Category: Brandpoint Health

2018-06-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – Cada año, al menos 1.7 millones de personas en los Estados Unidos presentan septicemia, y casi 270 000 mueren por su causa. Aunque cualquier persona puede contraer una infección, y casi cualquier infección puede ocasionar septicemia, solo el 55% de las personas en los EE. UU. han escuchado hablar sobre la septicemia.^[1]

La septicemia es la respuesta extrema del cuerpo a una infección. Es potencialmente mortal, y sin tratamiento oportuno, puede causar muy rápido daños en los tejidos, insuficiencia orgánica y la muerte. La septicemia ocurre cuando una infección que usted ya tiene —en la piel, los pulmones, las vías urinarias o en alguna otra parte— provoca una reacción en cadena por todo el cuerpo.

Inicie hoy la conversación sobre la septicemia con su médico o enfermero haciendo estas cinco preguntas:

1. ¿Cómo puedo proteger a mi familia de la septicemia? Es importante conocer los signos y síntomas, y actuar con rapidez si se sospecha que se trata de septicemia. Los signos y síntomas de la septicemia pueden incluir alguno o una combinación de los siguientes: confusión o desorientación; dificultad para respirar; frecuencia cardiaca alta; fiebre, escalofríos o sensación de mucho frío; dolores o molestias extremos; y piel pegajosa o sudorosa. Una infección que no mejora o que empeora puede ocasionar septicemia. Obtenga atención médica de inmediato si sospecha que puede ser septicemia.
2. ¿Cómo podemos prevenir las infecciones? Hable con su médico o enfermero sobre las medidas que usted y su familia pueden tomar para prevenir las infecciones que pueden causar septicemia. Para prevenir las infecciones, controle bien las afecciones crónicas y póngase las vacunas recomendadas. También, practique buena higiene, lavándose las manos y manteniendo limpios los cortes y cubriéndolos con vendas hasta que sanen.
3. Ayer, mi hija de seis meses tenía fiebre leve y tos. Pero hoy, no está alerta, está orinando menos y tiene dificultad para respirar. ¿Podría esta infección causar septicemia? Si usted o un ser querido sospecha que tiene septicemia, o tiene una infección que no mejora o que empeora, pregúntele al médico o enfermero: “¿Podría esta infección causar septicemia?”. ACTÚE RÁPIDO y busque atención médica INMEDIATAMENTE.
4. Mi padre es anciano y tiene diabetes. ¿Podría tener un mayor riesgo de sufrir infecciones que puedan producir septicemia? Algunas personas tienen un riesgo más alto, como los adultos de 65 años o más; las personas con afecciones crónicas, como la diabetes, las enfermedades pulmonares, el cáncer y las enfermedades de los riñones; las personas con el sistema inmunitario debilitado; y los niños menores de 1 año de edad.
5. ¿Cómo se puede tratar la septicemia? Una persona que contrae septicemia debería ser tratada con antibióticos lo más pronto posible, además de recibir otras terapias que el médico o enfermero decida que sean apropiadas para ese paciente, como mantener el flujo de sangre a los órganos o recibir líquidos por vía intravenosa. Además, el médico o enfermero debería chequear al paciente con frecuencia y volver a evaluar el tratamiento con antibióticos dentro de las 24 y 48 horas para suspenderlo o ajustarlo según sea necesario.

Recuerde, la septicemia es una emergencia médica. Mejorar la identificación de la septicemia y brindar tratamiento oportuno aumenta sus posibilidades de sobrevivencia y disminuye la posibilidad de tener efectos a largo plazo.

Para saber más sobre la septicemia y sobre cómo prevenir infecciones, así como para descargar nuevos materiales GRATUITOS en español para ayudarlos a usted y a sus seres queridos a ACTUAR RÁPIDO si se sospecha que es septicemia, visite www.cdc.gov/sepsis. Para aprender más sobre el uso de los antibióticos, visite www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use.

2018-06-14T07:01:01

(BPT) – Los CDC instan a las familias a tomar conciencia sobre los antibióticos

Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC) animan a los padres, los abuelos y a las otras personas que cuiden de un familiar a que Tomen Conciencia sobre los Antibióticos al hablar con sus profesionales de atención médica sobre el uso seguro de los antibióticos. Es importante saber que los antibióticos salvan vidas, pero que solo se deben usar cuando son necesarios. Cada vez que se usan antibióticos, estos pueden causar efectos secundarios y llevar a la resistencia a este tipo de medicamento.

Qué tratan los antibióticos

Los antibióticos solo se necesitan para tratar las infecciones causadas por bacterias, pero incluso algunas infecciones bacterianas pueden mejorar sin el uso de antibióticos. Se pueden usar antibióticos para tratar una variedad de infecciones comunes, como las estreptocócicas de garganta y las urinarias, así como afecciones potencialmente mortales, como la septicemia.

Qué no tratan los antibióticos

Los antibióticos no funcionan contra los virus, como los que causan los resfriados, la influenza (gripe), la bronquitis o el moqueo, aunque las secreciones sean espesas o de color amarillo o verde. Tampoco se necesitan antibióticos para algunas infecciones bacterianas comunes, incluidas muchas infecciones sinusales y algunas de oído.

Efectos secundarios de los antibióticos

Cuando usted o un miembro de su familia necesitan antibióticos, los beneficios generalmente superan el riesgo de que provoquen efectos secundarios o de que lleven a la resistencia a este tipo de medicamento. Pero cuando no los necesitan, no ayudarán y los efectos secundarios podrían incluso hacerle daño a usted o a alguien en su familia.

Los efectos secundarios comunes incluyen sarpullido, mareo, náuseas, diarrea e infecciones por hongos (candidiasis). Los efectos secundarios más graves incluyen reacciones alérgicas graves e infecciones por Clostridium difficile (también llamadas C. difficile o C. diff), las cuales provocan diarrea que, a su vez, puede causar daño grave en el colon y la muerte. Los pacientes y sus familiares pueden hablar con el médico si tienen alguna pregunta sobre los antibióticos o si estos provocan efectos secundarios, especialmente diarrea, ya que podría tratarse de C. difficile, lo cual debe tratarse de inmediato. El médico les puede explicar los riesgos de cualquier antibiótico que recete.

Los peligros de la resistencia a los antibióticos

Es importante recordar que “resistencia a los antibióticos” no significa que el cuerpo se haga resistente a los antibióticos; sino que son las bacterias las que desarrollan la capacidad de derrotar a los medicamentos diseñados para eliminarlas. Cuando las bacterias se vuelven resistentes, los antibióticos no pueden combatirlas, y estas se multiplican. Algunas bacterias resistentes pueden ser más difíciles de tratar y podrían potencialmente propagarse a otros miembros de la familia.

Lo que puede hacer para combatir la resistencia a los antibióticos

Para ayudar a reducir la propagación de las bacterias resistentes a los antibióticos, puede ayudar a su familia y a sus amigos a entender lo importante que es limpiarse las manos. El lavado de las manos es una de las medidas más importantes que usted y su familia pueden tomar para evitar enfermarse y para evitar propagar microbios a otras personas. Los padres, los abuelos y cualquier persona que tenga parte en el cuidado de la familia también pueden animar a los familiares enfermos a que se cubran la boca cuando tosan y a que no salgan de la casa mientras sigan enfermos.

Por qué son importantes las vacunas

Recibir las vacunas recomendadas, según el calendario de vacunación, ayuda a proteger a su familia y a aquellos a su alrededor. A lo largo del tiempo, las vacunas han prevenido cantidades incontables de casos de enfermedades infecciosas y han salvado millones de vidas. La mayoría de las vacunas recomendadas están disponibles en el consultorio de su médico, en centros de atención médica, departamentos de salud y centros de medicina del viajero. También puede haber vacunas disponibles en ciertas farmacias en su área.

Puede sentirse mejor sin antibióticos

Debido a que los antibióticos solo sirven para tratar ciertas infecciones causadas por bacterias, pregúntele al médico qué los está enfermando a usted o a su ser querido. Por ejemplo, los virus respiratorios generalmente desaparecen en una o dos semanas sin tratamiento. Dígale a su médico, enfermero, farmacéutico u otro profesional de atención médica de confianza si su enfermedad o la de su familiar empeora o dura más de lo previsto. Su profesional de atención médica puede ayudar a determinar cuál es la mejor manera de ayudar a que se sientan mejor.

Para saber más sobre la prescripción y el uso de antibióticos, visite www.cdc.gov/antibioticos.

2018-07-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – Golden Globe Award-winning actress, producer, director, author and mother Drew Barrymore knows summer is the perfect time to kick back, enjoy life and embrace the possibilities of the season. Of course there’s no better time to let your personality shine, whether that means trying a new summer activity, bonding with the kids or feeling comfortable in your own shoes.

To ensure you’re ready for whatever summer adventure awaits, stock up on Barrymore’s favorite summer must-have’s:

Slide sandals

Drew fell in love with Crocs’ Swiftwater Sandal after partnering with the fun footwear specialist in its “Come As You Are” campaign. She calls this versatile slide-on style “An absolute must-have.” Why? The minimalist design easily takes you from a casual walk on the beach to a night out enjoying great food, great conversation and balmy evening breezes with friends. Perhaps best of all, the ultra-comfortable straps gently hug your feet as you walk, but they’re flexible enough to slip on and off whenever you choose.

Sensational shades

“Choose your summer sunnies with care!” cautions Barrymore, who is currently into sunglasses with metal trim like the Sheila Sunglasses.

Versatile tees

“Summer is about ease,” says Barrymore. “The Love Lane Short Sleeve Washed Tee is casual and easy, but still stylish and sweet. Can be worn over a bathing suit or paired with a dressy skirt.”

Superb setting spray

Barrymore’s favorite is Seal the Deal Hydrating Setting Spray. “It hydrates, refreshes and is humidity-proof for your best summer look,” she says. “A purse staple to keep your look together, plus it’s sweat-proof to last through the day at the beach.”

Pressed powder

Excess oil doesn’t stand a chance on a hot summer day thanks to Flower Miracle Matte Pressed Powder. “This will absorb excess oil and keep your look flawless all day!” Barrymore says.

Terrific travel dryer

Barrymore adores the You Are Adventurous travel dryer. “Tiny yet powerful, this hair dryer can be tossed in your bag for a quick dry after a day at the pool!” she says.

Terrific tunes

Summer isn’t summer without music, so customize your own playlist with the vibes that make you smile. “Personalize your summer now,” suggests Barrymore, “and when you listen back in the chilly winter months, it will remind you of all your great summer experiences.”

Comfy classic clogs

Barrymore’s pick: Crocs’ White Classic Clog. She describes the timeless style as “before trend, on-trend and beyond trend.” Think of this bright, clean accessory as a blank slate that can effortlessly (and very comfortably) accompany any casual-themed outfit you choose to pull out of your closet, no matter the color or style.

Bluetooth travel speaker

You need something to rock those summer tunes wherever your daily adventures lead you! “I take a speaker with me everywhere,” says Barrymore. “Make sure to get one small enough to fit in your bag so you can have traveling music.”

Backyard sprinkler

Never forget simple summer pleasures! “This is a major crowd-pleaser,” says Barrymore. “My kids love running around in the sprinkler on those way-too-hot days in August.” (You might catch her running in it here and there too!)

2018-07-04T07:01:01

(BPT) – Summer is a great time to create memories with friends and family, and some of the best times happen when you gather your favorite people together on your deck, balcony, poolside or screen porch. As singer John Mayer puts it, “A little bit of summer’s what the whole year’s all about.”

As you prepare to entertain during these long, lazy days of summer, it’s convenient to keep on hand easy-to-prepare refreshments your guests can snack on as they enjoy the balmy breezes. Consider the following suggestions for lightning-fast, ultra-easy, fresh-tasting treats that can help you welcome visitors at a moment’s notice.

1. Refreshing blender drinks: Stockpile a selection of frozen juices and fruits so you can blend up icy-cold cocktails — either the adult or kiddie versions — on demand. Because so many tasty drinks start with simple syrup or sour mix, you may want to mix up your own and store those concoctions in your fridge for impromptu events. When serving, don’t forget the fruit garnishes and little umbrellas.

2. Fresh guacamole and chips: Whipping up everyone’s favorite avocado dip is nearly effortless when you keep on hand Simply Organic’s Guacamole Mixes. The flavorful, liquid-based mixes, available in spicy or regular varieties, come in handy packets so you need only add two ripe, peeled, pitted avocados (organic is best) and break open a bag of tortilla chips to create a fresh, fun and wholesome snack. You get all the flavor, texture and tang without taking on all the work.

3. Mediterranean pita dip: Stock your vegetable drawer and spice cabinet with organic ingredients for this hearty, cool and flavorful dip: hummus, red bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, black olives, artichokes, feta cheese, oregano, onion powder and garlic powder. When guests arrive, spread the hummus in a casserole dish, sprinkle on the seasonings, layer the vegetables, then top your colorful creation with the cheese. Enjoy with pita chips or crudités.

4. Divine deviled eggs: When you keep hard-boiled eggs on hand, whipping up these classic favorites only takes a few minutes. Remove the shells, halve the eggs and mash up the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, pickle relish, salt and/or pepper to taste. If desired, you can add even more flavor by stirring in hot sauce, bacon bits, blue cheese, chives, pickles, mango chutney, pesto, pickled okra or crumbled potato chips. Spoon or swirl the yolk mixture back into the half-eggs and serve.

5. Bountiful bruschetta: Slice a crusty baguette, brush it with olive oil and toast the slices under your broiler (one to two minutes for each side). Top the slices with a mixture of chopped tomatoes, basil leaves, onion and garlic, mixing in olive oil, salt and pepper and grated Parmesan cheese to taste. Sprinkle with balsamic reduction and serve.

Check out SimplyOrganic.com for more delicious recipes to enhance your summer entertaining.

2018-07-04T07:01:01

(BPT) – The Fourth of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of our nation. It’s an opportunity to celebrate patriotism with fireworks and parades.

But it can also be an opportunity to show your appreciation for the brave servicemen and -women who protect our freedoms. The Purple Heart Foundation is sharing Brendan Looney’s story to remember the brave sacrifice he made for this country.

Brendan Looney was the oldest of six siblings, always looking out for his younger brothers and sisters. Family was extremely important to him. A natural leader, his ability to lead translated over to his passion while growing up, sports. Football and baseball were Brendan’s favorites, but after seeing his younger brothers play lacrosse, he decided to take it up during his college years at the U. S. Naval Academy. Brendan played on Navy’s nationally ranked team, and they went to the NCAA National Championship.

Brendan went to Navy because he wanted to play D1 football. To do that he had to get a waiver due to color blindness. He started at Naval Academy Prep School and continued to the Academy. In the fall of 2001 Brendan had just begun his sophomore year at the Naval Academy, when the horrific terrorist attacks on 9/11 pushed him to want and be more. Brendan graduated from the Naval Academy and was commissioned as an Ensign. He began his naval career as an intelligence officer. Brendan’s first deployment was to Korea and then Iraq. Upon his return he wanted to make a change, and went on to join the Navy SEALS.

Brendan earned a spot to attend Basic Underwater Demolition/Seal training, BUD/S. BUD/S is considered the most demanding and grueling military training. Each training class starts with close to 300 men, and on average 10 men make it all the way through to graduation. Brendan graduated from BUD/S in June 2008 and was bestowed with the highest honor a BUD/S graduate can receive, being named “Honor Man.” Brendan was assigned to SEAL Team 3.”

Shortly after Brendan earned his Seal Trident, he married the love of his life. Just two days after the wedding, Brendan was deployed to Iraq. When he returned from this deployment, it was a short turnaround time before he left for his third and final deployment.

Brendan was a Troop Commander this deployment and responsible for developing strategies. During this deployment, Brendan and his SEAL Team 3 brothers completed 59 missions in less than seven months. Brendan’s commanding officer wrote that “his great qualities as a man and a diplomat ensured the delivery of humanitarian assistance and medical treatment for children and a representative governance to an embattled society.”

Ten days prior to Brendan’s expected return to the States, his SEAL team’s helicopter went down in the mountains of Afghanistan. On that day, his family says, Brendan gave his best self to our country. He was 29.

Brendan’s service, dedication and sacrifice to this country did not go unrecognized. His military awards and commendations include a Bronze Star with Valor, Navy Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with Valor, and Navy and Marine Corp Achievement Medal. Brendan was given full military honors and is interred with his fellow brothers-in-arms at Arlington National Cemetery. His grave is alongside his fellow fallen hero and USNA roommate Travis Manion.

Brendan is a hero. He gave everything for this country.

The Looney family remains very connected to the military. They have many family members who proudly serve this country. Brendan’s mom, Maureen Looney, created the Brendan Looney Foundation. This “ultimately became a way for our family to thank all those brave men and women who have heard the call to serve and help aid them through supporting their sons and daughters. Although we cannot help everyone, we try to help, one kid/one family at a time.”

So, while you enjoy the holiday alongside your family and friends, the Purple Heart Foundation asks you to remember the sacrifices that have been made so that you are free to do so.

2018-06-29T14:15:00

(BPT) – As seasons change, so do your clothing choices! No matter the season, there are constants to getting the most out of your clothing every day. Maintain and maximize your vintage looks all year round with these five tips from Gerard Maione of luxury vintage shop What Goes Around Comes Around.

2018-06-28T14:30:00

(BPT) – Summer is nearly upon us. The warm weather leads to flowers blooming, luscious green grass, and verdant trees. Unfortunately, for those with seasonal allergies, the picture is not as lovely, with visions of a spike in pollen, stuffy noses, congestion, facial pain and tenderness, decreased smell and taste, and sinus infections.

For most people suffering from seasonal allergies, relief is found with over-the-counter and prescription medications, allowing them to enjoy the sunshine and smell the flowers. However, if the condition lingers or becomes more severe, you could be the 1 in 7 people in the United States battling chronic sinus infections.¹

More than 30 million Americans experience the pain and discomfort of chronic sinus infections, also known as chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).¹ Unlike acute sinus infections, CRS is unresolved, with severe inflammation of the sinuses lasting for more than 12 weeks.¹ Several factors are associated with the potential development of CRS, including infection, growths in the sinuses known as nasal polyps, deviated nasal septum, abnormal anatomy of the sinuses, allergies, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or regular exposure to pollutants such as cigarette smoke.^2,4

Signs and symptoms of CRS include at least two of the following:¹

• Difficulty breathing through the nose due to nasal obstruction or congestion
• Reduced sense of smell and taste
• Thick, discolored discharge from the nose or drainage down the back of the throat
• Pain, tenderness and swelling around the eyes, nose, or face

The pain from CRS can be agonizing. It can affect nasal function, impair health and diminish quality of life — most individuals with CRS report a lower quality of life than individuals with chronic back pain or even congestive heart failure.³ In addition to the unrelenting pain, CRS also has a financial impact — directly costing society more than $4.3 billion annually.³

If you are unable to find relief from the pain and congestion of CRS with over-the-counter or prescribed drug therapies, you should see your Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist or primary care physician to have further evaluation.

When drug therapies fail to provide relief from CRS, doctors typically recommend that their patients consider functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) to remove the source of the blockage and infection.⁴ More than 500,000 sinus surgeries are performed every year in the United States.³

As with most surgeries, there are risks to consider such as damage to the areas surrounding the sinuses or failure of the procedure. Approximately 1 in 5 sinus surgeries fail to provide desirable outcomes and require subsequent procedures to provide CRS patients with relief.⁴

However, there are ways to minimize the risks and improve the chances of a successful surgery.⁵ If sinus surgery is recommended by your doctor, consider image-guided, or navigated surgery, with the StealthStation™ ENT, which may enable a more thorough sinus procedure.

Recently granted 510(k) clearance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the StealthStation™ ENT allows surgeons to “visualize” your sinuses in three-dimensional (3D) images so they can maneuver to where they will be operating and avoid critical anatomical structures, such as the brain, optic nerve and vital arteries. The surgical navigation system can provide surgeons with images of your anatomy during the procedure, allowing surgeons to see behind delicate or hard-to-reach areas unique to only you. StealthStation™ ENT and other image-guidance systems are associated with better patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.⁵

If you believe you may be battling chronic sinusitis, download and print this infographic questionnaire, which you can share with your primary healthcare provider or ENT specialist during your next appointment.

2018-06-27T08:25:00

(BPT) – Losing weight — and keeping it off — isn’t easy, and one of the main reasons is that there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all, guaranteed-to-produce-dramatic-results diet.

Just because your BFF lost her baby weight by cutting out carbs doesn’t mean you will. Your genes, blood markers and lifestyle all play a big role in what works and what doesn’t when it comes to winning the battle of the bulge. When you’re ready to make some smart changes, it can be hard to know what will actually make the difference when it comes to avoiding the yo-yo dieting syndrome that’s all too common.

Arivale, a Seattle-based scientific wellness company, is disrupting the billion-dollar weight-loss industry by marrying genomics, lab markers, technology and personalized behavioral coaching to help more people become successful losers. “Your health is impacted 60 percent by lifestyle, 30 percent by genetics and 10 percent by interactions with health providers,” explains Arivale CEO and co-founder Clayton Lewis. “Our program focuses on the 90 percent — lifestyle plus genetics.”

When it comes to weight loss, understanding your genetic predisposition can help jump-start your efforts, he says. “For example, many people — including 68 percent of Arivale members — are genetically predisposed to increased weight gain from high amounts of fat in their diet ­— even healthy fats like avocados and nut butters,” says Lewis. This may explain why diets like the Paleo, Dukan, South Beach and Bulletproof that focus on fats and proteins and call for drastic reductions in carbs may not work for everyone.

“Your genes may tell you whether you are predisposed to gain more weight than others when eating fats or carbs,” explains Ginger Hultin, MS, RDN, one of the team of 60 Arivale Coaches who are committed to their members’ weight-loss success. “Yes, limiting sugar and increasing vegetables are key for a healthy weight-loss diet, but genetics also influences our ability to taste sweet and bitter flavors, which can impact our preferences for sugar and vegetables and our ability to feel full.”

The Arivale difference starts with blood samples taken at a local lab and analyzed for 3,000 gene variants and over 40 blood markers. Then you’ll have an in-depth phone consultation with an Arivale Coach — a registered dietitian or certified nutritionist with 200 additional hours of training in genetics and behavior-change science — who will walk you through your data and recommend the best actions you can take to optimize your weight-loss efforts. It’s a one-on-one relationship with someone who’s willing to go the extra mile to build a personalized plan that works for you. So, if you want someone to text you every day to check in or prefer an email once a week, or you need a killer recipe for low-carb lasagna or veggie burgers, your Arivale Coach is available. Your coach is supported by genetic scientists, physicians, clinicians and researchers who work behind the scenes to review your personal data and flag any lab values that could require a follow-up with your healthcare provider.

“We design a personal plan that will take your body, goals, blood type, genes and lifestyle into account. Pairing data with one-on-one lifestyle coaching will empower you to take action,” says Hultin. “We can see what is working in real time and make tweaks to help you overcome weight-loss plateaus along the way, so losing weight and keeping it off can become a reality.”

To find out more, visit https://www.arivale.com/weight-loss-2.

2018-06-26T15:59:00

(BPT) – Crumbling bridges, failing subway lines, gridlocked roads, water and sewage systems that haven’t been updated for over 100 years and a vulnerable electric grid. This might sound like the scene of a futuristic world in ruins, but in fact, these images describe the state of America’s deteriorating infrastructure.

By now, many have heard politicians and newscasters talk about how urgent it is for us to invest in repairing and maintaining essential infrastructure. The Society of Civil Engineers gives America’s infrastructure a grade of a D+ and estimates that it would cost approximately $4.6 trillion to fix this problem.

That is an enormous amount of money.

For the average American, the problem can seem overwhelming. But there are steps each of us can take to reduce the burden on our nation’s infrastructure.

Know what to flush and what not to flush

Only two things should be flushed down the toilet: wipes labeled as “flushable” and toilet paper. A recent study revealed that 98 percent of what was collected at a wastewater treatment plant were non-flushable items, including paper towels, baby wipes, disinfecting wipes, surface cleaning wipes and feminine hygiene products. Flushing products that are not intended to be flushed can lead to serious problems for sewers and wastewater treatment operations.

Conserve electricity

America has a massive electrical grid. When you step back to think about it, the network of power stations, power lines and generators that span this country is truly astonishing. But much of the grid is outdated and running at full capacity. Simple steps to conserve energy that can help reduce the burden on the grid include using energy-efficient light bulbs, unplugging electronics and appliances when not in use, washing clothes in cold water and installing a programmable thermostat. These steps will also save you money on your monthly utility bills.

Use flushable wipes

To avoid clogging their own toilet and creating larger problems for wastewater treatment facilities, many people are switching to flushable wipes. This prevents them from accidentally flushing non-flushable wipes down the toilet. Made from fibers that are 100 percent plant based and designed to lose strength and disintegrate in the wastewater systems, flushable wipes will not clog wastewater pumps and are safe to flush.

Be careful about what you throw away

When it comes to garbage, most of us take an “out of sight, out of mind” approach. About half of the solid waste we all produce goes to a landfill. In most cases, our garbage and solid waste is managed and funded by local governments and through fees homeowners pay. By taking greater steps to recycle and reduce their waste, individuals can help relieve the burden put on landfills.

Repairing our nation’s infrastructure will be an enormous undertaking, and each of us will have a part to play. The steps mentioned above have an immediate effect on your household and, over time, can contribute to the overall resiliency of our infrastructure.

To learn more, visit Responsible Flushing Alliance.

2018-06-21T07:01:24

(BPT) – Each year, at least 1.7 million Americans develop sepsis, and nearly 270,000 die as a result. While anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection can lead to sepsis, only 55% of Americans have heard of sepsis.[1]

Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is life-threatening, and without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have — in your skin, lungs, urinary tract, or somewhere else — triggers a chain reaction throughout your body.

Start the conversation about sepsis today with your doctor or nurse using these five questions:

1. How can I protect myself from sepsis? It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of sepsis, and act fast if sepsis is suspected. Signs and symptoms of sepsis can include one or a combination of any of the following: confusion or disorientation; shortness of breath; high heart rate; fever, or shivering, or feeling very cold; extreme pain or discomfort; and clammy or sweaty skin. An infection that’s not getting better or is getting worse can lead to sepsis. Get medical care immediately if you suspect sepsis.

2. How can I prevent infections? Talk to your doctor or nurse about steps you can take to prevent infections that can lead to sepsis. To prevent infections, take good care of chronic conditions and get recommended vaccines. Also, practice good hygiene like washing your hands and keeping cuts clean and covered until healed.

3. Who is at higher risk for developing sepsis? Certain people are at higher risk, including adults 65 or older; people with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer, and kidney disease; people with weakened immune systems; and children younger than one.

4. How do I know if my infection could be leading to sepsis? If you or your loved one suspects sepsis or has an infection that’s not getting better or is getting worse, ask your doctor or nurse, “Could this infection be leading to sepsis?” ACT FAST and get medical care IMMEDIATELY.

5. How can sepsis be treated? A person who develops sepsis should be treated with antibiotic(s) as soon as possible, in addition to other therapies that the doctor or nurse decides are appropriate for that patient, such as maintaining blood flow to organs or receiving intravenous (IV) fluids. A doctor or nurse should also check on the patient frequently and reassess antibiotic therapy within 24-48 hours to stop or adjust therapy as needed.

Remember, sepsis is a medical emergency. Improved recognition and timely treatment of sepsis increases your chances of survival and decreases the likelihood of long-term effects.

To learn more about sepsis and how to prevent infections, visit www.cdc.gov/sepsis. To learn more about antibiotic prescribing and use, visit www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use.