Counseling for pregnant women

Being pregnant and feeling a life grow within you is one of the most beautiful experiences to have for a woman. But, it is also a period of change and adapting, and having some help along the way is useful. There are three trimesters during a pregnancy, each bringing with it, new experiences, hormonal changes, and body changes. Going to a counselor during a pregnancy will help you and your partner understand, adapt and enjoy the joy of pregnancy.

Counseling through the first trimester 

During the first trimester there are many sudden changes to the body.

• The shape of your body changes and the loss of control over the increasing weight gain and resulting change can upset many women.
•  There are hormonal changes leading to mood swings and personality changes. There may be a tendency to be more aggressive or in others it could lead to depression.
•  The first trimester is when you may have nausea and fatigue. If you don’t understand that these changes are normal, you may get stressed.
•  As a couple, the changes to his partner may affect the way the man feels about  his partner and this in turn may add to the stress in the pregnant woman.

A counselor can advice you on the changes that you can expect during the first trimester. They can help explain behavioral changes. They can also counsel the couple and help the man understand that his partner needs his understanding and love more than ever at this time. If there is any problem at this point of the pregnancy physically to the baby or to you, the help of a counselor will be invaluable.

Counseling during the second trimester

The second trimester is usually more peaceful than the first. Your body has adapted to the changes, and for most people the nausea and fatigue disappear. In fact, they may have an increased energy level. Partners also get used to the changes and it is a time of loving and sharing the anticipation of the arrival of a baby. Some people have anxiety issues during this time. They sometimes feel they have bitten off more than they can chew. This is the time that the movements of the baby can be felt. The reality of impending parenthood can send some people into a panic.

Being in touch with your counselor can alleviate the feelings of anxiety. Talking about what upsets you or your partner could help ease tension. The less stress a pregnant woman is under, the better for the baby. The counselor would advise you to start classes to help with the birth of the baby. They will be able to advise you on the various options available for birthing, and help you choose one that is suitable for you.

Counseling during the third trimester

Quite often panic sets in during the third trimester, as the due date approaches. At this time, there are again hormonal changes in the body, as the body gets ready to have the baby. Many women get scared as the ninth month comes around about the birthing process, and the pain that they may have to go through. A counselor can be a great comfort at this time. Many counselors will have support groups where you can hear from new mothers on what to expect and all the choices that you have to ease the pain of birthing. This helps al lot in easing stress.

Counseling during and after pregnancy can help you and your partner enjoy the experience of impending parenthood and enjoy the joy that a new baby will bring to your lives.

Different types of substances abuse

There are many reasons why people start unhealthy practices like smoking, drinking alcohol and other kinds of substance abuse. Some of the reasons could be:

Peer pressure

Many young people start on this track to an unhealthy lifestyle because they want to be accepted by their peers.

Personal issues

Some start unhealthy habits to cope with personal problems. It could be loss of a job, a divorce or separation, depression over the loss of a loved one or a move that they are not happy with.

Social issues

Some turn to substance abuse when they feel ostracized by friends or family. They become reclusive and depressed and they find release and relaxation with some kind of addictive substance.

There are a whole lot of other reasons for substance abuse. It is important to find the underlying reason for the substance abuse, as only then can help be given.

The 2012 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse estimated the number of users of illicit drugs in the United States ages 12 and over to be about 24 million. In addition, the survey estimated that 6.8% of Americans abuse or are dependent on alcohol (down from 7.7% in 2002), and 22% of Americans smoke cigarettes (down from 26 percent in 2002)

Different kinds of substance abuse

To help someone, one needs to understand what the problem. There are many kinds of substances that provide a release from anxiety and depression by altering perception, concentration and attention. Some of them are:

·        Tobacco

Tobacco is one of the main health hazards. The main addictive ingredient in tobacco is nicotine. Tobacco releases a hormone that lowers anxiety. Smokers usually increase their intake of tobacco when stressed.

·        Alcohol

People think that alcohol is a stress buster and a pick me up when it actually dulls the senses. In large amounts it can cause liver, kidney and even brain damage

·        Marijuana

Many places now allow marijuana for medical purposes. But when abused, it can become a terrible habit, dulling the senses and causing impairment in concentration. Another big reason to avoid getting hooked on marijuana is that once the body gets used to the effects of marijuana, it becomes immune to it. Then users usually progress to harder and more dangerous drugs.

·       Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, ecstasy etc. are drugs that are very addictive. As your body gets used to the substance, the amount the body needs to sustain the feeling of pleasure increases. This could result in an overdose which could prove fatal.

Help for people who have substance abuse problems

A person who has a substance abuse problem needs counseling to help them overcome the addiction. They have to be ready to accept the help. Unless they want to give up their addiction, you may not be able to make them. Many come forward themselves and ask for help, when they see that what they are doing is affecting their life and the lives of their loved ones. There are many support groups that help people with different kinds of abuse problems.

Being aware of the dangers that they face due to substance abuse, and seeing the support that they get from friends and family help people overcome their problems. Counseling will usually be individual and with family. This helps the family understand the symptoms and pain that the individual is going through in their fight against their addiction. Counseling sessions help addicts to vent their feelings, and deal with the problems they face. Only then, can they overcome the addiction and make sure that they do not fall under the influence again.

Diabetes and Peripheral Neuropathy

Many people are not aware that there is any connection between diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. Sometimes, neuropathy is the first signs that you may have diabetes. In the same way if you are a diabetic you may manifest symptoms of neuropathy.

About 60% to 70% of all people with diabetes will eventually develop peripheral neuropathy, although not all suffer pain. Yet this nerve damage is not inevitable. Studies have shown that people with diabetes can reduce their risk of developing nerve damage by keeping their blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible.

Let us take a look at diabetes and peripheral neuropathy

Diabetes

When the sugar levels in your body go up over the normal parameters, you are diagnosed as a diabetic. There are different types of diabetes. There are:

• Juvenile diabetes
• Type1 diabetes
• Type 2 diabetes
• Gestational diabetes
• Adult diabetes
• Elderly diabetes

Some of these may overlap one another. For example, juvenile diabetes may disappear after the child reaches a certain age. Gestational diabetes crops up when a woman is pregnant. Adult diabetes can be Type 1 or Type 2. Elderly diabetes can also be either, but is happens as a part of aging.

Peripheral neuropathy

This could be a side effect of diabetes or a precursor to the fact that you are on your way to being a diabetic. The symptoms of neuropathy are:

1. Numbness of the extremities
2. Tingling in the extremities
3. Feeling of pins and needles
4. A prickly sensation
5. A burning sensation
6. Coldness of hands and feet
7. Buzzing
8. Sharp pinpoints of pain
9. Stabbing pains
10. Cramps

These symptoms are quite often worse at night. If you are a diabetic be on the lookout for these sensations.

      Sensitivity to touch. You will have a heightened sensitivity to touch, heat and cold

       Weakness in the muscles. You find it difficult to carry things, get up and sit down, walk, climb stairs etc.

       Problems with balancing. You may feel giddy headed and have problems with co ordination. This is caused by muscle damage.

         Fatigue. A feeling of always being tired.

If you aren’t a diabetic and you are experiencing these symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately and get our blood sugar tested to check if you have diabetes.

Get yourself checked as soon as possible

The combination of diabetes and neuropathy can be quite serious, and you should make sure that you are getting the best medical attention possible. Chronically high blood sugar levels can damage nerves. It may start in the extremities, but may soon spread to other parts of the body. Once the nerves are damages the messages between the brain and various parts of your body gets disrupted. So you will have unsteadiness, difficulty in co ordination, difficulty in talking etc, because of nerve damage.

You will also not be able to feel heat, cold, wounds, blisters etc. For example, if you get an infection or a wound, you may not feel pain because of nerve damage and when you do finally see a doctor, it may be too late as people with high blood sugar do not heal fast. This could also prove life threatening or may result in the loss of a limb.

The consequences can be life-threatening. An infection that won't heal because of poor blood flow causes risk for developing ulcers and can lead to amputation and even death.

If you have any of the above symptoms or if you are a diabetic, take your health seriously and see a doctor.

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.