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Lifestyle and Wellness

Home Safety 101: Must-Know Tips for Summer

As the summer heat intensifies, it’s crucial to ensure your home and family are safe.

Outdoor activities increase, pool days are frequent, and the air conditioning system is pumping as hard as it can to keep your home cool. Summertime opens the door to dangerous situations, and it’s important to be aware of them.

Keep Cool at Home

While there are no definitive statistics on how many air conditioning systems break each summer, industry experts have concluded that months with peak heat temperatures see the most AC unit breakdowns; they are overworked and overstressed, trying to keep spaces cool. Ensuring your air conditioner is in good condition and maintaining it regularly by cleaning or replacing filters can help improve its efficiency and keep your home cool. If you don’t have an air conditioner, you can use fans or open windows during cooler parts of the day.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a common issue during the summer. According to the National Health Institution, 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. Imagine the increase in dehydration when adding in the summer heat.

Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid beverages that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol and caffeine. Foods like watermelon, cucumber, celery, lettuce, and cantaloupe can also provide a boost of hydration due to the high levels of water in them.

Fighting Fire

The risk of fires increases in the summer months because of the high temperatures and dry weather conditions. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), grilling causes 10,600 home fires each year, and between 2017 and 2021, most incidents occurred in the peak summer months of May, June, July, and August.

When using a grill, make sure to keep it at least 10 feet away from your home and anything flammable. Never leave it unattended, and make sure to keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby in case of an emergency. When not in use, keep gasoline and propane in well-ventilated areas and away from your home.

Poolside Safety

Pool use, especially by children, increases in the summer months. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children aged 1 to 4. It’s important to always supervise children to prevent an accident from happening. Utilize barriers such as fences, self-latching and self-locking gates, and pool covers to prevent unsupervised access to the pool. If an accident does occur, knowing how to do CPR could save a life. Consider taking a CPR course to learn how to do it, and always keep a first aid kit nearby. Find a local CPR class at www.redcross.org.

Safety First, Summer Second

By taking these home safety measures, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of the summer heat. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer.

According to SafeHome.org, between June and August 2023, nearly 200,000 children suffered injuries
from summertime activities and items such as pools, grills, camping equipment, and fishing poles.

Beat the Heat: Understanding Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion

It’s a known fact that in most places, the summer months bring an intense wave of heat with them.

According to the Weather Channel, more than 2,300 deaths were connected to heat in 2023 in the United States, the highest number ever recorded.

While they are different, heat stroke and heat exhaustion are directly linked to high temperatures. Understanding the differences and dangers between the two can help keep you safe and prepared in case of an emergency.

What Is Heat Exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much water and salt due to excessive sweating, typically caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures and heavy physical exertion.

 

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:
  • Heavy sweating
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Muscle cramps
  • Headache
  • Pale, cool, and clammy skin
  • Fast, weak pulse

If you are in a situation where you or someone else is experiencing heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place, drink water or a sports drink, and rest. Seek medical help if symptoms don’t subside or worsen as heat exhaustion can progress into heat stroke.

What Is Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when the body fails to cool itself or regulate its temperature, causing the temperature to rise to dangerous levels, usually above 104°F. Heat stroke, like heat exhaustion, can occur during or after strenuous physical activity in the heat or when the body is exposed to high temperatures for a long time.

 

Symptoms of Heat Stroke:
  • High body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C)
  • Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
  • Rapid, strong pulse
  • Confusion or altered mental state
  • Slurred speech
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness

Call 911 immediately if you think someone is experiencing a heat stroke. While waiting for medical help, move the person to a cooler place, use a cool cloth or a cool bath to lower body temperature, remove excess clothing, and give them water only if they are conscious and able to swallow.

Key Differences

  • Severity: Heat exhaustion is less severe and can often be treated with rest and hydration.
    Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
  • Symptoms: Heat exhaustion includes heavy sweating and a fast, weak pulse, while heat stroke
    involves a high body temperature, hot and dry skin, and a rapid, strong pulse.

 

Prevention Is the Best Protection

There are several things you can do to prevent heat stroke and heat exhaustion, especially in the summer months when it’s significantly hotter outside.

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you aren’t thirsty, especially if you’re outside or exercising. Avoid things that can dehydrate you like alcohol and caffeine.
  2. Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
  3. Get Acclimated, Take Breaks: If you’re working or exercising outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or a cool place, especially if you aren’t used to the heat.
  4. Avoid Peak Heat: Try to limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  5. Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sunburn, which can affect your body’s ability to cool itself.

Stay Informed and Keep Cool

According to research conducted by the World Economic Forum (WEF), heatwaves are predicted to claim 1.6 million lives by 2050. Understanding the differences between heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be the difference between life and death. Knowing when to act and what to do is important to keep you and those around you safe.

According to the CDC’s Heat & Health Tracker, hot weather is linked to an increase
in heat-related illnesses
, including cardiovascular and respiratory complications,
renal failure, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney stones, among others.

Climate Change, Local Impact: What It Means for Your Health

Climate change isn’t just a distant, environmental concern — it’s impacting our health and wellness every day at a local level.

The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2050, the climate crisis could result
in an additional 14.5 million deaths, $12.5 trillion in economic losses, and
$1.1 trillion in extra costs to healthcare systems.

What Is Climate Change?

Climate change refers to significant changes in weather patterns over a long period of time. Increasing temperatures and more frequent, dangerous weather events such as flooding, droughts, heat waves, and severe storms can all be tied to climate change. Although climate change has occurred naturally for centuries, human activities — especially the burning of fossil fuels — have significantly accelerated its effects.

Health Risks on the Rise

Air Pollution:

Climate change negatively affects the quality of the air due to the presence of particulate matter and ozone gas. According to the American Lung Association’s “State of the Air” 2024 report, 131.2 million people in the U.S. live in areas with failing grades for ozone and particle pollution.

  • Particulate Matter: Tiny particles of dust, dirt, soot, and smoke in the air that can irritate the lungs and cause a variety of respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis, among other lung diseases and health problems.
  • Ozone Gas: Ground-level ozone, which forms when fumes released from cars, power plants, and industrial facilities chemically react to sunlight, can harm our health. Unlike the protective ozone layer in the upper atmosphere, ground-level ozone can cause chest pains, coughing, and throat irritation and can worsen respiratory issues.

Food and Water Quality:

Climate change brings higher temperatures and more extreme weather events like floods and droughts. Higher temperatures speed up bacteria growth, while floods and droughts disrupt the balance of pathogens in water.

  • Water Quality: Increased precipitation causes harmful pollutants like sediments, pathogens, and pesticides to seep into our water supply. Drought only worsens the situation as higher temperatures increase evaporation, and access to safe water decreases even more. According to the United Nations, less than 1% of the water on Earth is usable and available freshwater.
  • Foodborne Illnesses: Changes in our environment affect the presence of pathogens, like bacteria and viruses, in our food. Warmer air and water temperatures provide an ideal environment for pathogens to thrive, increasing the risk of infections from bacteria such as Salmonella, E. Coli, and Campylobacter. According to the World Health Organization, unsafe food is responsible for 600 million cases of foodborne diseases and 420,000 deaths each year.

To avoid these risks, get your water from a filtered source, wash produce thoroughly before consuming it, and cook all meats to the right temperature.

Mental Health:

The mental health effects of climate change are just as important as the physical ones. Floods, wildfires, hurricanes, and other severe weather events can cause trauma and anxiety. According to the American Psychological Association, survivors of California’s 2018 Camp Fire — one of the most destructive fires in the state’s history — experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at rates comparable to war veterans. Lower-income communities are particularly vulnerable, as natural disasters could significantly limit access to food, water, and shelter. Living in an unpredictable climate impacts everyone, especially those who are at higher risk of being affected. It’s important to seek help and support if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

How to Help

There’s a variety of things you can do in your community to combat climate change.

  1. Stay Informed: It’s important to track air quality and weather reports so you can take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
  2. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Reducing car travel by carpooling and using rideshare platforms, recycling, and using energy-efficient appliances are just some of the ways you can help make a difference.
  3. Get Involved: Trash clean-ups, tree planting, and utilizing community gardens are all great ways to make a positive impact locally.
  4. Spread the Word: Educating your family, friends, colleagues, and community on how climate change directly impacts our health can help us to make informed decisions on how to change small things that make big impacts.

The Future Needs Us

Climate change is a global phenomenon that affects us all. By understanding what it is and how it affects us daily, we can inform others and make more conscious decisions to help the environment and our health.

According to an APA survey conducted in 2020, 56% of U.S. adults
said climate change is the most important issue facing the world today.

The Dangers of Having Too Much Estrogen

Estrogen is a sex hormone and is usually found in higher concentration in women than in men. It helps maintain sexual and reproductive health and fluctuates throughout puberty, ovulation, pregnancy, and menopause.

Having a balanced amount of estrogen is needed for the body as it regulates not only reproductive organs but also the skeletal, cardiovascular, and central nervous system. However, too much or even too little can cause serious health problems that may require the attention of a health professional.

What Causes High Levels of Estrogen?

There are many factors that can contribute to high estrogen levels. However, there are non-natural factors that can increase the levels of estrogen in any stage.

  • Medications – Birth control pills and other oral contraceptives can increase estrogen levels.
  • Fat tissue – Body fat secretes estrogen, and the more weight added, the higher the estrogen dominance.
  • Stress – When the body is stressed, it produces cortisol. High amounts of cortisol reduce the progesterone hormone, making estrogen work overtime.
  • Alcohol – Too much alcohol prohibits the breakdown of estrogen, leading it to increase.
  • Processed foods – Red meats, sugar, refined grains, and other types of processed ingredients all increase estrogen levels if consumed often.
  • Chemicals that mimic estrogen – Also known as synthetic xenoestrogens, are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that affects hormone function. They are found in many everyday items like plastics, personal skincare products, pesticides, and preservatives. These chemicals affect estrogen metabolism and increase it.

The Health Risk of Estrogen Dominance

There are many health risks associated with high estrogen levels. Some of the most common ones include breast and ovarian cancer, non-tumorous fibroids, endometriosis, infertility, and premenstrual syndrome. Although estrogen doesn’t cause these health conditions, it can amplify the risk or worsen symptoms.

Having a balanced amount of estrogen is needed for the body as it regulates not only reproductive organs but also the skeletal, cardiovascular, and central nervous system.

How Can I Reduce Estrogen?

It’s best to receive testing from a health professional to get an accurate analysis of the levels of estrogen that are present in your body. But there are lifestyle changes and practices you can adopt to keep your estrogen levels balanced.

  • Decrease body fat – Exercising and changing your diet can help decrease body fat and decrease the levels of estrogen in the body.
  • Eat healthy – Limiting processed foods and eating more of a high fiber planet-based diet can decrease estrogen. A study found that women who switched to a high fiber, plant-based mediterranean diet experienced a 40% decrease in estrogen compared to women who did not.
  • Reduce stress – Reducing stress will help keep estrogen levels balanced. Try yoga, journaling, going for a walk, or a new hobby to reduce stress.
  • Limit alcohol – Limiting or removing the intake of alcohol will allow your body to remove excess estrogen.
  • Avoid xenoestrogens – Avoiding synthetic xenoestrogens is nearly impossible, especially in the United States. However, you can limit your exposure by replacing plastic containers with glass, using organic skincare, and cleaning products, and choosing all-natural organic foods that do not contain pesticides or other harmful preservatives.

Estrogen plays an important role by regulating a woman’s reproductive years before, during, and after. Keeping this hormone well-balanced is crucial for the best quality of life.

Ways to Overcome Weight Gain

There are countless weight loss drugs, exercise programs, books, and methodologies that many have tried but still can’t seem to shed the pounds they want.

Some have given up and gone back to bad eating habits, regaining the few pounds they’ve lost. If you are struggling to lose weight, you’re not alone. About 45% of people globally reported trying to lose weight. Losing weight is about a change in mindset along with the food and physical activities incorporated daily. A lack of change in mindset can lead to regaining weight overtime despite the change in diet and exercise.

Common Mistakes When Trying to Lose Weight

When starting out on a new weight loss journey, there are many common mistakes that can be made and can stall progress or be a setback. Some of those mistakes are:

  • Eating too many or few calories – It’s best to consume less calories than you burn, but eating less than 1,200 calories a day may cause overeating as hunger sets in.
  • Shopping for processed diet foods – Diet foods that are advertised on television and seen in grocery stores contain hidden additives that could increase weight gain or cause excessive hunger. Eating single-ingredient whole foods is ideal.
  • Not eating enough fiber – Intaking enough fiber helps with digestion and will leave you feeling full longer.
  • Eating when not hungry – Eating when not hungry or snacking throughout the day slows the metabolism and can lead to increase in calorie intake.
  • Having unrealistic expectations – Trying to lose 10 pounds a week is unrealistic and will lead you feeling defeated if not met. Aim for realistic goals, like shedding 1 to 2 pounds a week.

About 45% of people globally reported trying to lose weight.

How to Build Resilience

As mentioned before, losing weight is about a change in mindset. Having a positive and determined mindset can help you achieve weight loss goals along with emotional resilience that will assist in tackling stress, setbacks, and challenges. Here are some strategies you can use to foster a strong mindset about your weight loss goals:

  • Set a goal – Set a realistic, measurable goal that aligns with a long-term vision. Break the goal into manageable tactics that will make it easier to meet.
  • Journal your actions – Writing down your diet plan and exercise routines can help you stay on track. Including your thoughts and emotions will allow you to be self-aware of your strategies.
  • Learn from setbacks – Reflecting on what went wrong or what isn’t working will help mitigate discouragement and increase resilience.
  • Incorporate positive affirmations – Another way to block discouragement is by motivating yourself through positive self-talk and thinking.

Losing weight isn’t easy and usually requires a lot of patience and endurance. However, once you build resilience through a strong mindset and avoid common mistakes, the results will begin to show and will be long-lasting.

Sodium’s Role in Hydration

Most people know that too much sodium is not good for your health and could cause high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Due to this, some people have opted out of taking in sodium in their diet. However, sodium isn’t all bad. Sodium is a metal that is usually referred to as salt. What most Americans consume is sodium chloride, also known as dietary salt, to add flavor to foods. Our bodies need sodium to function properly and keep us hydrated, but too much can be a health hazard.

How Does Sodium Hydrate the Body?

Sodium helps with cellular hydration by maintaining a balance of fluids in cells. Since the cells are being transported throughout the body, sodium helps them stay alive and maneuver. The body also holds water when sodium is present, which keeps the body hydrated and prevents frequent urination and water consumption. The human body requires about 500 milligrams of sodium a day to assist with its vital functions.

How Much Sodium Is Safe?

According to the CDC, most Americans consume more than 3,400 milligrams of sodium per day. The recommended amount is 2,300 milligrams. Food packages in most grocery stores and menu options at restaurants contain high levels of sodium that many overlook. The consequences of consuming too much sodium can lead to not only dehydration but also an overworking of blood vessels that can lead to numerous types of heart diseases and complications.

When there is a low amount of sodium in the body, dehydration can also set in. This can be caused by diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and certain medications. When this type of dehydration sets in, you will not experience thirst but sluggishness and confusion. Without increasing the appropriate amount of sodium needed, the results can lead to coma or death.

According to the FDA, the recommended daily value for sodium is less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) per day.

Here are some ways you can receive a well-balanced sodium intake and reap the benefits of hydration:

  • Read nutritional labels for every item you purchase at the grocery store.
  • Cook more meals at home to monitor the amount of sodium in each dish.
  • Create your own sauces and dressings rather than buying brand names at the store.
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables as they contain enough sodium necessary.
  • After exercising, eat an apple with plain water or a zero-sugar electrolyte powder.
  • When eating at restaurants, look for food options with the least amount of sodium.

Consuming the right amount of sodium per day paired with about 3 liters of water will keep you well hydrated and your cells functioning at their best.

Recognizing Domestic Abuse

Abuse can be difficult to spot, and often those suffering may not be able to see it, or may not want to admit it. Domestic abuse or violence refers to abuse, whether physical, sexual, or emotional, from someone in your life. Often this abuse goes unreported due to fear or wanting to protect the abuser.

Sign of domestic abuse from a partner include:

  • Verbal abuse such as insulting, demeaning, or shaming you
  • Extreme jealousy
  • Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with family or friends
  • Intimidation or threats
  • Any physical violence or destruction of belongings

If you’re worried that a friend, coworker, or family member might be in a harmful situation, your first instinct might be to intervene directly. However, that can cause more harm than good. Rather, consider these steps:

  • Ask them in a private setting if they are safe
  • Provide resources such as The National Domestic Violence Hotline*
  • Offer to drive them to a local shelter
  • Help them file for a restraining order
  • Call the police if you suspect someone is in immediate danger of being harmed

If you suspect a friend, coworker, or family member of being an abuser, hold them accountable. Help them find treatment, but let them know there are no excuses for abuse.

*A list of additional resources: 

The National Domestic Violence Hotline: Available by phone, chat, or text at any time. 

A list of local resources organized by state and territory. 

The Department of Justice Domestic Violence homepage. 

Information on Protecting Yourself and Your Children from Domestic Violence. 

Content by Lockton Dunning Benefits with info from https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/

Managing Chronic Pain Is at Your Fingertips

Unhappy mature man feeling bad, suffering from backache, hold his back and can't stand up from sofa. Middle aged male with discomfort and kidney disease sitting alone on couch at home

Chronic pain is pain that can come from any part(s) of the body that lasts for more than three months.

The pain doesn’t have to be consistent; some come and go. There are innumerable causes of pain and sometime can be hard to detect. However, there are many healthcare and lifestyle options available that can improve or make chronic pain more manageable.

Types of Chronic Pain

According to Cleveland Clinic, the most common types of chronic pain recorded are joint pain, back pain, cancer, irritable bowel disease, ulcers, endometriosis, headaches, neck, and nerve pain. The feeling associated with these pains varies from each person as pain is often subjective. If left untreated, the pain can cause other symptoms such as stress, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and irritability. Some may find that it can also affect their finances and relationships.

Healthcare Treatments

Any form of chronic pain should be reported to a doctor. However, everyone’s chronic pain is different, and finding the best treatment plan may take time. Here are some treatment options healthcare professionals may recommend helping deal with specific chronic pain:

Medications

NSAIDs – Examples of these include Naproxen sodium, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, and others. These assist in reducing inflammation and fever. Healthcare providers suggest using NSAIDs to treat certain pains such as arthritis, back pain, toothaches, and menstrual cramps. There are many types and can come in the form of prescription or non-prescription.

Acetaminophen – Examples of prescription and non-prescription brands include Tylenol, NyQuil, Endocet, and others. This is used to relieve mild to moderate pain by cooling the body. Treatment is usually recommended to manage certain pains such as back and muscle aches, fever, and toothaches.

Opioids – Examples of common prescription brands include Morphine, Hydrocodone, Methadone, and others. Opioids are usually prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. Common pain types that healthcare professionals would recommend when using opioids include post-surgical pain, cancer-related pain, and irritable bowel syndrome. However, because of its high addiction potential, it is usually prescribed less often, in low doses, and for a short period.

Therapy Treatments

Physical Therapy – Physical therapists are a great option for treating areas of weakness or stiffness that are causing pain. The reason a doctor may recommend physical therapy is to help the body become stronger and for the patient to feel better. Physical therapy treatments may offer exercise routines, heat and ice packs, and massages.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) involves treating psychological responses to pain such as negative thoughts and behaviors. The goal is to help individuals change their perspective about their pain, which may eventually lead to better coping mechanisms. Pain can cause stress, and stress can reduce the pain control chemicals, making the feeling a lot worse.

Other Forms of Treatment

Exercise – Exercise is a common form of treatment for chronic pain. Some chronic pain, such as back and arm pain, are caused by inactivity which leads to stiff muscles and less strength. Not only is exercise good for physical pain but also helps ease mental stress and disorders. Incorporating a variety of exercises like aerobic, anaerobic, and HIIT workouts will help strengthen the body to fight chronic pain.

Diet – Having a balanced healthy diet that consist of whole foods and antioxidants can help decrease inflammation and promote healing. Ultra-processed foods and seed oils found in many restaurants and groceries stores increases inflammation, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and many more health issues. Foods that are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients can assist in fighting or increasing vitamins that some might be deficient in. Doctors may recommend consulting to a dietician to create goals and food plans that can help manage chronic pain.

There are many options of treatment when dealing with chronic pain. The best approach is speaking with a doctor to help identify the source and receiving additional resources they may propose to help manage the pain.

According to Cleveland Clinic, the most common types of chronic pain recorded are joint pain, back pain, cancer, irritable bowel disease, ulcers, endometriosis, headaches, neck, and nerve pain.

Almost 21% of the U.S. population — 51.6 million adults — lives with chronic pain.

Why You May Need to Take a Break From Work

Doctor, stress and woman with depression, burnout and overworked in hospital, deadline and tired. Healthcare, medical professional and nurse crying for mistake, depressed and fatigue with anxiety

Deciding whether to take a vacation, staycation, or playcation?

It may be time for you to take a break from your job, routine, or demands of life. The feeling of being overworked is one that many ignore until they experience the symptoms of burnout. Once burnout occurs, its symptoms will begin to appear in your work.

What Is Burnout?

Burnout is the state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that causes a decrease in motivation, performance, and negative attitudes about others and self. The causes of burnout come from being too busy, not taking enough breaks (or any), and having an out of sync work-life balance.

Signs of Burnout

If you’re feeling mentally and emotionally drained, then you’re more likely experiencing exhaustion from your daily routines of life. Exhaustion often leads to having a lack of interest in your work or having negative thoughts about it. Some of the worst feelings that can happen are depression. If your symptoms of depression occur once you think about work, it may be caused by burnout. Becoming irritable and stressed out with coworkers or clients can also be linked to burnout. This could impact your relationship with others, or worse, cause you to lose out on amazing opportunities.

Physical symptoms that come from burnout include but are not limited to high blood pressure, headaches, overeating, using drugs, and lack of sleep. The easiest way to spot whether the physical symptom you’re having comes from burnout is by ceasing your work for a period to see whether your condition improves. There are times when symptoms may not immediately go away and would require the attention of a doctor or clinical therapist who can determine whether symptoms are linked to burnout.

Exhausted young man rubbing eyes in cafe with laptop.

How to Know if You’re Experiencing Burnout?

If you are curious and would like to know if the symptoms you are experiencing comes from being overworked in your daily life, here are a few questions you can answer for a quick self-assessment. Please note that this self-assessment is not to diagnose or confirm whether you are experiencing burnout. If symptoms affect your work, please consult a healthcare professional.

  • Do you drag yourself to work and have difficulties starting it?
  • Do you sense a lack of energy to do your job well?
  • Are you experiencing impatience with those you work with?
  • Do you find it hard to focus on your job?
  • Do your accomplishments at work give you little satisfaction?
  • Are you consuming food, alcohol, or any form of drug to give you contentment during your work shift?
  • Has your sleep routine changed?
  • Do you have physical issues such as migraines and digestive issues with no known cause?

Ways to Avoid or Decrease Burnout

If you are experiencing a burnout, it’s time to lessen its effect, or if you have not yet experienced a burnout, here are some ways you can avoid it altogether.

  • Taking Time Off – Going on a vacation or take a couple days of PTO to have a self-care day are great options to cope or avoid burnout.
  • Exercise Often – Adopting an exercise routine can help reduce stress and take your mind off work.
  • Seek Support – Talking to others about how you feel opens the door for care and comfort. Speak with coworkers, friends, or family members about your problems. Check if your job offers employee assistance or mental health programs.
  • Relaxing Hobby – After a long day of work, coming home to a relaxing hobby such as painting or cooking can ease the tension created by the workday.

To work efficiently at work, you must protect your health. Sometimes that means moving away from work for a brief period so that you can recharge your mind and body. Look for more ways you can mitigate or avoid burnout.

Physical symptoms that come from burnouts include but are not limited to high blood pressure, headaches, overeating, using drugs, and lack of sleep.

Check if your job offers employee assistance or mental health programs.

Key Factors to Weigh Before Donating Your Kidney

Organ donation involves surgically removing any organ from an individual, whether alive or deceased, to give as a donor to someone who critically needs it.

The most common type of organ transplant while living is the kidney. Many who opt to be a kidney donor typically do so for someone in their inner circle such as family or friends. Some may decide that they rather donate through an exchange program for any stranger who may need it. Whatever you decide your reasoning for donating your kidney, there are key factors you should consider before signing up.

Can Anyone Donate Their Kidney?

To become a kidney donor, you must be healthy as examined and determined by your doctor, be 18 years of age or older, and have two healthy kidneys. If you qualify based on the physical requirements, the next process may involve speaking with the donor evaluation team. The team consists of social workers, dieticians, surgeons, coordinators, and advocates.

Hands hold model of human kidney at white body
  • Social workers will evaluate your mental, emotional, and financial health. They may also check to see if you have community support from friends and family before and after the surgery to help with the difficulties that comes with the process.
  • Dietician will check to make sure you have a healthy eating plan and are physically active regularly for your overall well-being.
  • Surgeons will be the ones who conduct your surgery after receiving approval from your doctor.
  • Coordinators and advocates provide the steps needed to have a successful transplant journey and check to see if your decision to do so was voluntary.
Female doctor talking while explaining medical treatment with digital tablet to patient in the consultation.

The Need for Donors

According to Donate Life America, there are approximately 90,000 people in the United States waiting for kidney donation. Those who need a kidney are suffering from end-stage renal disease (ESRD), which is a terminal condition of kidneys that can no longer function. The kidney’s job is to filter out waste from the body, but those who have ESRD cannot filter out the waste and will need dialysis if they cannot obtain a transplant. Dialysis is a complex treatment that consists of using a machine that filters the blood for up to 5 hours, and patients must come to the hospital 3 times a week for treatment. Side effects such as muscle cramps, headaches, low blood pressure, and vomiting are common.

When compared to dialysis, the benefits of a kidney transplant outweigh the cost. Some of those benefits include:

  • Financial stability due to lower treatment cost
  • Fewer dietary restrictions
  • Longer life expectancy
  • Few to no hospital visits
  • Overall better quality of life

Benefits and Risks for Donors

There are several benefits and risks to consider before deciding to donate your kidney. Here are benefits and risks to consider if donating.

Benefits:

  • Satisfaction felt knowing you helped a loved one or someone in need.
  • You can live a normal life with one kidney without complications.
  • If transplant fails or complications happen after surgery, donors are first to receive a kidney.

Risks:

  • Some donors experience regret and mental health decline.
  • Complications from surgery can include but are not limited to blood clots, bacterial infections, scarring, and nerve damage.
  • Living with one kidney can also increase high blood pressure, high levels of protein in urine, and lower the filtering of your kidneys.

Kidney donors have saved the lives of thousands throughout the years. However, the choice of being a donor is not for everyone. It’s best to speak with family, friends, counselors, and mentors to ensure you have support in making the best decision.

Kidney transplants have a 95% successful rate.

According to Donate Life America, there are approximately 90,000 people in the U.S. waiting for kidney donation.