurse Navigator—a trusted resource who is there to provide the information, guidance and emotional support you need at every step of your journey from diagnosis through survivorship. Taking the time to treat patients, not just cancer—that’s The Smarter Choice for Care.

middlesexhospital.org/women * Source: National Cancer Institute ** Source: American Cancer Society