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A life-altering procedure

For some people, heartburn is a mild discomfort to occasionally deal with during taco night or a stressful day at work.

 

For Christine Wolford, heartburn was ruining her life. Christine’s symptoms were much more severe than mild annoyance when she ate spicy food. It was daily pain that was brought on regardless of what she ate.

 

For years, she tried eating different types of food, different portion sizes and at different times of the day.

 

Experiment after experiment failed and usually resulted in severe pain and occasionally waking up in the middle of the night coughing and vomiting blood. She only found relief by eating one small meal daily and sleeping in a chair.

 

Eventually, she was diagnosed with a paraesophageal hernia that was so big it was compressing both of her lungs. When she heard the news, she knew she needed to see Joshua K. Moore, D.O., Fellowship- trained and Board-certified General Surgeon at the Genesis Center of Surgical Excellence. 

 

“Dr. Moore was so personable. When describing the procedure, he made the complicated seem simple. I felt safe with him as my doctor.”

 

Trusted, ongoing care 

The previous year, Christine’s husband had seen Dr. Moore for hernia surgery, which turned out to be a double blessing. While preparing for his hernia surgery, the doctors at Genesis identified a heart condition her husband had.

 

During preparations for heart surgery, her husband had a heart attack and was successfully treated with a pacemaker at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute. After recovering from heart surgery, her husband returned to Dr. Moore for hernia surgery.

 

Christine and her husband were impressed by Genesis and the care they received.

 

“Everything about my hernia procedure was wonderful,” said Christine. “Dr. Moore was so personable. When describing the procedure, he made the complicated seem simple. I felt safe with him as my doctor.”

 

Dr. Moore said the minimally invasive hernia procedure uses small incisions and pinpoint precision. This method reduces the recovery time for patients, without the need for open surgery.

 

“Christine had a severe case of heartburn that had gone untreated for too long,” said Dr. Moore. “It had caused part of her esophagus to erode. To treat her, we performed a robotic-assisted laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair with toupee fundoplication. We reduced her stomach back into her abdomen, restoring normal anatomy and then wrapped part of her stomach around the lower part of her esophagus. This reinforces the anti-reflux valve.” 

 

Return to favorite foods

After Christine’s procedure, she spent a few weeks working her way back to solid foods. About a month later, after she was released to eat what she wanted, she decided to celebrate with pizza. She had loved pizza all her life and had not been able to enjoy it in seven years.

 

After her celebratory dinner, she said the meal was delicious, but the rest of the night was even better as she didn’t have any heartburn. 


Learn more at genesishcs.org/heartburn. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Christina Wolford

Heartburn was a daily nuisance for Christine Wolford. Diagnosed with a paraesophageal hernia, Christine returned to eating her favorite foods after a minimally invasive procedure without the need for open surgery. 

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Vein therapy brings golfer back to his feet

Varicose vein treatment was not something David Desender expected to discuss with his doctor while seeking care for heart arrhythmia concerns.

During an appointment at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute with Grant V. Chow, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Cardiac Electrophysiologist, David shared that his ankles would sometimes swell.

Dr. Chow asked if David was experiencing pain and if he could refer him to the Genesis Vein Center.

“I’ve always gone to Genesis,” said David. “It’s the go-to place.”

Ahmed Habib, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Cardiologist and Vein Specialist at the Genesis Vein Center, soon evaluated David’s symptoms with a quick ultrasound. Dr. Habib is the director of the accredited outpatient facility, offering comprehensive treatment options for patients with vein concerns.

 

A non-surgical procedure

David was diagnosed with chronic venous disease. Dr. Habib recommended ablation vein treatments for both legs. The non-surgical procedure uses heat to treat the abnormal veins, resulting in closure and improvement in circulation and symptoms.

David is an avid golfer. Dr. Habib said that walking on the golf course as regular exercise and maintaining an ideal body weight helped slow the progression of the disease.

Chronic vein disease affects about 30 million Americans. Weakened valves cause blood to flow backward, leading to spider and varicose veins, swelling, burning, aching, restless legs and skin discoloration. If left untreated, varicose vein symptoms can lead to more serious complications, such as ulcers and blood clots, which can become life-threatening.

“Unfortunately, only about half a million Americans seek varicose vein care,” said Dr. Habib. “When treated in the early stages, we can offer significant improvement in a patient’s quality of life.”

David’s treatment plan included four short endovenous procedures. His confidence in Genesis made the decision easy.

“I believe in Genesis,” said David. “I trusted Dr. Habib’s expertise.”

 

Acing the recovery

"I’ve always gone to Genesis. It’s the go-to place."

With the advancement of technology, minimally invasive techniques have eliminated the need for open surgery, known as vein stripping. Dr. Habib said the recovery time for varicose vein treatment has improved over the years, making David’s procedures a popular option.

“Patients who underwent vein stripping used to spend two to three days in the hospital. It would take three to four weeks to return to work,” said Dr. Habib. “Now, I tell patients they can go shopping after they finish the 10-15-minute procedure done in our office. No cuts, stitches or sutures are involved.”

Dr. Habib said no anesthesia or IVs are needed for the ablation vein procedure. Improvements often result as soon as one week, and relief is sustainable for several years.

David quickly returned to the golf course after the four treatments. “I’m happy with everything,” he said. “My legs are in great shape. It made a big difference.”

Learn more at genesishcs.org/veincenter.

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

David Desender Chronic Vein Disease

Dr. Chow asked if David was experiencing pain and if he could refer him to the Genesis Vein Center.

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Cancer patient encourages routine exams

Johnna Pieper was always the person who had it together. From working at a nonprofit supporting people with disabilities to rescuing four dogs, she has been dedicated to giving back.

 

She kept everybody on schedule, but amidst her busy life, she realized she had forgotten someone crucial: herself.

 

“As someone who prioritizes staying organized, I never expected to let anything fall through the cracks,” said Johnna. However, it happened, and Johnna didn’t get an annual mammogram for three years.

 

Prompted by MyChart reminders, Johnna scheduled a mammogram in December 2017. “I was convinced it had only been a year since my last mammogram. Between work and caring for my family, I was startled to realize three years had slipped by,” said Johnna.

 

Personalized care

Following her mammogram, Johnna was urged to consult with Shannon M. Hanley, M.D., Fellowship-trained Breast Surgeon and Board-certified Surgeon at the Genesis Breast Care Center.

 

During Johnna’s January 2018 appointment, Dr. Hanley expressed concerns about Johnna’s imaging and performed a biopsy the same day.

 

Later that week, Johnna learned she had stage 1 breast cancer. “That moment changed everything for me,” said Johnna. “I always tried to put others first, but now I was faced with this battle that I knew I had to fight.”

 

Dr. Hanley said she makes a great effort to immediately see patients like Johnna who have highly concerning mammograms, as it’s essential to ease the patient’s fears as soon as possible. “At Genesis, we strive to take care of our patients’ physical health while minimizing stress,” said Dr. Hanley.

 

Johnna’s journey included additional tests and surgery in February 2018, when 17 lymph nodes were removed, including one that was cancerous.

 

Putting your health first

Johnna underwent eight weeks of daily radiation at the Genesis Cancer Care Center, forming deep bonds with Genesis team members. “They made me feel like I was in the best hands possible,” Johnna recalls.

 

Since treatment, Johnna completed five years of careful observation and has returned to regular screenings. She remains under the care of Dr. Hanley and Shyamal R. Bastola, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Hematologist/Oncologist at the Genesis Cancer Care Center with ongoing medication and checkups.

 

Throughout recovery, Johnna realized the importance of prioritizing her health. She urges women to schedule regular mammograms. “Your journey matters, and it can save lives. Don’t let a simple checkup be the difference.”

 

Dr. Hanley encourages women to complete routine screenings. “Early detection is the key. We want to help you and it all starts with routine exams.”

 

The results revealed that Johnna had two types of breast cancer in one breast. “Hearing that was overwhelming,” Johnna said. “It wasn’t bad, just complicated, and it made me realize how unpredictable life can be.”

Genesis Breast Care Center

The Genesis Breast Care Center, located in the Genesis HealthPlex, offers convenient appointments with our dedicated breast surgeon and compassionate staff.

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Johnna Pieper

She kept everybody on schedule, but amidst her busy life, she realized she had forgotten someone crucial: herself.

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Cycling to recovery: Heart care close to home 

Pastor Andy Winters began his Easter Sunday 2024 sermon with a thank-you for support following a sudden heart attack.

 

“Life changes fast,” Andy told his Zanesville Christian and Missionary Alliance Church congregation, where he has been lead pastor since 2006.

 

Andy started March 18, 2024, like many Mondays. He prepared for a church meeting and worked on his next sermon. He then headed to the gym for a routine workout.

 

Andy felt discomfort while using a machine and attributed it to asthma. Pressure built in his chest after he moved to a second machine. He wasn’t sure what to do next. 

 

No heart attack drills in life

“I decided to press on and keep going,” said Andy. He wondered if the trouble was with his heart. “I soon realized something wasn’t right, and I couldn’t walk things off.”

 

He managed to walk downstairs to the locker room. After showering, he was still soaked in sweat. Andy said he was stumbling, unable to pick up his phone.

 

He walked to the parking lot, hoping to drive to the hospital. “I probably should have stopped exercising sooner than I did,” said Andy. “I didn’t know all the things you should do. We don’t have heart attack drills like fire drills.”

 

Andy realized he had left his phone behind and drove to the entrance, asking someone to retrieve it.

 

Andy called his wife, Cyndi. “Now, don’t panic,” Andy said. “But I think I’m having a heart attack ... could you come and get me?” 

 

Urgent response 

Cyndi quickly advised Andy to call 911. Members of Genesis Community Ambulance began treating Andy on the scene before rushing him to the hospital.

 

Andy asked God for strength. He told an emergency medical technician (EMT) to tell Cyndi he loved her. The EMT replied, “Oh no, you’re going to tell her yourself.”

 

Arriving at the Genesis Emergency Department, he was quickly rushed to the cardiac catheterization lab for an emergent procedure. Andy’s anterior heart wall artery, notoriously known as the widowmaker artery, was 100% blocked. The vessel was emergently opened, and two stents were placed.

 

Kinan Kassar, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Interventional Cardiologist at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute, was Andy’s heart doctor.

 

“When Andy arrived at the Emergency Department, his heart condition was critical,” said Dr. Kassar. “Our EMTs did an exceptional job stabilizing him until we could perform the life-saving procedure.” 

 

“My care was excellent.”

 

Returning to the bike

Andy was discharged in two days. He compliments Dr. Kassar and Genesis Community Ambulance for their excellent care. Andy encourages others to trust their medical symptoms and seek help as soon as possible.

 

As Andy continues recovering from the heart stent procedure, he has returned to his active lifestyle, including long walks and workouts. He is also back to biking. This past summer, he completed a 120-mile ride in Michigan with friends. 

Heart attack symptoms

The American Heart Association provides these warning signs of a heart attack. Men and women experience varying symptoms. Even if you don’t think it’s a heart attack, immediately call 911 for help. 

  • Chest pain or discomfort.
  • Arm or shoulder discomfort or pain.
  • Feeling a cold sweat.
  • Pain in the jaw, neck or back.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Vomiting, feeling lightheaded or nauseous. 

Learn more at genesishcs.org/heart. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Andy Winters

Pastor Andy Winters has returned to his active lifestyle following a sudden heart attack. He encourages others to trust their medical symptoms and seek help as soon as possible.  

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How long are leftovers good?

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Submitted by emily.griffin on

Leftovers often create mixed emotions. If you are responsible for cooking, they are a blessing as it is a night off from the kitchen. If someone else is cooking, the response is typically, “Again?” 

Feelings aside, how long are leftovers good for, and what is the safest way to store them? Take our quiz to find out. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

How long are leftovers good?

Feelings aside, how long are leftovers good for, and what is the safest way to store them? Take our quiz to find out. 

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Parkinson’s patients benefit from personalized therapy

Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition that affects nerve cells controlling movement, sleep, memory and motivation. Over 1 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Patients experience a reduction of dopamine, the brain’s way of feeling happy. Side effects include tremors, stiffness, speech changes, loss of smell, balance concerns and slow movements.

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, it is a slow-progressing condition. The best treatment is dopamine replacement medication. However, patients who seek physical therapy can often delay the advancement of the disease. Patients are encouraged to stay active, as exercise alleviates muscle stiffness and helps motion and stability.

Ladder drill

Steve Fusner practices ladder drills to help with motor skills at Genesis Outpatient Rehabilitation. Regular exercise helps delay the progression of Parkinson’s disease.

Steve Fusner was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2021. He began physical therapy at Genesis Outpatient Rehabilitation in 2022. His therapist recommended Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT), a global Parkinson’s program offered at Genesis.

“It has helped me tremendously,” said Steve, who has been challenged with a tremor in his right hand.

Individualized needs

There are two types of LSVT, BIG and LOUD. Because physical movements become smaller as the condition progresses, BIG treatment helps patients like Steve improve their motor skills to change the brain’s response.

LOUD treatment helps patients improve speech loudness, as loss of vocal power is a side effect of Parkinson’s.

LSVT is catered to each person. Patients work with physical therapists to complete four consecutive weeks of treatment for one hour a day, four days a week. For BIG treatment, patients identify movements to improve, such as buttoning clothing, walking, shaving, getting out of bed and stepping in and out of bathtubs. Patients practice exercises between classes. As movements are mastered, the difficulty increases, such as adding balance constraints or turning off lights to challenge other senses.

“I learned exercises geared toward everyday activities,” said Steve. “I can do a lot for myself.”

Rhonda Forrestal, Physical Therapist at Genesis Outpatient Rehabilitation, is a certified LSVT BIG therapist. She said many patients don’t realize when their sensory-motor movements are declining.

“LSVT BIG helps patients renew their range of motion and balance,” said Rhonda. “The intensity and repetition of exercises creates neuroplastic changes in the brain.”

Boxing

Skip Yinger works on boxing drills. The repetition of movements creates changes in the brain to improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Heavy rope

Skip practices the heavy rope. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2022.

Skip Yinger was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2022. He appreciated completing therapy close to home.

“LSVT BIG made me more mobile,” said Skip, who has benefitted from the stretch techniques he’s learned. “I’m more limber. It’s helped with my arms and shoulders.”

Post-treatment regimens

After completing LSVT, patients should continue practicing the exercises. Steve and Skip have added weekly Rock Steady Boxing and swimming sessions offered by Genesis. Rock Steady Boxing is a non-contact course to improve movement.

Steve appreciates the support system the Parkinson’s offerings created.

“The therapists push me to do my best,” said Steve. “The classes challenge your brain to do things differently. It never gets boring.”

Boxing

A Genesis Physical Therapy Assistant helps Steve with boxing drills. Steve began physical therapy in 2022.

Steve also goes to the gym three days a week. Combining therapy with a workout regimen has led to positive changes. He spends a lot of time outdoors, including maintaining his lawn.

“I can better operate my mower, and I weed eat for an hour at a time,” said Steve. “It’s called BIG because it’s been a ‘BIG’ help. I benefit every day.”

Coordination

Skip and Steve are working on their coordination, dual-tasking and reaction time. They attend weekly Parkinson’s exercise classes at Genesis.

Since completing LSVT, Skip has continued the exercises four to five times a week. He is back to enjoying mowing grass and playing golf. Skip said Rhonda and the Genesis physical therapy team stress the need for patients to stay active during and after the program.

“LSVT has helped me ‘BIG’ time. I’m steadier on my feet,” said Skip. “But treatment isn’t a cure. You must continue the work to make yourself better.”

In addition to therapy and specialized classes, Genesis Outpatient Rehabilitation offers a support group for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, their families and caregivers. Meetings are free and open to the community on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Genesis Outpatient Rehabilitation in Zanesville. For more information about Parkinson’s or LSVT offerings, call 740-455-5151.

For more information, visit genesishcs.org/parkinsons
Steve Fusner Boxing 2

“LSVT has helped me ‘BIG’ time. I’m steadier on my feet,” said Skip. “But treatment isn’t a cure. You must continue the work to make yourself better.”

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Are your dishes dirtier after washing?

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

You’re a neat and tidy person. Or at least you like eating and drinking from clean plates and glasses. Therefore, every night after dinner, you wash your dishes. Sometimes by hand, sometimes with the dishwasher.  

The problem is that if you wash by hand only, your kitchen sink sponge could spread more germs than it is cleaning away.  

A study published on the Scientific Reports website in 2017 found that your kitchen sink sponge could have more bacteria than your toilet. Yuck.  

Although some questioned the study’s extreme claims, it is clear that if you don’t clean your kitchen sink sponge frequently, it contains bacteria you don’t want around.  

So, how do you wipe out the bacteria?  

According to NPR, Eatright.org, Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center and Michigan State University (MSU) Extension, a few simple steps can prevent your kitchen sink sponge from becoming the most disgusting thing in your home.  

Option 1 is to microwave your sponge for one minute on high. The key is to make sure your sponge is wet when you put it in the microwave to help prevent it from catching on file. Also, if the sponge has metallic scrub pads, it cannot go into the microwave as it will cause big problems. It is like putting aluminum foil or silverware in the microwave. You can’t do it. If you microwave your sponge, MSU recommends letting it cool before taking it out, as it will be hot.  

Option 2 is to place your sponge in your dishwasher and run it on a long cycle with heated dry. Per a study on the USDA Agricultural Research Service website, this method eliminated 99.9998% of germs during a test. 

Regardless of the method, it is clear that we all need to clean sponges frequently. Suggestions in studies ranged from cleaning them daily to weekly. Most research also recommended replacing sponges every couple of weeks.  

Another tip is never to use a sponge to clean up juice from raw meat. If you have meat on your counter, wipe it with a paper towel and disinfect it immediately.  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Are your dishes dirtier after washing?

A study published on the Scientific Reports website in 2017 found that your kitchen sink sponge could have more bacteria than your toilet. Yuck.  

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Mind over munchies

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Hello there, fellow snackers. Ever wonder why you're suddenly desperate for a slice of chocolate cake or a bag of salty chips? Food cravings can feel like they hit out of nowhere, but there's some fascinating science behind why you crave what you crave. Let's dive into the delicious details.   

 

Brain chemistry   

At the heart of food cravings is your brain's reward system. When you eat something tasty, your brain releases dopamine, the "feel-good" hormone. According to Harvard Health, dopamine is made up of tyrosine – so eating foods rich in tyrosine can release more dopamine into your brain. This is what makes you associate certain foods with pleasure, driving you to seek them out again. Think of it as your brain's way of saying, "Hey, remember how awesome that chocolate made you feel? Let's do it again."   

 

Hormones at play   

Hormones also play a significant role. Ghrelin, the "hunger hormone," tells your brain it's time to eat, while leptin signals when you're full. When these hormones are out of balance – due to stress, lack of sleep, or irregular eating patterns – you might find yourself craving high-calorie, sugary or fatty foods.   

 

Emotional eating   

Let's not forget the emotional component. Stress, sadness and boredom can all trigger food cravings. According to Harvard Health, if stress persists, the adrenal glands release cortisol, which increases appetite and motivation to eat. Comfort foods, like ice cream and pizza, are often linked to happy memories or a sense of security, making them particularly tempting when you need an emotional lift.   

 

Nutrient deficiencies   

Sometimes, cravings can be your body's way of signaling a nutrient deficiency. For instance, craving chocolate might indicate a magnesium deficiency, while hankering for red meat could mean you need more iron. Listening to your body can provide cues about what it needs.   

 

Environment and habits   

Lastly, your environment and habits influence cravings. If you're used to having a snack during your favorite TV show, your brain will start to associate that activity with eating, prompting cravings at that time.   

 

Understanding the science behind food cravings can help you manage them better. So next time you find yourself longing for that cookie, remember, it's not a lack of willpower. It's your brain and body working in mysterious ways.  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Mind over munchies

There's some fascinating science behind why you crave what you crave. Let's dive into the delicious details.   

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How the temperature of your shower affects your health

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

We all love a hot shower after a long day. It can be so relaxing to feel the warm water on your back. It could also be the opposite. We can feel refreshed with a cold shower on a hot day. What about on your normal day? What should the water temperature be to get the best benefits?  

If you shower with warm water, you can relax your muscle stiffness or tension. The University of California, Irvine says that hot showers can also clear out oils and dirt within the pores of your face and help open your nasal passages to relieve nasal congestion. Another benefit is that hot showers can reduce stress and anxiety because the hot water stimulates the release of oxytocin.  

As unbelievable as it sounds, cold showers can provide many benefits. ULCA Health states that cold showers benefits may include:  

  • Strengthen your immunity to common colds 

  • Combat symptoms of depression 

  • Improve blood circulation 

  • Increase metabolism 

  • Reduce inflammation and prevent muscle soreness  

  • Relieve localized pain  

You can even take a combination of the two temperatures. This method is called cold therapy. You start by taking it slow and only doing 30 seconds of cold water, 60 degrees or below, and as time goes on you build up your resistance to the cold water. Which means you can stay under the cold water for a longer time.  

Who knew that there are benefits from the temperature of your water. Don’t worry if you can’t shower in the cold water, it takes time to build up resistance.

 

 

For more information about how to stay healthy because of the shower, check out these resources below:

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Keep your feet and toes in tip-top shape

Your feet carry you everywhere. Make sure you give them the love they deserve. Here are some easy tips from the American Academy of Dermatology to care for your feet and prevent some of the most common issues.  

 

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5 hair care tips to add to your routine

Struggling with dry, damaged hair? The root of your problem may grow from your haircare habits. Whether you have coily, wavy, curly or straight hair, there are things you can add to your weekly routine to keep your hair healthy and shining.

 

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Say bye-bye to body odor

Body odor is a part of life. Although you might feel embarrassed in the moment, typically it’s a sign of your body functioning normally. That being said, if you’re not a fan of your natural musk, there’s nothing wrong with taking a few steps to prevent it.

Learn more

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

How the temperature of your shower affects your health

What about on your normal day? What should the water temperature be to get the best benefits?  

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Keep the sneeze away year-round

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

If you suffer from allergies, you may think you only need to worry about flowers, pollen and pets. Did you know that dust mites are one of the most common allergy triggers? Dust mites are microscopic insect-like pests that are everywhere.

 

To reduce dust and dust mites follow these tips for the:

Air

  • Don’t use window or attic fans, which bring pollen, mold spores and other allergens inside.
  • Use air conditioning instead of opening windows.
  • Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. This can help remove allergens and tobacco smoke from the air in your home.


Furniture and carpets

  • Use dust-proof pillow and mattress covers made from a tight-weave fabric that keeps out dust and dust mites.
  • Remove stuffed toys, wall hangings, books, knickknacks and artificial flowers.
  • Avoid wool blankets and down quilts.
  • Avoid carpet, rugs and upholstered furniture that collect dust.
  • Occasionaly steam clean carpets. 

 

Floors

  • Damp-mop hard floors once a day.
  • Dust and vacuum once or twice a week.
  • Use a dry cloth to wipe hard surfaces such as countertops and tables weekly.
  • Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter or a double-thick bag.
  • Wear a mask to avoid dust mites stirred up during cleaning.
  • Keep humidity less than 50% in your home. Dust mites don’t do well in dry conditions.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

If you suffer from allergies, you may think you only need to worry about flowers, pollen and pets.

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