Posted on

Make a fashion statement … with hearing aids?

2018-10-03T12:01:00

(BPT) – When thinking about fashionable accessories, images of jewelry, scarves, ties or glasses may come to mind. You might even think of the growing number of wearable technology options like earbuds or smartwatches, offering useful and sleek accessories. In any case, hearing aids are often the last thing people think of when it comes to fashion.

Why aren’t hearing aids fashionable?

Unlike glasses, which despite being an assistive medical device have achieved the status of fashion accessory, hearing aids are still perceived as making their wearers seem old or out of touch. The reason may be that unlike hearing aids, glasses have evolved over the decades. They now come in a wide range of styles, sizes and colors, giving people an almost endless variety of options to express themselves. Hearing aids, however, have remained relatively unchanged — retaining their thick, clunky, teardrop shape.

The combination of limited options and negative connotations contributes to the reality that most people with hearing loss choose not to seek treatment. Instead, they’ll simply live with it and continue to miss out on the important sounds of life.

But what if hearing aids were designed with style in mind? What if hearing aids could be reimagined into fashionable, cool accessories that help you hear, rather than outdated medical devices? Some of the newest hearing aids on the market may provide a solution.

Hearing aids with a design-first approach

The reason for the typical hearing aid shape is due to necessity, a result of having to fit the round, coin-shaped batteries inside the casing. However, by rethinking the hearing aid shape design-first, it’s possible to change that form entirely. The first step is to create a slim and sleek hearing aid shell that looks good, and then develop a new, narrow battery to fit inside. The result is a skinnier hearing aid that sits comfortably behind the ears — and looks nothing like the traditional model.

Modern color palette

Another common complaint about hearing aids is the color, since many people think of the unappealing beige hearing aids their grandparents wore. Although hearing aids today come in a wide range of colors to match their wearers’ hair color or skin tone, these choices are all designed with one goal — for the hearing aids to blend in. But some of the latest hearing aids come in bold colors to make them stand out.

By using cool, modern colors, like rose gold, cosmic blue and snow white, hearing aids look more like those earbuds and smartwatches that people like to wear and love to show off. These bold colors enable people with hearing loss to project their own style with the colors that best match their personality and fashion sense.

Greater convenience

Of course, fashion isn’t just how you dress or accessorize — it’s also about your lifestyle. In today’s world, many of us lead busy, active lives and don’t want to be slowed down by having to take care of hearing aids. That’s why rechargeability is a must-have for today’s hearing aid wearers. The same battery that enables the newest hearing aids’ sleek shape is rechargeable, meaning you can be confident your hearing aids will be fully charged each day. That way, you don’t have to worry about them running out of power while you go about your day, or have to stop what you’re doing to change tiny batteries.

Better hearing is always in style

While creating hearing aids as modern, fashionable devices can help convince more people with hearing loss to wear them, equally important is that they maintain their primary function — to help people hear. In addition to revolutionary design, the latest hearing aids also deliver a wide range of features to provide superior hearing in any situation, from understanding other people even in noisy environments to hearing your own voice as naturally as possible.

Although hearing aid technology has changed dramatically over the years, the appearance of the devices has not. However, the latest hearing aids on the market have disrupted this trend with new models people can be proud to wear, while showing off their style. For more information, visit www.signiausa.com/styletto.


Posted on

A guide to getting your home and yard winter-ready

2018-10-03T14:25:00

(BPT) – As the winter months approach, there’s much to anticipate: hot drinks, football games and getting cozy on those long, chilly nights. While homeowners can enjoy the comfort of the indoors, it’s still important to ensure their property is well prepared — inside and out — for chillier temperatures, ice or snow during the fall and winter seasons.

Use this checklist to ensure your house is ready for cold weather.

Fix the cracks

Before temperatures really dip, check for and seal off cracks and gaps in the home to help keep heating bills down. Walk the perimeter of the house, using caulk to fix any cracks in the foundation, steps and windows. This is also a good time to repair cracks in the driveway and walkway to keep ice from widening them in the winter months.

Feed the lawn now for thicker grass in the spring

When it comes to lawn care, the mix of warm soil and cooler air creates ideal conditions for thickening a thin lawn. If you live in a cooler climate and your lawn has grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, perennial ryegrass, or tall fescue, make the most of the opportunity and apply Scotts(R) Turf Builder(R) Thick’R(TM) Lawn. This 3-in-1 solution seeds to fill in gaps, feeds for thicker, greener turf, and improves soil for enhanced root development.

Watch for rodents

The last thing people want while relaxing indoors is to find unwanted guests like mice nesting in the basement or garage. These rodents are unsanitary and can damage wiring, insulation and wood. To deter mice, store food — especially pet food and wild bird seed — in hard containers with fitted lids. If there are signs of mouse activity, set a trap and check and empty it regularly. If you don’t want to dispose of dead rodents, Tomcat(R) Mouse Killer Child & Dog Resistant, Refillable Station makes it easier by killing up to 12 mice per 1-ounce bait block, based on no-choice laboratory testing. Because this bait station is weather resistant, it’s great for indoor and outdoor use.

Tune up the furnace

A furnace needs a check-up in the fall to ensure it is free of mechanical issues that could cascade into a full breakdown. For a relatively low fee, an HVAC technician can perform a top-to-bottom inspection and tune-up to make sure it’s ready to keep everyone warm all season long. After inspection, maximize efficiency by changing the filters regularly and vacuuming the registers.

Clear debris from gutters and drain spouts

In the fall, homeowners should clear leaves and other debris from gutters and drain sprouts. Otherwise, blockages can form, leading to water backups that damage the roof and cause dangerous icicles to form. A ladder, work gloves, trowel and container to catch debris are all the tools needed to get the job done in an afternoon. It’s messy work, but it’s a sure way to prevent many colder weather headaches.

Getting your home in shape now will not only keep it running smoothly during the cold weather but will give you peace of mind while enjoying fall activities.


Posted on

5 steps to building and designing a sustainable, energy-efficient home

2018-10-03T17:03:00

(BPT) – Sponsored Ad Content by Clayton.

For the 21st-century home, building with environmental sustainability in mind is a must. A sustainable, energy-efficient home makes the most effective use of building materials and natural energy. Many home builders look for new ways to ensure energy-efficiency measures are incorporated into their home features and construction methods. This not only saves money in the long run for the homeowner, but also reduces the impact the home has on the environment. Are you looking to build a sustainable home? Here are some options to consider:

Smart thermostats

For many builders, smart thermostats are the standard offer in new homes and are included in the floor plan to create energy savings over time. This smart technology can sync up with the homeowner’s mobile device to show real-time settings, goals and energy usage stats. Smart thermostats can be programmed to have set temperatures throughout the day to save energy when you’re not at home. For example, Clayton, one of the leading builders of prefabricated and site-built homes, has started including ecobee3 lite smart thermostats in all newly built prefabricated homes. ecobee is the inventor of the world’s first Wi-Fi smart thermostat and a leader in the smart home space. Smart thermostats are designed to improve comfort and efficiency, while saving homeowners on monthly utility costs and reducing their footprint on the environment.

Low-emission windows

Low-emission (Low-e) windows are designed with two glass panes to help block UV rays from entering the home during the day. By blocking UV rays from entering the home’s interior, the windows can help regulate the indoor temperature. Without this technology, the home’s HVAC system ends up fighting against the heat of the sun, especially during the hot summer months. Low-­e windows allow less heat to enter or leave your home through your windows and reduce the light’s ability to wash out colors in home fabrics. Low-e windows can help reduce UV-­induced fading of indoor furniture by as much as 75 percent, as reported by Energy.gov.

Green building practices

Green building practices, such as recycling and dust control, can divert several tons of landfill waste every year which has a positive impact on the environment. Efficient home construction methods that result in less construction waste help the future homebuyer save money by lowering the overall cost to construct the home. Sustainability is one of the core values of Clayton, where the company has adopted internationally recognized ISO 14001 green building standards for its home building facilities. This home builder closely monitors its waste usage and in 2017, the company was able to divert 17,476 tons of landfill waste using these green practices.

Drought-intolerant landscapes

It’s not just the building processes and materials that make a home sustainable. The overall landscape also makes an impact. Try methods like drip irrigation to cut down on wasteful watering. A drip irrigation system slowly drips water directly onto your lawn and garden through pipes that run along your yard.

Eco-friendly habits

Environmental sustainability is a lifestyle — there are many easy habits you can incorporate into your daily routine that won’t cost a dime. Simple changes like unplugging your electronics when they’re not in use, turning your thermostat down (or even replacing with a smart thermostat) and turning off the water while you brush your teeth can go a long way. Adopting habits like these is the next step to having a sustainable, energy efficient home, while keeping more money in your pocket to spend on yourself!

When you buy a home that was built with sustainability in mind, you’ll save energy while helping to protect the environment.

These eco-friendly methods will help you create a happy, healthy home. For more tips, visit claytonhomes.com.


Posted on

Life-saving dialysis at 19 leads to career in nursing

2018-10-03T17:13:00

(BPT) – When Fallon Bell was 19, she was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, the same disease that her mother and aunt lived with. Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, is when a person’s kidneys no longer provide the function of filtering toxins from the blood. Shortly after her diagnosis, Bell began dialysis, which performed the function of her kidneys. Dialysis is a necessary, life-saving treatment when the kidneys are no longer able to function, but can be demanding because patients usually require treatment three times a week, four hours at a time.

Bell continued to dialyze while working full-time and finishing her bachelor’s degree in business. She continued her treatment for six years until her name was chosen from the kidney transplant list. Bell received her first kidney transplant, but felt there was still something missing in her life. Her experiences with dialysis ignited a passion. Bell wanted to be a nurse, so she went back to school and worked toward becoming a registered nurse.

Nursing school was like nothing Bell had experienced. She spent countless hours in the library and long hours in hospitals training. Bell was so close to her nursing degree, she could taste it. However, two months before she was set to graduate, her body rejected her kidney transplant and Bell was forced to go back on dialysis treatment and on the kidney transplant list. Even though Bell had to begin dialysis again, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Bell didn’t let the hours of treatment stop her plan. She worked tirelessly during her 12-hour night shifts in the hospital and then immediately followed it with her own dialysis treatment. Bell dialyzed at a DaVita® dialysis center, which was flexible with her busy nursing schedule. She became enthralled with the team and began to ask them questions about dialysis. One afternoon, Bell received a phone call; she matched with a kidney donor. She received her transplant and was able to stop dialysis.

As Bell continued her work as a nurse, she realized the passion she had to be part of the DaVita community. Being a patient on and off, she understood the triumphs and tribulations of requiring dialysis treatment multiple times a week. She acknowledges that providing high-quality care for her patients has always been her vocation and she continues to work for DaVita Kidney Care in Chicago as a peritoneal dialysis nurse. She gets the chance to give back to patients, just as her teammates were able to do for her years before.

To learn more, visit Careers.DaVita.comNursing.


Posted on

Dual Special Needs Plans help people enrolled in Medicare get additional benefits

2018-10-02T09:11:00

(BPT) – The fall season brings cooler temperatures, colorful foliage and Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period. Held each year from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, this is the ideal time to explore health care plans so you can choose the right one to help you maintain your benefits for better health all year long.

By combining Medicare benefits for people with financial need (or on Medicaid), some applicants may be eligible to enroll in a Dual Special Needs Plan — or dual plan for short — that offers additional benefits and features such as dental, hearing and vision coverage. With a dual plan, beneficiaries may also receive transportation to health care appointments and help to purchase approved health items. Most importantly, they will have someone to help them manage and coordinate their care. All of these additional benefits and features may be available at no additional cost.

However, about 80 percent of people who qualify for dual plans are unaware of this option, according to Karyne Jones, president and CEO of the National Caucus and Center on Black Aging. “It’s important that everyone knows what they qualify for so they can maximize benefits to help save money and improve their health, which can help for a more secure and active future as a person ages,” she said.

DSNP basics

A Dual Special Needs Plan is a type of Medicare Advantage plan that provides health benefits for people with income limitations who may need extra help because of disabilities, health conditions or age. Dual plans encourage everyone involved in caring for a patient — including primary care doctors, specialists, hospitals and care managers — to work together. This can help improve the patient’s health as well as their experience with the health care system.

It’s important that people who qualify know that they may be missing out on additional benefits that a dual plan can offer. Navigating health plan offerings can be challenging, so it’s important for people to understand their choices and whether they qualify for more benefits. Although requirements vary from state to state and by circumstances, an individual making less than $16,000 a year or a family of two making less than $21,000 a year may qualify.

How are DSNPs unique?

In addition to helping manage and coordinate care, dual plans offer additional benefits including:

* dental care, such as exams, X-rays, cleanings, fillings, crowns and extractions;

* credits to purchase over-the-counter health products such as vitamins and first-aid supplies;

* hearing exams and access to hearing aids at a reduced cost;

* an annual eye exam and a credit for eye wear; and

* transportation to health care visits and the pharmacy.

Beyond the benefits, dual plans are designed to be budget-friendly. People who are eligible for a dual plan can usually enroll for no monthly premium.

When to enroll?

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is a great time for people to consider their health plan options and see if they qualify for a dual plan. However, people who qualify for a dual plan can enroll or switch to a new plan at certain times throughout the year, not just during the Annual Enrollment Period.

To learn more about UnitedHealthcare’s dual health plans, call 1-855-799-3199, TTY 711, or visit www.getdual.com. UnitedHealthcare is the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans, including DSNPs.

“More than 2 million people were enrolled in a dual plan in 2017, which represents 3 percent of all people enrolled in Medicare,” said Jones. “By spreading the word about these plans the hope is more people will enroll and take advantage of important health care benefits in 2018 and beyond.”

Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a contract with the State Medicaid Program. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare.

“Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a contract with the State Medicaid Program. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare.“


Posted on

Go pro: 5 times to seek professional financial advice

2018-10-03T09:01:00

(BPT) – While many believe only the wealthy need financial professionals, the truth is that hiring such key advisors may help pay for itself financially and bring you peace of mind — regardless of your economic status.

Whether you’re just starting out in your professional life or nearing retirement, an experienced financial professional can act as an important source of information, explaining options and helping steer you toward smart decisions.

Consider how these five life stages can be important times to seek professional guidance and advice about your financial future.

You’re saving for college tuition

It’s no secret today’s college costs can be astronomical, but of course most parents want to provide their children as many advantages as possible. The earlier in your kids’ lives you begin investing, the faster their college fund(s) can accrue. A professional can help decipher the best methods for helping make that happen.

You’re getting ready to retire: Now what?

Only 50 percent of Americans have socked away more than $10,000 for retirement so far, reports the American Payroll Association. But even if you’re nearing 50 and have a minimal amount in your retirement fund, it’s not too late to start building wealth for your future and preparing for how to make it last. Whether you plan for lifetime income via an annuity or opt for another savings vehicle as part of your retirement strategy, a professional can assess your situation and develop a strategy with the goal of a comfortable retirement in mind.

Your parents are aging or ill

Caring for an aging or ill parent is tough emotionally, and ambiguity or strife around finances only makes it worse. Elder care is an expensive business, and planning how to use your folks’ money to ensure they get the best possible care can be complex — especially if siblings are at odds about what to do. Talking to a financial professional can be a great way to sort that out, since their focus will be on the most appropriate use of available funds.

You’re undergoing a life transition

Marrying, divorcing, starting a family or dealing with the death of a loved one can impact your finances as well as your emotions. But in times of great change or strife, budgets and bills may be an added burden you’re not prepared to address. That’s when a session with a financial professional may ease your mind and even be a preemptive strike against future money troubles.

You want to start investing

Finding a financial professional who understands your situation and can design solutions for your day-to-day financial concerns can go a long way toward financial peace of mind, says Salene Hitchcock-Gear, president, Prudential Individual Life Insurance and Prudential Advisors. You might be tempted to DIY, but a financial professional can see the big picture and work with you to create a strategy based on your timeline, risk tolerance and goals.

Bottom line? You don’t need to be a millionaire to benefit from the services of a financial professional. But working with one just might put you on the road to setting and achieving your financial goals. For more information about building a financial future for yourself and your family, visit Prudential at www.prudentialadvisors.com.

“Prudential Advisors” is a brand name of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries located in Newark, New Jersey. Securities products and services are offered through Pruco Securities, LLC (Member SIPC).

1008637-00001-00


Posted on

How to make sure your door hardware makes the grade

2018-10-03T08:31:00

(BPT) – Short, chilly days mean more time spent indoors with family and friends. This is the perfect time to focus on home improvement, starting with finding the right door hardware. While home security is typically top-of-mind, door hardware such as locksets and deadbolts are generally overlooked and purchasing new locks is not a simple decision. Does it need to withstand repeated, long-term use? Or heavy impact, in the case of an intruder? Does it need to be capable of withstanding certain weather conditions?

Developed by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association, the BHMA Certified Secure Home label makes it easier for homeowners to find the right lock for their specific needs. Only products with this label have been rigorously certified to the highest performance standards when it comes to security, durability and finish. BHMA is the only organization accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop and maintain these standards. Products without the Secure Home label are not assured to have been tested and certified by a third-party laboratory.

Before shopping, know what type of lock you need. Consider the following:

* How much security do you need?

* Will the door be used frequently?

* Will the protective aesthetic finish be exposed to the elements?

When you are ready to make your selection, it is important to check the ratings. Once a lock or deadbolt is tested to ANSI/BHMA standards for security, durability and finish, it is given a rating of Good (C), Better (B) or Best (A) in each area based on its performance during testing. The rating system is defined by progressive levels of performance requirements. Be sure to select the lock or deadbolt that is rated highly in the area(s) most important to you. For example, when looking for a new interior lock, you may not require the same rating for security or finish as you would for a lock being installed on your front door.

“As the experts in the industry, we recognize that it isn’t ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to hardware for the home,” said Ralph Vasami, the executive director of BHMA. “Every household has a different need — the Certified Secure Home label not only makes it easy for homeowners to determine which locks or deadbolts have been certified, but also helps them assess which products are the best fit for their specific needs.”

To learn more about BHMA Certified locksets and deadbolts, or the BHMA Certified Secure Home label, watch the short video at http://securehome.org/learning-the-label/ or visit www.securehome.org.


Posted on

Avoid chilling accidents with these tips to winterize your home

2018-10-03T07:01:01

(BPT) – Winter will be here before you know it. The season has a way of sneaking up on you and before you realize you’re not ready, the first chilling breezes have already arrived.

Begin with winterizing your home now to ensure you’re prepared for the season. Apply the following tips and your home will be winter ready in no time.

* Prime your plumbing. If you live in an area where freezing pipes are a threat, this is one area you’ll want to correct immediately. A frozen pipe that bursts can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on damage. Shut off any water lines tied to outdoor spigots and your sprinkler system if you have one. Indoor pipes running along the exterior walls of your home are also potential freezing risks, so cover them with a towel or wrap to insulate them through the season.

* Be sure your heating system is ready for the season. The importance of your home’s heating system during the winter cannot be understated. If it isn’t up to the test, replace it now before winter arrives. The York(R) Affinity(TM) Series YZT two-stage heat pump offers a two-stage compressor to deliver higher energy efficiency and quieter operation. A smart home integration is easy with the YORK(R) Affinity(TM) Hx3(TM) 4.3-inch Touch-Screen Thermostat. Control your home’s temperature by voice command or by using your smartphone when you’re away from home. Program auto-alerts to stay aware of necessary maintenance and replace the filter each month to ensure your home heating system performs at its best all season long.

* Have your home audited. A home energy audit can help you make sure your home will be energy efficient and comfortable throughout the winter. Your energy audit will show you where energy is being wasted and provide suggestions on how to correct them. You may discover opportunities to add insulation in drafty areas or replace appliances that are no longer operating efficiently.

* Seal the leaks. Even the smallest draft could end up costing you big time over the course of a winter and repairing this problem is easy. Inspect each of your home’s windows — replace the broken ones — and use caulk to seal any cracks you find around the window frames. You can also apply weather stripping where appropriate and when winter begins, don’t be afraid to keep the curtains closed to block cold air from coming into your home through the glass.

* Protect yourself from CO concerns. Colder temperatures cause many of us to seek alternative heating sources, but this can often be dangerous. Never use a generator, camp stove, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning device inside your home or garage. These devices, combined with closed windows, can result in carbon monoxide poisoning. If your home does not have a carbon monoxide detector, buy one immediately and if you do have a detector, make sure to test and replace the batteries regularly. A C02 detector is a vital component in keeping those in your home safe throughout the winter and beyond.

Don’t let winter freeze you out

Winter’s frigid temperatures haven’t struck yet, but the season will be here before you know it. Apply the tips above in your home today and you’ll stay nice and warm inside no matter what the outside weather conditions may bring.


Posted on

Talking Toenail Fungus: What You Need to Know

2018-10-02T09:01:24

(BPT) – This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is shining the spotlight on a topic we usually shy away from: fungus. October 1st through 5th is the CDC’s Fungal Disease Awareness Week, bringing attention to fungal diseases and the importance of their early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment. As Fungal Disease Awareness Week focuses on a broad range of infections, it’s important to recognize the ways that fungal disease can affect even the smallest parts of the body – right down to the tips of the toes.

In fact, as many as 35 million Americans – nearly 11 percent of the U.S. population – suffer from toenail fungus.1,2

In recognition of Fungal Disease Awareness Week, here are some of the key facts to know about toenail fungus:

  • Anyone can get toenail fungus, but age, health and lifestyle can put you at greater risk. Patients with weakened or suppressed immune systems due to illness or medication and those with poor circulation or diabetes are at increased risk3
  • Early stage forms of toenail fungus are usually painless, but if the fungus is left to grow and worsen, it can become painful, especially when wearing shoes3
  • Permanent toenail damage is a complication of a fungal infection, and serious infections can even spread beyond the toe4
  • There are several different treatments for nail fungus, including antifungal pills, nail removal, and medicines applied to the nail3

When it comes to treatment, however, motivation and adherence are often key.

“For patients with toenail fungus, a long term treatment, which is typically a year due to how the nails grow, is important in treating the infection,” said Dr. Tracey Vlahovic, DPM, Professor, Department of Podiatric Medicine at Temple University. “To increase your chances of getting rid of toenail fungus for good, it’s important to keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare practitioner and use your treatment as prescribed.”

One way to help ensure you stick with your treatment plan is by utilizing mobile apps to keep you on track. For patients using JUBLIA® (efinaconazole) topical solution, 10% to treat their toenail fungus, the JubliApp mobile app is a helpful tool designed to help encourage compliance with treatment. The app offers treatment reminders, the ability to take photos and track your progress over time, and a game to keep patients engaged while the daily application is drying, helping to make the 48-week long therapy less intimidating. To download the app, visit the App Store on an iOS device or Google Play on an Android mobile device and search “JubliAppTM” or “Jublia®” and click “Get” to download.

To learn more about toenail fungus and potential treatment options, talk to your healthcare provider, and to read more about Fungal Disease Awareness Week, visit the CDC website. For more information about JUBLIA and complete prescribing information, visit https://www.jubliarx.com/.

Indication

JUBLIA® (efinaconazole) Topical Solution, 10% is a prescription medicine used to treat fungal infections of the toenails.

Important Safety Information

  • JUBLIA is for use on nails and surrounding skin only. Do not use JUBLIA in your mouth, eyes, or vagina. Use it exactly as instructed by your doctor.
  • It is not known whether JUBLIA is effective in children.
  • Before you use JUBLIA, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you are or plan to become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or plan to breastfeed, because it is not known whether JUBLIA can harm an unborn fetus or nursing infant.
  • Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, and whether you have any other nail infections.
  • JUBLIA is flammable. Avoid heat and flame while applying JUBLIA to your toenail.
  • JUBLIA may cause irritation at the treated site. The most common side effects include: ingrown toenail, redness, itching, swelling, burning or stinging, blisters, and pain. Tell your doctor about any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Click here for full prescribing information.

References

  1. Joseph, W. et al. (2013). Onychomycosis and the Role of Topical Antifungals. Podiatry Today (supplement). Retrieved from https://www.podiatrytoday.com/files/Valeant_Supplement.pdf. Accessed September 7, 2018.
  2. United States Census. U.S. and World Population Clock. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/popclock/. Accessed September 7, 2018.
  3. American Academy of Dermatology. Nail Fungus. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/nail-fungus#overview. Accessed September 6, 2018.
  4. The Mayo Clinic. Nail Fungus. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nail-fungus/symptoms-causes/syc-20353294. Accessed September 6, 2018.

JUBLIA is a trademark of Ortho Dermatologics’ affiliated entities.

©2018 All Rights Reserved.

JUB.0148.USA.18


Posted on

Know Thrombosis: Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Dangerous Blood Clots

2018-10-02T16:27:00

(BPT) – You might be shocked to learn that one of the leading causes of preventable death is something many people have never heard of — and often don’t know they have. One in four people worldwide are dying from conditions caused by thrombosis, making it a leading global cause of death and disability. When a blood clot forms in an artery or vein, it can lead to heart attack, stroke, or a life-threatening clot in the lungs or leg, causing venous thromboembolism (VTE).

In fact, VTE-related events cause more deaths each year in the U.S. and Europe than breast cancer, AIDS and motor vehicle crashes — combined. Yet public awareness of the condition is extremely low: according to a 2018 survey of American office workers, only one in 10 said they are most concerned about blood clots and 62 percent do not know what VTE is. And even though hospitalization is a major risk factor for VTE, many hospitals around the world do not have mandatory protocols in place to help prevent thrombotic conditions.

That’s why the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) is celebrating the fifth anniversary of a global movement called World Thrombosis Day on October 13 that increases awareness of this often-overlooked condition.

“Thrombosis is one of the leading causes of death worldwide — one in four people are dying from conditions caused by thrombosis — yet the seriousness of the issue is underappreciated. The ISTH founded World Thrombosis Day five years ago to increase awareness of this serious medical condition, and now we reach billions of people around the world each year,” said Dr. Gary Raskob, PhD, Chairman of the World Thrombosis Day Steering Committee.

Here’s what you need to know about thrombosis:

  • Thrombosis is the formation of potentially deadly blood clots in an artery (arterial thrombosis) or vein (venous thrombosis).
  • When a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the leg, it is known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
  • If a blood clot travels in the circulation and lodges in the lungs, it is known as a pulmonary embolism (PE).
  • Together, DVT and PE are known as venous thromboembolism (VTE), a dangerous and potentially deadly medical condition. DVT + PE = VTE.
  • A blood clot that forms as a result of atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an example of arterial thromboembolism. If that clot breaks free, it can travel in the circulation and lodge in an artery in the brain and cause a stroke.

World Thrombosis Day is dedicated to educating people about the risk factors, signs, and symptoms of thrombosis. Up to 60 percent of VTE cases occur during or within 90 days of hospitalization. Women should also be aware of their increased risk for thrombosis during pregnancy or if they take estrogen-containing medications (birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy). A family history of thrombosis or certain genetic factors can also increase a person’s risk of developing blood clots.

If you are at elevated thrombosis risk, it is especially important to know the signs and symptoms of the condition so you can seek medical attention as soon as possible. Symptoms of a DVT include pain or tenderness, swelling, redness, discoloration or warmth in your calf and/or thigh. People with PE often experience shortness of breath, rapid breathing, chest pain (which may be worse with deep breaths), rapid heart rate and light-headedness and/or passing out. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

During hospital stays, which can elevate risk simply by reducing physical activity and blood flow, all patients and/or their caregivers should remember to advocate for thrombosis prevention measures. People who are undergoing surgery or cancer treatment should know they are at even higher risk. Download the VTE Risk Assessment Checklist from the World Thrombosis Day website to bring to the hospital and talk to your healthcare professional about assessing your risk.

“It’s very hard to be an advocate for yourself when you’re sick and in pain,” says Carole Chrvala, a professional epidemiologist who suffered VTE in 2016. “My advice is to ask as many questions as you possibly can. Bring somebody with you that you trust to ask questions on your behalf. Good medical care is a team effort and the patient is a key player on that team, with important self-knowledge and awareness that increases the likelihood that healthcare decisions are tailored to the individual patient.”

For more information about thrombosis, visit worldthrombosisday.org.