| Genesis Healthcare System

Top 10 tips to prevent indoor pets from spreading germs

Read more about Top 10 tips to prevent indoor pets from spreading germs

Gross: Our animals bring bacteria inside

Nearly 70% of US households have a pet, ranging from dogs to reptiles. While pet choice varies, all indoor pets have the potential to spread germs. Let’s face it, our pets eat random things off the ground, roll in questionable substances, use the restroom wherever they feel like it and can host fleas, parasites, ticks, infections and diseases. From their feet to their respiratory fluids, furry, feathered or scaled pets can bring a variety of viruses and bacteria into the home.

To keep spreading the love between species but ditch spreading the infections, follow these top 10 tips:

Regular vet visits: Keep pets current on vaccines, deworming and monitoring their overall health to lower the chance they’ll bring germs into the home.
Handwashing: Whether playing with a dog, feeding a reptile or cleaning a bird’s cage, building the habit of hand washing after interacting with a pet and their care is key to staying healthy, according to the KidsHealth website.
Avoid kisses: Although puppy kisses may be tempting, it is best to avoid kissing or touching a pet’s mouth as their saliva hosts a variety of germs.
Wear masks: Specific to bird care, wearing a mask when cleaning the cage can help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases unique to birds.
Pick up waste frequently: Whether the pet does their business inside or out, keeping their waste picked up and their living area clean will help prevent the spread of disease.
Clean their feet: After going for a walk, use soapy water or animal wipes to clean off all the potential bacteria and fungus they picked up along the way.
Wash pet bowls daily: A good sanitizing run through the dishwasher or hot, soapy water will help kill the germs breeding in a pet’s food and water bowls.
Clean toys weekly: From rubber chew toys to a hamster’s wheel, weekly washing will help keep pets and humans alike healthy.
Vacuum up dander: Hair, fur and dander can get caught in furniture, rugs, curtains … basically all fabrics. A regular vacuum or run through the laundry machine will help prevent the spread of airborne germs.
Use tick preventatives: Veterinarian-approved tick prevention will help stop pets from bringing the little buggers inside, where they could jump onto a human and increase the risk of Lyme disease, according to the NSF website.

While pets and people make excellent pairs, practicing pet hygiene measures and common sense is important in keeping those relationships healthy and happy.

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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.

Family Health

Tue, 04/16/2024 - 08:00

Top 10 tips to prevent indoor pets from spreading germs

To keep spreading the love between species but ditch spreading the infections, follow these top 10 tips.

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Listen to your gut, prevent colorectal cancer

Read more about Listen to your gut, prevent colorectal cancer

When it comes to colorectal cancer, listening to your gut proves critical. Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum (a.k.a the digestive system, a.k.a. the gut). Although colorectal cancer is a common cancer, the good news is that colorectal cancer is known as one of the most preventable cancers, according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.

Want to do everything possible to prevent colorectal cancer? There’s no guaranteed way to sidestep colon cancer, but researchers have found these seven health and lifestyle choices make a difference:

1. Get screened.

The number one way to prevent colorectal cancer is to participate in regular screenings beginning at 45 years old. Here’s why: It usually takes 10 to 15 years for abnormal cells to grow into the polyps that develop into colorectal cancer. Thanks to screenings, physicians can identify and remove most polyps before they morph into cancer. Plus, when detected early, colorectal cancer has a 90% survival rate.

2. Know your family and personal history.

Talk with a doctor about your family and personal history to decide if early screening is necessary. A history of cancer, genetic conditions and diagnoses such as Chron’s disease may warrant an early screening.

3. Look for red-flag symptoms.

Talk to a doctor if any of the following show up:

Bowel habits change
Persistent abdominal discomfort
Rectal bleeding
Unexplained weakness or fatigue

4. Live an active life.

Studies on the MDPI scientific journal publishing website have shown that physically active people have a 25% lower risk of developing colorectal cancer. Exercise supports blood flow, metabolism and - you guessed it - the gut.

5. Stop smoking.

While known as the main preventable cause of death due to any cancer, heavy smoking specifically increases the risk of colon cancer by 40%. Plus, those with colorectal cancer who smoke double their risk of not surviving compared with people who do not smoke.

6. Reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption.

Moderate to heavy social drinkers have a 20 to 40% increased risk for colorectal cancer, depending on consumption frequency. Grab a water instead.

7.Replace some red meat with poultry, fish, dairy and whole grains.

A high intake of red and processed meat means a 20 to 30% increase in the likelihood of colorectal cancer malignancies. On the flip side, eating whole grains and dairy products can help reduce the risk of colon cancer.

While it may feel tempting to pick one of the above seven tactics to focus on, a recent trial on the American Association for Cancer Research website found that addressing a combination of risk factors maximizes success in preventing colorectal cancer. So, look at the list, and then make as many healthy choices and improvements as possible to prevent colon cancer.

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Cancer Care

Tue, 04/30/2024 - 08:00

Listen to your gut, prevent colorectal cancer

Researchers have found these seven health and lifestyle choices make a difference in preventing colorectal cancer.

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Don’t look into the blue light

Read more about Don’t look into the blue light

We are all guilty of using our phones right before bed. Throughout the day, we might not have enough time to look at our phones due to work, our kids or any other responsibilities. It is not healthy for us to start this habit. We want to go to sleep and wake up on time. Staying up late looking at that last social media post is not going to help.

What is blue light?

Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum. About one-third of visible light is considered blue light. The sun produces blue light, but the more common and artificial source is from fluorescent lights such as smartphones, LED TVs, computer monitors, and tablet screens.

How harmful blue light can be

The amount of harmful exposure to blue light from your screen compared to the sun is small. A lot of people think our smartphones, TV screens or our computers are going to strain our eyes and give us permanent eye damage. While there might not be severe permanent damage, there is a possibility of blurred vision, burning, stinging or tearing of the eyes with too much use of digital devices. The University of Alabama at Birmingham states these symptoms are common with digital eyestrain and can lead to dry eyes or straining muscles that help our eyes focus. Digital eyestrain is caused when we do not blink as much as usual when we look at screens that produce blue light.

Special glasses can help

There are blue light glasses that can help with digital eyestrain. The lenses in the glasses have an orange or amber tint to help filter more blue light. The glasses are becoming more and more common since most of us look at screens all day due to jobs or for personal use.

20-20-20 rule

The American Academy of Ophthalmology has come up with ways to help with digital eyestrain if you do not have blue light glasses. The 20-20-20 rule is when you take a break every twenty minutes to look at something, that is not a blue light screen, twenty feet away for twenty seconds. The rule causes you to blink more and helps battle digital eyestrain.

We want you to take digital eyestrain and the effects of blue light into consideration for your everyday life. If you do not want the glasses but still want to take prevention, then we recommend giving the 20-20-20 rule a try. Sometimes, we just need to unplug from blue light screens and enjoy the nice weather outside.

If you want to learn more about eye strain, check out our other blogs:

3 Ways to Reduce Eye Strain | Genesis Healthcare System (genesishcs.org)

The Eyes Have It! How to Maintain Good Eye Health | Genesis Healthcare System (genesishcs.org)

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Lifestyle

Tue, 05/07/2024 - 08:00

Learn about blue light, how harmful it can be, and ways to reduce eye strain.

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Take your pick of vitamins in season

Read more about Take your pick of vitamins in season

Fall brings a bountiful harvest of delicious and nutritious foods. As the leaves change color and the temperatures drop, we can pick of a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds packed with essential vitamins. These vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being.

Key vitamins found in fall produce and their benefits for our bodies:

Vitamin A: Found in vibrant orange vegetables like pumpkins, sweet potatoes and carrots. Vitamin A is essential for healthy vision, a strong immune system and promoting cell growth. It also contributes to the maintenance of healthy skin and mucous membranes.
Vitamin C: Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits and lemons are abundant during fall, providing us with a generous dose of Vitamin C. This vitamin is renowned for its immune-boosting properties, helping to protect against common colds and infections. It also aids in collagen production, which is crucial for healthy skin, gums and blood vessels.
Vitamin K: Leafy greens such as kale, spinach and Swiss chard are at their peak in autumn, and they are excellent sources of Vitamin K. This vitamin plays a vital role in blood clotting and helping wounds heal properly. It also contributes to maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
Vitamin E: Nuts and seeds, including almonds, walnuts and sunflower seeds, are abundant during the fall season and are packed with Vitamin E. This vitamin acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting our cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also supports healthy skin and hair and plays a role in immune function.
B vitamins: Fall is also a great time to enjoy whole grains like brown rice, quinoa and oats, which are rich in various B vitamins. Thiamin, riboflavin and niacin are essential for energy production, supporting our metabolism and brain function. They also contribute to the health of our nervous system and help maintain healthy skin, hair and eyes.

A balanced and varied diet is key to obtaining all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. Among adults in a 2020 study, adequate intake of nutrients from foods was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality. By incorporating fall fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains into our diet, we can ensure that our bodies receive a wide range of essential vitamins. Let's make the most of the fall harvest and nourish our bodies with these vitamin-rich foods.

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Nutrition

Thu, 09/05/2024 - 08:00

As the leaves change color and the temperatures drop, we can pick of a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds packed with essential vitamins.

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Stand up for good health

Read more about Stand up for good health

Ten years ago, we worried about getting in those 10,000 daily steps. Now, the focus has trended toward closing multiple daily activity goals for time spent moving, exercising and standing.

We’ve been conditioned by popular smartwatches to stand for at least a minute for 12 hours each day. While standing is undoubtedly important, how much is it a fitness gimmick versus a necessity for better health?

Don’t stand still

Many smart devices come with standardized standing goals, such as 12 hours a day. If you think you can stand in one place to meet your hourly goal though, keep on moving. Many devices calculate one “stand hour” as not only time you’ve been up, but also if you’ve been moving for at least 60 seconds during that hour.

JustStand.org says that the average person spends 7.7 hours sitting each day. Sitting is often spent in the car, eating, watching TV or working at a desk. JustStand.org refers to a “sedentary” or seated lifestyle as an unexpected risk to our health, known as “sitting disease.” Studies have found connections between sitting for extended periods and risks of sickness and injury. Sitting for 20 minutes in any fixed position can also slow our metabolism.

Instead of a daily hour goal, JustStand.org recommends going back and forth between sitting and standing every 30 minutes. Even if you get in enough activity otherwise you still may be sitting for too long.

It’s time to stand

JustStand.org’s sitting time calculator determines how much time you sit daily for activities like meals, time at a desk, commutes and playing video games. The tool calculates risks for sitting disease using four levels:

Low: sitting less than four hours per day.

Medium: sitting four to eight hours per day.

High: sitting eight to 11 hours per day.

Very high: sitting more than 11 hours per day.

If you’re not standing enough, here are suggestions to reach your goals:

Many smartwatches offer reminders to stand each hour. These notifications, although pesky, can be customized for your needs.

Take a brief walk around the office during a break.

Sit-stand desks help divide your time between sitting and standing to complete work.

Some people also add walking pads under their desks for increased movement and standing.

Taking the stairs increases your step count and prevents you from standing still on an elevator.

Pick up lunch inside your favorite restaurant instead of breezing through the drive-thru.

Walk your dog around the block. Fido will enjoy the exercise, and you’ll get one more stand hour.

Harvard Health suggests finding ways to incorporate small changes into a sedentary lifestyle, such as a quick walk after a meal. They also suggest including drinking more water. This helps your body in many ways, including increased walks to the bathroom.

Whatever your tactic, strive to achieve your daily goals for good health. Many smartwatches even offer activity competitions with friends, so keep standing and crush your goals.

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Fitness

Tue, 09/10/2024 - 08:00

Instead of a daily hour goal, JustStand.org recommends going back and forth between sitting and standing every 30 minutes.

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How about them apples?

Read more about How about them apples?

Apples are a favorite food throughout the world. They are a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants that can benefit your health in many ways.

Here are some of the many benefits of this healthy fruit:

Apples are high in fiber and water, which make people feel full and less likely to eat more. A study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reported that consumption of whole apples resulted in reduced body mass index (BMI) and lowered the risk of obesity in study participants.

That same soluble fiber can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Soluble fiber can also prevent plaque buildup in arteries and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Apples are rich in antioxidants, especially polyphenols, which can fight free radicals that cause cellular damage and inflammation. Polyphenols have been linked to a lower risk of cancers, such as breast, prostate, colon and skin cancer.

Apples contain prebiotics, substances that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. These bacteria play a key role in digestion, immunity, mood and metabolism. Eating more prebiotics may improve gut health and prevent or treat conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and obesity.

They boost brain function. Apples contain flavonoids, plant compounds that have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Flavonoids may improve blood flow to the brain, enhance cognitive performance, memory and learning abilities. They may also protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. A 2021 study printed in Stem Cell Reports presents data supporting the benefits of flavonoids.

Too much of a good thing?

By all means, follow the popular proverb “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away,” but stop at two. Researchers have noted that eating three or more apples per day can result in bloating and constipation from eating more fiber than usual. The carbohydrates in apples can also cause fluctuations in blood sugar. Also eat apples whole, raw and unpeeled to get the most benefits from their nutrients.

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Nutrition

Tue, 09/03/2024 - 08:00

Here are some of the many benefits of this healthy fruit.

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Reveal your skin’s true identity

Read more about Reveal your skin’s true identity

1) How does your skin feel a few hours after washing it?

a. Tight and dry

b. Comfortable, neither dry nor oily

c. Oily or shiny

2) How does your skin typically react to new skincare products?

a. It often feels irritated or becomes red and itchy

b. It sometimes reacts but usually settles down

c. It rarely reacts and looks healthy

3) How does your skin look midday?

a. Flaky or dull

b. Generally fine, maybe a bit shiny in the T-zone (Forehead, nose and chin)

c. Quite oily, especially in the T-zone

4) How does your skin react to the sun?

a. It burns easily and rarely tans

b. It sometimes burns but can tan

c. It tans easily and rarely burns

5) How often do you experience breakouts or blemishes?

a. Rarely or never

b. Occasionally

c. Frequently

Results:

Mostly A’s: Dry Skin

Your skin is likely dry. According to the Mayo Clinic, dry skin often responds well to lifestyle measures, such as using moisturizers and avoiding long, hot showers and baths.

Tip: Embrace rich moisturizers and hydrating serums to keep your skin feeling soft and smooth

Mostly B’s: Combination Skin

Your skin type is likely a combination. Use products designed for combination skin and focus on balancing oil production.

Tip: Use a gentle cleanser and products that balance oil production. Light moisturizers and targeted treatments can help maintain harmony

Mostly C’s: Oily Skin

Your skin type is likely oily: Look for oil-free and mattifying products to manage excess oil

Tip: Use oil-free products and mattifying moisturizers to control shine and prevent breakouts, helping your skin look its best.

Knowing your skin type can help you choose the best skincare routine. Additionally, according to the Mayo Clinic, skin improves when you choose healthy habits like proper sleep and nutrition. Pamper your skin with the right products, and enjoy a healthy, radiant complexion.

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Beauty

Tue, 09/17/2024 - 08:00

Knowing your skin type can help you choose the best skincare routine.

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Leibold, Christopher

Read more about Leibold, Christopher

Doctor ID

5811

Christopher Leibold, DO

First Name

Christopher

Last Name

Leibold

Professional Titles

Year Joined Staff

2024

Gender

Male

Office Phone

740-586-6828

Fax

740-586-6511

Orthopedics

Joint Replacement Surgery

2904 Bell Street
Zanesville, OH 43701
United States

103 Public Square
Somerset, OH 43783
United States

NPI

1306379086

About

Christopher Leibold, D.O., is an orthopedic surgeon who focuses on partial and total knee replacements and anterior hip replacement, a surgical approach that may lead to faster recovery and less pain. Dr. Leibold also provides revision hip and knee replacement.

Originally from Mount Vernon, Ohio, Dr. Leibold has always loved learning and working with his hands.

“My values have always been caring for my family and helping others in need,” said Dr. Leibold. “I got interested in orthopedics during one of my shifts in medical school. I learned to love the diverse field of orthopedics and how you can decrease pain while improving the body’s range of motion.”

His medical philosophy when treating patients is that they are treated like family. “I think of my patients as someone’s mom, dad, husband or child,” said Dr. Leibold. “I want patients to return to their best life as soon as possible.”

When Dr. Leibold is not caring for patients, he enjoys making memories with his wife and children, including going on family vacations and visiting parks and festivals.

Dr. Leibold is accepting new patients in two locations. At the Genesis Orthopedic Center, 2904 Bell St., Zanesville, appointments can be made by calling 740-586-6828 or online. Dr. Leibold also sees patients at the Genesis Orthopedic Services, 103 Public Square, Somerset. Patients can call 740-586-6828 or make an appointment online.

Fellowship

Adult Hip and Knee Adult Reconstruction

Florida Orthopaedic Institute/University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida

Medical Education

Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Athens, Ohio

Internship

HCA Florida Largo Hospital

Largo, Florida

Residency

Orthopedic Surgery

Mercy Health Toledo

Toledo, Ohio

Board Certifications

Orthopaedic Surgery

Accepting New Patients

FALSE

Is Referral Required

FALSE

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Genesis Medical Group

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Genesis Medical Group

Christopher Leibold, D.O., is an orthopedic surgeon who focuses on partial and total knee replacements and anterior hip replacement.

Learn about anterior hip replacement surgery with Christopher Leibold, D.O.

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Is head lice bugging you?

Read more about Is head lice bugging you?

If you find yourself scratching your head not because you’re confused but because it itches, take note. Millions of people get head lice each year. Head-lice infestations are common in schools. In the United States, it is believed that about 6 to 12 million children between three and 12 years of age get head lice each year. And children are kind to share lice with parents, siblings and caregivers.

What causes head lice?

Head-to-head contact (think selfie poses) is the most common way to get head lice. The lice move from one person to the next by crawling. They cannot fly or jump. Having head lice does not mean you are dirty. Lice don’t care if your hair is squeaky-clean or in need of shampoo; it’s human blood they are after, which they need to survive.

It’s possible to get head lice by sharing everyday objects infested with lice, such as hats, scarves, coats, hair accessories, brushes, combs and towels. You can also get lice by resting your head on a bed, pillow, couch, chair, or rug that someone with head lice used.

Treatment

Sometimes, simply using a special comb can remove the lice and nits (eggs) from hair. While time-consuming, studies show that combing injures the lice, so they rarely survive.

There are over-the-counter lice shampoo treatments. Because the active ingredients have remained the same for years, new generations of head lice are becoming resistant. “If you are unable to get rid of the lice, there are prescription strength options,” said Katie Billingsley, APRN-CNP, Genesis Primary Care, New Lexington. “Lice is easily spread, so it’s important to be sure to eliminate all of them, including the nits.”

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Primary Care

Thu, 08/29/2024 - 08:00

If you find yourself scratching your head not because you’re confused but because it itches, take note. Millions of people get head lice each year.

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BE FAST When It Comes to Stroke Symptoms

Read more about BE FAST When It Comes to Stroke Symptoms

Here’s the scenario: Your loved one begins to exhibit strange behaviors – her words aren’t making sense and one side of her face droops when she tries to smile. You wonder what’s going on or if she could be having a stroke, but you can’t remember the symptoms that might help you figure it out.

Minutes count

When a person is having a stroke, minutes count – the sooner you recognize it and get the person to treatment, the better the chance of saving that person’s life. What do you do?

We have an easy way to remember the symptoms of a stroke.

Think BE FAST

Balance

Watch for sudden loss of balance

Eyes

Check for vision loss

Face

Look for an uneven smile

Arm

Check if one arm is weak

Speech

Listen for slurred speech

Time

Call 911 right away

If any of these symptoms occur in someone, don’t hesitate – call 911. The life of your loved one may depend on your quick action.

BE FAST When It Comes to Stroke Symptoms

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Neurosciences

Thu, 05/09/2024 - 16:32

We have an easy way to remember the symptoms of a stroke. Think BE FAST.

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