Finding a good dentist in the Bay Area

Most people take their teeth for granted. According to dentist and health experts, you should see a dentist every six months, to make sure that there are no problems. Do you know that many illnesses first manifest in the mouth? Ulcers and infections in the mouth could be precursors to some underlying medical problem. So it is important to have a regular dental checkup.

What are the factors that you have to consider when choosing a dentist?

• Experience- It is always good to pick your dentist depending on how much experience they have. The more experience they have, the more that you can be assured that they will be able to diagnose your problem and give you the correct treatment.
• Qualification- Make sure that the dentist that you pick is properly qualified. Good dentists will be listed and will have their qualifications available for you to take a look at. Do some research
• Word of mouth- This sounds simple but actually is a good way to find an experienced dentist. If someone you know has a good dentist, and can recommend them to you, that gives you an assurance of the experience and work of the dentist
• Location- Many people do not think of location when picking a dentist, as they feel that there is no way that they could have a dental emergency. But if you do have a dental problem at some point, and need to see the dentist often, isn’t it better to have a dentist who is close by.
• Hours- this is another factor that people don’t consider when choosing a dentist. On a regular day, making an appointment and going for a dental checkup is okay. But if you have a sudden toothache or any other dental problems that may need immediate attention, then it is better to have a dentist who you can call at odd hours. Another reason why you should check the hours of the dentist is to see if it works for you in regard to your job timing or your children’s school timing etc.
• Cost- When it is an emergency nobody minds paying whatever it takes to find release from the pain. But on a regular basis for ordinary checkups, you need a dentist who will suit your budget.
• Rapport-You need to find a dentist that you have a good rapport with. Many people gave a big fear of a dental visit. So it is important to have a dentist who makes you feel comfortable and listens to your needs.
• Emergency- You need to make sure that your dentist is there for you during an emergency. There is no harm in checking what emergency procedures your dentist will follow when you first visit them. Good dentists will have a protocol that should set your mind at ease.
• Dental License- You can check with your state licensing board on the credentials of your dentist.

As you can see, finding a good dentist needs some time and effort because you are putting your teeth in their care. A dentist is usually for life, so when picking a dentist make sure that you have done your research well. If your dentist is retiring or moving, she/he would be the best person to suggest a new dentist for you to go to.

Take care of your teeth

Healthy teeth mean healthy bodies. By having a regular dental check up, you will ensure that your teeth last long and risk of illnesses and infections is kept at bay.

IHC EARNS RECOGNITION FOR PATIENT-CENTERED CARE

INDIAN HEALTH CENTER of SANTA CLARA VALLEY EARNS RECOGNITION FOR PATIENT-CENTERED CARE

Patient-Centered Medical Home (TM) 2011 standards emphasize enhanced care through patient- clinician partnership

WASHINGTON, DC- The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) today announced that Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley has received  Recognition from the Patient-Centered Medical Home 2011 (PCMH 2011) program for using evidence-based, patient-centered processes that focus on highly coordinated care and long term participative relationships.

The patient-centered medical home is a model of care emphasizing care coordination and communication to transform primary care into “what patients want it to be.” Research shows that medical homes can lead to higher and lower costs, and improve patients ‘ and providers’ reported experiences of care. The PCMH identifies practices that promote partnerships between individual patients and their personal clinicians, instead of treating patient care as the sum of several episodic office visits. Each patient’s care is tended to by clinician –led care teams, who provide for all the patient’s health care needs and coordinate treatments across the healthcare system. Medical home clinicians demonstrate the benchmarks of patient- centered care, including open scheduling, expanded hours and appropriate use of proven health information systems.

“The patient-centered medical home raises the bar in defining high-quality care by emphasizing access, health information technology and partnerships between clinicians and patients,  “ said NCQA President Margaret E. Okane. PCMH Recognition shows that Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley has the tools, systems and resources to provide their patients with the right care at the right time.”

To receive recognition, which is valid for three years , Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley demonstrated the ability to meet the program’s key elements embodying characteristics of the medical home.

The standards are aligned with the joint principles of the Patient-Centered Medical Home established with the American College of Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Osteopathic Association.

Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley met key program components in the following areas:

·       Written standards for patient access and continuity of care

·       Use of patient feedback materials

·       Appropriate use of charting tools to track patients and organize clinical information

·       Responsive care management techniques with an emphasis on preventive care for individual patients and for the entire patient population

·       Adaptation to patient’s cultural and linguistic needs

·       Use of information technology for prescriptions, test and referral tracking and coordination with other health care providers

·       Use of evidence-based guidelines to treat chronic conditions

·       Measurement and reporting of clinical and service performance

To find clinicians and their practices that have been recognized by the Patient-Centered Medical Home 2011 program please visit http://recognition.ncqa.org. For further information, contact NCQA Customer Support at (888) 275-7585.

About NCQA

NCQA is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQA’s Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEIDS(R) ) is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care. NCQA is committed to providing health care quality information for consumers, purchasers, health care providers and researchers.

STD Testing and Treatment

Most people are not aware that some sexually transmitted diseases can be cured. They are caused by infections that get passed through sexual contact. Most sexually transmitted diseases do not show any outward symptoms , so people who are infected may not even be aware of it. This is one of the reasons that these diseases are so infectious. When people are not aware that they have an STD they do not use any protection during sexual contact, and their infection gets passed on. It is lack of infection, awareness and the possibility of social stigma that stops people from looking for help.

The different kinds of STDs

·         Chlamydia

·         Gonorrhea

·         Genital Herpes

·         HIV/AIDS

·         Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

·         Syphilis

·         Bacterial Vaginosis

·         Trichomoniasis

·         Viral Hepatitis

Chlamydia

This is a common STD/STI which is caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. It is transmitted through vaginal, oral, or anal sexual contact with a person who is infected. It is usually accompanied by pain, fever and discharge in their genital areas.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This is also a bacterium which multiplies rapidly in the reproductive tract when a person gets infected. Some symptoms of gonorrheal infection is pain when urinating and discharge in the genital areas.

Genital Herpes

This a very infectious disease cause by a virus- herpes simplex virus. There are actually two strains of this virus, and both can cause genital herpes. A large number of people do not show any symptoms and so are carriers of this illness. So, they may not be aware that they have it and could unknowingly pass it on. Herpes manifests as blisters on the face and body and the infected person usually has cold sores on the lips. It is a very painful infection if not treated immediately. In severe cases, blisters can appear inside the mouth and in the genital area.

HIV/AIDS

People who suffer from AIDS have been long ostracized and treatment denied to them. But the world is aware now that AIDS is not passed by casual contact and people are getting help for it. The HIV virus destroys the immune system of the body and kills the cells that fight infection. Most people with HIV succumb to other illnesses that affect them because of low immunity.

Human Papillomavirus

This is the most common STD, and can affect men and women. It causes genital warts and can even lead to cancer in severe attacks.

Syphilis

Syphilis is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Usually the first symptom of syphilis is a genital sore and then it spreads outwards from there. Syphilis is curable if treated immediately.

Bacterial Vaginosis and Trichomoniasis

It is normal for genital areas to have bacteria. But sometimes due to hormonal imbalance or other problems, the bacteria may multiply, causing infections. The former is a vaginal infection that happens in women of reproductive age. The latter can affect men and women, and can be passed through sexual contact.

Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is a serious liver disease that can occur due to several different viruses, and can be transmitted through sexual contact.

Use protection

STDs are quite common and more than half of us will get one at some time in our lives. The good news is that we can protect ourselves and prevent passing on the infectious STDs. Practicing safe sex reduces the risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease. If you fear that you may have an STD, get tested immediately. The earlier you get help, the better the chances of recovery.

It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Common geriatric problems

Aging is not easy and most people try to be as independent as possible for as long as they can. But age creeps up on you, nevertheless. These days, seniors look after themselves and try to lead a healthy lifestyle. So, they are able to remain active and healthy longer. But there are some problems that eventually arise. Some common geriatric problems that seniors face are:

1.      Loss of cognition due to diseases like alzheimer’s and dementia

2.      Depression

3.      Hearing problems

4.      Joint pain

5.      Visual impairment

Some of these problems can be treated with drugs and simple aids but for others there is no cure, and the elderly and their caregivers have to learn to understand, accept and learn to cope with these problems.

Loss of cognition

As people age, there is usually memory loss. Memory loss is a general term that may include some or all of the following:

·         Loss of concentration

·         Not being able to recognize people they know

·         Loss of reasoning

·         Forgetfulness

These symptoms could be because of the onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dementia is related to aging and affects a large percent of the elderly. Alzheimer’s is hereditary. Neither have a cure, but there has been a lot of research done on these geriatric problems, and there are many resources available on how to deal with it.

Depression

Many elderly people feel depressed. There are many reasons for this. They get frustrated when they need help doing simple things. Their memory loss causes them to be forgetful, and this can get quite annoying over time. If their partners have passed on, loneliness could cause depression. Having to depend on caregivers to take of their personal hygiene could be embarrassing. Most people lead an active life and having to compromise that may cause depression. There are several prescription drugs that can be given to help calm them.

Hearing problems

A lot of senior citizens refuse to get medical help when their hearing starts to fail. They feel that if they do, they are giving in to old age. But, with the help of hearing aids, people can hear well for a very long time. There are also surgical options to help with hearing problems.

Joint pains

This is inevitable with age. After a lifetime of use, the body tends to start wearing away. Most problems are related to the joints. Different types of arthritis can cause joint pain. There may come a time where the senior would have to consider a joint replacement surgery to continue being mobile. There are drugs and topical creams to help alleviate joint pains. Funnily, exercise can help relieve joint pains. But a senior should find a workout program that helps them. Yoga, senior pilates and stretches are good to help relieve joint pains.

Vision problems

Our eyes grow weaker as we age, so there will come a point where you would need glasses to help you read. Usually, the power of a person who wears glasses later in life does not increase much. It is just part of aging. But other problems like glaucoma, if not treated could make the vision so bad that a person could be almost blind. A person who has glaucoma sees the world as a blur of shapeless forms and figures. This can be helped with surgery.

Coping with geriatric problems

As a person grows older, they should have regular health checkups. There are geriatric doctors who specialize in treating the elderly. If you or someone you know is going through some kind of geriatric problem, consult a doctor. There will be help available for their problem.

Why are regular pediatric checkups important?

There are people in this day and age who still go to a general practitioner for any ailment that they or their family may have. If it’s a mild case of a running nose or a slight fever, that may be a good idea. But it is important to go to specialists for more specific ailments. The same way it is important to take your child to a pediatrician and not to a general practitioner for their checkups, even if they are routine. This is because pediatricians have more experience working with children and will notice certain symptoms and can diagnose illnesses more effectively than a general practitioner.

In a nutshell, pediatricians will take care of the physical, emotional, and social health of infants, pre adolescents, pre teens, and young adults. Many people stop seeing pediatricians once they’re around 16 but according to health definitions pediatricians can look after the welfare of children from birth to 21 years. They have been trained in the assessment, prevention, management and detection of the mental, physical, developmental, and social problems that children may face.

What are the dangers that face children? 

The whole world is a dangerous place to an infant. From the safety of their mother’s womb, they have been thrown into a world of germs and viruses. They need good care. Infants are susceptible to a variety of illnesses. There are many immunizations that protect children from these illnesses. The pediatrician will administer these immunizations and keep a record of them, and make sure the correct prevention is given at the correct time.

As infants grow into toddlers, they start playing with other children. The spectrum of illnesses that they can be exposed to is much more. There may also be cuts and bruises, falls and breaks that need tending to.

Up to the age of nine or ten, children will still be susceptible to infections more easily than adults. Some children might show signs of developmental problems which may be recognized in school. A pediatrician will be able to help the child and the families cope with dealing with these problems. There may be children who still cling on to child like behavior, are still bed wetting etc. These may be related to some kind of mental or social problems that the child may be facing at home or school. Obesity is rising in the country and it is important that your child is eating healthy food and leading a healthy lifestyle.

The teenage years can be very trying for many children. Their immunity levels may have gone up as they grow older and therefore their susceptibility to infections may have gone down. But there are whole host of new problems that face teenagers. Problems in school, sex education, bullying in schools etc are among the many issues that children need help dealing with. Their pediatrician will be someone they are familiar with and someone they trust. What they do not want to tell their families, they may find easier to tell an outsider they trust.

As you can see, a pediatrician’s role in a child’s life doesn’t stop at infancy. They need to be a part of the child’s life for a long time. The pediatrician will know the history of your child, from all the illnesses they have had, to all the issues they have had to deal with. It is important therefore to make a pediatric check up a regular routine in your child’s life. If you do that, illnesses and other problems can be detected early on and help given.

Make time for the pediatrician!

Reference: 

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/prenatal/decisions-to-make/pages/Finding-a-Pediatrician.aspx

Control your Type 2 Diabetes

What is Type 2 Diabetes? 

Most of us know what diabetes is. But did you know that there were different types of diabetes? Type 2 diabetes is a kind of diabetes that strikes a person after a certain age. It is also called non insulin dependent diabetes, as usually it can be controlled by a healthy lifestyle. But with childhood obesity on the increase, there have been an increasing occurrence of this kind of diabetes in people who are younger. Type 2 diabetes has been found to be linked to obesity.

What causes Type 2 diabetes? 

When a person gets affected by Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas starts producing insufficient amounts of insulin. Insulin is the hormone that controls the blood glucose levels in an individual. The body also builds up something called insulin resistance. It is a Catch 22 situation as insulin resistance increases obesity as the body does not use its sugar sufficiently to produce energy. On the other hand, the body becomes sluggish and it is difficult for a person to lose weight.

What are symptoms of Type 2 diabetes? 

This kind of diabetes causes a number of symptoms that can include some or all of the following.

·         The person is excessively thirsty

·         Urine output becomes more

·         Fatigue

·         Skin ailments

·         Scratchiness

·         Allergies

Preventing Type 2 diabetes 

As ever, prevention is better than cure. You can prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes by following a few simple tips.

·         Make sure that you exercise regularly

·         Make sure that you eat healthy food

·         Eat at regular times

·         Prevent substance abuse

·         Lead a healthy lifestyle

Sometimes Type 2 diabetes is hereditary, and even with following a healthy lifestyle a person can succumb to this illness.

Controlling your diabetes 

The most important part of diabetes control is controlling your sugar levels. This may mean dietary and lifestyle changes. Your doctor and nutritionist will be able to help you figure this out. They may also ask you to have some kind of exercise plan to help.  

For some sufferers of Type 2 diabetes, treatment with dietary changes and tablets is not entirely effective for diabetes management, and they may then need insulin injections.

Help for people who suffer from diabetes 

In earlier days, people had to visit the doctor often to keep track of their diabetes. But these days there are a number of ways in which you can check your own diabetes. There are devices available that allow a person to check their own sugar levels every day. There are applications that will help you keep track of the food that you are eating, and the exercise that you are doing.

But of course no app can take the place of a regular visit to the doctor. These apps are to help you manage your everyday lifestyle. You should record your routine carefully and take it along with you when you see a doctor. The doctor will be able to tell you what you are doing right and what you are doing wrong. A regular visit to a nutritionist is also important as they will make sure that you are having a balanced diet, and not missing out on important nutrients while trying to manage your weight and your diabetes. Counseling is also a good idea when dealing with diabetes, as this can be a frustrating journey. Dealing with diabetes on an everyday basis is not easy and getting counseled will help. Your family should also accompany you for the counseling as they will be part of your support group.

With a little care and effort, you should be able to cope with diabetes effectively.

Reference:

http://www.diabeticcareservices.com/diabetes-education/symptoms-of-diabetes

Ways to Stay Motivated

1. Surround yourself with positive people that support the healthy lifestyle changes that you are making.

2. Write down what you eat in your Keeping Track Book, in a notepad, or in a phone application that helps you keep track. Examples of popular ones are: “MyFitnessPal,” “Lose It!,” and “FatSecret.” Research shows that people who track what they eat are more successful at losing weight.

3. Cook twice as much for dinner so you have lunch for tomorrow or dinner for another day.

4. Cut fruits and vegetables the night before to have them ready for you to enjoy when you are looking for a snack.

5. It’s okay to have a slip up.  It’s best to learn from it, talk back to negative thoughts and to try again.  Don’t let a slip up make you say “I messed up so the whole day is ruined; I can eat whatever I want now.”  Keep trying and be patient because  Lifestyle changes take time.

6. If you’re going Out for Dinner Check the menu ahead of time and go in with a plan – or – share an entrée with someone and order an individual garden salad on the side.

7. When serving yourself at home, a work potluck or family party - Start by serving half of your plate with a garden salad or green non-starchy vegetables.  Secondly, serve your plate with lean protein.  Lastly, fill in the rest of your plate with small portions of other sides.  Do not deprive yourself; just have less/smaller portions of high fat, high sugary, high processed foods.

8. Practice mindful eating.  Eat slowly, chew slowly, put your fork down once and awhile, enjoy every bite.  People are used to eating so fast.  When people gulp down their food they can eat very fast and not feel full.  As you practice mindful eating regularly, you realize that you don’t need as much food. 

9. Learn to manage stress.  Stress is the perception that we do not have power.  In fact, you do have power.  The power is in how your respond to stress.  Step back, take a deep breath, ask yourself, “Am I really in danger?”  Then, evaluate ways to problem solve and ways to relax (ie. Going for a walk, going to the gym, reading a novel).

10. Always stay active!  This is 1 of the keys to weight loss, maintaining weight loss and in living a healthy, long life.  Park far at the grocery store, walk on your lunch breaks, watch less TV or be active while you watch TV, take your family on a walk after dinner, set-up a regular gym time with a friend, and most importantly have fun! Every step counts.  Every step you take is a step towards bettering your health, wellness and in disease prevention.

By Monica Mireles, Diabetes Prevention Program Supervisor, IHC CWO Department