More than 6% of children have asthma. The condition is manageable, but can make it hard for your little one(s) to fully participate in the joys of being a child. Thankfully, understanding signs of asthma in toddlers and older kids can help you understand how to give your child the help they need to breathe easily. With treatment, the vast majority of children with asthma are able to live full, healthy lives, unencumbered by the condition.

Here, we'll take a look at the common symptoms shown by kids who experience asthma, how asthma is diagnosed, and how you can make adjustments to your environment to help your toddlers or kids with asthma get the medication and support they need to thrive.

Common asthma symptoms in kids

It can be tough to figure out if your kids are showing symptoms of asthma. Many kids exhibit common asthma symptoms, such as coughing or wheezing, when they have a cold or other illness. While asthma symptoms can increase when a child is sick, they tend to come and go, even in times of wellness.

Asthma can present differently from person to person, and it's important to keep an eye on your child's symptoms so that you can describe information to their healthcare provider.

Common symptoms of asthma in kids include:‍

• Breathing problems, including gasping, breathing rapidly, or experiencing shortness of breath
• Poor sleep (signs may include feeling tired and irritable, or having dark circles under the eyes that don't go away)
• Coughing (tends to occur most frequently upon waking or just before going to sleep
• Chest tightness (your child may describe the feeling as itchy)
• A whistling sound when they breathe out (wheezing)
• Infants and babies may struggle to eat or suck
• Symptoms can come and go. Your child may experience symptoms more often when sleeping, which can make it harder to track how often they experience flare-ups.

While asthma is typically a controllable condition, some children (and adults) experience asthma attacks.

An asthma attack is different from the day-to-day symptoms of asthma. During a severe asthma attack, it may be hard for your child to control their symptoms with medication. Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening, and may include a variety of symptoms such as serious breathing problems, uncontrollable coughing, a very pale or blue appearance (especially in the face, lips, and fingernails). If your child has an asthma attack, it's essential that you get immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing asthma in children

It can be difficult for healthcare providers to diagnose asthma in babies, toddlers, and children. As we mentioned, many common childhood conditions--such as run-of-the-mill respiratory issues--can cause asthma-like symptoms. Before meeting with your child's healthcare provider, you may want to keep a journal of their symptoms so they have the information necessary to assess the frequency and severity of your child's breathing issues. If your child is in school, take a moment at the end of each day to ask them about their asthma symptoms.

Your child's doctor will likely use a number of measures to diagnose your child's condition. Asthma diagnosis tools can include:‍

• Physical exam
• Chest x-ray
• Discussion and review of your child's health history
• Tests that show how your child's lungs function (very young children may not be able to perform these tests)
• Blood tests or allergy skin tests if your child has had allergic reactions in the past

After your child is diagnosed with asthma, your physician will work with you to help you create your asthma action plan. Having a plan in place for the prevention, management, and treatment of asthma can help your child live an active, healthy life after their diagnosis.

Managing asthma triggers at home

Both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the development of asthma symptoms. Paying attention to the environmental factors that seem to trigger your child's asthma can help to lessen their symptoms over time.

Asthma triggers differ from person to person. Some common triggers that can exacerbate asthma symptoms include:‍

• Pest waste (such as waste from mice, rats, and cockroaches)
• Pollen
• Pets
• Dust mites
• Mold
• Secondhand smoke
• Air pollution
• Cleaning chemicals
• Scented home and body care products
• Exposure to cold air
• Physical activity

Your child's asthma triggers may change as they get older. Children with asthma who exercise regularly are likely to show an improvement in asthma symptoms and quality of life, according to recent studies. If your child is beginning to exercise for the first time, or is exercising at a new intensity level, it's important to carefully monitor symptoms and have rescue medication readily available.

Understanding asthma medications for kids

While lifestyle changes and trigger avoidance can go a long way in preventing asthma symptoms, medication is typically necessary, even if your child doesn’t have to use an acute rescue inhaler very often.

It can take some time for your child's care provider to discover what medicine, or combination of medicines, works best to alleviate their symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe your child medicines on a trial basis to see what works best for their needs. Asthma medicine can be prescribed in several forms, including pills, liquids for nebulizers, inhalers, and injections. For most kids, inhaled medications are most effective for the treatment of asthma.

It's likely that your child's provider will prescribe at least one acute rescue medication. These medications are given in the form of an inhaler or nebulizer. Albuterol is the most commonly used acute rescue medication for kids with asthma. Your child will only need to take this medication when they have symptoms. If you find that your child's acute rescue medication doesn’t work, or that they need to take it more often than prescribed to keep their symptoms at bay, it's important to seek medical attention right away.

Preventative medicines work to control your child's symptoms long-term. These medications are taken every day and can ease your child's reliance on their acute rescue medication. 

If your child shows symptoms of asthma more than two times per week, it's likely that their care provider will provide preventative medicines. These medications are typically in the form of corticosteroid inhalers, combination inhalers, or tablets that can work to keep the airways open. If these options aren't working for your child, your doctor may talk about adding an injectable medication that can work to control their symptoms.

An important note: Asthma is a nuanced, highly individual disease. While the medications described here are often prescribed for asthma symptoms in kids, it's important to work closely with your child's pediatrician to understand their unique symptom management needs. 

‍If your child has an asthma attack and their rescue medication does not relieve their symptoms, it's important to seek immediate medical attention by calling 911.

Creating an asthma action plan

It's important that you and your child have a plan of attack when their asthma symptoms appear or worsen. Talking with your pediatrician or respiratory therapist can help you decide when your child can manage their symptoms at home--and when they need to get specialized medical care.

Managing triggers is an important part of any asthma action plan. While many triggers can be avoided (such as spending time in enclosed spaces with someone who is smoking), others cannot (such as pollen and other seasonal allergens). Avoiding triggers when possible and limiting exposure time to triggers that you can't avoid can help to lessen your child's asthma symptoms.

Your child's pediatrician or respiratory therapist may ask that your child use a peak flow meter to understand the severity of their asthma from day to day. To use a peak flow meter, your child will simply forcefully breathe into a plastic tube. The meter will provide their peak flow rate, which indicates how quickly they're able to move air out of their lungs.

In many cases, preventative medication is a key factor in creating a successful asthma action plan. Not all children need preventative medication (especially those who have mild asthma), but kids with moderate to severe asthma symptoms can benefit from daily medication that works to support healthy breathing. Preventative medications are usually in the form of an inhaler or a pill.

Acute rescue medications are key for kids with asthma. It's usually recommended that your child keep their asthma medication with them whenever they're out of the house. Keeping the medication in a teacher's desk or nurse's office can work if your child isn't old enough to use their medication responsibly, but taking this route can cost your child valuable seconds in the event that their symptoms begin to flare.

Finally, it's essential that you have a plan for swift action in the event that your child's rescue medication isn't providing them with the relief they need. Your child's pediatrician or respiratory therapist may recommend that they keep a nebulizer (a machine that delivers a fine mist of asthma medication over an extended period of time) at home, which can help to relieve exacerbated symptoms. It's also important to know the signs that you need to take your child to the emergency room, or call 911.

‍Signs that your child with asthma needs immediate medical attention include:‍

• A peak flow rate in the yellow or red zone (less than 50% of their normal peak flow rate)
• You suspect the attack may be caused by an allergic reaction
• Struggles to lie down flat (more comfortable to sit down)
• Shortness of breath while resting
• Severe trouble breathing, talking, and/or crying
• Ribs pull in with each breath
• Loss of consciousness
• Change in appearance, including a bluish face or lips, or looking very ill
• Severe chest pain
• Need to use acute rescue medication more than every four hours

It's important to keep teachers and coaches in the loop. Even the most conscientious child can get caught up in a fun activity and miss the signs that their asthma is beginning to act up. Talking with your child's teacher, coaches, and other caregivers about your child's asthma warning signs can help ensure that your child gets the help they need, even when you're not around.

Promoting overall wellness in kids with asthma

Tips to help your child with asthma fully enjoy physical activity include:

‍Keep it fun. Exercise is important for kids with asthma, and many parents and kids find that asthma symptoms in kids begin to dissipate when exercise is included as a part of their normal routine. If your child has recently been diagnosed with asthma, there's a good chance they haven't had a great experience with exercise thus far. Talking with them about what type of activities they enjoy and participating with them--even if you're just playing tag in the backyard--can help boost their health and their confidence.

‍Teach your child to monitor their symptoms (in an age-appropriate way). Sudden breathing difficulty can be scary, and the feelings of panic that come with the onset of asthma symptoms can contribute to an attack. Helping your child understand how to recognize and treat their symptoms can provide them with a sense of agency over their asthma. Teaching your child to understand when they need to take their rescue medication--and when they need to ask for help--can be an important part of helping your child navigate asthma.

‍Keep their medication current. Most inhalers have a number on the back of the activator that shows how many doses are remaining in the canister. It's important to keep an eye on this number, so your child doesn't run out of medication. It may not seem like a big deal to skip a dose of preventative medication, but doing so can cause your child's symptoms to flare, triggering an attack.

Evidation: Here to help you feel your best

Just like you track your child's asthma symptoms, it's important to keep track of your own health. At Evidation, our team works to give you the suggestions and tips that you need to be your healthiest self. Download the app today to start making your health data work for you.

Obesity is a disease that affects nearly 42% of Americans, according to the CDC. If you are a person with obesity, you’re not alone. And it’s important to know this health condition affects more than just your weight. Obesity is connected to many serious health concerns, and understanding these risks and comorbidities will help you understand why prioritizing your health is so important.

Obesity as a risk factor: health risks associated with obesity

Obesity has a clear connection to several serious health conditions. That’s why doctors are so careful to recommend healthy changes if they see a patient’s weight increasing. While there may not be a direct link between obesity and specific conditions, the increased risk is clear.

Why is this? For one thing, too much extra weight takes a toll on the bones, joints, heart, brain, muscles, and additional body systems. Visceral fat, which is the fat around internal organs, can raise blood cholesterol and blood pressure levels while also increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Fatty material can build up in the arteries. Sometimes, this can lead to clogs that can prevent blood from flowing properly to the heart or brain. This fact, combined with the higher risk of high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels, increases your chances of developing more serious heart health issues.

Cardiovascular disease is just one health risk people with obesity may face. According to the CDC, other health factors include:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Gallbladder disease
• Osteoarthritis
• Sleep apnea
• Cancer
• Mental health concerns
• Body pain

This list can feel a little overwhelming, but remember, you’re not alone. If you have obesity, many others are also facing these challenges. Understanding these risk factors will help you take the best possible care of your health and wellness.

Obesity and comorbidity

While obesity is a risk factor for several serious conditions, it’s also often found along with other conditions. This is known as comorbidity. Comorbid conditions don’t necessarily cause each other, but they are found together. Interestingly, there’s some overlap between risk factors and comorbid conditions when it comes to obesity. Specifically, obesity is often comorbid with:

Diabetes

According to Harvard, Type 2 diabetes is the health condition most strongly influenced by body weight. Someone who has a BMI of 35 or higher is 93 times more likely to also have diabetes. Researchers theorize that inflammation produced by fat cells may contribute to this link, especially abdominal fat cells. Too much inflammation affects blood sugar levels, which may be why these conditions are often found together.

‍Cardiovascular disease

Several cardiovascular diseases are directly connected to obesity. For instance, Harvard also indicates excess body weight is directly associated with coronary artery disease. In one study, individuals with obesity had an 81% higher risk of developing this condition. Stroke is also connected to excess body weight. Many people who suffer cardiovascular death also have obesity.

Cancer

Cancer and obesity are also connected, but the connection isn’t as clear as the connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease because there are many different types of cancers with different causes. Some of the types of cancer connected to obesity include cancers of the:

• Digestive system
• Esophagus
• Pancreas
• Breast
• Endometrium
• Kidney
• Gallbladder

Many of these cancers have the highest connection to fat in the abdominal area rather than other areas of the body.

Reading a list like this can feel overwhelming. Yet it’s important to know these connections so you can make informed choices about your health. With some changes, you may be able to lower your risk and lessen the chance of developing a comorbid condition.

Impact on energy levels

When someone has obesity, they often have lower energy levels or overall feelings of just being tired. There are several reasons for this. First, many people with obesity struggle with their sleep, often due to sleep apnea. Also, the body has to work harder to move when it carries excess weight. Finally, excess body fat can impact the hormones connected to energy levels. 

Thankfully, if you’re dealing with lower energy levels, there are some positive steps you can make to improve. One idea is to move your body more often. Exercise may feel difficult when you’re tired, but as soon as you get moving, you’ll start feeling the impact of endorphins, which can increase your energy and boost your mood. Movement doesn’t have to be strenuous, either. A simple walk around the block can have great positive impacts on your energy.

Second, consider drinking more water. Hydration increases energy levels, and water intake requirements have a direct link to your body’s size. You may need more than you think!

Obesity and mental health

Poor energy and other health conditions can all impact your mental health. You may be a victim of body-shaming as well as over half of all adults experience stigma related to their weight in some way. As many as 20 to 60 percent of people with obesity are also suffering some sort of psychiatric illness, which is a higher rate than the general population. Understanding that you aren’t alone in these struggles, and empowering yourself to make positive health changes, may help lessen the impact on your mental health. Always remember to seek professional care, too, if you have a mental health concern. 

Practical tips for health prioritization

These risks of obesity are serious, but the good news is that positive health changes make a big difference. While each individual’s approach to health will be unique due to their personal life experiences, most people can make changes that will lower their risk of developing these conditions. The key is to prioritize your health. 

If you’re struggling with being overweight and are aware of obesity risk factors, you may already know changes you can make that could help you live a healthier lifestyle. If these changes feel challenging, remember that every small step you take can have a big impact on your overall health. 

Before you start any health changes, consider having a check-up with your doctor. You might have underlying health conditions making it harder to work on your weight. If you treat these, you might find your healthy lifestyle changes are more effective. You can also get the green light from your doctor for the changes you want to make.

Another strategy to consider is a change in your diet, which can start with portion control. Eating smaller portions can help you lower your calorie intake, which is a good first step. You can also increase the number of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins you eat, which give you more nutrients than other foods. As you start making dietary changes, check out some common health myths, such as the idea that all carbs are bad, and make changes a little bit at a time. 

Remember that water is a way to boost your energy? It’s also a way to achieve other health goals. Drinking the right amount of water for your body and your activity levels can not only increase energy, but it could also help you eat less. If you add water a little bit at a time, you’ll likely find that it becomes a habit, and it also may help you eat less as you work to reduce your body weight.

Finally, remember the importance of exercise! Find times when you can incorporate more movement into your day, such as by taking the stairs instead of the elevator or having a dance party at home at the end of the day. If you have mobility challenges, a seated workout might be a good way to get started. You’ll likely find that doing so boosts your energy levels and your motivation.  

Making health changes and embracing healthy living can feel overwhelming at first, but every little change adds up over time. You can use tools to track these changes to help you stay motivated. You can also pair Evidation with your favorite health and fitness tracking program to reward yourself for the healthy changes you make. Download the app today to take back your health with Evidation.

There are many factors and lifestyle events that can cause your blood pressure to increase. Exercising, while healthy for your heart, can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure. Stress can be a cause of sudden high blood pressure as well. But what about necessary lifestyle factors, such as eating? Does blood pressure rise after eating? For some people, it does.

Generally speaking, when you eat, your blood pressure goes down temporarily. This is because the body sends blood to the gastrointestinal system to help you break down your food, and the rest of your body experiences a drop in blood pressure. Increases in blood pressure are less common, but they can still happen. If you suspect your blood pressure’s increasing after eating, here’s what you need to know.

The physiology of eating: how the body responds

When you eat, your body must send extra blood to the digestive organs to help with breaking down the food and using its nutrients. When this happens, the blood vessels away from the digestive system narrow. This process also triggers an increased heart rate after eating. All of this happens so that the body maintains sufficient blood flow to the brain and extremities, even though more blood is going toward the digestive system.

These physiological processes cause a slight dip in blood pressure that’s rarely a cause for concern. Sometimes, the blood vessels and heart don’t respond the way they should to these natural changes, causing a more severe decrease in blood pressure accompanied by symptoms, such as dizziness and lightheadedness. This is a condition known as postprandial hypotension. Having high blood pressure after eating is less common, but it can happen.

How do you recognize high blood pressure after eating?

Having high blood pressure after eating is a condition known as postprandial hypertension. This rare occurrence is hard to spot because high blood pressure doesn’t cause many symptoms. Most of the time, people only realize they have this issue if they take their blood pressure after eating for another reason.

That said, extremely high blood pressure spikes can cause symptoms, according to the World Health Organization. These may include:

• Severe headaches
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Breathing difficulties
• Changes in vision
• Anxiety

If you have any of these symptoms after eating, talk to your doctor right away. This can indicate a severe increase in blood pressure that needs immediate medical attention.

Factors influencing high blood pressure changes

There are several factors that can influence your blood pressure and cause it to rise. These include:

Cuff size or reading errors

If you're getting an unusually high reading after eating, make sure you're using a blood pressure cuff that's the right size for your arm. If it's too small, you will get an inaccurate reading, and that reading will be high. Similarly, make sure you are reading the blood pressure properly and are sitting still, with your arm gently resting on a table or the arm of the chair.

Food choices

If you eat foods that are high in salt or saturated fat, you’re going to be more likely to notice an increase in blood pressure after eating. The salt and fat content triggers this change. Monosodium glutamate, also known as MSG, is also connected to blood pressure increases.

Stress

Stress can cause increased blood pressure. This isn’t directly connected to eating, but you may notice higher readings if you’re in a period of high stress.

Caffeine

Caffeine intake can cause your blood pressure to increase. If you consume caffeine at your meal, then you’re more likely to notice increases in blood pressure after you finish eating, but the beverage, not the food, is the trigger.

Alcohol

Very Well Health indicates alcoholic beverages can trigger an increase in blood pressure. This increase in blood pressure is short-lived, but if the spike is high enough or if you already have high blood pressure, it can be dangerous.

Managing post-eating blood pressure: lifestyle strategies

Eating is not usually a cause of sudden high blood pressure spikes, but for some people, it does cause a slight increase. If you’re dealing with blood pressure problems and have found a connection between eating and high levels, there are some lifestyle changes you can make to help.

First, know that temporary increases in blood pressure, as long as it’s normally at a healthy level, may not be a cause for concern. Talk to your doctor about your cardiovascular health so you can know whether or not this is an issue.

If your doctor is concerned, take measures to improve your cardiovascular health and lower your cholesterol levels. Increased exercise and water intake are both good strategies to create overall improvements in your heart health.

You can also focus on what you eat if you’re seeing a connection between your blood pressure and your eating schedule. Healthline indicates the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is a good place to start. This diet focuses on foods that are low in salt and saturated fats, including fresh produce, low-fat dairy, and whole grains. It also recommends limiting added sugars. With these changes, you can lower your blood pressure up to 11 mm Hg, which could significantly impact the changes in blood pressure after eating.

Healthy eating also means adding some factors into your diet. For example, potassium and magnesium can help lower blood pressure levels, according to one study. Lean protein and fiber are also beneficial to your cardiovascular health.

Blood pressure increases after you eat are rare, but for some people, they can be normal. However, if you’re already dealing with elevated blood pressure, or if those increases are substantial, you’re going to need to pay attention to them. Being mindful of this type of postprandial blood pressure change, and making lifestyle adjustments when needed, can help you take better control over your health. By prioritizing your health and staying informed about factors that influence it, you can enjoy better wellness in your life.

If you’re looking for help with achieving your health goals, consider Evidation. Our clear guidelines and support have helped many people reach their health goals. Start tracking your health with Evidation today.

When you go to the doctor's office, your healthcare provider will typically check both your blood pressure and your heart rate at the start of your appointment. While both of these cardiovascular vital signs can provide insights into your health, they provide distinctly different information. Understanding the difference between heart rate and blood pressure--as well as how the two measures can affect one another--can provide you with information you can use to boost your health.

What are heart rate and blood pressure?

Also known as your pulse, your heart rate measures the number of times your heart beats in each minute. There are many factors that can influence your heart rate, including your fitness level, current physical activity, certain medications, and your emotions.

Blood pressure doesn't measure how often your heart is beating, rather, it measures the force with which your blood is flowing against your arterial walls. Your blood pressure reading can provide you and your healthcare provider with insight into the health of your cardiovascular system.

When both your heart rate and your blood pressure reading fall within a healthy range, it's a sign that your cardiovascular health is solid. If your heart rate and/or blood pressure reading are too high or too low, it's a sign that you're in need of further testing for heart-related health conditions.

Blood pressure and heart rate: How they influence each other

While your blood pressure and heart rate aren't measures of the same thing in your body, they do tend to rise and fall together. Many people find that when their heart rate is very high, their blood pressure is very high as well, as the heart is working hard to get oxygen to various parts of the body.

Many people also find that when their heart rate is very low, their blood pressure is low as well. Typically, the ups and downs of heart rate and blood pressure measures are most noticeable during extreme circumstances, such as when you're experiencing a health crisis or during times of extreme emotional stress.

While the two measures often work in tandem, this isn't always the case. Some health issues--including dehydration, severe cases of infection, or severe blood loss--can cause blood pressure to decrease while the heart rate increases.

Factors affecting blood pressure and heart rate

If your blood pressure or heart rate are too high for your (or your healthcare provider's) liking, it's important to take steps to get both measures into a healthy range. Thankfully, activities that lower one of these measures will usually lower the other.

Some changes you can make to lower your blood pressure and heart rate include:

• Exercising regularly
• Managing stress through writing in a journal, listening to music, meditating, yoga, deep breathing, playing with pets, or spending time with family and friends
• Eating a healthy diet (and limiting the amount of added salt in your diet)
• Don't smoke, and if you do smoke, make a plan to quit
• Don't drink, and if you do drink, limit your alcohol intake
• Eat foods rich in magnesium and potassium (including pumpkin seeds, bananas, and leafy greens)

Sometimes, medication is necessary to support your heart health. Your doctor will be able to work with you to decide whether it makes sense for you to support your cardiovascular health with medication while you also implement lifestyle factors that can help you feel your best.

Measuring and monitoring: tips for tracking your vitals at home

Keeping track of changes in your heart rate and blood pressure can help you get an idea of how different factors, including stress, exercise, illness, and getting enough sleep, affect your cardiovascular health.

It's simple to take your heart rate and blood pressure measurements at home. Most automated machines that you can purchase for home use provide you with a blood pressure and pulse reading at the same time. While some smartphone apps claim to be able to measure blood pressure, these aren't approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and shouldn't be used to gather insights about your health.

A few tips to follow to help you get accurate heart rate and blood pressure readings at home:

• Be sure to take your readings at the same time every day
• Don't take your readings immediately after exercising unless you're working to measure your active heart rate and blood pressure
• Make sure you always take your blood pressure on the same arm, as the right arm tends to show higher blood pressure readings than the left arm
• Sit in a chair with your legs uncrossed during your blood pressure reading, as crossing your legs can cause up to a 10-point increase in your systolic blood pressure
• Consider your breathing when you take your blood pressure. Implementing a standardized breathing pattern can help to ensure that your mind is focused and your mind is as relaxed as possible

Some variation is normal in your day-to-day readings. If you notice sudden changes in your heart rate or blood pressure, it's important to reach out to a healthcare provider right away. If you notice gradual changes over time--for example, your blood pressure rises steadily over a few months--it's a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor to learn more about how to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range.

Whether you've been using your health data for years or you're just getting started with learning more about what works for your body, keeping track of your blood pressure and heart rate can help you see what's working for your health--and how some changes might benefit your well-being.

Download Evidation today

At Evidation, we're here to help you make the most of your health data. Whether you're starting to track your blood pressure readings, want to boost your activity levels, or want to learn more about your health conditions, we've got you covered. Our clear guidelines, tips, and support make it easier for our users to achieve their health goals. Download the app today to get started!

Most people know about blood pressure and its connection to cardiovascular health, but have you ever heard of pulse pressure? This lesser-known number can actually be one of the first indicators of cardiovascular concerns. Here’s what you need to know about pulse pressure, its connection to your heart health, and how to use it to monitor your health.

What is pulse pressure?

Pulse pressure is a measure of the difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings. It’s a lesser-known number that can have a big impact on your overall cardiovascular health.

Pulse pressure and its connection to cardiovascular health

To calculate pulse pressure, simply subtract the upper number and lower number of your blood pressure. It’s normal for this to increase as you age, but if the pulse pressure gets too high, it can indicate cardiovascular health problems, even before symptoms develop.

A high pulse pressure reading doesn't necessarily mean you have heart disease. However, it does mean you have an increased risk of heart disease. A high pulse pressure reading potentially increases the risk of both heart disease and stroke. Even just an increase of 10 mm Hg can increase heart disease risk by as much as 20 percent, according to research from the National Library of Medicine.

Low pulse pressures can also be problematic. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a low pulse pressure, when the pulse pressure is ¼ or less of the systolic blood pressure number, may indicate the heart isn’t pumping enough blood. This can indicate heart failure or heart valve disease in some people, and it can indicate a loss of blood in others after injury or due to internal bleeding. Thus, both low and high pulse pressures can indicate problems with your cardiovascular system.

Understanding the numbers: interpreting pulse pressure readings

A normal blood pressure reading for a healthy adult is typically 120/80. To find pulse pressure, subtract these two numbers. 120 – 80 = 40. You can find this any time you take your blood pressure reading using the same formula.

So, what does the number mean? Healthline indicates a normal pulse pressure reading falls between 40 and 60 mm Hg. Anything higher than this is considered high, while anything lower than this indicates a low reading.

Pulse pressure should be considered along with blood pressure. For instance, if someone has a pulse pressure of 60 mm Hg and a blood pressure of 120/80, which is normal for an adult, they’re at low risk for a heart disease event. However, if someone has a blood pressure reading of 180/120 mm Hg, they still have a pulse pressure of 60 mm Hg. That said, this is a high blood pressure reading, and as such, they're at risk for a heart disease event, even with a normal pulse pressure measurement.

Factors influencing pulse pressure

You may notice that your pulse pressure fluctuates. This is normal. Many factors can influence your pulse pressure.

Like your blood pressure, your pulse pressure may change with physical activity. Eating and drinking can also influence your pulse pressure. Even actions like talking and laughing can have an impact.

Age also impacts pulse pressure. Most people have higher pulse pressures as they age. This may be due to the way the arteries stiffen with age.

Interestingly, Mayo Clinic indicates that blood pressure medication may not have an impact on pulse pressure. While it’s important to take blood pressure medication to keep blood pressure numbers in a healthy range, if you have high blood pressure, you may notice that your pulse pressure remains where it is.

How to measure pulse pressure? Tips for accurate monitoring

Measuring pulse pressure isn’t hard, but you do need to do it accurately to give yourself a good picture of your cardiovascular health. Here are some tips.

Take an average of measurements

Because pulse pressure levels can change, you need to measure it more than once. Consider measuring it twice, with measurements taken about five minutes apart. Then, average your two measurements by adding them together and dividing by two. This may give you a more accurate pulse pressure.

Accurately measure blood pressure

Use a blood pressure cuff that you trust to measure your blood pressure. Consider taking your cuff to the doctor to have them verify that it’s accurately measuring your blood pressure. Sit still with your feet flat on the floor and your arm resting on the arm of a chair or couch when taking your blood pressure.

Monitor over time

A one-time pulse pressure reading that’s high isn’t necessarily a cause for alarm. Keep tabs on your pulse pressure over time, and alert your doctor if you see a potentially hazardous trend.

How to improve pulse pressure? Lifestyle and wellness strategies

If your pulse pressure’s high or low, talk to your doctor first to rule out any health concerns that need to be addressed quickly. If your doctor doesn’t find any serious concerns, consider making some lifestyle changes that can support heart health.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet

Eating healthy foods that are high in fiber and low in unhealthy fats and sugars will support improved heart health. Start by swapping out snack foods for whole fruits and vegetables and high-fat meats for leaner cuts to make some small changes that can add up to big improvements over time.

Learn stress management

Another way to support your heart health is with improved stress management. While you can’t always eliminate stress, find healthy ways to deal with it, such as practicing yoga at home or scheduling downtime into your week.

Exercise regularly

Exercise, even if it’s as simple as a walk, is beneficial to your heart. Use a tool such as a step counter and pair it with Evidation to incentivize yourself to keep walking.

Increase your sleep

Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, whenever possible. Getting enough sleep reduces your stress and improves your overall health. When you sleep, your heart rate slows, and your cardiovascular system gets a break as well, which improves its health.

Get personalized health insights to track your health goals with Evidation

Early detection is a key factor in protecting yourself from cardiovascular disease, especially if you already have a diagnosis or are at high risk. Sometimes, you’ll need data to get the conversation going with your healthcare provider, and Evidation can help. Our personalized health insights can help you track your health goals and progress, while also giving you a talking point to help your care provider understand your concerns. Our Heart Health digital program can help you track your heart health throughout your daily life so that you can get the right data to your doctor. Read more about how Heart Health is helping people track and talk about their cardiovascular health, then download the app today to start tracking yours.

What is ferritin?

If your doctor has determined that you may have low iron levels, it's likely that they've ordered a ferritin test.

Ferritin is a protein that naturally occurs in blood. When you have a ferritin test, your doctor is able to use the amount of ferritin in your blood to determine how much iron is stored in your body.

Ferritin in the body

Ferritin plays an important role in keeping your body energized and healthy. Healthy iron levels allow your body to create red blood cells that work to carry oxygen throughout the body.

Iron levels can differ from person to person, and following your doctor's recommendations for lab tests can help your healthcare team keep an eye on your iron levels.

In healthy adults, standard blood ferritin ranges include:

• Female: 12 to 150 nanograms per milliliter
• Male: 12 to 300 nanograms per milliliter

Low ferritin risk factors

While anyone can have low iron levels, some people are more likely to develop low ferritin than others. If you're more likely to have low iron than others, your doctor may recommend regular ferritin testing to provide you with the information you need to adjust and supplement your iron levels.

People who are at risk for low ferritin levels include:

• People who are underweight
• Women who are pregnant
• Women who experience heavy periods
• People who have digestive issues that cause problems with their ability to absorb the nutrients in their food (such as inflammatory bowel disease)

While these conditions can make it more likely that you'll develop low ferritin levels, some people develop low ferritin levels–and subsequently, low iron– without any risk factors.

An important note: if you have a blood test that shows low ferritin, this does not necessarily mean that your body has low iron. Excess iron is stored in ferritin, so anyone who has low iron will also have low ferritin. In other words, Everyone who has low iron will have low ferritin, but not everyone who has low ferritin will develop low iron.

Symptoms of low ferritin

Wondering if you might be living with low ferritin levels? While a blood test is the only way to know for sure, there are some symptoms commonly shown by people who have low levels of iron stored in the ferritin in their red blood cells.

Common signs of low ferritin levels include:

• Skin appears more pale than usual
• Muscle weakness
• Unexplained fatigue
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Unusual shortness of breath

If you're experiencing these symptoms, it's important to talk with your doctor to get to the root of your issue. While many of these symptoms can be attributed to low ferritin, they can also be indicative of other health conditions.

Causes of low ferritin

There are many health issues that can cause a low ferritin test result. If your blood test comes back showing that you have low ferritin levels, it's likely that your doctor will order additional tests (such as transferrin saturation, total iron-binding capacity, and serum iron) to determine the severity of your body's low iron levels.

Sometimes, low ferritin levels can be caused by issues including:

• Conditions that stop the body from properly absorbing iron
• Blood loss related to digestive tract issues
• Inadequate levels of red blood cells
• A diet low in iron
• Inflammatory health conditions

Low iron stores vs. iron-deficiency anemia: What's the difference?

If you have a ferritin test that shows that you have low iron stores, you could be anemic. In order to understand the difference between low ferritin and low iron, it's important to understand the role that hemoglobin plays in your health.

Hemoglobin is a component of red blood cells, and works to carry oxygen throughout your body. Iron works to help your bone marrow produce hemoglobin. Without iron, the body struggles to produce hemoglobin. Red blood cells are able to store extra iron in ferritin proteins. When the body doesn't get enough iron from food, it has to resort to using ferritin-stored iron to create hemoglobin.

When your body doesn't have much ferritin-stored iron, it’s possible to develop iron deficiency. Over time, this can make it hard for the body to make enough hemoglobin to support your health. Anemia is a condition that occurs when you have low levels of hemoglobin in your blood, caused by low iron stores.

If you have low ferritin levels, it's important that you carefully follow your doctor's advice to boost your body's iron stores to avoid developing anemia.

Increasing ferritin levels naturally

If you've recently been diagnosed with low ferritin levels, we've got good news: there are plenty of steps you can take to naturally increase your body's iron stores. Here, we'll take a look at how supplementation and diet changes can help to boost your body's ferritin levels.

Supplements

Your doctor may recommend that you use iron supplements to help boost your ferritin levels. It's important to work closely with your care provider to monitor whether your supplementation routine is working--some people find more success through supplementing iron every other day rather than taking a supplement every day.

Dietary changes

Adding iron-rich foods to your diet may help you increase your ferritin levels. There's no need for a total dietary overhaul--simply adding some of the foods below to your nutrition plan can help you boost your energy by increasing your body's iron levels.

Foods high in iron include:

• Beans
• Tofu
• Beef
• Dried fruit
• Cashews
• Lentils
• Kale
• Pistachios
• Soybeans
• Peas
• Beef
• Broccoli

Talk to your doctor

If you're concerned that you may have low iron stores in your body, it's key to reach out to your doctor for ferritin testing. Be sure to keep a list of your symptoms, which can allow your doctor to determine whether they should test for health conditions in addition to low ferritin levels. If your doctor finds that your ferritin levels are low, you'll want to talk with them to develop a supplementation and diet plan that will help you get back to feeling like yourself.

Download Evidation today

At Evidation, we're here to help you make the most out of every day. From providing you with easy-to-follow health tips to providing the support that you need to feel your best, we've got you covered. Download the app today to get started!

When you go to the doctor and get your blood pressure measured, the nurse reads back a number like this: 120/80. Most people don’t think twice about what that number means, but what happens if a measurement starts to creep up? For most patients with hypertension, both numbers will increase, but sometimes, just one. If only the bottom number starts to go up, you’re dealing with high diastolic blood pressure. Here’s a closer look at what causes high diastolic blood pressure and how you can treat this rare condition.

What is diastolic blood pressure?

When doctors measure blood pressure, they measure systolic and diastolic. The systolic number is listed on top of the diastolic number. Diastolic measures the pressure in your blood vessels in the period between your heartbeats. In contrast, systolic measures the pressure when the heart muscle contracts.

What causes diastolic blood pressure to increase?

Currently, any reading above 80 millimeters of mercury for diastolic blood pressure is considered high as long as the systolic blood pressure is within normal parameters. So what causes this level to increase?

General hypertension, which is elevated levels for both types of blood pressure, often occurs due to lifestyle factors. Someone who eats a diet high in fat and salt or someone who is living with obesity may have high blood pressure. However, high diastolic blood pressure is rare, affecting only about 20% of patients with high blood pressure. It may be caused by endocrine disorders, renovascular disorders, and even sleep apnea, in addition to the factors that can cause overall high blood pressure. Sometimes, stress and anxiety or excessive alcohol consumption can also cause it, and some medications, including atypical antipsychotics and amphetamines, can cause it. In many cases, however, doctors aren’t sure why a person develops high diastolic blood pressure. If you’re concerned about these potential causes, always consult with your doctor, and don’t change your medication without a doctor’s oversight.

Dangers of high diastolic blood pressure

High diastolic blood pressure may be rare, but it’s still an important thing to note because diastolic blood pressure is an important indication of cardiovascular health. Since this number measures the blood pressure between heartbeats, a high level may mean less effective delivery of oxygen to the heart's muscles. This, in turn, can lead to an increased risk of heart disease.

The risk is fairly high, too. According to Medical News Today, an increase of 10 millimeters of mercury for this measure doubles an adult’s risk of heart disease or stroke, as well as some additional health concerns. This risk appears once someone reaches age 40, and high diastolic blood pressure doesn’t have the same impact on younger individuals.

Specifically, increased diastolic blood pressure increases your risk of having:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Peripheral arterial disease
• Chronic kidney disease
• Vision loss
• Aneurysm
• Atrial fibrillation

Symptoms and diagnosis

High blood pressure of any kind rarely has symptoms. That’s why it’s sometimes called the “silent killer.” When blood pressure levels are severe, it may lead to headaches, anxiety, nosebleeds, and nervousness. An irregular heartbeat or vision problems may also occur.

Because symptoms typically don’t develop until the disease has progressed quite far and levels are extremely high, most people get diagnosed at a routine medical examination or when they’re being seen for something else. Doctors typically take blood pressure at every appointment, noting elevated levels. Occasionally, elevated diastolic blood pressure may not be a cause for alarm, but if it’s staying elevated regularly, you’ll want to talk to your doctor about how to best manage it.

Improve your blood pressure with treatments and lifestyle modifications

Managing your blood pressure, including your diastolic blood pressure, is an important part of keeping your heart healthy. The first line of defense for mildly elevated blood pressure and improving cardiovascular health may be lifestyle modifications. If lifestyle modifications aren’t sufficient, or if the diastolic blood pressure level is extremely high, your doctor may choose to use medications to treat it.

Increased exercise

First, consider adding more exercise to your routine. You can exercise safely with high blood pressure using a few modifications. Always check with your doctor, but getting more activity may help lower your blood pressure over time.

Increased water intake

Another way to manage blood pressure through lifestyle changes is by increasing your water intake. Drink the appropriate amount for your gender and age, and consider increasing it slightly if necessary to improve your health. Staying hydrated supports good heart health, and that includes improving blood pressure levels.

Balanced diet with less salt and alcohol

Managing your diet may also have a positive effect on diastolic blood pressure levels. Reducing alcohol consumption, limiting salt intake, and focusing on eating a balanced diet all play a role in keeping blood pressure levels in check. You can use tools like Evidation and your favorite fitness tracker and food tracking apps to monitor how well you’re doing to reach these goals.

Home monitoring of blood pressure

Monitoring your blood pressure levels at home will also be helpful. This shows you if the lifestyle modifications are working and will also help you know if you need further medical intervention.

Medication treatment options

Because high diastolic blood pressure is rare, most patients will need to get some medical oversight. If your systolic blood pressure is normal, but your diastolic is high, your doctor may want to proceed with caution. Medical News Today warns that treating high diastolic blood pressure with medication, particularly if the patient is young, can increase the risk of heart problems.

That said, if levels get high enough, doctors will recommend medication. Some options include:

• Diuretics
• Angiotensin receptor blockers
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
• Calcium channel blockers

Adding medication will mean an increased level of monitoring from your doctor. Sometimes, medications need adjustment until the ideal blood pressure level is reached.

Monitor your health goals with Evidation

If you’re struggling with your diastolic blood pressure, you’ll want to take a multifaceted approach to managing it. Tracking your health will be part of this. Evidation can add motivation to help you take charge of your health by rewarding you for making better health choices. Start tracking your health with Evidation today.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and this is an excellent time to take a closer look at this common condition, its potential risks, and ways you can protect yourself from it. Like many health conditions, diabetes has far-reaching consequences, but it can also be managed with better awareness and monitoring combined with lifestyle changes that promote health. Whether you have diabetes or you’re helping a loved one manage the condition, this is the month to focus on awareness and education about this common disease.

Types of diabetes

If you or a close loved one are affected by diabetes, you aren’t alone. Diabetes affects over 133 million people in the US alone, but not all people with diabetes have the same type. Typically, people with diabetes will have one of three main types:

• Type 1 diabetes – This type of diabetes occurs when the body does not make enough insulin, often due to damage to the pancreas. Though it can develop at any age, type 1 diabetes is sometimes called juvenile diabetes because it’s more commonly the type that affects children.
• Type 2 diabetes - The most common type of diabetes, type 2 occurs when the body makes enough insulin but doesn’t respond properly to it. In response, the pancreas makes more insulin, and eventually, this leads to an increase in blood sugar.
• Gestational diabetes – This form of diabetes is unique to people during pregnancy. The increased weight during pregnancy can cause some people to become insulin-resistant, and this, in turn, can trigger diabetes. About half of people who have gestational diabetes will see their blood sugar levels return to normal after delivering their babies, while the other half will develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

Regardless of the type of diabetes a person has, this is a life-altering condition. It requires the individual to carefully care for their health to maintain balanced blood sugar. It also requires carefully following all recommendations from the individual's doctor to protect their health and well-being.

Understanding diabetes in women

While diabetes can affect all individuals with the condition, women and those who were assigned female at birth may have more risks than biological males. For example, the FDA warns that women with diabetes have a higher heart disease risk than men. The disease also increases the risk of vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections in women.

In addition, female hormones impact a woman’s ability to predict and manage blood sugar levels, and the cravings that come with those hormones can also impact diabetes management. Diabetes can also reduce a woman’s libido and make the vaginal area dry, which creates pain during intercourse. Finally, women who wish to become pregnant can face infertility issues due to diabetes, and if the diabetes is not well managed, they face the risk of complications and birth defects in the baby.

Because of these increased risks, women who have diabetes or who are at risk for developing the disease need to work with a healthcare team to keep blood sugar levels in proper balance. The best way to avoid these increased risks and potential complications is with good monitoring and blood sugar control. Making positive health changes, such as following a diabetic diet or increasing exercise, may also lessen this risk.

For children with diabetes, empowerment is key

Diabetes affects 283,000 children and youth in the United States, and the majority of these are type 1 diabetes patients, according to the CDC. This disease requires close monitoring and tracking, which can be hard for children. However, because diabetes is a lifelong condition, children must learn the skills they need to keep their blood sugar levels in check. Giving kids the tools they need to manage their diabetes well empowers them to embrace healthy choices and proper blood sugar monitoring throughout their lives.

The first step in empowering kids is educating them about what diabetes is and why it happens. Sadly, many misconceptions about diabetes exist, and children need to know that developing the condition is not their fault. This knowledge will help them tackle any misconceptions they hear from their friends.

Next, children should learn to monitor and check their blood sugar. While many tools, such as devices that deliver insulin via a pump or monitor blood sugar around the clock, can help, children should know how to take their own blood sugar manually should their device fail. Children also need to learn what to do if they have high or low levels.

If you’re a parent with a child who has diabetes, consider working to educate not only the child but also the other important adults in the child’s life. For example, children with diabetes may notice changes in blood sugar levels after exercise, so your child might need to advocate for a blood sugar check or snack after P.E. class. Getting all adults on board with this will help your child get the care they need and feel empowered as they do so.

Though diabetes can be a challenging diagnosis for a young child, learning to manage it is possible. Through empowerment, you can prepare your child for an adult life that they love, with diabetes not getting in the way.

Avoiding diabetes complications by prioritizing health

Regardless of age, sex, or gender, having diabetes puts a person at risk of several serious health complications. Diabetes, if left untreated, can affect every part of the body. Some possible complications include:

• Retinopathy and other eye problems
• Nerve damage in the feet (neuropathy)
• Kidney disease
• Heart attack and stroke
• Gum disease
• Hearing impairment
• Alzheimer’s disease

Each of these is just as impactful as diabetes, which means monitoring and treating diabetes needs to be a top priority for people with the condition. In addition, people with diabetes can benefit from taking measures to protect and improve their overall health, which will reduce their risk of developing these complications as well.

Support systems for diabetics

Diabetes is a challenging condition to manage, and people with diabetes benefit from a strong amount of support surrounding them. Support starts with friends and family who can encourage an individual to work toward better diabetes management and reaching their personal health goals. In addition, several organizations provide support for diabetes, including:

• The American Diabetes Association
• Children’s Diabetes Foundation
• Defeat Diabetes Foundation
• JDRF
• Diabetes Research Institute Foundation

You may also find support groups in your local community through your healthcare provider.

Use Evidation to reach your health goals

At Evidation, we believe in empowering individuals to make the best health decisions they can, and we’re also committed to staying at the forefront of research, supporting healthcare providers in their clinical research into life-altering conditions like diabetes.

The more tools at your disposal when managing diabetes, the better, and Evidation is one such tool. With clear guidelines and easy digital health monitoring, Evidation helps individuals reach their health goals. When managing diabetes, every healthy step you take to prioritize your wellness is critical, and Evidation is here to help. Download the app today.

When someone is getting older, they naturally become increasingly forgetful. Yet for some, that forgetfulness is a sign of something more serious, the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease. In 1983, President Ronald Reagan declared the month of November to be National Alzheimer's Awareness Month. At the time, around 2 million people had the disease. Today, in America alone, it is over 6 million and growing. As Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month returns, the team at Evidation wants to take a closer look at the condition and its impact on society.

The facts about Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease. It is a form of dementia, which is a larger category of degenerative brain disease, that attacks a person’s memory and thinking skills. It’s rarely genetic, though some forms of early-onset Alzheimer’s can be linked to a genetic cause.

According to statistics from the Alzheimer’s Association:

• Over 6 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease
• Though it can affect people of all ages, 72% of people with the condition are age 75 and older.
• Over 11% of people aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease.

Though these statistics are staggering, Alzheimer’s research continues to make progress to help people understand and fight this common disorder. Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is an excellent time to take a closer look at what the research currently says.

Alzheimer’s disease prevention strategies

Alzheimer’s disease, sadly, has no currently known cure, though research continues to look at treatment options. That said, the CDC indicates that many of the risk factors for Alzheimer’s are preventable. Reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia starts with reducing these preventable risk factors.

High blood pressure

According to one CDC study, around half of adults who had Alzheimer’s disease also had high blood pressure or were not physically active, especially regarding aerobic physical activity. One strategy to protect against Alzheimer’s is to increase physical activity and work to keep high blood pressure under control.

Smoking and binge drinking

Smoking and binge drinking are also risk factors for Alzheimer’s and dementia. Since these are preventable behaviors, focusing on getting help to quit may have a positive impact on a person's risk of developing dementia.

Obesity and diabetes

A connection between obesity, diabetes, and dementia has been established. Taking measures to increase activity while lowering caloric intake and combining that with good blood sugar control are helpful as part of an Alzheimer’s prevention strategy. Healthy eating and increased physical activity can both play a role in managing these conditions.

Diagnosis and screening methods

As we age, a little bit of memory loss is common. So, how do you determine if your loved one is dealing with normal memory loss or a more severe form, such as Alzheimer’s disease? The only way to know for sure is with an evaluation from a medical doctor.

Doctors use assessment tools, such as the General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition, to screen individuals who may have dementia or Alzheimer’s. If these screening tools indicate potential dementia, the doctor can refer the person for a more thorough evaluation.

Currently, there is no scan or blood test that can diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Instead, doctors use cognitive diagnostic tools and combine those with medical history, neurological examination, brain imaging, and observations to make a diagnosis.

Different stages of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means the symptoms steadily worsen over time. There are three main stages of Alzheimer's: mild, moderate, and severe, which are also sometimes categorized as early-stage, middle-stage, and late-stage.

Early-stage Alzheimer's

Mild or early-stage Alzheimer’s occurs when the person starts to notice memory lapses, and close friends or family may also notice it. These memory lapses may be challenges with finding the right word or name in conversation, or it can mean forgetting things that were just read or losing items quickly after picking them up. It’s important to note that these symptoms don’t always mean someone is starting to develop Alzheimer’s disease. They can be due to several concerns, including high stress levels, but it is the first sign that something’s not quite right.

Middle-stage Alzheimer’s

When someone enters the middle stage of the disease, also known as moderate Alzheimer’s, they have more pronounced symptoms, getting frustrated or changing their behavior, confusing words, and forgetting events from their past history. This stage can last quite a long time, and the symptoms vary from one person to the next, which can make it hard to diagnose.

During the middle stage, a person’s memory loss and changes in personality start to impact daily life. While individuals in this stage can do many activities, they may need assistance and supervision to do so safely. Wandering away from home can also be a high risk during this stage, which is why caregiving is often necessary.

Late-stage Alzheimer’s

This is the final stage of the disease, when symptoms become severe. At this point, individuals will not be able to respond to their environment or have a conversation. As the disease progresses, they may no longer be able to control movement. This state often requires round-the-clock skilled nursing care. Hospice care can often help the individual as well as their loved one manage the changes that come in this stage.

Alzheimer’s caregiving tips and finding community support

Taking care of a loved one who has Alzheimer’s is rewarding, but it can also be tremendously stressful and overwhelming, especially if the condition causes a serious change in behavior. Caregivers can reduce some of their stress by practicing healthy self-care. Consider these tips:

• Build a community around yourself that you can tap into when you need help.
• Remember to eat healthy and get active so you can protect your own physical health.
• Find local caregiver support groups and attend meetings. Utilize online options if you can't get out of the house.
• Take short daily breaks.
• Maintain your friendships or hobbies to give yourself a mental break from caregiving tasks.

Support is critical along the way. Having people you can talk to who understand the challenges of caregiving and Alzheimer’s disease will help you navigate this world better. Some support groups to consider include:

• Local chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association
• Alzheimer's Foundation of America
• Dementia Mentors
• Local Memory Cafe

As you focus on finding support, remember to work to prioritize your own personal health. Evidation can assist through clear guidelines and support that will help you track your activity and food intake so you can achieve your personal health goals. By focusing on your own personal health, you will have more to give to your loved one with dementia. Learn more about our platform today. You can also learn more about our research into Alzheimer’s disease and the use of digital monitoring to help with the screening and protection of those affected.