HEALTH COVERAGE TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

MEDICAID & THE CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM (CHIP)  

offer free or low-cost health coverage to children and families.

• If you are eligible for health coverage from your employer, but are unable to afford the premiums, some States have premium assistance programs that can help pay for coverage.  These States use funds from their Medicaid or CHIP programs to help people who are eligible for employer-sponsored health coverage, but need assistance in paying their health premiums. 

• If you or your dependents are already enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP, and you live in a state offering assistance (Florida), you can contact the Children's Health Insurance Plan or your State Medicaid office to find out if premium assistance is available. 

• If you or your dependents are NOT currently enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP, and you think you or any of your dependents might be eligible for either of these programs, you can contact any of the groups listed here to find out how to apply.  If you qualify, you can ask the State if it has a program that might help you pay the premiums for an employer-sponsored plan:
  


• Contact the State Medicaid Office


• Contact the Children's Health Insurance Plan


• Contact INSURE KIDS NOW by calling 1-877-Kids-Now (1-877-543-7669)

• Once it is determined that you or your dependents are eligible for premium assistance under Medicaid or CHIP, your employer’s health plan is required to permit you and your dependents to enroll in the plan – as long as you and your dependents are eligible, but not already enrolled in the employer’s plan.  This is called a “special enrollment” and you must request coverage within 60 days of being determined eligible for premium assistance. 


• As a Florida resident, you may be eligible for assistance paying your employer health plan premiums. 

 To learn more, call for further information at 1-866-762-2237, or click here to go online to the FLORIDA MEDICAID website.

                    

List of Iron Rich Foods

We all need some iron in our diets. Some people need to eat more iron rich foods than others. Read on to see a list of foods that are high in iron. Our bodies need this essential mineral to avoid certain deficiencies. It is a necessary part of all of our cells and plays an important role in maintaining good health. One of the important things that this mineral does includes helping our muscles to properly store and utilize oxygen. It is also instrumental in maintaining proper hemoglobin levels in our blood, so that our body is properly oxygenated.

A person can become iron deficient when they do not get enough iron in their diets. This common condition can lead to anemia, and can impair the function of certain body functions. Some of the symptoms and signs of iron deficiency can include:

• tired, weak and feeling fatigued
• decreased immune function
• glossitis, which is an inflamed tongue
• decreased performance

It is important to have one's blood checked for this deficiency, especially within high risk groups such as pregnant women and young children. If this is a concern, your healthcare provider can administer the proper blood tests to determine your blood iron levels and screen for anemia. Follow the healthcare provider's instructions on gaining and maintaining proper iron and hemoglobin levels in the body for proper development, growth and body function.

List of Iron Rich Foods

When humans eat foods that contain iron, it is absorbed into the body. A diet of foods that are rich in iron is important for many people. The following list is not a complete list, but is representative of the types of foods that contain this essential mineral. Including foods with vitamin-C can increase the absorption rate.

• Beef
• Liver
• Chicken
• Chicken liver
• Clams
• Oysters
• Shrimp
• Tuna
• Salmon
• Turkey
• Ham
• Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and collards
• Dried Apricots
• Baked potato
• Peanuts, pistachios, almonds, sunflower seeds
• Prunes, raisins, figs
• Broccoli
• Wheat germ
• Beans, lentils, lima beans, tofu
• Breakfast cereals enriched and fortified with iron
• Prune Juice

Video: Healthy Food Choices for Iron  



Resources:
• Iron rich foods - www.webmd.com/diet/iron-rich-foods    
• Nutrition basics for everyone - iron and deficiency: www.cdc.gov/nutrition/everyone/basics/vitamins/iron.html.
• ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/iron/

Stay Safe during a Lightning Storm

"IF THUNDER ROARS, GO INDOORS"

Since thunder and lightning storms happen frequently during the summer months, FEMA offers these tips on how to avoid injury during a lightning storm:

• Avoid contact with corded phones.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.  Unplug electronic equipment well before the storm arrives because power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing and bathroom fixtures because they can conduct electricity: do not wash hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes or do laundry.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
• Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls.
• If you're caught outside during a storm, stay away from tall trees. Avoid open fields, beaches, and boats on the water. If possible, seek shelter in a thick growth of small trees or in a low lying area.  Also avoid anything metal such as golf clubs/carts, tractors, bicycles, etc. Seek shelter in a car if possible, but avoid touching any of its metal parts. 

      Because lightning is unpredictable and can strike 10 miles outside of  any rainfall the risk to individuals and property is increased.   If you feel you hair standing on end (which indicates lightning is about to strike) squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact it the ground. DO NOT lie flat on the ground.

      Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately.  The following are things you should check when you attempt to give aid to a victim of lightning:

• Breathing - if breathing has stopped, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
  
• Heartbeat - if the heart has stopped, administer CPR.
  
• Pulse - if the victim has a pulse and is breathing, look for other possible injuries. Check for burns where the lightning entered and left the body. Also be alert for nervous system damage, broken bones, and loss of hearing and eyesight.

Your chances of being struck by lightning are estimated to be 1 in 600,000, 

but could be reduced even further by following these safety precautions.

Information provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

New Generic Drugs in 2011-2012

Generic drugs can save you money. What are considered generic drugs? According to the FDA:

"A generic drug is identical--or bioequivalent--to a brand name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics and intended use. Although generic drugs are chemically identical to their branded counterparts, they are typically sold at substantial discounts from the branded price."

Below are two lists* for drugs which are soon to become "generic" for the years 2011 and 2012.

2011

Brand Name----Generic Name----Availibility

Uroxatral------------------------- alfuzosin------------------------July
Zyprexa---------------------------olanzapine----------------------October
Lipitor-----------------------------atorvastatin--------------------November
Caduet----------------------------amlodipine----------------------November
Tazorac----------------------------tazarotene cream---------------November

2012

Brand Name----Generic Name----Availibility

Lexapro---------------------------escitalopram--------------------February
Entocort EC-----------------------budesonide----------------------February
Avandia---------------------------rosiglitazone--------------------March
Avandaryl-------------------------glimepiride---------------------March
Avandamet-----------------------metformin-----------------------March
Boniva----------------------------ibandronate---------------------March
Seroquel--------------------------quetiapine-----------------------March
Avapro----------------------------irbesartan----------------------March
Avalide---------------------------hydrochlorothiazide-------------March
Provigil---------------------------modafinil------------------------April
Plavix-----------------------------clopidogrel----------------------May
Viramune-------------------------nevirapine-----------------------May
Lescol-----------------------------fluvastatin----------------------June
Tricor-----------------------------fenofibrate----------------------July
Clarinex--------------------------desloratadine--------------------July
Singulair--------------------------montelukast---------------------August
Actos-----------------------------pioglitazone----------------------August
Exforge---------------------------amlodipine-valsartan------------September
Diovan----------------------------valsartan------------------------September
Diovan HCT----------------------hydrochlorothiazide--------------September
Geodon---------------------------ziprasidone----------------------September
Combivir-------------------------lamivudine-zidovudine-----------November
Atacand--------------------------candesartan---------------------December
Maxalt---------------------------rizatriptan-----------------------December

*these lists are provided by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, a nonprofit Independent Licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association.

Facts and Myths about Generic Drugs

Fact: 7 in 10 prescriptions in the United States are filled by generic drugs.

Myth: Brand name drugs are safer than generic drugs. Fact: FDA receives very few reports of adverse events about specific generic drugs. Most reports of adverse events are related to side effects of the drug ingredient itself.

To learn more facts and myths concerning generic drugs, please visit the FDA site.

Back-To-School Student Health Fair August 6th

Morton Plant North Bay Hospital is hosting a Back-to-School Health Fair for all Pasco County school students in grades Pre-K through12:

Saturday, August 6th, 2011

Morton Plant North Bay Hospital

Medical Arts Building

6633 Forest Avenue, New Port Richey, FL

To register, call 727-940-2804. Click here for maps and directions.

The following programs will be offered free of charge:

• School/Sports Physicals
• Cardiac Screenings: EKG & ECHO (high school student athletes only)
• General Health Information
• Fingerprinting provided by the Pasco County Sheriff's Office

All students under the age of 18 must have a signed permission slip or have a parent or guardian present with them on

the day of the event to participate. Permission slips will be provided upon registration.  All students ages 18 and older must bring photo identification.

In addition, the following services will also be provided by the Pasco County Health Department free of charge.  All students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to receive these services:

• Dental Screenings and Education
• School Immunizations - please bring immunization records

MORTON PLANT MEASE

BAYCARE HEALTH SYSTEMS

Florida Kid Care - Income Eligibility 2011

Are you eligible for Florida Kidcare, Medicaid, or Healthy Kids? In order to make that determination, you first need to know where your family income falls in the poverty guidelines. See the new 2011 Federal Poverty Guidelines below:

The 2011 Poverty Guidelines for the 48 Contiguous States and the District of Columbia

Persons in family	Poverty guideline
1	$10,890
2	$14,710
3	$18,530
4	$22,350
5	$26,170
6	$29,990
7	$33,810
8	$37,630
For families with more than 8 persons, add $3,740 for each additional person.

To read more information about the Federal 2011 Poverty guildlines, click HERE. Also, if you need to view the income amounts at the varying percentages over 100% of poverty level, please click HERE. The next step is to look at the Florida KidCare Eligibility chart. Below is a brief summary:

• Children ages 0 through one, up to 200% of the federal poverty level, are covered under Medicaid (Title XIX and Title XXI funded)

• Children ages one through five, up to 133% of the federal poverty level, are covered under Medicaid (Title XIX funded)

• Children ages one through five, at 134% to 200% of the federal poverty level, are covered under MediKids (Title XXI funded)

• Children ages one through five, above 200% of the federal poverty level, are covered under MediKids full pay

• Children ages 5 through 18, up to 100% of the federal poverty level, are covered under Medicaid (Title XIX funded)

• Children ages 5 through 18, at 101% to 200% of the federal poverty level, are covered under Healthy Kids (Title XXI funded)

• Children ages 5 through 18, above 200% of the federal poverty level, are covered under Healthy Kids full pay

To learn more or apply for Florida KidCare, please click HERE to visit their web site.

Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP)

Affordable Healthcare Insurance

The Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan makes health insurance available to people who have had a problem getting insurance due to a pre-existing condition.

The Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan:

• Covers a broad range of health benefits, including primary and specialty care, hospital care, and prescription drugs.
• Does not charge you a higher premium just because of your medical condition.
• Does not base eligibility on income.

To be eligible for the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan:

• You must be a citizen or national of the United States or reside in the U.S. legally.
• You must have been without health coverage for at least the last six months. Please note that if you currently have insurance coverage that doesn’t cover your medical condition or are enrolled in a state high risk pool, you are not eligible for the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan.
• You must have a pre-existing condition or have been denied coverage because of your health condition.

Florida PCIP offers a choice of plan options to fit your needs (different levels of premiums, calendar year deductibles, prescription deductibles and prescription copays) at more affordable premiums.


Follow these links for more PCIP FAQs and information on the Affordable Care Act.

New Dietary Guidelines to Replace the Food Pyramid

LET'S EAT FOR THE HEALTH OF IT!

Your food and activity choices each day affect  your health -- how you feel today, tomorrow and in the future.  The tips below are a good starting point toward a change for a healthy diet and a healthier you: 

• Make at least half you grains whole grains
• Vary your veggies
• Focus on fruit
• Get your calcium rich foods
• Go lean with protein 
• Find your balance between food and physical activity 
• Keep food safe to eat

 More in-depth information can be found by following each topic link above and by visiting the Ten Tips Nutrition Education Series.  Sample menus are available to show how all the recommendations for each food group and nutrient intake can be integrated into a weekly menu.  You can also find tips for eating out and key information on vegetarian diets, and more.

Improving what you eat and being active will help you to reduce your risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, some cancers and obesity. 

For additional resources check out:

• www.DietaryGuidelines.gov
• www.Health.gov/paguidelines
• www.HealthFinder.gov

 Information supplied by the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion

30th Commemoration of HIV/AIDS

National HIV Testing Day (NHTD): June 27

 

Thirty years ago this June, an article reporting the first known cases of what we now call AIDS was published in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). Since then, extraordinary progress has been made in treating and preventing HIV, and annual new infections have fallen by more than two-thirds since the height of the epidemic.

Despite this progress, HIV remains a crisis in our country. Over the last three decades, prevention efforts have helped reduce new infections and treatment advances have allowed people with HIV to live longer, healthier lives. But as these improvements have taken place, our nation's collective sense of crisis has waned. Far too many Americans underestimate their risk of infection or believe HIV is no longer a serious health threat, but they must understand that HIV remains an incurable infection. Today, the most infections are among people under 30—a new generation that has never known a time without effective HIV treatments and who may not fully understand the significant health threat HIV poses. The reality remains that about 50,000 new infections occur each year in the U.S. and, today, more than one million people are living with HIV in our nation. Reducing HIV rates in the U.S. is not only possible – it’s imperative – and new advances in HIV prevention hold promise in changing the course of this epidemic.

How can I find out more about HIV and AIDS?

You can call CDC-INFO at 1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636); TTY access 1-888-232-6348. CDC-INFO is staffed with people trained to answer your questions about HIV and AIDS in a prompt and confidential manner in English or Spanish, 24 hours per day. Staff at CDC-INFO can offer you a wide variety of written materials and put you in touch with organizations in your area that deal with HIV and AIDS.

On the Internet, you can get information on HIV and AIDS from www.AIDS.gov or www.cdc.gov/hiv

Find a testing site near you

------------
Sources:
http://www.cdc.gov
http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/resources/brochures/at-risk.htm
http://www.actagainstaids.org

New Sunscreen Labels to Help you Get the Best Protection

Beginning next summer the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is changing sunscreen labels to make it easier for you to pick a product that offers the protection level you want.  The labels will clearly tell whether a sunscreen protects against sunburn, skin cancer and signs of premature skin aging; and whether it is a broad spectrum product.

Broad spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher will protect against all three.  Anything less than 15 SPF will only protect against sunburn and soon will be labeled with a warning that reads "Skin cancer/skin aging alert: Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging.  This product has been shown only to help prevent sunburn, not skin cancer or early skin aging".  Future labels will also include information on how much time a user can expect to get the declared SPF level of protection while swimming or sweating. 

Spending time in the sun increases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging.  To reduce this risk, consumers should regularly use sun protection measures including:

• Use sunscreens with broad spectrum SPF values of 15 or higher regularly and as directed.
• Limit time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense.
• Wear clothing to cover skin exposed to the sun; for example, long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses, and broad-brimmed hats.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, more often if you’re sweating or jumping in and out of the water.

Follow this link for more information on sunscreen, basic information on skin cancer and skin safety.

Food with Antioxidants

Learn more about the foods that are high in antioxidants. By now you have probably heard the saying, 'you are what you eat'. Well that may be more true than many people realize. Those that are concerned about a healthy immune system, may want more information on which foods are rich with natural antioxidants to help support and maintain a healthier immune system.

Depending upon which experts you read about, or listen to, you may get a variety of opinions on the importance of eating foods that are high in antioxidants, or superfoods, to give your body a fighting chance to ward off infections, colds and sickness. Studies have shown a diet rich with superfoods and other fruit and vegetable choices can help reduce the risk of certain types of disease and sickness. Many health experts say that eating balanced meals along with plenty of vegetables and fruits can help to keep you well. While the lists of foods are not complete, it is a good starting point in understanding which fruits and vegetables contain immune system building nutrients. See your healthcare provider for complete information on these health concerns.

What are Foods with Antioxidants

These are foods, fruits and vegetables that are believed to help protect, build up and increase your immune system and to help neutralize certain free radicals in the body. The three major helpful vitamins or vitamin E, vitamin C and beta-carotene. You can typically find these in various amounts, in fruits and vegetables.

• Sources of Beta Carotene include mangos, carrots, spinach, green vegetables, apricots and kale.

• Sources of Vitamin E include whole grains, soybeans, olive oil, sweet potatoes, beans, leafy green vegetables, nuts, oatmeal, split peas and brown rice.

• Sources of Vitamin C include broccoli, tomatoes, citrus fruits, guava, pineapple, spinach, mangos, papaya, cantaloupe, brussel sprouts and asparagus.

Video: Antioxidant Content of Specific Foods  




This video is narrated by a doctor, who outlines a list of the top 12 foods that are high in antioxidant power. You can watch and listen as he talks about the content of each of the top foods.


Resources:
• www.webmd.com/food-recipes/news/20040617/antioxidants-found-unexpected-foods  
• my.clevelandclinic.org/heart/prevention/nutrition/antioxidants.aspx  
• en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_antioxidants_in_food

Improve the Air Quality this Summer

The Air Quality Index is a tool used to express the local air quality on a daily basis to help you determine if there are any health risks.  The AQI is expressed on a scale from 0 to 500 with the higher scores indicating greater levels of air pollution and health concerns.  There are six color coded AQI categories that range from "good" to "hazardous".  Follow this link to check the air quality in your area and obtain important information.

Some groups (children, older adults, and people with lung or heart disease) are more sensitive to poor air quality and may need to take extra precautions by avoiding prolonged periods or heavy outdoor activity. 



You can take steps to improve the air quality index this summer by:

• Refueling your car after dusk
• Limiting engine idling
• Avoiding using gas powered lawn equipment
• Conserving electricity and set your air conditioner at a higher temperature
• Combining trips or using public transportation

List of Breathing Diseases

It is just human nature that we take things for granted, such as being able to breath well. However, many people suffer from a wide range of breathing disorders and lung diseases. To help highlight and bring attention to this area of respiratory health problems, read below for a list of of lung conditions.

The lungs are organs located in our chest, that are responsible for helping us breathe. The lungs help to facilitate and process carbon dioxide and oxygen as we breathe. Without healthy lungs, life would be much more difficult. Unfortunately, many people live with lung disorders and breathing conditions and diseases everyday of their lives. Some symptoms and effects can be minor and others can be life threatening.

List of Breathing and Lung Diseases

While the following list is incomplete, it does highlight many of the major respiratory conditions that affect millions of people on a daily basis.

1. Acute Bronchitis
2. Asbestos Related Disorders
3. Asthma
4. Chronic Bronchitis
5. Chronic Cough
6. COPD - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
7. Emphysema
8. Interstitial Lung Disease
9. Lung Cancer
10. Melioidosis
11. Pleural Effusion
12. Pulmonary Embolism
13. Pneumonia
14. Sarcoidosis
15. Secondhand Smoke
16. SARS - Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
17. Sinus Infection
18. Sleep Apnea
19. Smoking
20. Tuberculosis
21. Whooping Cough

Also see:
• COPD Support Groups information  
• Spiriva coupons
• Sleep disorders common types  
• Snoring causes  

Video: Childhood Asthma  



Resources:

• www.medicinenet.com/lungs/focus.htm     

• dir.yahoo.com/health/diseases_and_conditions/respiratory_diseases/         

COPD Support Groups Information

If you suffer from COPD symptoms, or know someone who does, then a support group may be able to help the patient or caregiver with issues related to their breathing condition. Sometimes being able to share personal experiences and have an information exchange can put a person at ease and provide hope. While it is never a substitute for your doctor's assistance, it can help some people.
One of the main risks and factors to acquiring chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is smoking.

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive disease and will generally include one or more breathing conditions such as chronic asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Since this disease can get worse as time goes by, it is important to visit your doctor on a regular basis and to follow their instructions on treatment option recommendations and management.

COPD Support Groups and Resources:

While it is always best to discuss all issues and symptoms with your doctor or healthcare provider, many patients do like to seek out others that share in the same or similar breathing issues. The following will outline a few resources that some may find helpful.

• COPD Support Groups - copd.supportgroups.com: This group provides posts, discussions, inspirations  journals, support tips and videos.
• COPD International - www.copd-international.com: Many sufferers are learning how to better deal with their symptoms. You can learn more at their main chat room, webinars and message boards.  
• Support for patients and caregivers - www.copd-support.com: This resource provides various programs that are designed to help both the patient and the caregiver with answers to many common questions. Visitors also share experiences where they see fit.    

Also see:

• Spiriva coupons
• List of breathing diseases  

Video: Easy New Breathing Test for Adults and Children

Resources:

• www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Copd/Copd_WhoIsAtRisk.html       

Juice Detox Information

Does juice detox really work? There are many advocates of a natural and balanced system of cleansing the human body, and juices of various fruits have been used and touted as a way to cleanse the body of toxins. Throughout history, even way back in Egyptian times, a lot of people were in support of cleansing the body with various detox techniques. Do they help?

Juice Detox -  Does It Work?

In terms of a juice detox, various fruits have been used, such as lemon, citrus, oranges, watermelon, berries and other fresh fruits and vegetables. I guess it makes sense to eat a natural and balanced diet of fruits and vegetables in balance with other types of fresh foods to help the body maximize it's natural defense systems. See, there are organs in the body that work to naturally rid the body of unwanted toxins. So, what is detox, anyway? The best way to approach that question, really, is to see your healthcare provider for guidance on what would be best for your body's system. All to often, people will believe in shortcuts, when most of the time, it is not that simple. Some juice detox plans and systems may help people feel better, but science has not really proven that all of the juice detoxification diets do anything significant in detoxifying the body or cleansing toxins.

There are many different natural supplements that are on the market and tout their abilities to help cleanse the body. Do they work or help? No one really knows for sure. There are many touted options provided by advocates of this technique of body cleansing and detox diets may help and may not. More troubling, is that when some of these detoxfication plans are administered without a trained health professional overseeing the process, it can cause complications.

Keep in mind that no one should enter into any type of detox program without first consulting with their healthcare provider.

Also see:
• Food with antioxidants  

Resources:
• www.webmd.com/diet/features/detox-diets-juice-up-your-health

Breathe Right Nasal Strips www.BreatheRight.com Review

The official website for Breathe Right nasal strips and snore relief products is at www.breatheright.com. The nasal strips, produced by GlaxoSmithKline, are nonprescription and drug-free strips that are adhered on top of the nose. These flexible strips, when applied correctly on the nose, should help to relieve snoring, breathing and nasal congestion problems.

Breathe Right nasal strips help to open the nasal passages to help you breath better immediately and on a continuous basis. As we all know snoring and nasal problems can cause you not to have a good night's sleep. These nasal strips helps snore and nose congestion sufferers to breath better and sleep better.

On GlaxoSmithKline's product website at www.breatheright.com, you can learn all about how the nasal strip works to help you breath and sleep better. Also learn how it helps with nasal and congestion problems from colds and allergies. The manufacturer also states that it may help those persons who suffer from a deviated septum, (bend in the cartilage in the nostrils), to breath easier, sleep better and get relief from snore problems.

The breathing and nasal strip device is nonprescription and is available over the counter for use by persons over the age of five years, with sleep, snore, nose congestion and breathing problems. Some of the different products the company provides or the Breath Right Advanced, Extra, Clear, Mentholated and Original Tan. The company also provides a way for interested persons to get Breathe Right free samples, to try out the product. If you suffer from these conditions and breathing issues and would like to breath easier, sleep better or stop snoring, see their website for complete information.

Also see:
• Snoring causes  
• Sleep disorders  
• Juice detox information

Resources:
• How Breathe Right nasal strips work: www.breatheright.com/how_br_works/    
• Free sample: www.breatheright.com/freesample.promo        
• Website:  www.breatheright.com

Florida Healthy Kids www.HealthyKids.org Review

The Florida Healthy Kids program is government funded and offers health insurance options for kids and children that are age 5 through 18 years old. The official website is at www.healthykids.org. Their mission is to provide kids access to affordable quality health insurance. The program is designed for families that are not qualified or eligible for Medicaid benefits.

At www.healthykids.org, interested families can find out the all of the information to determine if the government funded program is something that will benefit their situation. The website states that most of the eligible families that are on the Florida Healthy Kids program pay on average $15 to $20 per month. Some of the health and medical items that the program covers includes the children's doctor visits, emergency care, hospital stays, immunizations, dental care and more. There are also options for families to get affordable full-pay coverage if they do not qualify for the subsidized kids health insurance coverage.

If you already have a 'My Account', there are options for you to pay online. The website page where registered users can login and sign in to review account information and to pay your bill online is at www.healthykids.org/account/.

Visit www.HealthyKids.org to get answers to your questions, to learn more about what the Florida Healthy Kids health insurance program is all about, and to get login access to your 'My Account' so you can pay online.

Also see:
• Food with antioxidants    

Sleep Disorders - Common Types

If you have problems falling and staying asleep, or you wake up each day and still feel tired and fatigued, you may have a sleeping problem. There are several types of common sleep disorders. Read this list of sleeping problems.

A sleep disorder is a type of medical condition that interferes with restful sleep. Some disorders can be simple and some can lead to other serious health conditions. A disruption to a good night's sleep can be caused by many different factors. Only your doctor or healthcare professional can determine your health condition. See your doctor for information and a complete list of these conditions.

List of Common Sleep Disorders:

• Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
• Snoring (See snoring causes)
• Sleep Apnea
• Insomnia
• Hypopnea syndrome
• Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD)
• Somniphobia
• REM behavior disorder (RBD) 'rapid eye movement'
• Parasomnias
• Narcolepsy
• Bruxism
• Sleep paralysis
• Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS)
• Nocturia
• Sleepwalking
• Cataplexy
• Night terror

Video: Some sleep disorders, of which there are about 80 different types, may cause health conditions. The National Sleep Foundation estimates that over 40 million Americans have sleep disorder issues.



This is a summary and not a complete list of the different types of sleeping problems, conditions or disorders that may exist. See your healthcare provider for a complete list of types, causes and symptoms.

Also see:
• Breathe Right nasal strips www.breatheright.com  
• Snoring causes    
• List of breathing diseases  

Resources:
• Sleep disorders: www.medicinenet.com/sleep/focus.htm    
• www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/sleepdisorders.html    

Snoring Causes

If you have ever been near someone that was snoring, then you know how annoying it can be. The causes of snoring can be varied depending upon several factors. The factors and variables that can lead to snoring include things such as structure or shape of one's mouth and jawline, the structure of the sinuses, body weight, allergies, stuffiness and alchohol use.
When someone snores near you, all you want to do is to get them to stop. As you are sleeping, the flow of air to the lungs can make certain body tissues in your airways to vibrate, which in turn causes the sound. The usual causes of this are some type of blockage in the airways. It could be an obstruction or narrowing of the airways through the mouth, nose or throat. In addition to certain tissues vibrating, the tonsils may also vibrate and cause snoring.

Research studies estimate that approximately 30% of women and 45% of men will snore regularly. Most all people will snore at some point in their lives. The unpleasant sounds can also be caused by tissues in the nasal passages that are enlarged. Blocked nasal passages can be a sign or symptom caused by upper respiratory infections. People with extreme snoring may also be suffering from sleep apnea.

The video describes some of the factors that can cause snoring symptoms.



Also see:
• Sleep disorders - list of common types
• Breathe Right nasal strips www.breatheright.com review        

Resources:
• Snoring causes: www.mayoclinic.com/health/snoring/DS00297/DSECTION=causes    
• Snoring symptoms, causes and treatment: www.medicinenet.com/snoring/article.htm

Causes of Gout

First off, what is gout? It is a painful condition that develops and caused when uric acid settles into soft tissues and/or the joints in the body. Uric acid is a waste product that when deposited into the body, are as uric acid crystals. These crystals become lodged and then can cause a condition called inflammatory arthritis. This can then cause redness, pain, stiffness in the joints and swelling.

It is estimated that over six million adults have signs and symptoms of gout at some point in their lives. Middle aged men are more at risk and more likely to develop gout than are women. Also, persons who have been through an organ transplant are more at risk.

What Causes Gout?

Hyperuricemia, (high level of uric acid in the blood), is a root cause and reason that signs and symptoms of gout may develop. There are several different contributing risk factors that can be causes of gout, also called podagra. The reasons that this arthritic and swelling condition can develop include factors such as diet, alcohol consumption, weight, genetics, gender, age, medications and other health issues.

Stages of Gout:
1. Asymptomatic hyperuricemia - elevated levels of uric acid in the blood,
2. Acute gout, gouty arthritis - the hyperuricemia causes uric acid crystal deposits in joints and leads to quick development of joint swelling and intense pain,
3. Interval or Intercritical gout - period of time between gouty arthritis attacks with no symptoms
4. Chronic tophaceous gout - worst stage of symptoms and comes about over an extended period of time. Once the condition reaches this stage, it could have caused long-term damage to joints.

This is a brief overview of the causes of this medical condition, with many other factors and concerns that can come into play. The information on this page is not a substitute for professional medical help. See your doctor or healthcare professional for complete information on this uric acid condition.

Also see:
• Uloric febuxostat gout drug review
• Juice detox information   

Resources:
• Q&A about Gout: www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Gout/default.asp
• en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gout    

How to Treat a Wasp Sting

Stings from bees and wasps are never a pleasant experience. Learn how to treat a wasp sting should you or someone in your family become bitten or stung. Quick treatment of the sting or bite area will help it from becoming more irritated. Most times you should be able to treat the affected area and keep on with your activities. If you are allergic to bee and wasp stings, call your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.


How to Treat a Wasp or Bee Sting
There are more than 25,000 different species of wasps around the world. If your activities keep you in close proximity to more bees or wasps, it may be a good idea to put on some protective clothing to minimize the risk of being stung again.

Treatment:

1. You will need to pull out the stinger if it is still lodged in to your skin.
2. Wash and clean the bite area.
3. Placing ice on the bite area may help with any swelling
4. Use peroxide and antibiotic cream to the area to minimize any infection
5. If you experience any rashes, hives, allergic reactions or breathing problems call your doctor immediately.

You may also need to contact your healthcare provider if you also feel intense pain that will not go away.

Resources:
• firstaid.webmd.com/bee-and-wasp-stings-treatment    
• Bee and wasp sting causes, symptoms and treatment    
www.medicinenet.com/bee_and_wasp_sting/article.htm    

www.HealthCare.gov - Find Insurance Options

The affordable care act is changing the way we access and benefit from health insurance policies and coverage. The site at www.Healthcare.gov is the official government website to get information out to the American public about the new health care laws. You can access the governement health care reform website and learn a great deal about upcoming changes, current changes and much more about the reform bill and package.
When you visit the website there are several different areas of information that will be helpful to families, individuals, people with disabilities, young adults, seniors, employers and small business. The website, and the affordable health care act, will empower you to take health care into your own hands.

www.Healthcare.gov Website Information

At the official government health care reform and affordable care act web site, you can review several different benefit and information areas:
• Find Insurance Options
• Learn About Prevention
• Compare Care Quality
• Understand the Health Care Law
• Information for You.

In addition, you can explore your health insurance plan coverage and pricing options. You can find out what private health insurance plans, policies, public programs and community service programs are available to you. You can pick your state, describe your situation, complete the brief questionnaire and discover what health options are available to fit your needs. The affordable care act web site also provides tools so you can compare the quality of different care providers. One of the goals of the reform act was to control costs and improve quality of care. You can compare hospital care, nursing home care, home health care and dialysis facility quality comparisons. Also you can learn and understand about the law and how it will impact you and your family.

• See: www.healthcare.gov    

You may also be interested in:

• PPARx.org prescription assistance program   

• Humana Walmart-Preferred Rx Plan PDP     

• simple savings card       

• FDA US Food and Drug Administration  

• Low Testosterone     
• Florida Healthy Kids - www.healthykids.org                  

www.SimpleSavingsCard.com - Simple Savings Card - Discount Prescription Card Review

Looking for a way to get savings off the cost of your prescriptions? If so, then a discount prescription card may help. One website that offers this type of help is www.SimpleSavingsCard.com. From their website it states that you can participate in a free program so you can get savings on your medicines, called the Simple Savings Card, that may save you up to 60% off the costs of your medications at your local pharmacy.

The discount program is there to help people who do not want to pay full price for their medications. The discounted prescription savings card may provide instant savings when your purchase your prescriptions at your local pharmacy. All consumers are eligible for the Simple Savings Card. Their website states that the average savings is 26% off, with a potential savings of up to 60% off the cost of your medication.

The free program is offered by Luscinia Health, and they make it clear that this is a discount program and not insurance. Some of the quick facts about the situation many Americans find themselves in, include that 46 million Americans have no health care coverage and even more than that number have no coverages for prescriptions. This means that many pay full price for their drugs or go without filling their prescriptions. For a lot of patients, there is a way to reduce the cost of medicines and get a discount.

You can get specific details about the program at the Luscinia Health website, but everyone can use the card and possibly benefit from the discounted program. You can not use an insurance card and their card at the same time, so it will come down to which offers the most discounts. The card can be used at over 60,000 pharmacies across the U.S.

• Website at: www.simplesavingscard.com  
• FAQ's at : www.simplesavingscard.com/faq.html

You may also be interested in:
• PPARx.org prescription assistance program  

Humana Walmart-Preferred Rx Plan PDP

Learn more about the Humana Walmart-Preferred Rx plan. You may have noticed, or maybe already participate, that Walmart has partnered with Humana and now offers a co-branded prescription rx plan to customers and members. So, beginning in 2011, the new partnership will offer a Medicare Part D (PDP) prescription drug plan to seniors on medicare.

Eligible customers can enroll and participate based upon Medicare enrollment guidelines for PDP rx plans. The co-branded PDP plan started on November 15, 2010 and coincides with the 2011 Medicare enrollment periods. You may notice the Humana kiosks located in thousands of Walmart stores. You can information there or at their official website pages such as www.walmart.com/rxplan, or at www.walmart.com/medicare on the Humana prescription drug plan. Members of the low cost Medicare drug benefit plan may be able to save money and prescription savings on their medications.

Their website states that the 2011 plan premiums are $14.80 per month, with in-store copays as low as $2 per prescription. They also provide a savings estimate that compares different national benefit programs for the 2011 year and come up an estimated average savings dollar amount of over $400 per year. You can get low cost plan information and specific details on the PDP drug plans being offered by the Humana Walmart preferred rx plan partnership. At their site, you can enter your zip code and compare the plan with other drug plans in your area.

• www.walmart.com/rxplan    
• www.walmart.com/medicare

You may also want to see:
• www.PPARx.org prescription assistance

www.PPARx.org - Prescription Assistance Program

If you need help with the cost of your prescription drugs, then an assistance program may be able to help. The site at www.PPARx.org is the official website for the Partnership for Prescription Assistance. Many patients without prescription drug coverage have a hard time affording their FDA approved medications every month. Patients who qualify may be able to get their medications for free or at a significantly reduced cost.

The Partnership of Prescription Assistance may be able to help match the eligible patient with a discount prescription medicine program to reduce the cost of their monthly drugs. They help patients find a program that is right for their needs. Their service is free of charge as they are supported by corporations, pharmaceutical companies, doctors, patient advocacy groups and other healthcare providers. Their free service helps thousands of people get free or low cost drugs and medications every month. The service's website also has other resources to help both patients and patient advocates.

The PPARx.org service can help with more than 2,500 medicines and drugs. The partnership also has access to 475 patient assistance programs. Their toll free phone number is 1-888-4PPA-NOW or 1-888-477-2669. You can contact them on their website or by phone to see if you are eligible for assistance.

• www.pparx.org  

Spiriva Coupons

Coupon savings for Spiriva is available from the manufacturer at www.spiriva.com. Spiriva Handihaler is a once daily maintenance medication to control symptoms of COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The handihaler medication works to control the patient's symptoms by relaxing the obstructed airways and helping to keep the airways open. This allows for free breathing and less COPD symptoms.

A Spiriva medication prescription can be costly for many patients, so being able to find and redeem coupons for this COPD drug can help many to better afford the cost of the handihaler device. The tiotropium bromide inhalation powder medicine and inhaler device is manufactured by Pfizer and Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals. The company's official website is www.spiriva.com. On their website they provide a lot of information about this asthma or COPD drug, as well as information about drug benefits, symptoms, symptom relief and other important facts to know about this medication. They also provide access to a printable coupon for Spiriva that will save patients up to $45 on your Spiriva prescription refills with the discount coupon. Some restrictions apply to the printable coupon discount, so read the offer for eligibility and specific details. Take the printed coupon along with your doctor's prescription to your local pharmacy to participate in the discount savings.

You can also check with your doctor or healthcare provider about the availability of exclusive manufacturer's coupon offers or pharmacy coupons, discounts and deals that may be available from time to time.

• www.spiriva.com/consumer/extras/coupon-offer.jsp

www.RapaFlo.com - RapaFlo BPH Treatment Review

Rapaflo silodosin is a BPH treatment drug that is manufactured by Watson Pharma, Inc. The official website for this medication is at www.RapaFlo.com. This prescription medication is approved to treat the signs and symptoms of BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) in men. Silodosin is the drug in Rapaflo that is used for the treatment of enlarged prostate problems.

Rapaflo, silodosin, comes as a capsule and is taken by mouth per your doctor's instructions. The medication's official website is a good place to learn more about this BPH treatment drug. You will also be able to learn more about the signs and symptoms of BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). Rapaflo may provide rapid relief from the symptoms of BPH within a matter of 3 to 4 days. The drug is available only by prescription. An enlarged prostate or BPH is a common problem in men as they age.

Rapaflo (silodosin), works to relax the prostate gland muscles as well as parts of the bladder, to help give rapid BPH symptom relief. The prostate medication can help improve comfort and urine flow in men. The silodosin drug belongs to a class of drugs that are called alpha-blockers and is designed to target the areas of the body involved with the prostate.

The drug manufacturer provides the Rapaflo promise, that states that if this medication does not meet your needs, that Watson Pharma, Inc. will reimburse the patient up to a $50 copay for the first use of other select prescription treatments that include doxazosin, tamsulosin, alfuzosin or terazosin.

See the website for more information about the treatment medication options and see your doctor for information about this medical condition and other prostate conditions that can develop in men.

• www.rapaflo.com

Uloric Febuxostat Gout Drug

If you have gout, then your doctor may have prescribed Uloric febuxostat drug to treat your symptoms. Uloric febuxostat is an FDA approved prescription medication to treat adult patients who have gout. It is used to reduce and lower blood uric acid. It is not for those people without a history of gout. The manufacturer warns that it is not to be used for the treatment of high uric acid without the patient having a history of gout. Only your doctor can prescribe this drug to treat your gout arthritis symptoms. The official website is at www.uloric.com.

Gout is a type of arthritis that can develop when a person has a history of high uric acid levels in the blood. This arthritic condition can be quite painful for some patients. Since this arthritic disease or medical condition is caused by higher than normal blood uric acid levels in the body, what is desired is a medical treatment that is designed to lower or reduce blood uric acid levels.

Uloric Febuxostat Gout Drug Information  

The medication is manufactured by Teijin Pharma Limited and Takeda Pharmaceuticals America, Inc. The company's website is at www.uloric.com.

Febuxostat is the generic name of the drug in Uloric, and is used to treat high blood uric acid concentrations in patients who have gout. The medicine is included in the drug class called xanthine oxidase inhibitors. The medicine may come as a tablet in either 40 mg or 80 mg strengths, or as determined by your physician. Uloric febuxostat may help to control your symptoms but does not cure them. Patients should take the medicine exactly as prescribed. Your doctor may prescribe various drugs or prescription medications in your treatment plan. It is important that you fully discuss all potential reactions, side effects, dosage and concerns you may have about the disease and gout arthritis condition and the treatment drugs before taking any medications.

Also see:
• Causes of gout  

Resources:
• The official drug website is at www.uloric.com.    
• www.rxlist.com/uloric-drug.htm

Boniva Side Effects

It is important to remember that all drugs may cause certain reactions. Boniva can also cause side effects in some patients. Boniva, or ibandronate sodium, is manufactured by Roche Therapeutics Inc and Genentech. It is approved by the FDA as a once-monthly oral treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis symptoms in women. The one tablet per month treatment must be prescribed by your doctor.

It has been estimated that as many as 44 million Americans that are over the age of 50 years old are affected with or at risk of developing osteoporosis. Once-monthly Boniva may help to keep people from developing this bone disease and condition, and also may help with the symptoms of those who have postmenapausal osteoporosis. Basically, osteoporosis is a bone disease that can cause a person's bones to become weak and brittle. It can also be the cause of low bone mass. The bone disease can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.

Boniva  Side Effects:

All drugs and medications have the potential to cause interactions, but does not mean that all people will develop any side effects. While not a complete list, some of the common side effects of this once-monthly table tablet medication can cause include the following list of adverse effects.

Common reactions:
• headache
• heartburn
• pain in the arms and legs
• diarrhea
• tiredness
• dizziness
• nausea
• muscle aches

Some potential severe Boniva side effects:
• severe allergic reactions
• facial swelling
• eye pain
• chest tightness
• severe bone pain
• severe stomach pain

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these or other severe side effects. Discuss all risks, concerns and potential reactions with your physician before taking Boniva.

Review this bone disease and concerns with your doctor.

Prescription Savings and Coupon Offer:
• www.MyBoniva.com Free Boniva Offer Review  

Resources:
• www.boniva.com/about_boniva/side_effects.aspx    
• www.drugs.com/boniva_150.html    
• www.medicinenet.com/ibandronate/article.htm  

www.MyBoniva.com - Free Boniva Offer

If you are looking for help with your Boniva prescription, you can visit www.MyBoniva.com and become a member of the MyBoniva program. Members receive a one free month supply. Members also receive periodic newsletters with tips to help their postmenopausal osteoporosis treatment support. They also receive monthly reminders and exclusive promotional discounts and special coupon offers through out the year.

Boniva is a prescription medication treatment used to treat women with postmenopausal osteoporosis symptoms. This drug is manufactured by Genentech, which is a member of the Roche Group. This osteoporosis drug may be prescribed by your doctor to help prevent or to treat current symptoms. The drug helps to improve and increase a woman's bone mass density over time, with the goal to reduce the risk or chances of a bone fracture or spinal fracture. At their official medication website, you can also read and learn more about the symptoms that the drug treats and any side effects that it may cause in women. Discuss all of these issues, potential side effects and concerns with your doctor before taking the medication or treatment.

The program was developed to help support women and their concerns with this once-monthly treatment medication. You can join the program at www.myboniva.com. The one month free Boniva trial offer will help many people to better afford the medication. Another way to help some people save money at their local pharmacy is with a free prescription savings card. While the discount pharmacy cards may not work for everyone, a lot of patients will be able to save cash on their prescriptions with pharmacy coupons. When signing up for Genentech's osteoporosis medication program, keep in mind there may be certain restrictions and eligibility requirements, so read about the program. More information is also available at their medical condition and medication website at www.Boniva.com.

• Boniva Side Effects       

Medicare Paid Millions for Viagra and Erectile Dysfunction Drugs

Medicare has been paying for many men's Viagra and erectile dysfunction drugs. While the prescription drug benefit in Medicare pays for many different drugs and medications, it does not pay for all medicines that may be prescribed by a doctor. Apparently, since 2007, ED drugs were not covered under the Part D prescription plans, unless they were prescribed for certain medical conditions. In many cases, Medicare incorrectly paid for millions of dollars for Viagra and other ED erectile dysfunction drugs.
Medicare Paid for Viagra and ED Drugs Incorrectly

Per the news reports, apparently prescriptions have been paid under the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan system that should not have been paid for. The overpayments or incorrect payments is estimated at over $3 million dollars.

Resources:
Medicare Incorrectly paid for Viagra and other Erectile Dysfunction Drugs
• blogs.wsj.com/health/2011/03/15/medicare-incorrectly-paid-for-viagra-and-other-erectile-dysfunction-drugs/      
• thehill.com/blogs/healthwatch/medicare/149245-report-medicare-paid-31-million-for-viagra-ed-drugs

Fear of Radiation Leads to Potassium Iodide Shortage in the U.S.

Due to the earthquake and tsunami devastation at the nuclear power plant in Japan, there is growing fear that the radiation leaks will manifest itself in the U.S. These fears have led to a shortage of potassium iodide in parts of the United States. Potassium Iodide may be able to help shield and protect the thyroid gland from radiation poisoning.

Potassium Iodide Shortage and Radiation Fears    

The U.S. government is saying that is there is no need to stockpile and take the potassium iodide to protect against radiation poisoning. The news reports go on to say that with the radiation leaks thus far, that there is very little chance of it reaching the U.S., and if it did the dilution factor would make it not a serious issue.

It has also been reported that the atomic radiation plumes do not pose any serious threats to the Western U.S. coastline and cities.

Read more:
• www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/healthday/650917.html  
• www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-03-17/japanese-atomic-plume-will-pose-no-serious-threat-to-u-s-coast.html