Month: October 2021

2021-10-19T10:47:01

(BPT) – While staying healthy is a priority, your children’s health always rises to the top, particularly during the school season. However, it can be challenging to not only come up with nutritious and delicious meals for your children each day, but also to encourage them to incorporate healthy habits into their daily routines to help support their immune health.

If you’re looking for ways to help support your child’s wellness as busy fall schedules pick up, consider the following tips from Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and children’s nutrition expert Frances Largeman-Roth:

1. Meal plan together – A healthy diet and immune support often go hand in hand. Getting a child to eat healthy is easier said than done, especially when you’re dealing with a picky eater. To help get little ones invested in the food they eat, try getting them involved in meal planning. Bring your kids to the local farmers market and have them pick out some ingredients for the week. Then come home and choose meals to make with “their” ingredients. This exercise helps show children where food comes from and potentially allows them to meet the people who grow it. This connection between the food kids eat and where it comes from can help create a stronger relationship with healthy food.
2. Follow the nutrition alphabet – A good rule of thumb for children’s diets is to ensure that their daily meals contain a diverse and rich variety of the nutritional ABCs — aka key nutrients ranging from vitamin A to zinc. With that said, children may have trouble getting enough of these nutrients from diet alone, often due to issues like picky eating. Opt for incorporating a daily, dietary supplement that tastes great, like Emergen-C Kidz Gummies, which contain 250 mg of high-potency vitamin C per gummy to support the immune system and B vitamins to enhance energy*.
3. Make them a sous chef – Much like being part of the planning process of creating healthy meals, children are also often receptive to being included in the cooking process. Kids as young as 3 can help in the kitchen by washing fruits and vegetables. As they mature, they can be trusted with more complex cooking techniques (with adult supervision) and parents can incorporate subjects, like math, history and geography, in a fun way. When kids take part in the cooking process, they’re more likely to eat the meal they helped make.
4. Sleep on it – Though summer is in the rearview, some habits — like later bedtimes — can still linger well into the school year. There is a correlation between adequate amounts of sleep and immune health, so it’s important to get kids back on schedule during the school year. Make sure children are aware of expectations for nighttime and morning routines. Posting a schedule on the fridge where kids can see it is helpful for getting them on board.
5. Get moving – Another important aspect of overall health that can help support your immune system, as well as your child’s, is regular physical activity, whether that’s exercise, outdoor play or just a walk around the neighborhood with the family pup. When walking with children, make sure the route and length of time spent walking is appropriate for their age. The best part? Exercise with family doubles as quality time.

This year, as many kids are back in the classroom, supporting their overall health and wellness is top of mind. By incorporating some of these tips, parents can find comfort in knowing they are instilling healthy habits in their children.

For more information about healthy nutrients, visit www.emergenc.com.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

2021-10-19T09:01:01

(BPT) – After more than 18 months of taking precautions to help stop the spread of COVID-19, the world is slowly reopening — families and friends are reuniting, workers are heading back into the office and children are going back into school. But as the world continues to gradually make progress in fighting COVID-19, it’s important to remember another public health threat lurking — the flu.

Thanks to mask mandates, flu vaccines and social distancing, last year’s flu season saw historically low case numbers.^1,2 The timing of flu is difficult to predict and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. Reduced population immunity due to lack of flu virus activity since March 2020 could result in an early and possibly severe flu season.³

The flu will come back this year, but it is unknown how bad cases will be, how immune systems will react and how COVID-19 and the flu could continue to interact.^4,5 That’s why everyone needs to do their part and take the necessary steps to help protect themselves and those around them from the flu.

1) The potential risks of the flu during COVID-19

During a global pandemic, it can be easy to forget about something like the seasonal flu. But the flu can have a severe impact, causing up to 710,000 hospitalizations and 52,000 deaths in America between 2010 and 2020.⁶

And that could worsen this year — as it’s possible to have both COVID-19 and the flu at the same time.³

2) Can you get your flu vaccine with other vaccines, like COVID-19?

In addition to getting vaccinated against COVID-19, flu shots are needed each year to help protect you and your loved ones from the flu and its complications.¹

According to the CDC, vaccines, like the annual flu shot, can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine, if you are eligible.⁷ Please talk to your healthcare provider about what options are right for you.

3) Who needs to get vaccinated

The simple answer? Every eligible American 6 months of age and older, with rare exception, should get their flu shot.⁸

Anyone can get the flu⁹ — there are up to 41,000,000 cases in the U.S. each year.⁶ And certain people are at an increased risk for flu-related complications, including adults 50 years of age and older, young children 6 months and older, pregnant women and people living with chronic health conditions.^10,11 These complications can lead to increased hospitalizations and sometimes even death.¹⁰

Since the flu is a respiratory disease, it is contagious and transmitted from person to person.¹² While not everyone will develop severe symptoms from the flu, it is possible to transmit the flu to people who are at an increased risk of serious illness and flu-related complications.^9,12

That’s why it’s important for members of the community to do their part to help protect themselves and their neighbors by getting the flu shot.¹

4) Where to get a flu shot

Do you usually get your flu shot at your workplace? You’re not alone. Many businesses across the United States offer their employees the flu shot on site to help protect employees and help prevent the flu from spreading around the workplace. With some offices still operating remotely, many Americans are seeking information on where they can get their flu shot this year.

Help is available. There are flu shots offered at a variety of pharmacies, doctor’s offices and clinics across the country. If you need help in finding a location near you, you can visit FluShotFridays.com where you’ll be directed for more information.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm#:~:text=An%20annual%20seasonal%20flu%20vaccine,flu%2Drelated%20death%20in%20children. Accessed September 30, 2021.
2. World Health Organization. Recommended composition of influenza virus vaccines for use in the 2021- 2022 northern hemisphere influenza season. Available at: https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/influenza/202102_recommendation.pdf?sfvrsn=8639f6be_3&download=true. Accessed September 30, 2021.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Frequently Asked Influenza (Flu) Questions: 2020-2021 Season. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/faq-flu-season-2020-2021.htm. Accessed October 12, 2021.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm. Accessed September 30, 2021.
5. University of Chicago Medicine. Where does the flu come from every year? Available at: https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/biological-sciences-articles/where-does-the-flu-come-from-every-year. Accessed September 30, 2021.
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Disease Burden of Influenza. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/index.html. Accessed October 12, 2021.
7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines Currently Approved or Authorized in the United States. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html#Coadministration. Accessed October 12, 2021.
8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Who Needs a Flu Vaccine & When. Available here: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccinations.htm#when. Accessed August 18, 2021.
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Influenza (flu) Flu Symptoms & Complications. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/symptoms.htm. Accessed September 30, 2021
10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Who Is at High Risk for Flu Complications. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm. Accessed September 30, 2021.
11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Estimated Influenza Illnesses, Medical visits, Hospitalizations, and Deaths in the United States — 2019–2020 Influenza Season. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/2019-2020.html. Accessed September 30, 2021.
12. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Flu. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html. Accessed September 30, 2021.

MAT-US-2108994-v1.0-10/2021

2021-10-19T09:01:01

(BPT) – For many of us, this holiday season means celebrating with family and friends and making new, lasting memories. Some of us might even be planning to travel to be with family and friends across the country, while staying cognizant of CDC travel guidelines and restrictions. Before you book your travel home, make sure you’re doing your research so that you can fly comfortably, efficiently and cost-effectively. Read on for a few tips on how to fly like a pro this holiday season.

Planning ahead is key

Especially with today’s uncertainties, it’s never been more important to plan your trips in advance. Whether it’s securing a big enough rental car to travel with the whole family or tracking down a hotel that’s around the corner from your childhood home, planning in advance can ensure you score the best possible options while quelling your travel anxieties.

In addition to getting your dates and flights booked early, consider using a travel credit card — or even evaluating new credit card options — to make the planning process easier and maximize your travel rewards opportunities. For example, new Southwest Airlines^® Rapid Rewards^® Plus, Premier, and Priority Cardmembers can earn up to 100,000 Rapid Rewards points after qualifying purchases, through Dec. 7, 2021, which is truly the ultimate way to plan ahead and make sure you have plenty of points for all your future travels! They’ll earn 50,000 Rapid Rewards points after spending $2,000 in the first three months of account opening, and an additional 50,000 points after spending $12,000 in the first twelve months from account opening. Even better is that Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority and Premier Cardmembers can earn three points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases, so you can earn points on your flights back home and use them for the next time you want to see your family.

Prepare for takeoff

If your holiday trip involves air travel, look into the most up-to-date policies and procedures at your local airport. Plan to arrive at least an hour and a half early for domestic flights and ensure you’re fully aware of the mask requirements in the airport and on the plane so you don’t run into any surprises. Many airlines have updated their flight policies to provide more flexibility in the event you need to reschedule your flight. For example, Southwest Rapid Rewards Cardmembers never pay for change or cancel fees, though fare differences may apply, and earn Rapid Rewards points that don’t expire, so you can book your flights with the flexibility you need.

Also, make sure you know about any special boarding privileges that could make your flight experience more comfortable. Some credit cards, like the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus and Premier Cards, provide two EarlyBird Check-In^® credits per year that improve your seat selection options and make your boarding process more seamless.

Prioritize comfort

Whether you’re preparing to board an hour-long commuter flight or headed coast to coast, the more comfortable you are, the better your experience! Make sure to come prepared with your favorite playlist, an engaging read, or maybe your laptop or tablet to pass the time more quickly with inflight entertainment options and make your flight just as enjoyable as the rest of your trip! If you have a travel credit card, you might even be able to sweeten the deal with inflight perks, such as receiving 25% back on inflight Southwest Airlines purchases, like $8 WiFi, when using a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card.

Especially after last year, when many of us were separated from our families across the country, it’s exciting to plan for holiday reunions this season. By incorporating these travel tips, you can fly with confidence and comfort, and stay focused on what really counts — spending time with your loved ones!

Accounts subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations apply. Offer subject to change. Cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

2021-10-18T09:29:41

(BPT) – Americans’ relationship with vehicles turned in a new direction over the last year and a half, and it is evolving yet again. As vaccination rates increase, restrictions ease and a sense of “normalcy” returns, new research is revealing trends in the way drivers view, depend on and take care of their vehicles.

The daily commute is back, but routes are changing

According to Hankook Tire’s latest Gauge Index survey in late spring 2021, while 45% of people say they are driving every day (more than twice as many as this time in 2020), they are going to what were previously considered “usual places” less often. The survey found that one-third of drivers still say they are heading to the office or school much less often than before (33% and 36%, respectively).

But the daily drive isn’t the only thing that has shifted. The lasting economic impact of the pandemic combined with increased availability of in-home entertainment and food delivery apps could factor into a more permanent shift in how people are engaging with social, shopping and entertainment options. Most Americans point to curbside restaurant service (46%) and grocery pickup (45%) as the pandemic-driven services they would most like to see stay. Entertainment-based outings are still at lower levels, too, the survey found. Sixty-one percent of people say they are driving to events much less often than prior to the pandemic, and 54% say the same for restaurants. While that could be a ripple effect of continued event cancellations, it may also speak to a longer-term trend as lifestyles have shifted.

Dependence on car travel is growing

One in five (19%) Americans bought a new — or used — car because of the pandemic. This emphasizes another trend the latest research unveiled: a steadily growing dependence on vehicular transportation.

Understandably, the pandemic changed the way many viewed highly crowded mass transit options. And while air, train and public transportation seems to be quickly gaining steam again, most (78%) Americans still rank automobiles as the mode of transportation they are most likely to use through the end of the summer.

That includes using cars for travel, too. Seventy percent of those planning travel anticipate using a car as their primary method of getting to their destination. Key factors behind the decision include flexibility (49%), an added feeling of safety over other forms of transportation (45%), in addition to general preference (47%).

However, car maintenance skills still need some tuning up

Despite this increased dependence on cars and road travel, the survey found that while many Americans have the equipment to handle an on-the-road emergency, they don’t necessarily know how to use it. For example, two-thirds (64%) of drivers own a tire jack, but 20% don’t know how to change a tire.

However, it is promising that most people (77%) owned their car maintenance tools prior to the onset of the pandemic. Perhaps the next evolution of Americans’ relationship with vehicles will be ensuring they’re kept in tip-top shape, for whatever the road ahead may bring.

Looking down that road, Hankook will continue to monitor the shifting landscape, as, due to the uncertainty of the pandemic and varying local restrictions, these trends may change in the future.

2021-10-18T10:01:00

(BPT) – When discussing health and wellness, the thyroid gland isn’t likely a hot topic between friends and family. This tiny gland is frequently overlooked, yet deserves attention because it plays such a large role in the health of the body, impacting how you look and feel every day.

Small yet mighty, the thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the base of the neck. It produces critical hormones that serve as chemical messengers that help regulate the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, skin, metabolism, growth and even some functions of the nervous system.

“Ensuring the thyroid gland is healthy and functioning properly is vitally important to the body’s overall well-being,” said Dr. Felice Caldarella, president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology. “However, thyroid disease affects as many as 30 million Americans, and more than half remain undiagnosed because symptoms are often similar to the signs of other medical conditions.”

Common thyroid conditions and symptoms:

When your thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, your system slows down. When it produces too much hormone, your system goes into overdrive. Several disorders can arise if the thyroid produces too much hormone (hyperthyroidism) or not enough (hypothyroidism). There are also thyroid diseases with long-term impact, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease and thyroid eye disease.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: Also called Hashimoto’s disease, is the most common thyroid disease in the United States. This inherited condition affects over 10 million Americans and is about seven times more common in women. Hashimoto’s disease involves the production of immune cells and autoantibodies by the body’s immune system that can damage thyroid cells and compromise their ability to make thyroid hormone. Hashimoto’s disease may result in hypothyroidism in some patients, but not all, who have autoantibodies.

Graves’ disease: Graves’ disease is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the thyroid, which causes it to become overactive. It’s unknown why this happens. Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in the United States and is seven times more likely to affect women.

Thyroid eye disease: Thyroid eye disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes your immune system to mistakenly attack the tissues behind your eyes. Up to half of the people who have Graves’ disease may develop thyroid eye disease over time.

If the thyroid does not function correctly, it can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Some common signs of thyroid disease include:

* Unexplained changes in weight
* Depression, anxiety or feelings of irritability
* Changes in memory or ability to concentrate
* Joint or muscle pain or weakness
* Fatigue or trouble sleeping
* Fast or irregular heartbeat
* Irregular menstrual periods
* Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
* Feeling unusually hot or cold

How to check your thyroid at home

A simple, quick at-home thyroid neck check can help you detect lumps or enlargements that may be a thyroid condition. All you need is a handheld mirror and glass of water.

Start by holding the mirror in your hand, focusing on the lower front area of your neck, just above the collarbones. Your thyroid gland is located in this area of your neck.

Then, while focusing on this area in the mirror, tip your head back. Take a drink of water and swallow. As you swallow, look at your neck to check for any protrusions in this area when you swallow. Reminder, don’t confuse the Adam’s apple with the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located further down on your neck, closer to the collarbone.

If you see any lumps, swelling or protrusions in this area, or have ongoing symptoms of concern, see your health care professional or an endocrinologist. An endocrinologist is a doctor that specializes in hormone-related diseases and conditions, including all those related to the thyroid gland. Remember, although thyroid disease is often a life-long condition, it can be managed.

Visit AACE.com/Thyroid to learn more about thyroid health and find endocrine care near you. You can also visit AACE’s YouTube channel to view a series of thyroid educational videos.

2021-10-18T09:01:00

(BPT) – Easily one of wood’s worst enemies, moisture contributes to mold growth, deterioration and rot. For anyone who owns a deck, this is cause for concern.

Regardless of the material used on a deck’s surface, the majority of substructures today are built with wood. If not properly protected, that wood can show signs of splitting, rotting and decay in as little as eight years, based on a survey of more than 100 builders.

How to Identify Wood Rot

Here are tips to inspect for rot:

• Look for discoloration or a spongy consistency that flakes or falls apart when wet.
• Don’t forget to inspect the ledger board, where the deck attaches to the house, as this is a common source of deck failure.
• Use a screwdriver to check if you can easily penetrate the wood or break off a sliver of wood without splinters.
• Examine for long sheets of grayish mold or darker-looking wood, along with spots or holes caused by termites or other wood-eating pests.

When to Repair

If the damage is minor, you may be able to address the problem areas by following these steps for DIY wood rot repair:

1. Remove rotting boards: Use a 5-in-1 rasp, chisel or claw hammer to remove rotted boards or rotting areas of wood. Be careful not to damage the surrounding wood.
2. Reinforce recessed areas: For boards that cannot be easily replaced, use wood hardener, filler or epoxy to strengthen the affected areas. If using a wood filler, press it into recesses with a putty knife and then shape and smooth the filler to make it aesthetically pleasing.
3. Stain and seal: Once the new boards and wood filler are in place, you can stain the repaired areas to match the rest of the deck. Then, use a sealer to protect the wood against future moisture.

When to Replace

If the surface or substructure are no longer structurally sound, it’s time for a new deck. Even if the foundation is solid and safe, there may be other reasons to consider replacing the deck boards, such as:

• The costs of rot repair approach the price of a new deck.
• The aesthetics could use an update. With a new deck, there is opportunity to freshen up everything from the color and design to railings, lighting and other architectural accents.
• You’re tired of all the stripping, sanding and staining a wood deck requires and want to switch to low-maintenance composite decking.

Guard Against Future Damage

If you replace the deck substructure or boards, use the opportunity to seal the joists, beams and ledger boards with flashing tape to shield them from water damage. Deck flashing also acts as a moisture barrier between wood and galvanized metal and helps deck screws and fasteners hold longer and stronger for enhanced structural integrity.

Designed specifically for use on decks, Trex Protect is a self-adhesive butyl tape that works on horizontal and vertical surfaces and is applied as a “cap” (vs. wrapping), which allows wood to breathe. The peel-and-stick application is simple and requires almost no trimming. Furthermore, the butyl adhesive is super sticky, yet pliable, which allows it to create a tight seal around fasteners to prevent water from infiltrating screw holes. It doesn’t dry out or curl up like other construction tapes and performs extremely well in a wide range of temperatures.

For more information about how to protect a deck from moisture damage, visit www.trexprotect.com.

2021-10-18T08:01:01

(BPT) – Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, replacing a broken unit or upgrading your full appliance suite, looking for a new refrigerator can feel overwhelming with all the options available — but it doesn’t have to be! Check out this list of tips and tricks to help you keep your cool as you navigate your shopping experience — from design and finish to features and capacity, you’ll have everything you need to find the right refrigerator for you.

1. Measure up: Making sure it fits your kitchen.

When measuring for a refrigerator, make sure to measure the cutout size, and not just the size of your old refrigerator. Pay attention to height, depth and surrounding spaces in your kitchen. Size options include counter depth, which lines up with your countertops, and standard depth, which offers more capacity and extends past your countertops.

When thinking about fridge type, there are two options to consider: freestanding refrigerators simply slide into your kitchen cutout for ease and convenience, whereas built-in refrigerators are installed completely flush with your cabinetry.

2. Open the door to a better kitchen: Choosing a type.

Determine the type of refrigerator that works best for your kitchen space, including door configuration. You can choose French door bottom mount (double fridge doors on top, freezer on bottom), Side by Side (fridge on the right and freezer on the left), Bottom Freezer (single fridge door on top, freezer on bottom), among others. If you have a narrow kitchen, choose a refrigerator type and size that allows the refrigerator and freezer doors to open all the way.

Capacity pro tip: Some fridge models are more suitable for certain household sizes. French door refrigerators are optimal for larger household sizes, as they offer greater capacity, while a small 24-inch fridge with a bottom freezer might be better for smaller households.

3. Cheers to you: Assess your beverage needs.

Choosing a refrigerator that keeps your beverages at the right temperature is key, from a fast, reliable ice dispenser to specialty beverage storage within the fridge. With the Bosch QuickIcePro System, you can avoid frequent runs to the grocery store to keep your drinks ice-cold. Or, with the Refreshment Center, there’s nothing to “wine” about — it’s like a wine cellar for your refrigerator, storing bottles at the optimal temperature and humidity.

4. America’s Next Top (Fridge) Model: Choose a design that fits your style.

From timeless stainless steel to bold black stainless steel, choose the finish that makes the right statement in your kitchen. Stainless steel offers a classic/traditional feel; black stainless steel is stylish and functional; custom panel ready refrigerators install fully flush for clean lines and a uniform style. Some refrigerators are even finished with premium glass over brushed stainless steel — a great option for a sleeker look.

5. Your saving grace: Choose energy-saving appliances.

Sustainability is key to a forever home. Be on the lookout for appliances that are energy efficient, saving both the environment and your wallet. Since your fridge will be running 24/7, select a model that is ENERGY STAR^® certified. Some ENERGY STAR^® certified refrigerators feature high-efficiency compressors, generating less heat/energy, and an Eco Mode, which automatically adjusts temperatures in the appliance.

6. Back to the basics: Keeping it fresh.

Consider how your refrigerator can help you keep food cold and fresh while limiting food waste. First, think about your typical trip to the grocery store. What perishables do you usually buy, or want to buy? The items in your bag may influence the interior layout and shelving options you’ll want in a fridge — be sure to choose one with greater storage flexibility.

For example, a large, “smart” storage compartment is best for fruit and vegetable lovers. The FarmFresh System from Bosch keeps produce fresher, longer, by automatically adjusting the humidity and temperature based on the food setting selected. Wide gallon door bins are best for families that buy multiple milk jugs. A colder chiller drawer is the perfect spot for meat and fish. For smaller items and hard-to-place, tall bottles, opt for a fridge that offers adjustable shelving to maximize space.

2021-10-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – Watching a sunset in all its glory. Looking over at your children around the dinner table. Staring into a loved one’s eyes. The sense of sight plays such an important role throughout your life. Making eye health a priority helps ensure your sight enhances your unique experiences for many years to come.

People put a high value on their sight. In fact, the overwhelming majority of people fear losing their sight over their other senses, according to the J&J Vision Global Eye Health Survey. Sight impacts not only what you see in the present, but also what you remember. The Discovery Eye Foundation says 80% of your memories are determined by what you see.

While sight is valued, it’s not always prioritized when it comes to health and wellness. Globally, 88% of people view eye health maintenance as a priority for their overall health, according to the survey, yet only 52% of respondents say they get annual eye exams. An easy way to find a qualified eye care professional in your area is the Find an Eye Doctor tool at PrioritizeYourEyes.com/EyeExam.

The simple, proactive step of scheduling an eye exam not only for yourself, but for school aged children, and encouraging seniors to do the same, helps promote the health of your eyes while protecting your vision for the future. Starting eye exams during childhood can lead to early detection of eye conditions and diseases that can be treated early on so you can take proper measures to prevent progression.

While an eye exam is critical for maintaining eye health, many people don’t realize this important preventative appointment checks for many other things as well. An eye exam can detect more than 270 medical conditions, and eye doctors can check for early warning signs of things like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer and dyslexia.

“Changing the trajectory of eye health starts with encouraging people to take the single most important step in eye health — getting their annual comprehensive eye exams,” said Carol Alexander, O.D., FAAO and Head of North America Professional Relations, J&J Vision. “With our Prioritize Your Eyes campaign and J&J Vision global eye health survey, our goal is to raise awareness of the importance of getting back to your eye care professional routinely — to support both your vision and your overall health. Don’t wait.”

In addition to seeing an eye doctor for an annual exam, Dr. Alexander reveals common barriers to seeking eye care that once identified, are easier to overcome:

Cataract surgery demystified: Cataract surgery is outpatient, often takes less than 10 minutes, and almost 75% of people would have gotten it sooner if they knew how much better their vision would be, according to the survey.

Concerns about aging: For those with aging eyes, three in 10 (29%) worry wearing glasses will make them look old or impacts their self-confidence (30%), yet only 37% know contact lenses are available as an alternative to multifocal glasses as they age. People don’t realize they don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics to improve their vision.

Pandemic hesitancy: While many eye care professionals saw in-office visits decline due to global restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, offices are open again and the time is now to prioritize your eye health.

Be more than a statistic: Approximately half of the world’s population is projected to be myopic (nearsighted) by 2050 with nearly one billion people expected to have the more severe “high myopia,” which can be addressed today through various vision correction options.

“Taking the time to book your annual eye exam allows you to have ongoing conversations with an eye doctor about your eye health, your overall health, and the many options available to you be it one-time corrective procedures, contact lenses or at-home eye exercises,” said Dr. Alexander. “By playing an active role, you can help ensure your vision continues to be a sense that brings depth and joy to your life for many years to come.”

2021-10-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – The pain was so bad, James Smith couldn’t sleep. With what felt like a thousand bees stinging his legs, he spent hours at the computer searching for: “Treatment options for painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN).”

“When I couldn’t sleep, I’d find myself searching online,” said Smith. “I wanted to try something safe to control my pain, and preferably not a drug. Every day I wished I could live my life the way I used to.”

Since his diabetes diagnosis, Smith’s numbers were under control, but this was different — the newly developed leg pain made normal activities like walking, gardening, sitting and sleeping almost intolerable. Something had to change. Then, a Facebook ad for a clinical trial led him to HFX for PDN,* a new device to help treat painful diabetic neuropathy.

In July 2021, Nevro became the first company to receive FDA approval of a spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system for the treatment of PDN. The approval of HFX for PDN (which includes all Nevro Senza Systems) followed the successful completion of the randomized clinical trial in which Smith participated. This was the largest-scale study to date by a company establishing evidence for the safety and efficacy of SCS to treat PDN.

“I was not very hopeful when I first enrolled in the clinical trial. I was in so much pain, doing basic things felt impossible,” said Smith. “My doctor told me we’d know soon after my initial test with the technology if I’d be a candidate for the implant. Then I was amazed by how quickly I felt relief. This device changed my life.”

Diabetes and painful diabetic neuropathy

About 10.5% of the U.S. population, or 34.2 million people, have diabetes. While there are many complications associated with the condition, diabetic neuropathy is the most prevalent and chronic complication. PDN most often damages nerves in legs and feet.

Although each person may experience it differently, the symptoms of PDN are often worse at night, and may include:

• Tingling, burning or freezing sensation
• Sharp stabbing, shooting pains or cramps
• Hypersensitivity to touch — even a bedsheet’s weight can be painful
• A deep, persistent ache

As reported in an FDA patient panel, people with PDN often have trouble achieving pain relief. Once diagnosed, it is typical to try standard treatment options such as physical therapy, injections, over-the-counter medications and prescription medications including opioids. Opioids are used to manage chronic pain in the U.S., but their addiction potential can lead to long-term dependence and show little evidence of improving function. In academic and medical communities, opioids are referenced as a last resort for treating PDN.

Prior to learning about the new treatment, Smith’s chronic pain meant missing out on participating in his daughter’s wedding. Standing and participating in a ceremony may not seem daunting for some, but people living with PDN often miss life’s most precious moments. New options for patients were needed.

New treatment, new day

Nevro’s HFX for PDN provides an alternative to conventional therapies, using Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS): mild electrical pulses to disrupt pain signals before they reach the brain.

HFX for PDN is currently the only SCS system with an FDA indication to treat PDN. Unlike other systems, its proprietary, high-frequency 10 kHz waveform doesn’t rely on an uncomfortable tingling sensation (known as paresthesia) to override pain. By “tricking” the brain, patients experience pain relief — allowing them to pursue activities they enjoy and live independently.

Rather than long-term therapy and unwanted side effects, HFX for PDN provides an exciting new option through a quick, minimally invasive procedure to implant a small device under the skin near the spine.

Care improvement

For doctors and patients, HFX for PDN provides versatility for optimal chronic pain relief. The HFX system now delivers more versatility, without in-person visits, and patients can access innovative technologies, advanced therapies and patient support through a dedicated HFX Coach.

“Our PDN study showed that HFX and 10 kHz Therapy can help so many people suffering from PDN,” said Dr. Cong Yu of Swedish Pain Services in Seattle. “HFX for PDN can reduce patients’ medication use, likely preventing deterioration of their pain condition.”

To learn more about new treatments for painful diabetic neuropathy, visit HFXForPDN.com.

*HFX is a comprehensive solution that includes a Senza spinal cord stimulation system and support services for the treatment of chronic pain. HFX for PDN means that a patient has been implanted with a Senza System and programmed to include a frequency of 10 kHz.