Category: Brandpoint Health

2025-11-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Do you regularly experience watery eyes? Believe it or not, this may be a sign of dry eyes. When your eyes aren’t properly lubricated, they can become irritated and can sometimes overproduce tears to soothe them. Other signs that you may be suffering from dry eyes include:

• A scratchy feeling
• Tired eyes
• Stinging or burning
• Light sensitivity
• Itchiness

While you can’t always prevent dry eyes, you can take steps to mitigate irritation and feel more comfortable as you go about your day. TheraTears^® — a leader in dry eye symptom relief — offers a few strategies to hydrate and soothe dry eyes.

Use a humidifier

Dry air may be one of the main culprits behind your dry eyes. In fact, according to Optometrists Network, dry air in the house or office is one of the leading causes of dry eye symptoms. Luckily, this is a fairly easy issue to fix.

A simple yet effective way to soothe and prevent dry eyes is to use a humidifier. By releasing moisture into the air, a humidifier creates a more comfortable environment for your eyes and helps keep them hydrated. Look for a humidifier or two to keep in your bedroom, office and other indoor spaces where you spend most of your time.

Use quality eye drops

Your tear film — the thin layer of liquid that covers the surface of the eye — is a delicate ecosystem. When that ecosystem is out of balance, your eyes lose water, leading to dry, burning and itchy eyes. Using over-the-counter eye drops is a great way to restore balance in your eyes and feel quick relief.

That said, not any eye drop will do. Choose a product that mimics natural tears like TheraTears^® Dry Eye Therapy. This one-of-a-kind, doctor-created lubricating eye drop is formulated with OxyLytes™, a proprietary blend of the five vital electrolytes found in natural tears. The formula restores your tear film’s balance, hydrates and soothes dry eyes and provides them with long-lasting relief.

Remember to hydrate

Are you drinking enough water? When you’re dehydrated, your body doesn’t have enough fluids to keep your eyes well-lubricated. Aim to drink eight to 10 glasses of water every day to stay hydrated and take care of your overall wellness, including your eye health. If you’ve found it difficult to remember to drink water, set alarms on your phone as a reminder and get into the habit of carrying a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day.

Take a screen break

Did you know that screens can cause dry eyes? According to Nebraska Medicine, there’s growing evidence that staring at screens for long periods reduces blinking, which is crucial to maintaining hydrated eyes.

You don’t have to get rid of screens completely to manage your dry eye symptoms. Instead, take recurrent screen breaks following the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes you look at a screen, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Incorporating more frequent blinking will also help. So, whether you’re scrolling on your phone, working on your laptop or relaxing in front of the television, give your eyes a rest.

Managing dry eyes doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. Using these simple tips, you can soothe your dry eyes and create habits that prevent additional irritation. To learn more about the dry eye symptoms and how to treat them, visit TheraTears.com.

2025-11-10T09:01:02

(BPT) – One woman’s journey from an unexpected diagnosis to learning how to manage a chronic, progressive lung disease.

When Lavonda was told she had bronchiectasis, she didn’t know what the word meant.

“I had never heard of it before,” Lavonda recalls. “At first, I thought it couldn’t be that serious.”

The diagnosis came in 2008, after an incident in a hot yoga class where she suddenly felt lightheaded, struggled to breathe and thought she might faint. Assuming it was pneumonia, she went to her primary care physician who recommended she see a pulmonologist. But a CT scan revealed something far less familiar — a chronic lung condition that would change how she thought about her day-to-day and lifelong health.

She soon learned about the disease from her physician who explained that with bronchiectasis, the airways become permanently widened, making it harder to clear mucus and bacteria. It’s a chronic and progressive inflammatory disease, which means the effects can be long-term and may get worse over time, causing potential lung damage.

Symptoms started slowly

In the first few years after her diagnosis, Lavonda believed she could live almost normally with bronchiectasis. She saw her pulmonologist every six months who prescribed occasional airway clearance and antibiotics when flare-ups occurred, usually once or twice a year.

“Back then, I thought bronchiectasis just meant I’d get sick sometimes and bounce back,” she explains. “It didn’t feel like it would change my life very much.”

Over time, Lavonda began experiencing more frequent flare-ups, when her bronchiectasis symptoms would worsen. These flare ups would sometimes happen four or five times a year. That’s when she realized the disease was more serious than she first believed.

During this period she was also diagnosed with a bacterial infection of the lungs. After consulting with a new pulmonologist to treat this infection, she learned her lung health had deteriorated due to her bronchiectasis, prompting her to begin taking her disease management more seriously.

The importance of early awareness

There are approximately 500,000 people in the U.S. diagnosed with bronchiectasis, and it is estimated that many more are living with this disease globally. Because the symptoms of BE overlap with many other respiratory conditions, it can take time to get diagnosed. Bronchiectasis is progressive, meaning it can get worse over time, and can lead to permanent lung damage.

For those who want to learn more about the disease and how it can be managed, visit ExploreBE.com.

A positive, proactive perspective

“I never feel like the disease stops me until I have a flare,” Lavonda says. “That’s when I’m more tired, I don’t get as much done and sometimes I even have to miss out on things like sitting on the beach with my family.” Despite those challenges, she focuses on staying positive and mindful of what might trigger setbacks. “I try to be mindful of what will trigger a flare. I avoid crowds, I try to stay active. I don’t want bronchiectasis to control me.”

Lavonda hopes her story helps others understand the importance of recognizing and managing the condition. “It can sneak up on you,” she says. “At first, I didn’t even know what bronchiectasis was or how to pronounce it. But if I follow my doctor’s advice and stay active, I feel like I’m doing something positive for my health.” Her advice is clear: “Don’t ignore it. Learn about it. Be proactive. You really can take steps that may make a real difference.”

This article and ExploreBE.com are sponsored by Insmed Incorporated.

2025-11-07T16:01:01

(BPT) – The United States’ top athletes are aiming to secure their spot on Team USA for the 2026 Winter Olympics. This group includes 15 Soldier-athletes and coaches from the U.S. Army’s World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), which allows Soldiers to train and compete at the Olympic level while serving in the Army.

Since 1948, the U.S. Army has sent more than 600 Soldier-athletes to the Summer, Winter and Paralympic Games, earning more than 120 medals across a variety of sports and disciplines, and the Army hopes to build on this success in Italy.

While these hopeful Soldier-athletes have different backgrounds and experiences, they apply the same teamwork, discipline and resiliency to compete at the highest level, serving their country in more ways than one. Here are some of their stories:

• Staff Sgt. Deedra Irwin pursues a historic Olympic return

Biathlon athlete and Vermont Army National Guard Soldier Staff Sgt. Deedra Irwin is preparing to make her return to the Olympic stage after a historic seventh-place finish in the 15-kilometer individual event at the 2022 Beijing Games, the highest ever for an American in this event.

Originally a collegiate track runner, Irwin fell in love with the biathlon (a combination of cross-country skiing and precision rifle shooting) in 2017. Irwin not only has to train for speed and endurance, but she also uses breathwork and visualization to help calm her heart rate and successfully shoot her targets, which can be as small as a golf ball.

Eager to continue competing at an elite level, Irwin enlisted in the Vermont Army National Guard in 2019 as a Human Resources Specialist and a member of WCAP. In this role, she could pursue one of the Army’s many career paths, and had access to the elite coaching, resources and support the Army provides its Soldier-athletes. Now, with her sights set on Milano Cortina, Irwin is determined to bring home the United States’ first medal in biathlon.

• Three-time Olympian Lt. Col. Chris Fogt leads Team USA

Lt. Col. Chris Fogt’s journey from three-time Olympian to head coach of Team USA Bobsled is a testament to his dedication to his sport and service. As an active-duty Soldier, Fogt is leading the athletes as they prepare for the bobsled competition at the 2026 Games.

While competing as a collegiate track athlete, Fogt discovered the opportunity to serve his country and pursue his Olympic dreams through the Army and WCAP. His Olympic debut in 2010 was marked by a crash while in medal contention, but he used the experience as motivation, working tirelessly over the next four years — even maintaining focus during a deployment as an Intelligence Officer. His perseverance paid off at the 2014 Winter Games, where he won a Silver Medal in the four-man bobsled event.

Fogt has represented Team USA at three total Olympics and earned six national team selections. Now he applies the same mental toughness, adaptability and flexibility he learned from his Army missions to prepare his bobsledders to handle pressure at the highest level.

• What is Spc. Bradley Nicol’s secret weapon? Mental resilience.

Utah Army National Guard Soldier Spc. Bradley Nicol relies heavily on mental readiness techniques to prepare for the intense speed and force he experiences in the high-speed event of skeleton. He uses visualization to mentally rehearse each run, picturing and moving to the turns of the track before pushing off, which helps him build confidence and anticipate challenges at high speeds. Nicol also practices mindfulness to manage the adrenaline and nerves that come with racing downhill at nearly 90mph, focusing on deep breathing and staying present in the moment.

For athletes preparing to compete in the Olympics, building mental resilience is as important as being physically prepared. Whether completing a mission in the field or competing internationally on the world stage, every Army Soldier has access to force-wide initiatives like the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system, which provides resources, education and expert guidance to the physical, nutritional, mental, sleep and spiritual health of Soldiers.

Drawing on lessons from Army Basic Training, the stability and structure provided by the Army have allowed Nicol to establish routines and develop a mental approach that strengthens his athletic and personal life. Combining these mental strategies with his physical training, Nicol can face each race with courage and focus as he pursues his Olympic dream.

• Sgt. Frank Del Duca and Cpl. Hakeem Abdul-Saboor are battle buddies in service and on the track

While many winter sports are individual pursuits, the Army offers a strong sense of teamwork and support that helps Soldier-athletes reach their highest potential. Bobsledders and active-duty Soldiers Sgt. Frank Del Duca and Cpl. Hakeem Abdul-Saboor share a friendship built through years of training, competing and serving together.

Abdul-Saboor — a two-time Olympian and former basketball, football and track star — had no intention of competing in bobsled and only discovered the sport after a strength coach recognized his natural athletic ability. Del Duca — a 2022 Olympian — developed an early love for winter sports by competing in downhill slalom and giant slalom skiing in high school, transitioning to bobsled in 2015. Abdul-Saboor and Del Duca attended the same rookie camps and joined the Army in 2019 to continue pursuing the sport.

They competed together in the two-man and four-man bobsled events at the 2022 Beijing Games, and although they hoped for a higher finish, the experience strengthened their bond and inspired them to come back stronger. With the goal of getting on the podium this year, their journey demonstrates how the Army can foster deep camaraderie and lifelong friendship, turning competitors into trusted teammates on and off the track.

• Pvt. Spencer Howe battles back from injury

WCAP Soldier-athletes draw upon their Army training to overcome challenges and adversity, including battling through injuries, as they pursue their Olympic goals.

As the Army’s only competitor in pair figure skating, active-duty Soldier Pvt. Spencer Howe has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout his competitive journey. After earning a historic fifth-place finish at the 2023 International Skating Union World Championship in Osaka, Japan, Howe underwent shoulder surgery and faced a long recovery period filled with extensive physical therapy.

During his recovery, he learned about WCAP and the training resources and career opportunities for the Soldier-athletes who compete on behalf of the Army. He enlisted as a Motor Transport Operator, and credits the Army with instilling discipline, mental toughness and a renewed sense of pride in his sport and his service as he aims to make his Olympic debut. In addition to his competition goals, Howe is pursuing a degree in theology at Grand Canyon University and hopes to eventually continue his service as an Army Chaplain.

• Spc. Azaria Hill hopes to continue her family’s Olympic tradition

Active-duty Soldier and bobsled competitor Spc. Azaria Hill’s Olympic dreams are not just a competitive goal, but a family legacy.

Hill comes from a family of Olympians. Her mother, Denean Howard Hill, won four Olympic medals in track and field for the United States. Her father, Virgil Hill Sr., won a silver medal in boxing at the Olympics, became a five-time World Champion, and is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Hill became a collegiate track and field runner, with her eyes set on attending the Summer Olympics.

Hill ran throughout college, but became interested in bobsled, realizing that the event had many similarities to track and field, like requiring an explosive sprint at the beginning to maintain the speed of the sled. She proved herself to be a natural in the event and joined the Army in 2024 to continue her pursuit of competition, placing fourth at the 2024 World Championships in Winterberg, Germany, and third at the World Cup in Lillehammer, Norway. Although her path is different from what she originally planned, Hill hopes to make her Olympic debut with her family and the Army’s support.

The path to becoming an elite athlete is different for everyone, but the training, values and dedication it takes to be an Army Soldier translate directly to athletic success. Both require a desire for excellence, physical discipline, mental agility, training and teamwork. These attributes ensure the Soldier-athletes are prepared to perform well in any environment, including the Olympic stage.

Learn more about the U.S. Army’s Soldier-athletes and the possibilities of Army service at GoArmy.com.

2025-11-07T15:42:55

(BPT) – Diabetes is one of the most common chronic health conditions worldwide.¹ Daily management is tough, but one of the biggest challenges for those living with diabetes is confronting stigma, judgment and misconceptions from people who don’t share the experience.²

Hear from three people who live with diabetes as they seek to change the narrative of stigma associated with the chronic condition.

Shaming hurts

Tomeka Porter, 50, has managed her diabetes for over 40 years, and feels empowered to make her own decisions thanks to effective diabetes management technology.

However, when dining out, her well-meaning friends and family sometimes question her decision to order dessert.

What they haven’t seen is that she’s already calculated the carbs, adjusted her insulin dose and checked her glucose levels.

“For me, having excellent control over my diabetes means using the tools that can give me real-time information to make real-time decisions,” said Porter. “The best tool I have is my continuous glucose monitor. It keeps me on track, in control and completely accountable, so the people I’m with don’t have to do it for me.”

Sean Hughes, 64, also lives with diabetes and finds that people fixate on what caused his condition, assuming that it stems from poor lifestyle choices.

“There’s this idea that people with diabetes are to blame for their condition,” he said. “It’s not as simple as, ‘You didn’t eat right.‘”

Criticism of food and lifestyle decisions is a common challenge. People with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are often unfairly judged, reinforcing the false belief that diabetes is only caused by “bad” choices. In truth, diabetes is a complex condition influenced by genetics, immune system responses, environment and other factors.³

Here’s what Porter and Hughes wish everyone knew about living with diabetes:

1. Every day means constant decision-making.
   People with diabetes can make up to 180 health decisions daily.⁴ From predicting how their glucose responds to what they eat to choosing what activities they do – all while managing the medications they take – staying healthy requires constant vigilance.
2. There’s no one-size-fits-all plan.
   Everyone’s journey with diabetes is personal. What works for one person may not work for another.
3. It’s not just about sugar.
   Diabetes is about how the body processes glucose, which can be affected by insulin resistance, stress, illness, sleep and activity levels – not just food.⁵
4. A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) can help inform lifestyle choices.
   CGMs are discreet biowearables that monitor a person’s glucose in real-time, helping them understand how food, activity and medications affect their levels. This insight helps support informed decisions.
5. Support matters.
   Helpful language helps create a more supportive environment. In a survey conducted by Abbott, 70% of respondents said supportive comments from others can significantly boost their motivation to manage their condition.⁶

Bethany Dingman, 32, has lived with diabetes for more than 20 years and shares Porter and Hughes’ experiences and advice. “Diabetes does not define who you are as a person,” she said. “Yes, it is a serious medical condition but when treated correctly, whether through diet and exercise, checking your glucose levels or medication, you can still enjoy life.”

The weight of stigma

Abbott, a global leader in diabetes biowearables, recently released research capturing the real-life experiences of people living with diabetes.⁶ It showed:

• Nearly 70% believe there is stigma associated with their condition.⁶
• Almost 25% have avoided sharing their diagnosis with family or friends out of embarrassment or concern.⁵
• 40% have skipped or missed a doctor’s appointment due to shame.⁶

These findings reveal that stigmatizing comments don’t just hurt, they isolate. They can make people with diabetes less likely to seek care, less willing to share their struggles and more vulnerable to shame.

How you can be supportive

Start with empathy. Instead of asking what a person with diabetes “can” or “can’t” do, ask how you can support them. Respect that people with diabetes are the most knowledgeable about their own condition and how to manage it.

“People think that having diabetes means that I can’t have sugar, but it’s much more complex than that. I have an excellent system in place to help me manage it,” Porter said.

“Diabetes is something I work at managing every single day,” added Hughes. “The ideal support is respecting that I know my body and my needs. I am in control.”

“I am living proof that diabetes is not stopping me from living my best life,” shares Dingman. “I have the tools to ensure my glucose levels stay at a safe level and it helps me worry less while doing my workouts and planning my meals.”

To raise awareness about the health impact of diabetes-related misconceptions, Abbott launched the Above the Bias initiative. If you or someone you know is living with diabetes and would like to learn more about what better support looks like, visit AboveBias.com.

The views expressed in this story should not be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or as a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual symptoms, situations and circumstances may vary.

2025-11-06T12:31:00

(BPT) – Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can happen at any age. In infants and toddlers, symptoms can escalate quickly. Spotting the early warning signs of anaphylaxis and acting fast can help keep a child safe.

The challenge for parents and caregivers? Infants and toddlers are unable to tell you what’s wrong. They don’t yet have the words to describe what they’re feeling. It’s up to you to recognize that something serious may be happening.

That’s why it’s important to learn the unique symptoms of anaphylaxis in very young children — and know how to respond quickly.

Allergy & Asthma Network, the leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of people with asthma, allergies and related conditions, recently launched a new Infant Anaphylaxis online guide. It includes practical information and resources for parents and caregivers.

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to a substance — such as food, medication, an insect sting or latex — as if it were dangerous. This triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals, leading to a chain reaction of severe symptoms.

The response can affect multiple body systems, including the skin, breathing, digestion, nervous system, and heart. Because babies can’t tell you how they feel, the signs are more subtle — and easy to miss.

Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis can cause swelling of the airways, breathing difficulties, or even shock. Epinephrine is the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis.

What causes anaphylaxis in young children?

Food allergies are the most common cause of anaphylaxis in infants and toddlers. Foods that may cause a reaction include cow’s milk, infant formula, eggs or peanut products. Infants may also develop symptoms when a mother consumes a food allergen and it passes into her breast milk.

Certain medications such as penicillin-based antibiotics may cause allergic reactions. Insect venom from a sting and latex are other potential allergic triggers. Latex can be found in bottle nipples, pacifiers and other rubbery products.

Experts now recommended introducing common food allergens to babies at 4-6 months of age. Research shows that when babies eat these foods early and often, their immune systems can learn to accept them instead of reacting to them. This can reduce the risk of food allergies later in life.

If your baby has eczema or already has a food allergy, speak with a pediatrician or pediatric allergist before introducing common food allergens into your child’s diet.

What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis in infants and toddlers?

Anaphylaxis can look different in infants and toddlers than it does in older children and adults. Recognizing the early signs is critical. Symptoms can change quickly and may become life-threatening if not treated right away.

It’s important for parents and caregivers to watch closely for physical or behavioral changes. Here are some common signs of anaphylaxis in each body system, with additional signs to watch for in infants and toddlers:

Breathing

• Common signs in all ages: shortness of breath, cough, tight or hoarse throat, swelling of lips or tongue that impacts breathing
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: belly breathing, rapid breathing, nasal flaring, tugging the chest or neck, hoarse cry

Heart

• Common signs in all ages: skin color is pale or has a bluish tint, weak pulse, dizziness or fainting
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: blotchy discoloration of the skin, fast heartbeat, appearing limp or wobbly with poor head control

Skin

• Common signs in all ages: many hives across the body
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: obvious swelling on the face

Stomach

• Common signs in all ages: severe vomiting or diarrhea (may be combined with other symptoms)
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: vomiting more than once, vomiting or diarrhea combined with other symptoms

Behavior

• Common signs in all ages: feeling of “doom,” confusion, agitation, altered consciousness
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: very tired, difficult to wake up, withdrawn, crankiness, inconsolable crying

Symptoms of anaphylaxis may vary among babies and can be different each time a baby has an allergic reaction.

Treating anaphylaxis

Infant anaphylaxis is a medical emergency needing immediate action. Epinephrine is the only medication that effectively treats anaphylaxis. It’s key to always have at least two doses on hand, as symptoms can sometimes come back after the first dose is given.

If you think your child has been exposed to a food allergen, or severe symptoms are occurring in one or more body system, give epinephrine right away. If symptoms are mild but occurring in more than one body system, you should also give epinephrine. Seek emergency medical help if your baby’s symptoms are severe, come back or worsen after the first dose, or don’t go away completely.

Ask your child’s pediatrician for an epinephrine prescription for your child. Make sure you feel comfortable giving it. Teach others who care for your child how to administer it.

Learn more at AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org.

2025-10-29T12:01:02

(BPT) – When most people think of eczema, they picture a dry, red, inflamed and itchy rash. But on darker skin tones, eczema can look very different, sometimes appearing purple, gray or dark brown. These differences can lead to a missed diagnosis and delayed treatment.

This not only worsens the symptoms of this common skin condition, but it can also increase the chances of developing additional allergic conditions. Delaying treatment for eczema can take a toll on mental health as well, causing frustration, anxiety, stigma and emotional stress.

With greater awareness and culturally informed care, eczema patients can find relief — for their body, mind and spirit.

Allergy & Asthma Network and the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) created the website EczemaInSkinofColor.org to help patients and healthcare providers better identify eczema symptoms on skin of color.

What are the unique signs and symptoms of eczema in skin of color?

Eczema (also referred to as atopic dermatitis) affects people of every race and ethnicity. However, research shows that people with skin of color — especially children — are at higher risk of developing eczema and often experience more severe symptoms.

Eczema on black and brown skin often doesn’t appear as the typical red rash seen on lighter skin tones. Instead, it might look purplish, ashen gray or darker than the surrounding skin. As a result, many patients and healthcare providers may not identify the skin condition as eczema. They may diagnose it as something else or dismiss it as “just a rash.”

Without proper treatment, eczema can cause patches of lighter or darker skin in people with skin of color. (This is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.) It may also cause the skin to thicken over time. These visible changes can be especially distressing for people of color.

How does eczema affect mental health in people with skin of color?

If eczema makes you feel self-conscious, anxious or depressed, you’re not alone. The visible nature of the condition, along with the itching, discomfort and social stigma, can lead to feelings of embarrassment or isolation. Over time, this emotional strain can worsen depression, anxiety and stress.

Research presented at the ACAAI annual meeting in 2023 found that 72% of people with eczema reported they had poor mental health for 1-10 days of the previous month. Another study published in the May 2025 issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that adults with eczema are two to three times more likely to have depression and anxiety. Yet these mental health needs too often go unaddressed.

For people of color, the emotional burden of living with eczema can be even greater. Barriers such as limited access to affordable or culturally competent healthcare, greater exposure to environmental triggers, and social and economic factors make it harder for many to get effective treatment. These challenges can lead to worse mental health outcomes.

A lack of representation in healthcare, historical and ongoing mistrust of care, and limited medical training on how eczema appears on darker skin tones all contribute to delayed eczema and mental health treatment.

Addressing eczema in skin of color means not only treating the skin but also supporting the whole person.

How can I find support for mental health?

Many resources are available to help you recognize symptoms, access treatment and find support for the emotional challenges that often accompany eczema. When you visit your healthcare provider — ideally an eczema specialist such as an allergist — ask for a referral to a mental health specialist. Addressing both your skin and emotional well-being is an important part of managing eczema and improving your quality of life.

The EczemaInSkinofColor.org website is a comprehensive educational guide with advice on how to talk with your healthcare provider about stress, self-esteem, anxiety and depression related to your skin condition. It includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers of children with eczema, such as creating an “eczema kit” with creams, moisturizers and wipes to bring to school or activities.

You don’t have to manage the physical and mental burden of eczema alone. To learn more about how eczema presents on skin of color and find more resources for care and support, visit EczemaInSkinofColor.org.

2025-10-22T02:01:00

(BPT) – Open enrollment is here, which means it’s time to review your health coverage options for 2026 and make changes if you need to. With a little prep, choosing a plan through Medicare, your employer or the Affordable Care Act Marketplace doesn’t have to be stressful.

“Health insurance jargon can be confusing, but the details matter,” said Cindy George, MPH, senior personal finance editor at GoodRx. “Taking a little time to understand how premiums, deductibles, networks and medication coverage work for you can help you save money and land a plan that fits your needs.”

If you’re ready to shop smart, start with George’s five expert tips:

Keep your information current

If you use the ACA Marketplace or programs like Medicaid, CHIP or Medicare’s Extra Help, update your income and household details each year during open enrollment. This can change what you qualify for and how much you save.

If you have an employer plan, make sure your dependents and beneficiaries are correct and report life changes like marriage, a new baby or a move, so your coverage stays up to date.

Check your medication coverage

Don’t assume your prescription coverage will be the same as last year. Plans often update which medicines they cover and how much you’ll pay. If you have Medicare Advantage or a Part D plan, double-check that your prescriptions are still covered. A quick review now can prevent costly surprises.

“Put your most important prescriptions at the center of your plan search,” says George. “If a plan doesn’t cover medication you need or moves it to a higher price level, you can check the GoodRx cash price. In many cases, that price may be much lower than your insurance copay.”

Think beyond insurance

Insurance alone may not provide the medication coverage you need. GoodRx research shows that plans can exclude some medications entirely or add restrictions like prior authorization. It often helps to compare your copay with prices available outside of insurance. For example, resources like GoodRx let you compare cash prices and savings options for both brand name and generic medications. GoodRx is not insurance, but it can often beat your copay price, so it may be worth factoring that into your plan choice and overall budget.

Don’t auto-renew without reviewing

Insurance coverage shouldn’t be a set-it-and-forget-it process. Because costs and coverage shift every year, it pays to shop around. Letting your plan roll over without a second look could mean missing out on better coverage or lower costs.

“Even if you like your current plan, compare before you renew,” George says. “Check the deductible, out-of-pocket maximum and whether your regular doctors and medicines are covered to avoid surprises next year.”

Use comparison tools like a pro

Free tools can make plan shopping faster and clearer during open enrollment. Use Medicare Plan Finder to compare Medicare Advantage and Part D options, HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace to review ACA plans and see your estimated savings, and GoodRx to cross-check prescription prices so you can better estimate your total yearly costs.

“Don’t wait until the end of the open enrollment period,” George said. “Start now, understand your options and choose a plan with confidence.”

Ready to get started? Visit GoodRx.com to find resources to help you navigate open enrollment and explore savings on prescription medications.

2025-10-14T08:03:00

(BPT) – Is your neck stiff and tight? Are your wrists aching after hours of typing? Do your back and shoulders hurt from lifting and twisting? These are some common signs of repetitive stress disorder (RSD). RSD doesn’t happen out of the blue. The repetitive strain can cause microtears in your soft tissue, causing pain that comes and goes but never seems to lessen.

RSD can happen to anyone. While jobs that are physically demanding, like construction and trade professions, can increase your chance of RSD, any job that includes repetitive motion can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion, and swelling of your joints and muscles. That means office professionals, retail and food service workers, and health care providers can be affected, among others.

The good news is that RSD is treatable. Read on to learn about four ways you can take care of your body that may help ease your pain.

1. Lifestyle changes

Your daily habits can sometimes be the cause of your pain. From poor posture or lack of movement to too much movement, what you do and how you do it can create or worsen a repetitive stress injury.

Think about how you can make simple changes to your lifestyle habits. For example, take regular breaks during work to gently stretch, change positions often, drink plenty of water and alternate tasks to avoid overuse of the same muscles and joints.

2. Ergonomics

Your workspace should work for you, not the other way around. Consider your work environment and identify changes you can make to support your posture.

Sometimes all it takes is adjusting your chair height and repositioning your screens. However, if you spend hours at a desk, consider using a standing desk. A standing desk is a great tool that can help make you more aware of your posture, reduce strain and encourage movement throughout your workday.

3. Chiropractic care

Chiropractic care may be able to help your body recover from repetitive strain injuries. When you repeat the same movement, your joints can lose mobility, muscles become tight and nearby nerves become compressed. Because chiropractic adjustments may help improve joint motion, reduce muscle stiffness and relieve pressure on nerves, you may regain comfortable, confident movement.

Consider visiting a chiropractic clinic like The Joint Chiropractic, the nation’s largest provider of chiropractic care. Known for its retail setting and concierge-style services, you can visit a Joint location near you without making an appointment or dealing with insurance. Not sure you can fit a chiropractic visit into your busy schedule? Thanks to The Joint’s accommodating hours of operation, including evenings and weekends, you can find a time that works best for you.

4. Posture

Poor posture, whether sitting or standing, makes your body work harder and causes daily strain. Start to notice your posture and consider how you can improve it. Avoid slouching when sitting or standing. If you repeatedly lift objects throughout the day, make sure to squat with a straight back and lift with your legs. Retraining your posture may be difficult at first, but the time you take to correct it can pay off in the long term.

Maintaining better posture has the potential to reduce stress on muscles, tendons and joints, and may help prevent repetitive strain injuries. Keeping your body more aligned may allow tissues to work more evenly, support circulation and reduce nerve compression. Simple adjustments, like supporting your lower back, keeping wrists straight while typing or keeping elbows closer to your body may allow you to protect against strain and support recovery.

Bodies are adaptable, and with the right support, they can reset and reconnect with the strength and ease that movement is supposed to bring. Learning how to recognize pain at an early stage and how to move forward with more comfort, freedom and control is key to a healthier and better life.

Using these tips, you can address your RSD and get on the road to feeling better in your body. To learn more about RSD and how chiropractic care may help you manage your pain, visit TheJoint.com.

2025-10-14T06:01:01

(BPT) – Ovarian cancer in women remains one of the most difficult cancers to diagnose. This is partly because its symptoms are not always readily apparent. As a result, a diagnosis may be delayed or initially attributed to another condition, and a diagnosis often comes when the disease is already in later stages — meaning it has spread beyond the ovaries to other areas of the body.

Platinum-based chemotherapy has long been the standard of care for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer. It is often used after surgery, which is done first to remove as much cancerous tissue as possible. This type of chemotherapy works by attacking the cancer cells, damaging the cells’ genetic material and leading to cell death.

Even after successful initial treatment with surgery and chemotherapy, cancer cells can remain in the body. These cells may be resistant to the initial therapies, or they may simply be too small to detect. Over time, these cells can grow and form new tumors, causing cancer to return.

Patients whose cancer returns within six months of platinum-containing therapy are said to have “platinum-resistant” ovarian cancer. This means cancer has become resistant to these platinum-based treatments. However, new research may bring options for women with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.

The Role of Cortisol and the Glucocorticoid Receptor in Ovarian Cancer

Scientists now believe that cortisol may play a role in how tumors respond to chemotherapy.

Cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone, is a natural hormone that plays a vital role in many processes within the body. Cortisol regulates these processes by binding to a protein called the glucocorticoid receptor. This binding acts like a light switch, turning on a series of cellular signals that impact bodily functions such as regulating metabolism, blood pressure, and cell growth.

The interaction between the glucocorticoid receptor and cortisol has also been found to play a role in cancer cells, including ovarian cancer. Turning on that light switch may cause ovarian cancer cells to become resistant to chemotherapy and may impact how well certain chemotherapy treatments work. This can happen even with normal levels of cortisol in the body.

Navigating Recurrence: Your Role and Resources

Because treatment options are limited, especially after disease recurrence, it’s important for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer to partner with their care team to better understand their disease and treatment options. This partnership helps them get the best care.

“Not every treatment has the same outcome or response for everyone,” explains Rachel, a patient first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2018. “It’s okay and advisable to ask a lot of questions and get second and even third opinions. This gives you information and a fuller picture to inform your personalized, targeted plan. It also helps you know that people are listening to you. This is a journey — people need to support you where you are on this journey.”

For women who have faced an ovarian cancer diagnosis, understanding recurrence is a vital part of their ongoing health journey. Here are three things women need to know about recurrence:

Recurrence Is Common. Ovarian cancer can have a high recurrence rate — you are not alone. And new science continues to bring new potential options for women with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.

Maintain the Right Mindset. When faced with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, focusing on what you can control is a good way to stay positive when dealing with the challenges of this disease. While it can be intimidating to ask questions or offer your perspective in the moment, it’s important to advocate for yourself and speak up at appointments. This way, you and your care team can work together to find the best way forward.

A Strong Support System Is Critical. Living with recurrent ovarian cancer can be emotionally and physically challenging. Building a strong support system is crucial. Lean on family and friends for emotional and practical support. Consider connecting with other women through support groups to share experiences and find helpful resources. You can also seek help from mental health professionals like therapists or counselors who can help you navigate the emotional toll of recurrence.

For women with ovarian cancer whose disease becomes platinum resistant, it’s important to understand this chapter in their journey. Patients can visit IlluminateRecurrence.com to learn more. They can also download resources, such as a discussion guide they can use to ask their doctor about managing recurrence, how to work with their care team and other important topics during their appointments.

2025-10-09T07:45:00

(BPT) – It’s that time of year again: fantasy football season! Whether it’s your first time joining in on the fun or you’re a regular league member, playing fantasy football allows you to feel like you’re part of the action on the field. However, it’s critical that you work on your defense plan against a real-life threat: stress-induced teeth grinding.

The grind behind the game

Fantasy football sparks 1.2 billion hours of rivalries yearly, fueling stress that hits your oral health hard. In fact, more than 70% of dentists see a rise in teeth grinding from stressful situations like intense rivalries from playing in a fantasy football league.

To shed a little light on the subject, DenTek^®, the #1 over-the-counter dental guard brand, surveyed fantasy football participants and found that 65% of players were extremely, very or somewhat stressed about their fantasy football team. More than half of high-stress fans said that they experienced physical symptoms, including teeth clenching and jaw pain related to their team’s performance. Stress can impact more than just your mental health — it can take a toll on your smile.

So, how can you continue to challenge your friends, cheer on your team and protect your teeth? You’ll need to draft an expert defensive lineman.

Your #1 draft pick to defend against teeth grinding

DenTek^® is kicking off the season with “Fantasy Guards” to crush teeth-grinding stress from fantasy football. These BPA-free Professional-Fit, Ultimate and Comfort-Fit nighttime mouth guards are custom-fit champs with a six-month guarantee and unbeatable comfort — your top pick for stress-busting oral care.

DenTek^® mouthguards are so effective that even professional football players are getting in on the action.

“Defending against stress is like leaping into the end zone,” said Hall of Fame safety LeRoy Butler. “DenTek^® mouth guards give you that winning edge to protect against nighttime teeth grinding.”

Turn losses into unforgettable wins

Almost 20% of football fantasy players said that one aspect of the game that contributes the most stress is a last-place punishment. To fight back against the grind and turn losses into laughs, DenTek^® has launched the “Ultimate Fantasy Football Punishment” contest. Backed by NFL stars like LeRoy Butler, Tiki Barber, Austin Ekeler, Dwight Freeney, Ted Ginn Jr., Ronde Barber, NFL veteran and dentist Joe Holland and University of Connecticut quarterback and X-League star Dave Pindell, this contest lets you up the stakes for the league loser while also snagging a deal on smile-saving night guards.

When you enter the Ultimate Punishment, you’ll have a chance to win a DenTek-sponsored twist on your league’s lowest scorer. And just for signing up, you’ll receive $5 off a DenTek Professional Fit Dental Guard, available on Amazon and major retailers, to protect against this season’s stress grinding!

Head to Dentek.com/UltimatePunishment. See the full rules and submit your league names and a short video online by Dec. 8, 2025.

“DenTek’s nighttime dental guards are your MVP for a tough season,” said Barber. “And the Ultimate Punishment? That’s a touchdown for fun.”