Learn more about the condition and the genetic factors that affect Alzheimer's predisposition 

Does someone in your family have Alzheimer’s disease? If so, you may wonder if you can inherit the memory problem.

Researchers are still working to understand what causes Alzheimer’s, but they think genetics may have something to do with it. In other words, you can inherit genes that make you more likely to develop the condition. But you don’t necessarily have to have a family history of Alzheimer’s to develop the disease. 

People with a sibling or parent with Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop the condition, however, than those who do not have an immediate family member with it.

About Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia, a general term used for conditions that affect memory and cognitive function. Dementia affects memory, thinking, behavior, and social skills and can significantly impact day-to-day functioning.

About 6.5 million Americans ages 65 and older live with Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, it’s the most common cause of dementia among older adults.

The cause of Alzheimer's disease is thought to be an abnormal build-up of proteins called amyloid plaques in and around brain cells that makes it difficult for neurons to "talk" to one another.  Another type of protein that leads to Alzheimer’s disease causes “tangles” in the brain cells.

Communication between neurons in the brain is important for almost every biological function our bodies need to carry out. This includes everything from talking to sleeping to remembering where we placed the remote, or what our address is. When Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain, a person’s quality of life is directly impacted. They may start with mild memory loss. Over time, the plaques and tangles in the brain take over, making it difficult for the people we love to function as they were once able to. 

Common symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s can vary from person to person, but memory loss is common. 

Alzheimer’s is a progressive condition, which means memory loss and other symptoms get worse over time. In its early stages, someone with Alzheimer's disease may have trouble remembering recent conversations or events. 

Signs and symptoms of mild Alzheimer’s disease

The signs and symptoms of mild Alzheimer’s disease are often mistaken as normal effects of getting older. And not everyone with Alzheimer’s has every symptom.

The most common signs of early-stage Alzheimer’s include:

• Memory loss that makes everyday activities harder
• Poor judgment and making bad decisions
• Getting lost
• Losing track of dates
• Trouble planning
• Trouble solving problems
• Taking longer than usual to complete everyday tasks
• Forgetting recently-learned information
• Repeating questions
• Trouble paying bills and handling money
• Wandering
• Putting items in odd places
• Losing things
• Difficulty completing everyday tasks
• Mood and personality changes
• Increased aggression and/or anxiety

Most people with Alzheimer’s are diagnosed during the first stage of the disease.

Signs of moderate Alzheimer’s disease

People with moderate Alzheimer’s often require more supervision and care. The changes at this stage may be challenging for spouses and other family members to manage.

Signs and symptoms of moderate Alzheimer’s disease include:

• Increased memory loss and confusion
• Avoiding people and activities they usually enjoy
• Inability to learn new things
• Difficulty with language
• Struggling to read, write, and do math
• Difficulty organizing thoughts
• Shorter attention span
• Difficulty dealing with new situations
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Trouble carrying out familiar tasks, such as getting dressed
• Occasional difficulty recognizing family and friends
• Delusions, hallucinations, and paranoia
• Impulsive behavior, such as using vulgar language or undressing at inappropriate places or times
• Inappropriate emotional outbursts
• Moodiness, such as agitation, anxiety and tearfulness
• Restlessness and wandering, especially in the late afternoon or evening
• Repetitive statements or movements

Signs of severe Alzheimer’s disease

Late-stage Alzheimer’s has devastating effects on the body. At this stage, people depend on others for every aspect of care. They need help combing their hair and eating, for example, and  are typically unable to communicate or get out of bed.

Symptoms of late-stage Alzheimer’s often include:

• Trouble communicating
• No memory of recent events
• No awareness of surroundings
• Seizures
• General decline in health
• Difficulty swallowing
• Appetite loss, weight loss
• Moaning, groaning, or grunting
• Sleeping excessively
• Loss of bowel and bladder control

People with late-stage Alzheimer’s may lose their ability to swallow. This can allow food and liquids to get into their lungs. This condition is known as aspiration pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia is a common cause of death for people with Alzheimer’s.

If you or someone you love is experiencing any of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, it’s important to seek medical care as soon as possible as early treatment can help slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. 

Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is thought to develop as the result of multiple factors, Such as a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors.

Genetics

Genetics may play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. This is especially true when genetics combine with other factors. 

“Research shows that older Latinos are about one-and-a-half times as likely as older whites to have Alzheimer’s and other dementias, while older African-Americans are about twice as likely to have the disease as older whites. The reason for these differences is not well understood, but researchers believe that higher rates of vascular disease in these groups may also put them at greater risk for developing Alzheimer’s.”

About genes

• You get your genes from your mother and father
• Genes carry the instructions cells need to do their job
• Humans have between 20,000 and 25,000 genes

Types of genes

There are two types of genes that affect whether or not a person may develop a disease: risk genes and deterministic genes.  

• Risk genes increase the likelihood that you will develop a disease
• Deterministic genes directly cause disease.

Researchers have discovered several risk genes for Alzheimer’s disease, but deterministic genes are much more rare.  

Anyone with a deterministic gene for Alzheimer’s, will develop the memory problem. But only a few hundred families worldwide have deterministic genes for Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, the genes account for less than 1 percent of Alzheimer’s disease patients. Deterministic genes cause early-onset dementia, in which symptoms develop when a person is in their early 40s to mid-50s rather than when they are 65 or older.

The deterministic genes that cause Alzheimer’s affect the way your body produces and processes beta-amyloid, which is the main protein in plaque. Beta-amyloid can clump together to form plaques which can build up between nerve cells in the brain. Clumps of beta-amyloids can stop the brain’s nerve cells from working right. 

Past head trauma

A blow to your head may also increase your risk for Alzheimer’s. Your brain creates large amounts of beta amyloids following an injury. So be sure to protect your head from injury, especially during sports or other high-risk activities.

Mild cognitive impairment

Mild cognitive impairment is a stage between normal age-related decline in memory and more serious dementia. People with mild cognitive impairment may have a higher risk for Alzheimer’s.

Lifestyle

Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, controlling blood pressure, managing diabetes, maintaining a healthy cholesterol level, and quitting smoking can help reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s.

Heart health

Older adults with certain heart and circulatory problems have a higher risk for Alzheimer’s. Talk to your health provider about your risk and how to keep your heart healthy.

Sleep disorders

People who don’t get enough quality sleep can experience a buildup of amyloid plaques in their brains. If you struggle with getting enough good sleep, talk to your doctor, and try things like meditation for sleep which can help. 

Lack of lifetime learning

Stimulating your brain with mental activities can improve brain health and reduce amyloid plaques. Find ways to keep your mind active as you age. Take a class or try a new hobby - anything new will help keep those neurons firing. 

How to know if you have the Alzheimer’s gene

Medical tests, such as blood and saliva tests, can detect both deterministic and risk genes. Physicians use  genetic testing to test patients with a strong family history of Alzheimer’s disease and to diagnose early-onset. 

Researchers use this testing to identify participants who may have a higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s. Results of the genetic testing allow researchers to look for early brain changes in study participants, and use the tests to compare the benefits of various treatments for people with different Alzheimer’s genes.

Testing is most helpful if you have a family member with a genetic mutation for Alzheimer’s. In this case, testing can tell you if you have a deterministic gene and are certain to develop the disease.

Genetic testing can also tell you if you have inherited the Alzheimer’s risk gene. This result would mean you have a higher risk for this type of dementia, but may not necessarily develop Alzheimer’s.

Genetic counseling before and after testing can help you make sense of your results. You can talk with a genetic counselor about the potential effects the results could have on your life. You might talk about how a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s could affect your job and whether you should buy long-term care insurance.

How to get tested for the Alzheimer's gene

If you have a strong family history of Alzheimer’s, your doctor may be able to help you get tested for the Alzheimer’s gene. You can also use a home test. The FDA has approved at-home genetic testing through the 23andMe Personal Genome Service Genetic Health Risk (GHR) test. Simply send a saliva sample and receive your genetic background through the mail. Other companies offer similar tests.

Participating in research is another possible way to get tested for the Alzheimer’s gene, and to help other people in the process. Joining Evidation can help you contribute to some of the world’s leading research projects that may someday lead to a cure for Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions. Join Evidation today to learn more.

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March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about this common yet often misunderstood condition. Endometriosis is a common condition, affecting more than 5 million people in the US, and yet it often takes years to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, causing pain and inflammation. This tissue can grow on organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bladder, and can cause painful periods, pain during sex, and chronic pelvic pain. In some cases, endometriosis can also lead to infertility.

Symptoms of endometriosis

Endometriosis can cause a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity from person to person. Some individuals with endometriosis may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have debilitating pain. Some common symptoms of endometriosis include:

‍Painful periods: This is one of the most common symptoms of endometriosis. The pain may be severe and may last throughout the entire menstrual cycle.

‍Pain during sex: Pain during sex, or dyspareunia, is another common symptom of endometriosis. The pain may be deep and may last for several hours after sex.

‍Chronic pelvic pain: This is pain that lasts for six months or longer and is located in the pelvic region.

‍Painful bowel movements or urination: Endometriosis tissue can grow on the bladder or intestines, causing pain during bowel movements or urination.

‍Infertility: In some cases, endometriosis can lead to infertility. It’s estimated that up to 50% of individuals with endometriosis may experience infertility.

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, speak with your healthcare provider to discuss your options for diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). The gold standard for diagnosis is laparoscopic surgery, in which a small camera is inserted into the abdomen to look for endometrial tissue. However, there are also non-invasive imaging tests, such as ultrasounds or MRI, that can help identify endometriosis.

Treatment for endometriosis can vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the desire for future fertility. Treatment options may include pain medication, hormonal therapies, or surgery to remove endometrial tissue. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be necessary.

Risk Factors and Causes of Endometriosis

The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but there are several factors that may increase the risk of developing the condition. These include:

‍Hormones: Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent condition, meaning it’s influenced by levels of estrogen in the body. Higher levels of estrogen may increase the risk of developing endometriosis.

‍Genetics: Endometriosis may run in families, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.

‍Retrograde menstruation: This occurs when menstrual blood flows back through the fallopian tubes and into the pelvic cavity, where it can implant and grow outside of the uterus.

‍Immune system dysfunction: A weakened immune system may be less able to recognize and eliminate endometrial cells that have grown outside of the uterus.

Other potential risk factors for endometriosis include a low body mass index (BMI), early onset of menstruation, and frequent periods with a short menstrual cycle.

While there are several risk factors associated with endometriosis, it's important to note that anyone with a uterus can develop the condition, regardless of their risk factors. If you are experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, speak with your healthcare provider to discuss your options for diagnosis and treatment.

How Endometriosis Can Affect Quality of Life

Endometriosis can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. The pain and other symptoms associated with endometriosis can interfere with daily activities, work, and relationships. Some of the common ways that endometriosis can affect a person's life include:

Pain: The pain associated with endometriosis can be severe and debilitating, making it difficult to engage in everyday activities and tasks.

‍Fatigue: Endometriosis can cause fatigue and exhaustion, making it difficult to complete daily tasks and activities.

‍Infertility: Endometriosis can sometimes lead to infertility, which can be emotionally challenging for those who want to have children and possibly impact a person's relationships and plans for the future.

‍Mental health: Inadequate and/or discriminatory treatment of chronic pain and other symptoms associated with endometriosis can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

‍Work and school: These environments may not understand the accommodations needed to manage endometriosis, and managing endometriosis can make it difficult to attend work or school regularly, impacting a person's performance and potentially leading to missed opportunities. 

It's important for individuals with endometriosis to seek support and resources to manage the impact of the condition on their daily life. This can include medical treatments, therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes. Speaking with a healthcare provider or mental health professional can be a helpful first step in managing the impact of endometriosis on daily life.

Support for Endometriosis

Living with endometriosis can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. It's important for individuals with endometriosis to have access to support and resources. Here are a few organizations that offer support for those living with endometriosis:

‍Endometriosis Association - this organization offers support groups, educational resources, and advocacy for those with endometriosis.

‍EndoFound - EndoFound provides support and resources for individuals with endometriosis, as well as funding for research to improve diagnosis and treatment.

‍EndoBlack - EndoBlack is an organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for Black people with endometriosis. They provide resources, support, and community for Black individuals who are living with endometriosis, and they work to raise awareness about the unique challenges and experiences that Black people face in accessing care and treatment.

‍The Black Women's Health Imperative - The Black Women's Health Imperative is a nonprofit organization focused on advancing health equity for Black women. They provide resources and information on a range of health issues, including endometriosis.

‍The National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice - The National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice is a national organization that focuses on reproductive health and justice for Latinas. They provide resources and information on a range of reproductive health issues, including endometriosis.

‍The Asian Pacific Islander American Health Forum - The Asian Pacific Islander American Health Forum is a national health justice organization focused on improving the health and well-being of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. They provide resources and information on a range of health issues, including endometriosis.

‍The Native American Women's Health Education Resource Center - The Native American Women's Health Education Resource Center is a nonprofit organization that provides resources and information on a range of health issues affecting Native American women, including endometriosis. They also offer a range of services, including educational materials, advocacy, and support groups.

Disparities in Diagnosis and Care

Studies have shown that individuals of color, particularly Black individuals, face disparities in the diagnosis and care of endometriosis. 

Black individuals with endometriosis are more likely to experience pain and have a longer time to diagnosis compared to white individuals with endometriosis. They are less likely to receive minimally invasive surgery and more likely to undergo hysterectomy. 

Additionally, Black individuals with endometriosis are more likely to have a delayed diagnosis and be misdiagnosed with other conditions such as fibroids or pelvic inflammatory disease. These disparities may be due to a lack of awareness among healthcare providers, bias, discrimination, and systemic racism within the healthcare system.

These statistics highlight the disparities in diagnosis and care for endometriosis in Black individuals, and underscore the need for increased awareness, advocacy, and access to quality care. It’s crucial to address these disparities and ensure that all individuals, regardless of race or ethnicity, receive the same level of care and support for endometriosis.

‍Here are some resources that address these disparities:

‍The Endometriosis Foundation of America - The EFA has a page on their website dedicated to addressing disparities in endometriosis care for individuals of color. They provide information on why these disparities exist and what can be done to address them.

‍Black Women's Health Imperative - The Black Women's Health Imperative is an organization dedicated to improving the health and wellness of Black individuals. They provide resources and advocacy for a range of health issues, including endometriosis.

‍The Endometriosis Coalition - The Endometriosis Coalition is an organization that provides support and education for individuals with endometriosis, as well as advocacy for better diagnosis and care. They have a focus on addressing disparities in care for individuals of color.

Conclusion

Endometriosis Awareness Month is an important opportunity to increase understanding of this painful and often debilitating condition.

It's important to raise awareness about endometriosis not only to promote early diagnosis and treatment, but also to advocate for better healthcare and support for those struggling with this condition. This includes addressing disparities in diagnosis and care for people of color, who may face additional barriers to accessing quality healthcare and accommodations to what can be a debilitating condition. It's also important to connect with supportive communities and organizations, which can provide valuable resources, education, and advocacy.

By raising awareness, advocating for better care, and connecting with supportive communities, we can work to improve the lives of those who are affected by endometriosis. We encourage everyone to take the time to learn about this condition, support those who are affected by it, and take action to promote greater understanding and awareness.

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Allergies are a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. Symptoms occur when the immune system overreacts to certain substances such as pollen, dust, animal dander, or certain foods. 

Like other chronic health conditions, allergies can significantly impact quality of life, and have a big impact on our ability to perform at work and school. In fact, according to research published in the American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy, allergies and allergic rhinitis impact work productivity more than hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes. 

Luckily, there are several options for those struggling with the effects of allergies. In this post, we’ll discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for seasonal allergies.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies

The symptoms of seasonal allergies can vary depending on the person, but the most common symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Watery and itchy eyes
• Scratchy or sore throat
• Coughing
• Fatigue
• Headache

The symptoms can range from mild to severe and can greatly impact a person's quality of life. It’s essential to identify the triggers that cause these symptoms to manage them effectively. 

If you’re struggling with allergies and aren’t sure what’s triggering them, talk to your doctor. It might be time to see an immunologist. They can perform tests like blood tests or skin prick tests to help determine what you’re reacting to.

Causes of Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, are caused by allergens that are present during specific times of the year. The most common allergens that cause seasonal allergies are pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.

When these allergens enter the body, the immune system reacts by producing antibodies. These antibodies trigger the release of histamine, which causes the symptoms of seasonal allergies.

It’s important to note that not all allergies are seasonal. Some people have allergies to food, pets, and other things that affect them year round, all the time. In some cases, these allergies are severe enough to cause anaphylaxis — a life threatening condition. 

If you have a severe allergic reaction, it’s important to get emergency medical attention right away, and talk to your doctor about a prescription for epinephrine. 

Treatment Options for Seasonal Allergies

There are several treatment options available to manage seasonal allergies. The most common treatment options include:

1. Antihistamines - These are medications that block the release of histamine, reducing symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
2. Decongestants - These are medications that help reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.
3. Nasal corticosteroids - These are nasal sprays that reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, reducing symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, and runny nose.
4. Immunotherapy - This treatment involves exposing the body to small amounts of allergens over time, which can help reduce the severity of allergy symptoms.

In addition to medication, there are also several lifestyle changes that can help manage seasonal allergies. These include:

• Avoiding allergens by staying indoors when pollen counts are high
• Using air filters in the home to reduce the amount of allergens in the air
• Washing bedding and clothing frequently to remove allergens
• Using saline nasal sprays to help rinse allergens from the nasal passages

Conclusion

Seasonal allergies can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition to live with, but there are several treatment options available to manage the symptoms. It’s essential to identify the triggers that cause your allergies and work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to manage seasonal allergies and improve quality of life.

February 27 through March 5, 2023 is National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, 

“an annual campaign to educate the public about the realities of eating disorders and to provide hope, support, and visibility to individuals and families affected by eating disorders.”

Almost 30 million people in America struggle with eating disorders. And though eating disorders are common, they receive less funding and attention than many other mental health disorders, making support options hard to come by.

Eating disorder awareness is important so that individuals who are affected by them can get help. Eating disorders tend to get worse over time, and sometimes cause long-term health problems, but early identification of an eating disorder can mitigate long-term risks. 

Read on to learn how you can develop a healthy relationship with food and determine if you or someone you know may need help overcoming an eating disorder.

How do you know if you have an eating disorder?

Food is nourishment for all the complex processes your body needs to carry out. It provides energy, gives your brain fuel to think and dream, you even need food in the form of calories when you sit still and do nothing. But not everyone has a healthy relationship with food and recognizing an eating disorder can be challenging. If you find that you eat too much or too little, feel guilty when you eat, or struggle with any of the following symptoms, you should consider reaching out for help.

• Self-induced vomiting
• Taking laxatives, diuretics, or diet pills other than as prescribed by your doctor
• Chewing food then spitting it out in the trash or a napkin
• Obsessing about your food’s cleanliness
• Feeling overweight even when you lose weight or are at a healthy weight
• Obsessing about your body image
• Having low body weight
• Having impulsive or irregular eating habits such as a desire to eat only one type of food
• Misusing insulin normally prescribed for diabetics, even if you are diabetic
• Feeling depressed, anxious, guilty, or disgusted with yourself when you eat food
• Talking excessively about food
• Cooking food but then won’t eat it
• Are always low energy
• Recently suffered an emotional trauma and can’t eat because of it
• Don’t want to talk about what you eat, or don’t eat with others

If you or anyone you know is struggling with any of the above symptoms, or if you’d like more information on how to recognize an eating disorder, there are several free online tools available. 

Mental Health America has a free online screening tool here. And The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) has a free screening tool here for anyone ages 13 and up.  

For support, resources, or treatment options for yourself or a loved one who’s struggling with an eating disorder, you can contact the NEDA Helpline by calling or texting (800) 931-2237. You can also use their live chat option here.

Here’s how you can have a healthy relationship with food

Eating disorders are serious medical and mental health issues which can lead to long-term health problems. That’s why it’s important to speak up and spread awareness, but it’s also important to provide resources and support. 

And it’s important to talk about developing a healthy relationship with food to help prevent eating disorders from developing and to help those currently struggling. 

7 tips for developing healthy eating habits

1. Don’t binge eat and then diet. Do eat healthy meals, consistently, several times a day at the same time every day. Not only does binge eating wreak havoc on your hormones, excessive dieting following a binge can sometimes cause you to develop an eating disorder. 

While scientists are still learning to understand what exactly causes eating disorders, it's clear that people who struggle with anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorders have different brain chemistry than people who don’t, and that a binge-diet cycle can harm brain chemistry.

2. Make sure you're eating enough healthy calories. If you suffer from anorexia or bulimia, you could possibly have an unrealistic viewpoint of your body. This can cause you to refuse food or eat too little. For an accurate estimate of how many calories you should consume daily to stay healthy depending on your age, height, and activity levels, check this calorie counting tool. 
3. Eat mindfully. Develop healthy eating habits one day and one food at a time. Do you tend to sit in front of the television with a gallon of ice cream and all of a sudden you look down and it’s gone? Don’t lambast yourself for binging, just decide to eat more mindfully, taking time to savor what you eat, without watching TV, texting, or doing anything but savoring your food. Check in with your body after each bite, and ask yourself, “Have I had enough?” We tend to eat more when we’re distracted, so you can make sure you’re not binging by paying attention to the act of eating itself. 
4. Choose snacks wisely. Depending on your activity levels, you may need a snack to keep your blood sugar levels from dropping. Smaller meals throughout the day are sometimes essential for athletes, people with physically demanding jobs, or people who have larger caloric needs, such as when they're breastfeeding or pregnant. Harvard suggests a healthy snack if you anticipate going several hours without food and your blood sugar levels tend to fluctuate. If you get hungry in the evening, try eating complex carbohydrates or healthy fats rather than sugary snacks. Sugary snacks can spike your blood sugar, causing cortisol levels to increase. Cortisol is a stress hormone. It can cause a “wake up” signal to travel through the brain which disrupts your circadian rhythms, or natural sleep-wake cycles, making it impossible for your body to know when to sleep.
5. Get healthy sleep. A lack of sleep can cause disruptions in the creation of two important hunger hormones, ghrelin and leptin. One regulates when you feel full, and the other regulates your appetite. Without these hormones in balance, you’re more likely to overeat. There are also links between lack of sleep and obesity. Lack of sleep can also cause elevated stress levels, and some people react to stress by not eating enough. 
6. Write down your feelings instead of eating them. Food is a quick go-to for many people because it can relieve stress and provide relief from anxiety. When you eat sugary or starchy foods, it causes an instant serotonin and dopamine reward in the body. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating our mood, and dopamine is a similar chemical hormone that “rewards” us for certain actions we take. While you can get a quick fix from eating, it’s possible to become addicted to the fast dump of these neurochemicals without realizing that what you eat may cause a subsequent cascade of less than desirable stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Instead of getting your serotonin and dopamine from a binge session, try other positive habits that also regulate your mood and reward you with dopamine like expressing gratitude or doing light aerobic exercise.
7. Journal your food intake. Try keeping a log of what you eat in a week so that you have a realistic view of how much or little food you eat. If you write down the times you eat as well as what you eat, you’ll also sometimes notice patterns, like eating out of boredom at certain times in the day, or when you feel stressed. Once you’ve written down what you eat and when, sit with the information and determine if you might be eating too much or too little. If you tend to overeat, contemplate ways to do something to assuage your boredom that’s healthy instead, like spending time in nature, or talking to a good friend that makes you laugh. If you tend to eat too little, write down why you might be depriving yourself of life-giving food. Is there an underlying emotion that needs to surface?

How to get help for an eating disorder

If you think you or someone you know may have an eating disorder, you can get help. Reach out to a medical or mental health provider near you. 

If that isn’t an option for you, or it isn’t the right option, The National Eating Disorder Association has resources, support, and live help options.

There is hope

You can develop a healthy relationship with food even if you currently have an eating disorder. Be sure to reach out for help and try to slow down, eat mindfully, and give yourself time to process deeper emotions like sadness and grief by writing them in a journal. It can also help to keep a log of what and when you eat for a week, so you can have a realistic picture of your relationship with food and eating. If you or someone you love is suffering from an eating disorder, get help. You’re not alone.

Get more health and wellness tips. Download the app today.

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American Heart Month is recognized every February to bring awareness to the risk factors that cause heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. but in many cases, it’s preventable. 

Learn more about heart disease and what you can do to keep this vital organ going strong below.

What is heart disease?

Heart disease refers to a group of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. The most common type of heart disease in the U.S. is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) which affects blood flow to the heart and can lead to heart attack. 

Top 7 causes of heart disease 

Health means something different to each of us because we’re all unique, but knowing what factors lead to heart disease can help us make choices that help decrease our risk of developing a heart condition.

Some of the most common risk factors for developing heart disease are:

1. Smoking or tobacco use can cause coronary heart disease and irreparable damage to the heart. Second-hand smoke is also a concern. Smoking can cause plaque to develop within your blood vessels, making them narrower, and impeding the free flow of blood. Chemicals in cigarettes can also thicken arteries and cause clots in your veins.  
2. High blood pressure or hypertension strains the heart and can lead to cardiovascular complications. Diet,  lack of exercise, and stress are the number one causes of high blood pressure.
3. The consumption of too many lipoproteins, a type of soluble protein that combines with fat or other lipids in your blood plasma, can lead to heart disease. Trans fats are the most unhealthy and cause damage to the cardiovascular system.
4. Lack of exercise is a great contributor to heart disease. The movement of your body helps to move blood through your veins and keep your heart healthy. 
5. Diabetes is a risk-factor for heart disease. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and the nerves that support the heart. 
6. Thrombosis leads to heart disease. This is a condition when blood clots develop in the veins or arteries. 
7. Stress is a great contributor to lagging heart health. Irritability, depression, anxiety, rumination, and a lack of quality sleep can contribute to high blood pressure, leading to an increased risk of stroke or heart attack.

Signs of a heart attack

Don’t ignore cardiovascular symptoms. This includes heart attack symptoms like these:

• Pain, pressure, or squeezing in the chest, particularly the left side
• Pain in the upper body such as the shoulders, neck, upper stomach, arms, or even jaw
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling sick to your stomach or nausea
• Stomach ache or heartburn
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Feeling unusually tired
• Breaking out into a cold sweat

If you feel any of these symptoms, seek medical care immediately.

Follow these 5 heart health tips to improve your heart health

Now that you know what causes heart disease and the symptoms of acute cardiovascular failure, here are 5 tips to improve the health and vibrancy of your beautiful heart:

1. Practice good dental hygiene. Bacteria in your mouth can cause gum disease and can move into your bloodstream, causing an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease by increasing C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation in blood vessels. Floss and brush every day, and also use a mouthwash to dislodge small food particles from the gums and teeth. Eating leafy greens and fiber, as well as whole fruits and vegetables can also contribute to better oral hygiene and improved heart health.
2. Increase your daily exercise and don’t sit for too long. If you work at a computer, or have a sedentary job, research shows that even if you exercise regularly, sitting too long is connected to higher rates of cardiovascular disease, possibly causing deep vein thrombosis. Take frequent breaks, walk around, stretch, or even better, take a brief jaunt outside. Spending time in nature can reduce stress. As few as 20 minutes in a park can lower cortisol levels and improve your heart health. Cortisol is a stress hormone that’s linked to higher incidence of inflammation in your body. Also, just increasing moderate to vigorous cardiovascular exercise to at least 20 minutes daily can protect your heart. 
3. Quit smoking and stay away from second-hand smoke. Your risk of developing heart disease increases 25 to 30 percent if you are exposed to second-hand smoke. The risk is even higher for children. Nonsmokers who are exposed to smoke that have high blood pressure or high cholesterol are at greater risk of developing heart disease. The chemicals you inhale from second-hand smoke cause plaque buildup in your arteries, so stay away from second-hand smoke no matter what. If you smoke, you’re 2 to 4 times more likely to develop heart disease than non-smokers. Try to get help quitting the habit, or replace it with a heart-healthy habit like walking on your lunch break. BeTobaccoFree.gov offers great tips on quitting smoking including smoke-free apps and expert advice.
4. Reduce trans-fat. Fat isn’t the enemy of your heart, trans fats are. Both saturated and unsaturated fats are important for your health. Fats help the body absorb fat-soluble nutrients like Vitamins A, D, and E. You don't require trans-fats. These are highly processed fats that clog your arteries and raise bad cholesterol levels (LDL) while lowering good cholesterol (HDL). Trans fats are most often in processed foods like baked goods, snack foods, margarine, and fried foods. Avoid them and replace them with healthy fats found in foods like nuts, coconut, olive oil, and avocado.
5. Sleep better. Without ample sleep, your body cannot “clean house.” When you sleep, your body does important cleaning work, and reduces your overall stress burden, lowering stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. A lack of sufficient sleep causes increased inflammation and other hormonal imbalances in the body that contribute to cardiovascular disease and other diseases too. People who sleep fewer than 6 to 8 hours a night are twice as likely to have a stroke or heart attack as people who get ample sleep. For better sleep, turn off your cell phone and computer at least 2 hours prior to going to bed to prevent blue-light exposure, make your room slightly cooler, and hang black-out curtains to make your room as dark as possible. Also, try to go to sleep at the same time every night to develop good sleep hygiene. These good habits help regulate your circadian cycle and sleep-wake hormones. Your heart will thank you for better sleep.

Conclusion

While heart disease is the biggest killer in the US, there are actions you can take to reduce your risk today. Eat healthily, exercise, sleep better, reduce stress, and stop smoking to see vast improvements in your heart’s health.

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Keep track of your health with Evidation. Download the app today.

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Flu season typically peaks in February. If you spend time around other people, like working in close proximity to others or riding on crowded buses, chances are you’re likely to get it. But there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from catching the flu.

Here are some tips to help prevent catching the flu.

Influenza, more commonly referred to as the flu, is a viral respiratory infection that causes mild to severe symptoms. When you have the flu, you can expect headaches, sore throat, runny nose, and generalized body aches. Most people experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover within a week. But for some, especially those who are very young, older, or with underlying conditions that put them at higher risk, flu can be very dangerous. 

Get Vaccinated To Prevent Catching The Flu

Vaccines are a controversial topic for many people, especially after the recent COVID-19 pandemic and the drive to get COVID vaccines marred by anti-vaccine protests. But there’s a substantial amount of research on the safety of flu vaccines. And research indicates getting vaccinated is the safest and most reliable preventive measure you can take against getting the flu. 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that most people should be vaccinated yearly, especially those at a greater risk of developing complications from the flu. If you’re over 65 years or suffer from chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or cardiovascular illness, getting vaccinated should be a priority for you.

Avoid Large Crowds If You Can And Practice Good Hygiene

It may be unavoidable to avoid crowds. You have to work to survive, which means getting out and about among people. The flu spreads easily in crowded spaces like public transport, confined offices, schools, and even shopping malls. Try to limit the time you spend in those crowded spaces as much as possible during the peak months (from December to February) to avoid catching the flu.

The flu virus spreads person to person. 

You can get infected by being in close contact with an infected person, like hugging or spending time with them. The virus spreads through droplets the infected person breathes out during coughing, sneezing, or talking and lingers in the air you breathe before falling to the ground or the nearest horizontal surface. It can also spread through infectious particles that land on inanimate objects and surfaces in your environment. If you touch a contaminated surface, the virus can transfer to your hands, and if you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, the virus can enter your body. 

To prevent getting infected by the flu virus lurking in your environment, wash or sanitize your hands often, and avoid touching your face.

Always sanitize your hands after touching surfaces in public areas like door handles, handrails, and counters or after using public transport. COVID-19 has taught us to always carry a small bottle of sanitizer with us whenever we leave the house, and it can now be used to help prevent flu.

Wash your hands often throughout the day to reduce the number of flu and other pathogens present on your skin. Good hand hygiene practices go a long way to preventing flu and other diseases. Always wash your hands after using the toilet, before preparing or eating food, and after blowing your nose. 

How To Prevent The Flu With A Strong Immune System

A strong immune system helps you fight illness-causing germs before they invade your body cells and multiply, triggering symptoms to develop.

To ensure that your immune system can fight off the flu virus and turn your body into a flu-prevention machine, try to follow a healthy lifestyle to ensure your body is as strong as it can be. 

A healthy lifestyle includes things like:

• Getting enough sleep. A great night’s sleep makes you feel better and helps your body fight off infections. General guidelines recommend that adults should sleep 7-9 hours each night.
• Eating a well-balanced diet. A diet that includes multiple healthy food groups, like lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, is extremely beneficial to building a strong immune system. And don’t forget to stay hydrated. For healthy individuals, the recommendation is at least 8 glasses of water a day to help your kidneys flush out all toxins and keep you healthy. If you have kidney disease or other health factors that limit how much water you’re able to drink each day, talk to your healthcare provider to help you determine how much water is right for you.
• Taking time to exercise. Exercise helps reduce weight, keep your muscles strong, and increases your resistance to infections. Try to exercise at least 30 minutes at least three times a week or do any other brisk activity that raises your heart rate. As always, seek the advice of your healthcare provider before starting or increasing your exercise routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
• Relaxing. Reducing stress is super important to maintaining a healthy immune system. You can use meditation and deep breathing to get rid of stress. Or take up a hobby that makes you feel happy when you’re doing it. Even a relaxing bath after getting home from work can be sufficient to relax and unwind. High-stress levels can lead to a weakened immune system and a higher likelihood of contracting flu virus.
• Take vitamin supplements. Taking supplements is not a replacement for following a healthy diet but can offer an additional boost to your immune system. You can take supplements containing zinc, Vit D, and Vit C to help protect yourself from the flu. Be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist first if you’re on prescription medications to make sure there are no contraindications before starting any new supplements.

Include More Fiber In Your Diet For Flu Prevention

As weird as it may sound, adding more insoluble fiber to your diet may help protect you from severe flu complications this year.

Dietary fiber has been known to protect against allergic airway inflammation. Since the virus often attacks human airways, and one of the most serious complications of flu is pneumonia, it may be possible that adding insoluble fiber to your diet, especially during the flu season, may add some protection against some of the severe complications of the flu.

A study done on mice at the University of Lausanne, Switzerland, in 2018 has shown a clear link. According to the study’s findings, eating more insoluble fiber produces a potential protective effect against flu pathology. In the study, two sets of mice were observed after exposure to the Influenza A virus. One set of mice was fed a low-fiber diet, while the others received a high-fiber diet. The mice who received the high-fiber diet exhibited milder flu symptoms and better lung function. Researchers concluded that the high-fiber-fed mice were better protected against influenza-induced tissue destruction and lethality.

Try adding more high-fiber foods like cauliflower, beans, and nuts to your diet this flu season. Another small diet change you could consider is swapping that white flour bagel for a slice of whole wheat toast.

To Summarize

You can protect yourself and others by actively taking flu prevention measures. By getting vaccinated, staying home more often during the height of the flu season, following a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system, and remembering to wash your hands regularly, you can help stop the spread of flu.

FluSmart on Evidation

For more tips on staying healthy this flu season, and to stay up to date on flu rates in your area, download the Evidation app and join the FluSmart program.

More about FluSmart:

• FluSmart is a program that looks for changes in your activity data from wearable devices and alerts you when a change suggests you may be feeling under the weather.
• The goal is to understand whether changes in activity patterns can identify symptoms of influenza-like illness, but you can also report symptoms even if you don’t have a wearable device.
• You may also be eligible to participate in health research. You can opt out of the program at any time.

Winter is a fun and exciting season. Between holidays, family gatherings, and outdoor fun, it’s essential to take care of yourself and your general wellness. However, one of the most important health factors we often tend to overlook is our eye health. 

Optical health is always important, but it’s even more crucial to focus on during the winter season. With colder and drier weather, our eyes can react differently and experience irritation. This can not only cause distractions but impair your vision as well. 

Next time you get ready to spend an extended period of time outdoors or have a social gathering, consider these essentials to help better your eye health. 

Utilize Eye Drops

Eye drops can be a lifesaver during colder weather. Unfortunately, during this time of the year, eyes can become red and dry. When your eyes experience this kind of irritation, it can be a huge inconvenience and can even cause difficulty with your vision. 

Having eye drops available in your purse, pocket, or work bag can be a game changer. Especially when you factor in the irritation that your eyes can get from looking at digital screens, eye moisturizing is crucial. 

Depending on the level of irritation or impairment you experience, eye drops may help. Some have extra hydrating qualities to help make the effects last longer, whereas others focus specifically on combating redness and itchiness or enhancing clarity. 

Prioritize Sleep

It may sound self-explanatory, but getting a good night’s sleep is one of the best things you can do for your eye health and overall wellness in general. Many may struggle with getting enough sleep, especially during this time of year. However, it’s important to get enough rest in order to keep yourself in good health. 

Maintaining a good sleep schedule is key to both maintaining and improving your health. Your eyes need just as much rest as the other parts of your body.

Being properly rested can help reduce some of the day-to-day irritations your eyes may experience. For example, eye twitching or redness can occur due to lack of sleep. Although it may be difficult during the busy winter season, your body will thank you for prioritizing rest and relaxation.

Use Anti-Fog Lens Spray

If you usually wear eyewear, you know that foggy lenses are all too common this time of year. Additionally, wearing a mask can add an additional cloudiness to your glasses. Trying to prevent your lenses from fogging up can be a challenge, but luckily there are ways to help keep your vision clear and crisp. 

Anti-fog lens spray is a great item to keep on you this time of year. Whether you experience fogging from a change in temperature or from wearing a mask with your glasses, this essential can help minimize any distractions that may be caused by your lenses blurring up.

It doesn’t matter if you’re wearing eyeglasses or sunglasses, it’s important to take precautions to keep glasses from fogging if and when wearing a mask. Consider investing in an anti-fog protectant as this can benefit both your sight and extend the life of your lenses. This handy essential also helps to prevent any blurs or spots on your eyewear, ensuring that your vision is crystal clear. 

Be Conscious of Pre-Existing Conditions

When you already have trouble with your vision or are visually impaired, winter can be a trying time for optimizing your eye health. With the additional dryness and irritation you can experience during this season, it's crucial to keep your eyes both healthy and hydrated.

Our eyes can often play tricks on us when they face different conditions, which is why it's important to be conscious and aware of your surroundings. Using contrasting colors to help with definition can make a huge difference in noticing and searching for objects.

Additionally, having a magnifying glass or labeling items with a larger font can be a huge help for you during this time of year. Many everyday objects often contain small and hard-to-read lettering on their labels, so having one of these solutions handy and available to use can be a lifesaver whether you're at home or in a grocery store.

Incorporate a Healthy Diet

Having a healthy diet can play a huge role in benefitting your eye health. Your eyes give you the opportunity to witness amazing things, so you want to make sure you’re taking good care of them. Luckily, there are many seasonal fruits and vegetables you can incorporate into your diet to help improve your eye health. 

Foods such as carrots, salmon, and kale all have nutritious properties that benefit your eye health directly. For example, carrots contain ingredients that help boost the Vitamin A in our bodies, which positively impacts vision. 

Salmon is another great option to help benefit your eye health. Many fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are extremely beneficial when it comes to maintaining healthy eyes. 

Wash Your Hands

It’s almost impossible not to hear about the importance of keeping clean hands, especially during the winter. Unfortunately, viruses, such as the common cold and flu, are much more prevalent during this season – and it’s often hard to avoid coming in contact with someone who’s experiencing symptoms. Especially if you’re in a school, office, or public setting. 

All too often, we touch the areas around our eyes—most of the time without even realizing we’re doing it. For many, it’s just a habit. However, the eyes are an entryway into the body, and germs can be transmitted simply by touching or rubbing your eyes with dirty hands. 

Remember to wash your hands frequently throughout the day, especially if you’re going to touch your face. With the dry weather, you may also want to look into a nice hand lotion to pair with this ritual. This will assure your skin is clean and hydrated during the cold weather. 

For many, winter is an extremely fun season, and you want to experience it in the best way possible. Although the weather may not be kind to your eye health, there are many preventative measures you can take to help. 

Taking time to remember to wash your hands, rest, eat healthily, and keep extra preventative gear on hand can help make these moments much brighter and clearer for you to remember. 

If you enjoyed this article, feel free to share it with your friends and family!

Toxins are everywhere—from the air we breathe and the food we eat, to the water we drink and the products we use.

But what are toxins exactly? A toxin is a naturally occurring substance that can act as a poison to living things. While small doses may not trigger a reaction, large amounts or exposure over an extended period of time can be detrimental to your health.

• But what are toxins?
• How do they impact your health?
• Can you be exposed at home?
• Can you be exposed at work?

Read on to learn more about these common toxins, as well as how you can limit exposures at home and at work.

What are common toxins?

Mercury

Mercury is a naturally occurring element in the Earth's crust. In the past, mercury was mostly used in thermometers and electrical devices, but now it can be found elsewhere. Mercury is commonly found in seafood, especially swordfish, shark, and marlin among other species of fish. Why seafood? Past and current industrialization has increased the amount of naturally occurring mercury in the environment. It makes its way into soil and water sources, eventually ending up in the bodies of fish and widely eaten marine life. 

Asbestos

Asbestos is a natural silicate mineral that forms tiny, long-lasting, and heat-resistant fibers. Asbestos has been used in a multitude of building materials—including ceiling and flooring tiles, roofing shingles, and insulation. 

What are the main concerns with asbestos?

1. Small amounts of asbestos are still used in thousands of everyday products. If a product contains less than 1% of asbestos, manufacturers do not have to disclose it on the packaging. 
2. Buildings and structures constructed before the 1980s are likely to still contain higher amounts of asbestos in the building materials. If the asbestos is disturbed, the fibers can become airborne and expose those in near proximity. 

Lead

Lead is a soft and malleable metal also found in the Earth’s crust. It was often used in pipes, as well as paint, but most commonly used in car batteries. While banned for commercial use in 1979, industrial use of lead can still be found throughout the automotive and construction industries.

How do they impact your health?

Mercury

Toxic to humans, mercury poisoning often occurs with blood mercury levels above 100 ng/mL. Mercury is known to specifically attack the brain, kidneys, and lungs. Symptoms of this poisoning can include tremors, memory loss, body numbness, and the loss of motor functions. Another common early warning sign is a metallic taste in the mouth.

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Is it curable?

Mercury can stay in your body for years, and mercury poisoning is not technically curable. There are ways to treat it, however, like chelation therapy. When the drug is injected into the body, it binds the metal in the blood and allows it to pass through the kidneys and leave the body through urine. 

Asbestos

Leading up to the 1980s, asbestos’ strength and heat-resistant characteristics made it a popular additive in many household products. Although it’s known to contribute to serious and terminal health conditions like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer, it’s still not fully banned in the United States. Signs and symptoms of these illnesses are shortness of breath, chest pains, constant cough, and fatigue. 

‍Is it curable?

Unfortunately, the damage asbestos does to the lungs cannot be reversed or cured. The strong fibers that made asbestos so desirable are now known to cause irreparable damage when inside the lungs. The foreign fibers irritate the lung tissue causing scarring; as the scarring progresses and fibers stiffen, the lungs cannot expand and contract at a livable rate. Common treatments to combat mesothelioma and lung cancers are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Lead 

High exposure to or ingestion of lead can cause a multitude of health problems, including kidney damage, brain damage, and anemia. Young children are especially susceptible to lead poisoning. In fact, 1 in 40 children under the age of 5 has unsafe blood lead levels. Signs of this can include constant irritability, developmental delays, and loss of appetite. 

‍Is it curable?

Similar to mercury poisoning, the effects of lead poisoning are irreversible. However, there are treatments that can get the level of lead in the blood back to normal, including chelation therapy. Also, determining the source of lead and removing it from your space or routine can help limit further exposure.

Where can you be exposed at home?

Some exposures are easier to avoid than others, however, educating yourself is the first step in possible prevention. 

First off, be conscious of your food choices. As we previously mentioned, certain kinds of seafood like swordfish carry high levels of mercury. Avoid eating these foods or only eat them on rare occasions to reduce the amount of mercury you're knowingly consuming. 

Aside from asbestos in the materials of the home itself, you may also be bringing it home in the products you buy. For example, talc and asbestos have been known to form together while mined, and consumers claim to be unknowingly exposing themselves and their families to these toxins. 

On a similar note, paint on both walls and on items can pose a threat if it contains lead. Lead paint was often used before the 1980s, and peeling or cracking of lead paint can release the toxins into the air. Although lead paint has been banned in the U.S., it’s still widely used in other countries. Both antique U.S.-made toys and toys from other countries pose the risk of lead-containing paint.

Where can you be exposed at work?

In the same way you can be exposed at home, there are certain professions that pose a higher risk of toxin exposure at work. 

School

For those who work in education, it’s important to note that a stunning one-third of U.S. schools contain asbestos. Especially for schools built before 1980, there is a high chance it’s somewhere on the property. If no renovations or remodels have taken place, asbestos was likely not removed and replaced. When disturbed, exposure can come from loose tiles, disturbed drywall or insulation, or roofing shingles. Over the past few years, multiple schools have also discovered that old synthetic flooring gives off mercury vapors as it breaks down, which can contaminate an entire building. 

Trades

Trade professionals in welding, auto mechanics, or construction are actually among those with the highest risk of toxic exposure. Lead pipes are still widely found across the U.S., and welders have a high risk of lead poisoning if proper protection isn’t used. Auto mechanics can be exposed to asbestos on car parts like brake pads, and construction workers likely come into contact with asbestos and lead anytime they do work on a house built before 1980. 

Military

In recent years, it's been found that many military bases had toxic exposures which ultimately caused veterans to become terminally ill. From Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base in North Carolina, and hundreds in between, groundwater contamination has exposed millions of military personnel to a multitude of toxins. Many of these chemicals made their way into the groundwater through the use of toxic firefighting foams, which have now been banned in certain states. Outside of bases, concentrated amounts of lead were used in indoor firing ranges, and mercury was used in batteries and other tactical gear.

Conclusion

While toxins may not be completely avoidable, the more you know about them the better. 

Be sure to educate yourself on your home, environment, and workplace. And make smart purchasing decisions to avoid any unnecessary exposures to you and your family.

Early detection is key, so if you feel you’ve been exposed to toxins or are experiencing some of the mentioned side effects, contact a medical professional right away. Building experts are also available to test for toxins around the home— to give you peace of mind and reduce future exposures.

If you found this helpful, please share it with others to help keep your neighbors and your friends safe!

November is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) awareness month. COPD is an umbrella term describing progressive lung diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis. 

According to John Hopkins Medicine, “COPD affects more than 24 million Americans, yet many don’t even know they have it.” 

In today’s article, we’ll cover:

• What COPD is
• What causes it
• Symptoms and signs
• How it’s diagnosed 
• Treatment options

Read on to learn more about COPD and how to take part in COPD awareness month.

What is COPD?

‍COPD is a chronic lung disease caused by long-term exposure to irritants. These irritants can lead to scarring and narrowing of the airways, destruction of the alveoli, and excess mucus buildup—all of which make it difficult to breathe.  

Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the most common conditions that lead to COPD.

• Emphysema occurs when alveoli—the air sacs in the lungs—become damaged. Over time, the air sacs can rupture, creating larger air spaces instead of many small ones. This reduces the surface area of the lungs and the amount of oxygen entering the bloodstream. 
• Chronic bronchitis is long-term inflammation of the bronchi. Bronchi are large air passages that send air from the windpipe (trachea) to the lungs. This inflammation causes excess mucus production, among other things.

What causes COPD?

Smoking is the leading cause of COPD in developed countries. 

Worldwide, indoor air pollution—due to smoke from cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes—causes the majority of COPD cases, particularly in developing nations. 

While cigarette smoking is the major cause of COPD in the US, physicians have discovered that some people are at higher risk for COPD because they never developed completely “healthy lungs.” 

‍Why do some people not develop healthy lungs? 

Exposure to second-hand smoke or air pollution as a child or before birth can impair lung growth. Respiratory infections in childhood may also impact lung development. 

This means that those exposed to irritants during their early development can be more susceptible to the toxic effects of tobacco smoke and COPD.

Symptoms

‍What are common symptoms associated with COPD?

Symptoms of COPD are often missed until significant lung damage has occurred. Early on in the course of the disease, people may feel out of breath during exercise and chalk it up to being out of shape. Symptoms often worsen over time, especially with continued exposure to smoke or other irritants. 

Symptoms of COPD may include: 

• Wheezing
• Lack of energy
• Chest tightness
• Swelling in feet, legs, or ankles
• Recurring respiratory infections 
• Unintended weight loss in later stages
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• Chronic coughing that may produce mucus (sputum) that’s clear, white, yellow, or greenish

After developing COPD, exposure to smoke, allergies, or illness can lead to episodes called exacerbations. During an exacerbation, symptoms become worse, even life threatening, and may continue for several days or weeks.  

How is COPD diagnosed? 

Many individuals aren’t properly diagnosed until the condition is fairly advanced.

To diagnose COPD, a doctor will look for the usual signs and symptoms. They’ll also ask about medical and family history and any past exposure to lung irritants. 

Afterward, there are several tests a doctor may order to diagnose the condition. Tests may include:

• CT scans to help detect emphysema and assist in determining if a patient could benefit from surgery.
• Chest X-rays to identify emphysema and rule out heart failure and other potential lung problems.
• Laboratory tests may be used to determine the cause of symptoms and rule out any other possible conditions.
• Arterial blood gas analysis, a blood test, to measure how well the lungs bring oxygen into the blood and remove carbon dioxide. 
• Lung (pulmonary) function tests to measure the amount of air inhaled and exhaled and whether the lungs are delivering enough oxygen to the blood. During a spirometry test (the most common pulmonary function test), a person blows into a tube connected to a machine. The machine then measures how much air the lungs can hold, and how fast the person can blow out air from their lungs.

Treatment options 

Those with mild forms of COPD may need little intervention other than quitting smoking and avoiding air pollutants.

‍In more advanced stages, treatment can help:‍

• Control symptoms
• Slow disease progression 
• Improve the ability to live an active life
• Reduce the risk of complications and exacerbations 

If you’re a smoker, the most important step is to quit smoking to help avoid making the condition worse.

Your doctor can suggest the right interventions and medications, and help you learn how to handle relapses. Treatments include:

• Medications: Bronchodilators and oral steroids are the most common medications. Bronchodilators help relax the muscles around the airways, which can make breathing easier by relieving coughing and shortness of breath. When COPD becomes more severe (during exacerbations), oral corticosteroids can be used to reduce inflammation and prevent worsening symptoms. 
• Lung therapies: People with moderate to severe COPD may receive oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation programs (PRP). Oxygen therapy can help boost oxygen levels in the blood. Some people need oxygen therapy devices all day, while others use them only during activities or sleep. PRPs combine counseling, nutrition advice, and exercise training in an effort to reduce visits to the hospital, increase the ability to do daily activities, and improve quality of life. 
• Surgery: When medications don’t provide relief, people may receive a lung volume reduction surgery, where small wedges of damaged tissue in the upper lungs are removed. For some people, this surgery can improve their quality of life and prolong survival. A complete lung transplant may be possible for people who meet certain criteria. A lung transplant can help people breathe and be active. However, it’s a major operation, and has many risks involved, including lifelong side effects of immune-suppressing medications. 

How to take part during national COPD awareness month

COPD is responsible for the loss of over 150,000 people each year in the United States. Despite this, COPD is ranked 176th for research funding. 

Here are three ways you can take part to help with COPD awareness: ‍

• Educate yourself about COPD, what causes it, the symptoms and signs, and how it’s treated.
• Tell people you know about what you’ve learned to spread awareness.
• Share articles like this one on social media so others can learn about the risks and causes of COPD.