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 Keep These Things in Mind

Studies show that the human brain can store virtually limitless amounts of information and memories. Your brain is powerful, and keeping your mind sharp is important to retain its strength and capacity long-term. When it comes to memory care, you’ve probably heard the terms Dementia and Alzheimers mentioned before. But, do you know what they really mean? 

Dementia is a broad term for a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, behavior and emotion. It isn’t a specific disease. It is an outcome of several different diseases and conditions. People who experience dementia gradually lose cognitive functioning over time, interfering with their everyday life. 

More than 55 million people have dementia worldwide, with a new case arising every three seconds. It’s important to notice signs and symptoms as early as possible, including: 

• Memory loss, typically noticed by a loved one
• Hard time communicating or finding words; repeating questions
• Getting lost while driving
• Lessened reasoning or problem-solving skills
• Can’t handle complex tasks, planning or organizing
• Lessened coordination and weaker motor functions
• Confusion and disorientation
• Personality changes

If you suspect a loved one has dementia, speak with a licensed physician immediately. They can perform cognitive and neurological tests, brain scans, psychiatric evaluations, genetic tests and blood tests to provide an official diagnosis.

Alzheimer’s Disease occurs when patients have plaques and tangles—i.e., clumps of different proteins—in their brains that damage healthy neurons and the fibers connecting them. While it is the most common cause of dementia, it is not a synonym for dementia. Not all causes are known, but experts believe that the disease is at least partially genetic. With that said, current research does indicate that there may be much more to the condition than genetic factors, including environmental stressors. Scientists are continuing to study Alzheimer’s Disease with the hope that new treatments can be explored in the near future.  

How to Protect Your Mind

Memory loss is generally caused by damage to or loss of nerve cells and their connections in the brain due to the deposit of certain proteins. While it isn’t curable, there are action steps you can take now to minimize its effects if it happens to you. Practice healthy habits that boost your brain health and limit the production of those certain proteins, such as: 

• Get enough sleep
• Exercise
• Eat healthy food
• Avoid smoking
• Learn new hobbies to stay mentally alert

We host an ongoing Dementia Family Support Group on the second Wednesday of every month. If you have questions or want to attend, call Shelia Roedler, LMSW, at (254) 404-2531.

Coryell Health understands how important it is to keep your loved ones safe and cared for in the face of memory loss. Our enclosed memory care wing at RehabLiving at the Meadows, including structured programs for residents, has proven to be comforting to those dealing with the confusion and frustration that often accompanies dementia. Visit this page to learn more.

Acne is the most common skin condition people experience. In fact, The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 80% of people ages 11 to 30 years old have it in some form. In honor of Acne Positivity Day coming up on September 1, Coryell Health is here to equip you with the basic information and tools you need when you or your children deal with acne. 

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles are blocked by oil and dead skin cells. It can cause whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples, most commonly on the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders. Depending on its severity, it can scar the skin. While it most often affects teenagers, people of all ages can deal with acne in some form. 

Several factors contribute to acne. Some of the most common include: 

• Genetics—depending on your family history, you may be more prone to oily skin and, thus, acne
• Hormones—one category of hormones that are known to cause acne, androgens, peaks during teenage years; additionally, women around their menstrual cycle can be more susceptible 
• Diet—foods affect every person differently, be sure to always listen to your body and pay attention to its reactions to certain foods
• Stress—managing your stress is essential because it will show physically, sometimes in the form of acne, which could cause even more stress
• Age—primarily affects teenagers and young adults, but it can affect anyone
• External Factors—with back-to-school season and fall sports ramping up, certain clothing and headgear may cause flare-ups

Consistently take good care of your skin. When using over-the-counter medicines and creams, look for benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid as ingredients. Additionally, pay a visit to your primary care doctor. They can offer advice on the best course of action and potentially prescribe products to treat your acne. If necessary, and only under extreme circumstances, they will refer you to a specialist. Always remember that while you should make sure to take care of your skin and treat acne as directed by your doctor, certain factors can make it impossible to get rid of it entirely. If you’re listening to your doctor, you’re doing the best you can for your skin.

Schedule a visit with one of Coryell’s family medicine practitioners by calling (245) 865-2166.

Heat Stroke Awareness Month at Coryell Health

What to do if I or someone nearby is experiencing heat stroke? 

• Seek immediate help by calling 911 and give first aid until paramedics arrive
• In the meantime, try to cool down
• Move into the shade or indoors
• Remove excess clothing
• Fan air over the patient while wetting their skin with water
• Use cold water, ice packs, fans, or wet towels on the head and neck area to relieve symptoms

Your health and safety are important to Coryell. If you have more questions about heat stroke or other health concerns, call (254) 865-8251 to schedule an appointment with one of our trusted physicians.

Your Best Defense Against Disease

• For infants and children
• For daycare facilities
• For students grades K-12
• For college entry
• For international travel

Do vaccines make you sick?

No, they do not. While some people can experience mild side effects (i.e., soreness at the injection site or low-grade fever), those should not be confused for sickness. The WHO notes that serious side effects from vaccination rarely occur – most adverse effects are rare enough that they can’t be directly tied to immunization.

Do vaccines contain toxic ingredients? 

Standard vaccinations are not toxic. While some vaccines contain ingredients that aren’t naturally found in your body, they’re only there in trace amounts. The usual dosage of any vaccine approved by the CDC is not considered toxic. 

Listen, we get it. Shots aren’t fun for anyone. But, they’re worth it in the long run for the health and safety of you and your loved ones. Make sure you stay on track with your and your child’s wellness visits. Your healthcare provider will let you know if you need a specific vaccine and be able to answer any further questions or concerns you may have. Schedule a wellness visit with one of our family medicine practitioners by calling (245) 865-2166.

The Pros and Cons of America’s Favorite Drug

How much caffeine do you consume in a day?

Studies show that 85% of the U.S. population consumes at least one caffeinated beverage per day. With that in mind, it’s no wonder that caffeine carries the nickname of “America’s most popular drug.” 

Caffeine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant naturally occurring in some foods. It blocks your adenosine receptors, making your body feel more awake and alert. That’s why more than 50% of U.S. adults consume at least 300 mg of caffeine per day. For context, the FDA recommends no more than 400 mg per day, the typical content of 2-3 cups of coffee. Regardless of your vice, whether coffee, tea or soda, there are pros and cons to your favorite caffeinated drink. 

Let’s start with the pros. Caffeine can: 

• Increase wakefulness and cognitive function
• Alleviate fatigue
• Improve concentration, focus and alertness 
• Positively affect your memory
• Increase weight loss in moderation

We know that sometimes, you just need a quick and easy boost of energy to get you through the day. There’s nothing wrong with a caffeinated drink every so often, but it’s important to be aware of caffeine’s full range of effects – not just the pros. Here are some potential concerns:

• Jitteryness
• Negative impacts on pregnancy and fertility
• Glucose control
• Worsening symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Mixing alcohol with energy drinks increases impairedness 
• Caffeine is not a sufficient replacement for sleep
• The sneaky addition of caffeine to foods, especially those targeted at children
• Caffeine powder could be fatal

There are plenty of myths about caffeine, and Coryell Health has heard them all. Have you been told that caffeine is addictive? That’s not exactly true. While caffeine consumption can create dependence in adults, the side effects and potential withdrawals don’t compare to addictive substances like drugs and alcohol. What about caffeine being a diuretic? Thankfully, that’s not true either – there’s no evidence to suggest that caffeine will increase your risk of dehydration. Have you heard that caffeine can sober you up? We don’t recommend trying this because caffeine will not reduce blood or breath alcohol content. 

Are you trying to cut back on your caffeine intake? Don’t do it cold turkey. Try incorporating different beverages like lemon water, chai tea, or kombucha for a few days. In addition, fuel your body well with healthy meals and snacks for some natural energy. Take a walk for exercise, connect with nature, and stay hydrated – never let your water intake suffer. 

At Coryell Health, we want to make sure you are the healthiest version of yourself, mind and body. If you have any concerns about the amount of caffeine you have to consume to function properly, talk to your primary care physician today.

Tips to Ensure Your Perfect Pedicure

Sinking into a pedicure chair may be the ultimate act of pampering, but pay attention to a few key details if you really want well-groomed feet. 

Treat Yourself To Safe Pedicures

Itching to get a pedicure before your ocean-side vacation? We know you want to treat yourself to a pedicure at your favorite salon, but you may be treating yourself to more than just a colorful set of nails. Infections, fungus, and ingrown toenails are common byproducts of pedicures at salons that rush to “sanitize” tools before their next client. Know what to avoid next time you go to prevent experiencing health issues after your favorite self-care ritual.

Pick A Salon With High Standards

Check them out. In preparation, we recommend you check your salon’s ratings and make sure the facility is licensed to sterilize used products. You can also check with your salon and see if they allow you to bring your own tools to your appointment if you wish.

Look. Check for general cleanliness around your salon. Are the floors swept and free of dust and debris? Are the counters spotless, with used tools kept separate from clean ones? Are cleaning supplies visible and close to technicians? Are salon bathrooms neat, free of trash and sanitized regularly? If the answer to these questions is no, chances are product and tool sanitization aren’t happening either. If that’s the case, it might be time to pick a new salon. 

Shape up. Don’t let the pedicurist snip or file your nails more than a tiny bit down the sidewall – cutting too much can cause ingrown nails. Technicians usually ask if you want your nails to be round or straight, and podiatrists recommend cutting nails to the shape of the nail to mirror the cuticle’s natural curve.

Make Sure the Fabulous Foot Bath Isn’t a Germ Pool 

Footbaths tend to be a bacteria-prone piece of equipment, meaning fungal infections can be introduced through small cuts and scrapes on your legs. This concern becomes even more heightened if you have diabetes. We know that a relaxing footbath is a significant part of the pedicure experience, so make sure that your salon replaces the footbath liners for each new customer. 

Don’t shave beforehand. A vital tip many people forget is that you should never shave your legs 24 hours before receiving a pedicure. Newly shaved legs can have tiny nicks or cuts scattered about that aren’t visible, leaving you susceptible to infections, bacteria and viruses. Your best solution is to wait and shave your legs after your appointment. Since your technician should be wearing gloves, those prickly hairs won’t be a bother.

Soften calluses carefully. Calluses and corns are hardened skin that can crack and hurt if they get too thick. During a pedicure, don’t let the salon technician use a razor on your feet, as razors increase infection risk. 

Voice Your Concerns

There’s a straightforward way to verify your salon’s cleaning methods: ask. If you have doubts about how tools are handled, the team’s training, licensing or general salon upkeep, there’s no harm in asking the store manager or your nail technician for more details. Listen closely to their answer and make sure these cleanliness tips are mentioned: 

• Tools sanitized between each use with autoclave, steam, or sterilizers 
• Footbaths are thoroughly cleaned with hot and soapy water after each use, NOT at the end of the day, and sterilized with a cleaner immediately after washing, with a new liner used for every client
• Employees wash hands with soap and water after handling each customer, as well as perform hand hygiene before using new gloves and after removing them

Cover Your Bases

Use a clear base coat first. But, if your discolored nails are also thick, brittle or curled, you may have a fungal infection. Skip the polish and head over to your doctor’s office instead. 

Extra Tip: Bring along flip-flops to wear home, so you don’t have to stuff your feet into shoes. Remember, never walk around a salon barefoot. 

With the tips mentioned above, you can continue to enjoy your salon pedicures safely and proudly display healthy feet and toenails all summer long! 

How Coryell Can Help

If you have any concerns about your foot health, our new podiatrist, Dr. Rebecca Bari, DPM, would be happy to see you. Call us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment at (254) 865-2166.

Please note our Quick Care Walk-In Clinic Saturday summer hours. The clinic will close on Saturday’s at 3 pm until the first weekend in September.