HEALTH TIP FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH

Parish Health Ministry

Go Red for Women

Ladies, did you know that taking care of your heart may be more important than you realize. Cardiovascular disease, specifically coronary artery disease and heart attack, is the leading cause of death in women. More American women die each year from heart disease than all forms of cancer combined. In fact women are 4-6 times more likely to die from heart disease than breast cancer.

Although this is a widely recognized fact there still exists a misconception that coronary artery disease is reserved for men. There are significant differences in how heart disease presents in women compared to men. Women usually develop symptoms about 10 years later than men due to the change that occur after menopause. Women also present with different symptoms. Women may not experience the severe chest pain or pressure; instead they are more likely to experience symptoms like shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, and fatigue.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of heart disease.

Risk factors for coronary artery disease include high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, smoking, family history, diabetes, and a sedentary life style. Knowing your risk factors and taking the necessary steps to reduce them can help prevent heart disease. The American Heart Association has launched a nationwide movement called “Go Red For Women”. The purpose of this program is to build awareness and educate women on how to reduce their risks and protect their heart.

HEALTH TIP FOR APRIL

Child Safety Seat Safety 

The Ohio child restraint law requires that any child who is 4 years of age and/or weighs less than 40 pounds must use a child safety restraint that meets federal motor vehicle standards. The Ohio child restraint law states that an infant (birth to 20lbs) needs to be in an Infant or convertible safety seat rear facing. A child weighing 20-40lbs. regardless of age needs to be in a convertible safety seat or booster seat. A child over 40lbs. and under age 4 should be in a shield or belt positioning booster seat. Children who are over the manufacturer's height requirement for a booster seat but are either or both under 4 years and under 40 pounds should be in a safety seat. The fine for not having a child in a safety seat ranges from $80.00 to $110.00

HEALTH TIP FOR MAY

Asthma and Allergies

Living in sinus valley, Cincinnati, few of us are immune to the effects of the allergens on our respiratory system. Asthma is defined as the blocking or narrowing of the breathing passageways that cause wheezing and difficulty inhaling/exhaling a breath. The causes are either allergic response or unknown. Allergies are an immune response to substances that trigger many irritating symptoms such as runny nose, coughing, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, skin irritation, head ache, and scratchy throat to name just a few. It is possible to be allergic to any substance, including foods, medications, latex, as well as traditional indoor items such as dust, cat/dog hair, perfume, and cigarette smoke. Outdoor triggers include pollen, mold, trees and grass. Allergies and asthma may go hand in hand, known as “allergic asthma”. This is a full respiratory response to an allergen where the airways become inflamed and narrow. Wheezing and difficulty breathing occur. To deal with these symptoms, a visit to the doctor is warranted to investigate diagnosis, causes, and treatment options. In addition, avoidance of known triggers may help alleviate some of the symptoms. Ways to help your fellow parishioners with allergies or asthma would include avoiding wearing heavy perfume in enclosed spaces and lighting up cigarettes well away from the entrance to church.