Health Topics
What are allergies?
Allergies “Allergic rhinitis”, is a common allergic reaction that causes inflammation in the lining of the nose.
Are vaccines safe?
There is no treatment in medicine that is 100 percent risk-free, and we are skeptical of anyone who says otherwise. But the safety of vaccines has been well studied. Think of it this way. Most medications that are used in pediatrics are only used by a small percentage of children. Since vaccines are recommended for all children there are far more doses given to children annually than any other medication we use. Yet the incidence of side effects from vaccines is far lower than most prescription drugs. Yes, bad things can happen from vaccines. But the risk is very small. When you weigh the pros and cons, vaccines are FAR safer than the illnesses they prevent.
Bismarck is the first in the region to offer the Micra Leadless Pacemaker, bringing state-of-the-art technology to individuals with heart rhythm disorders. The Micra Transcatheter Pacing System (TPS) offers the most advanced pacing technology at one-tenth the size of a traditional pacemaker.
Bradycardia is a condition characterized by a slow or irregular heart rhythm, usually fewer than 60 beats per minute. At this rate, the heart is unable to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body during normal activity or exercise, causing dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath or fainting spells. Pacemakers are the most common way to treat bradycardia to help restore the heart's normal rhythm and relieve symptoms by sending electrical impulses to the heart to increase the heart rate.
Quick Treatment Crucial to Stroke Patients
Each and every day, medical professionals provide life-saving treatments for patients. Stroke patients, in particular, are very critical when it comes to time for treatment. When a patient presents to the emergency room with a stroke, time is of the essence as his or her brain tissue is dying. It is crucial for the stroke emergency team to respond quickly.
According to the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association, Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke accounting for 87 percent of all strokes. It occurs when a clot blocks a vessel that supplies blood to the brain. Since blood carries oxygen, the brain cells without blood flow are deprived of what they need. They begin to die, losing their ability to control the body’s memory and the muscles they are responsible for.
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is abnormal accumulation of fluid in one or more parts of body. It can be congenital (primary lymphedema) or it can be acquired (secondary lymphedema). Cancer can be a direct cause of lymphedema.
Heart Disease: what are your risks?
February is American Heart Month and it is an important time to learn and know your risk factors of heart disease and how to prevent it. While some risk factors – such as your age, gender, and family history of heart disease - are beyond your control, others can be modified in order to prevent a heart attack.
Frigid temperatures can discourage even the most motivated exercisers. It may be easy to pack away your workout gear for the winter, but you don't have to let cold weather be the end of your fitness routine. Consider exercise is every bit as important as eating, sleeping and breathing... It should not be viewed as an ancillary part of your day, but rather a necessity.
Exercise is safe for almost everyone, even in cold weather. But if you have certain conditions, such as asthma, heart problems or Raynaud's disease, check with your doctor first to review any special precautions you need based on your condition or your medications.
A fall may result in a visit to emergency room
With winter in full swing, the rate of visits to urgent care and the emergency department due to falls is on the rise. Falls tend to increase during the winter months, especially with wet, cold and slippery conditions. Falls also occur more frequently around the holidays when people are more active and may be unfamiliar with their surroundings.
About half of all falls occur at home. The incidence of falls increases after age 50 and gradually rises with age, as does the risk for severe injuries and mortality. Almost half of individuals 65 and older end up going to a nursing home or rehabilitation facility after a fall-related injury. No matter what your age, you can reduce your risk for falls by improving your strength, balance and flexibility, and by taking steps to make you stay safe this winter.