For the April 2023 blog recap, learn about a diverse range of health and wellness topics. Discover more about physical therapy and speech language pathology, two fields that are focused on helping people regain or improve their ability to move and communicate. We talk about mold allergies and sunscreen, two topics relevant to protecting yourself from environmental hazards.
Also learn about heat stroke and why staying healthy during hot weather is important. Then explore robotic surgery's cutting-edge technology and how it helps surgeons be accurate during complex procedures, such as orthopedic surgery.
Differences Between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy
Both physical therapists and occupational therapists are skilled healthcare professionals who have the same mission as all health professionals: to help people improve their health and maximize their quality of life – in this case by recovering from illnesses and/or injuries, and reducing the impact of disabilities.
What Does a Speech Language Pathologist Do?
A speech-language pathologist, also known as SLPs, are rehabilitation professionals who specialize in communications and swallowing. SLPs work with a multitude of individuals, ranging in age from newborns to those over 100. Speech-language pathologists work in collaboration with a rehabilitation team that can include physical therapists, occupational therapists, audiologists, and psychologists.
Do You Have Mold Allergies?
Molds are a kind of fungus, and like all funguses, they release thousands of spores to reproduce. Spores are tiny and very light. That means they can float in the air and be stirred up by things like vacuuming, mowing the lawn, or the wind. When the spores get into the eyes, nose and respiratory tract of people with allergies, the body mistakes them for dangerous invaders and the immune system attacks them, causing symptoms.
Why Sunscreen Should be A Part of Your Morning Routine
Sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin at any age. If used regularly, sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. SPF, which stands for “sun protection factor,” describes the sunscreen’s ability to protect the skin against a certain portion of the UV light, UVB. UVB rays can cause sunburn and skin cancer.
Stroke: Why You Need to think B.E. F.A.S.T
Stroke is a condition that can affect the arteries leading to and within the brain. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is blocked (ischemic stroke) or ruptures (hemorrhagic stroke). If this occurs, brain cells “downstream” from the blockage will soon start to die by the millions – up to 2 million per minute.
Volunteer Appreciation Week
At St. Mary’s, volunteers are a vital part of our teams in all three hospitals, our hospice program, St. Mary’s Auxiliary Thrift Store, and beyond. Our volunteers support all St. Mary’s patients, staff, and visitors by giving their time, expertise, and compassion. These individuals selflessly help others in need, and their contributions are immeasurable.
5 Ways to Avoid a Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion
Extreme heat can be described as summertime temperatures that are hotter or more humid than usual. A humid or muggy environment can make individuals feel hotter than it actually is. Extreme heat can lead to several heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. These conditions occur when the body is not able to properly cool itself.
The 5 Best Foods to Help Regulate Your Blood Sugar Levels
Individuals with prediabetes or diabetes need to eat a healthy, balanced diet that will help regulate their blood sugar levels within the body to avoid adverse health effects. There are other factors such as weight, activity, stress, and family history that play a role in blood sugar management, but following a balanced diet is necessary for blood sugar regulation.
The Advantages of Robotic Surgery
Over the past couple of years, surgical robots have helped transform the way physicians operate on patients. Robotic surgery helps surgeons be accurate during complex procedures, such as orthopedic urgery, but only requires incisions as small as a dime – even for major procedures.
Are You Washing Your Hands Properly?
Washing your hands can be your first line of defense against illness. Your hands touch everything: your food, your computer, and public spaces. The germs from anything you touch can be transferred to your body from your hands and cause you to become sick. Follow these instructions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to make sure that your hands stay clean and prevent illness.