Category Archives: Family Wellness

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How To Spot A Stroke F.A.S.T.

Young Female Patient Talking To Male Nurse In Emergency RoomWhen it comes to a medical emergency, acting quickly can be the difference between life and death, but fast takes a whole new meaning with strokes.

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is cut off. There are two different types of strokes. The first is ischemic. An ischemic stroke is when blood supply is cut off by a blood clot. This is the more common of the type types.

The second type is a hemorrhagic stroke. These are less common, but more dangerous and often lead to death. In a hemorrhagic stroke, an aneurysm bursts causing a blood vessel to leak.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke is key to prevention and getting help for yourself or your loved one. Today, we’re going to discuss how acting F.A.S.T. can save a life!

F – Facial drooping
One side of their face may be drooping, whether it be their eye lids or their smile, their face might seem off. Ask them to smile, does their mouth seem crooked?

A – Arm weakness
This isn’t the typical weakness after an intense lifting session, people who are having a stroke can barely life one or both arms. They may also be experiencing tingling and numbness in one or both arms.

S – Slurred speech
You may be having a hard time understanding the person. Their speech my be slurred, slow or jumbled. Or they may be unable to talk at all.

T – Time
You must act quickly! If you notice any of these signs in yourself or your loved one, even if they disappear, call 911! Also, check the clock. This way you know exactly when the symptoms began. Time is important in strokes.

If caught early enough, 80% of strokes can be prevented. Use F.A.S.T. to spot these signs and symptoms and act quickly.

For more information on women’s health and women’s heart health check out the Women’s Mind Body Wellness Summit. It includes 6 interviews with top female health professionals as well as two workout videos and three bonus videos on mind-body wellness from MyHealthSpin Founder Lori-Ann Rickard!

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4 Tips to Make Your Child’s Dentist Visit Easier

Lovely kid in dental chair with dentist satisfied after repairiMost people, including adults, hate going to the dentist. All of the drilling noises and metal instruments scraping teeth makes people uncomfortable. But going to the dentist is vital for your overall health, especially for kids, who may not be that great at taking care of their teeth.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. It’s important to start kids visiting the dentist at a young age for the health of their teeth and because it helps them get comfortable with going. Here are a few tips to make those dentist visits easier.

1. Explain to them what is going to happen.
Talk to them about why we go to the dentist, what happens when we don’t go to the dentist and what will happen while they are there. Explain that there might be some scary noises, so they aren’t startled.

2. Choose a dentist that has good reviews for working with kids.
There is nothing worse than going to a pediatrician who is bad with kids. The same goes for your dentist. Your child will not feel comfortable with a grouchy, mean dentist. A nice, caring, smiling dentist will help them feel more comfortable. Before scheduling an appointment, check online for dentists with the best reviews for working with children. Also, ask your friends for recommendations. They may have insight regarding who is good or who is not.

3. Let them bring their favorite toy.
Having their favorite toy or stuffed animal there with them will make them feel more secure.

4. Make it a family affair.
Try and schedule at least two of your appointments at the same time. Let them watch your appointment first to see exactly what the dentist does. Kids always do better when mom or dad does something first.

To learn more about women’s health check out the Women’s Mind Body Wellness Summit. It contains 6 interviews by top female health professionals plus two workout videos and 3 bonus videos on mind-body wellness with MyHealthSpin Founder Lori-Ann Rickard.

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5 Heart Smart Valentine’s Day Treats

bigstock--165260225This Valentine’s Day, skip the candy and pick up some heart healthy treats instead. You may be surprised to hear that many of the foods associated with Valentine’s Day are actually superfoods. So indulge a little this February 14th!

Strawberries
They’re an excellent source of antioxidants and vitamin C, as well as essential vitamins and nutrients.

Red wine
The tannins in red wine, contain procyanidins which can help prevent strokes and heart attacks. You can even drink red wine every day to reap these benefits, just limit it to one glass a day.

Pomegranate
Pomegranate and pomegranate seeds support mitochondria. Mitochondria are the powerhouse of cells and are what gives them energy.

Dark chocolate
One of the compounds found in dark chocolate helps to expand blood vessels. So, eating dark chocolate can improve blood flow and, therefore, lower blood pressure.

Goji berries
These funny looking berries fight inflammation and boost your immunity.

So head to the store and pick up some of these healthy treats before date night!

 

To learn more about women’s health check out the Women’s Mind Body Wellness Summit. It contains 6 interviews by top female health professionals plus two workout videos and 3 bonus videos on mind-body wellness with MyHealthSpin Founder Lori-Ann Rickard.