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Busted: 5 of the biggest holiday myths

2018-10-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – Holiday fantasies are not just for children. It turns out grownups actually celebrate the holidays living by their own set of myths, and they probably don’t even know it.

If all the holiday prep and bustle is giving your inner Grinch a migraine, you may find yourself in very good company! A recent Coinstar survey, conducted among 2,000 adults by Atomik Research, uncovered some of these hidden attitudes toward the holidays.

The findings revealed truths behind the following five myths we often cling to when it comes to the holiday season.

Myth No. 1: Regifting is in poor taste

Many people have a secret stash tucked into drawers and stuffed way back into closets: Presents from the past they don’t really want but the guilt is too strong to let them go. If you think regifting is a tacky solution to lightening the load, here’s a good secret you should know. Nearly two-thirds of us (65 percent) do it anyway, according to the survey. So if you can picture your aunt’s wide grin when she sees that over-the-top holiday sweater, by all means, wrap it up and give it to her. She’ll commend you for your excellent taste and your holiday budget will also give a tiny gasp of relief.

Myth No. 2: Sticking to a holiday budget is just too hard

After past failures to make a holiday budget, you decided it’s just easier to close your eyes and dive into a credit coma until January. Because it’s impossible to keep up with the unexpected extras that keep popping up: added gifts, events, replacement decorations, holiday attire and food. Here’s a reality check. Some 68 percent of people stick to a holiday budget. Maybe past failures can be chalked up to not having enough information to create a good plan. Look back on last year’s bank and credit card statements to help you make a better plan for this year.

Myth No. 3: Adding spare change to your budget doesn’t add up

These days, you think pocket change won’t even cover the cost of a cup of coffee. Which is why you may not be in the habit of counting on your change to fill out your holiday budget. Remember this: Most people who cash in spare change have more than they think, and according to the survey that’s about $78 on average. So don’t discount the power of pocket change. Grab a container and explore the nooks and crannies of your house just to see what you find. Check handbags, car consoles, spare change jars, dresser drawers and sofa cushions. With this new cash stash, you can easily knock out an item or two on your budget.

Myth No. 4: Spending time with family is what the holidays are all about

No better occasion than the holidays to spend quality time with your family, eating a delicious meal, followed by opening gifts in the soft glow of the fireplace and twinkling lights. If picturing your extended family in this idyllic holiday scene is more than a stretch of the imagination, you’re not alone. One in five people say they’d rather bow out of the family celebration. In fact, they’d prefer to spend time with friends, be alone or go to work. But for those who enjoy family time, holidays are perfect for making new memories.

Myth No. 5: Gift-giving comes from the heart

Ideally, every single gift is a pure expression of love and generosity from the giver, right? Wrong. You probably have a competitive gift giver in your group. And maybe it’s even you! One quarter of Americans confessed to getting into an altogether different kind of holiday spirit when it comes to buying presents. They want to be the one behind the most talked-about, flashiest or best gift at the gathering. Whatever the motivation, keep on giving.

Now that you know the truth behind some common holiday myths, give your holiday spending power a boost by visiting the nearest Coinstar kiosk. Cash in your extra change for cash or a no-fee eGift card for well-known retailers and get more gifts crossed off your holiday list.


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Supporting Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2018-10-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – Within the sea of pink for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, there is a wealth of information about early diagnosis, the newest treatments, and how to find support for a loved one who might be affected by the disease. While this information is critical, it is equally important that we recognize the 155,000 people living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), the most advanced form of the disease. MBC is when the cancer has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body such as the brain or the bones. It is important that MBC patients receive information relevant to them and that they are empowered to take an active role in their treatment in order to receive the best possible care.

Fortunately, patient advocacy groups, along with educational programs such as AstraZeneca’s Beyond Pink, offer education and support specifically for the unique needs of MBC patients and their loved ones. These groups help MBC patients and their families better understand what MBC is and provide education that aids in making informed decisions.

An important part of this decision-making is knowing the status of your tumor. Tumor testing — testing to understand whether your tumor is hormone receptor-positive or negative and whether it expresses too much of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein — is particularly important for those with MBC. For these patients, knowing the tumor status may help determine how their cancer is treated as some treatments are designed to treat certain types of tumors. Additionally, it is important that patients discuss with their physician the need to retest their tumor as the status of the tumor can change over time. Some patients may also want to discuss with their doctor the possibility of genetic testing to learn if their cancer was caused by an inherited genetic mutation.

“Risk factors of an inherited genetic mutation may include triple-negative breast cancer, cancer in both breasts, multiple cancers in the family, including breast and ovarian cancers, cases of male breast cancer and Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity, although some people with an inherited mutation may not have a family history,” said Dr. Sue Friedman, Founder and Executive Director of Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE). “For those considered at risk of an inherited genetic mutation, it is important to discuss your options with a genetics expert to determine if testing is right for you, as knowing your BRCA status plays an important role in determining the best treatment path.”

“A metastatic breast cancer diagnosis is scary, and people naturally have a lot of questions,” said Jean Sachs, Chief Executive Officer of LBBC. “MBC patients are likely to be on treatment for the rest of their lives, so it’s important that they receive accurate and complete information and find a community to help them navigate their journey. It is also important for patients to be their own advocate and take an active role in their treatment by asking questions and communicating with their health care team.”

Resources to help you play an active role in your treatment decisions can be found on the Beyond Pink: Sharing Our Metastatic Breast Cancer Story campaign website. Since its inception in 2015, the Beyond Pink campaign has developed a variety of tools to help support people living with MBC, as well as their caregivers. Additionally, the Beyond Pink Experience Center has hosted events throughout the US to help broaden the breast cancer conversation through education and patient experience. To date, we’ve welcomed more than 4,700 people to the Beyond Pink Experience Center at local events and look forward to continuing to reach the MBC community in the year ahead.

Throughout October, support those living with MBC by using the #BeyondPink and #NBCAM hashtags on Twitter and Facebook and visiting LifeBeyondPink.com.


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New Insights Show Type 1 Diabetes Community Needs More Advances

2018-10-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – People living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are faced with daily challenges like stress and limited freedom to do what they love, leaving them seeking additional ways to help manage their condition. This sentiment is shared by medical professionals, specifically endocrinologists who want to do more to help their patients living with T1D.

In two recent online T1D Unmet Needs surveys from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), conducted by The Harris Poll in collaboration with Sanofi US and Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, more than 70 percent of adults living with T1D (73%) and endocrinologists (73%) stated that recent advances in T1D care give them hope that there will eventually be a cure. However, according to the surveys, an overwhelming majority (87% of adults with T1D; 93% of endocrinologists) agreed that more advances are needed to help improve the lives of those with the disease.

Some of the results of this survey may be surprising, including that many adults living with T1D:

* feel like the whole day revolves around managing the disease (51%)

* feel like a burden to their partner (35%)

* avoid going out to eat (57%)

* avoid attending social gatherings with family and friends (49%)

The Challenge of Life with T1D is Ongoing

For those living with T1D, everyday situations that other people take for granted can be challenging and can ultimately have an adverse impact on their lives. For instance, adults living with T1D have a significant emotional burden: 88 percent said living with the disease adds stress to their lives, and 55 percent said managing their T1D takes up a significant amount of time and energy.

These challenges extend into disease management as well, as adults living with T1D also said they struggle the most with keeping their blood sugar within the recommended range (58%) and achieving individualized target A1C levels (48%). In addition, approximately 77 percent of adults living with T1D stated they wish they had medications to help them stay within the recommended blood sugar range for longer periods of time.

Opportunities Exist to Improve Education and Prioritize Better Outcomes

Overall, the survey results illuminated the T1D community’s need for more than what is currently available in terms of support, management and treatment of the disease and why it is important to continue prioritizing and advancing innovation to help people achieve better outcomes. Living with T1D is an everyday challenge, so it may not be surprising that 96 percent of endocrinologists and 88 percent of adults living with T1D are hopeful that future advances in T1D will help with overcoming the challenges of this disease.

In combination with bringing to light the unresolved needs of this community, these results represent an opportunity to enhance education that might ultimately help improve T1D care and outcomes. Learning more about the condition is an important step toward addressing the challenges that people living with T1D face daily. The findings of this survey will also hopefully help to encourage further dialogue and information-sharing between endocrinologists and their patients. For more information on the challenges of living with T1D, please visit gobeyondinsulinalonet1d.com.

About the surveys

The research was conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) in collaboration with Lexicon Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Sanofi, among patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and endocrinologists who treat T1D patients within the United States. The patient survey was conducted May 21 through June 6, 2018 among 255 adults age 18+ who have been diagnosed with T1D by a healthcare professional. Figures for age by gender, income, race/ethnicity, region, size of household, marital status and employment status were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. The healthcare professional survey was conducted May 22 through June 11, 2018, among 253 endocrinologists who see at least one patient with T1D in a month. Results were weighted for gender, by years in practice, and by region where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population.

SAUS.SOTA.18.07.4134


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Understanding Eczema in Skin of Color

2018-10-10T11:29:00

(BPT) – Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a skin condition that may affect people of all races and ethnicities, but may occur more frequently in African-American children.[1] According to US research, 19.3 percent of African-American children have eczema compared to 16.1 percent of European-American children.[1] There are many different treatment options available to consider when taking into account the unique characteristics of each patient. Here are some facts to help understand eczema.

1. Eczema may present itself differently on everybody. Eczema commonly appears as dry, scaly, or red skin, and is often accompanied by oozing, crusted bumps; however, it may appear differently on different people.[1],[2],[3] The face, neck, wrists, and ankles are common sites for many people, depending on age. Places where your body bends—like your elbows or back of your knees—are also common areas affected.[2] For those of African descent, eczema may be more prevalent on the outer parts of the arms and legs.[1] It is important to understand that eczema can also lead to issues such as dyspigmentation, which is skin discoloration that may be more apparent on darker skin tones.[4]

2. Stay moisturized and avoid triggers. It is important to know what works best for your skin. Moisturizers, such as creams, ointments, oils, gels, and lotion can help keep your skin moisturized.[5] Typical eczema triggers may include irritants (soaps, detergents, sweat, and rough fabrics), allergens (some types of food, dust mites, pollens), and environmental (temperature extremes, high or low humidity).[2],[5] It may be helpful to track your flares in a notebook to help guide your conversation with your doctor.

3. Connect with the community for support. A large community of people living with or caring for someone with eczema is only a few clicks away on social media. Platforms such as Facebook and Instagram allow people living with the skin disease to find support, connect with other patients, and share their own personal stories.

4. Talk to your doctor about your options. It is important to discuss available treatment options with your doctor. EUCRISA® (crisaborole) ointment, 2% is a steroid-free treatment for mild-to-moderate eczema in adults and kids as young as two. EUCRISA can be used on all skin tones.[6]

EUCRISA is a topical treatment that can be used nose to toes. EUCRISA is for use on skin (topical use) only. Do not use EUCRISA in your eyes, mouth or vagina. It works above and below the skin to treat eczema. The active ingredient in EUCRISA is crisaborole 2%, which acts deep within skin cells to target phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4).[6] PDE4 is an enzyme that helps to regulate inflammation in your body. When you have eczema, PDE4 enzymes may be overactive in your skin cells. This can lead to inflammation in your skin. Reducing PDE4 activity decreases substances in your skin that are thought to cause inflammation related to eczema.[7],[8],[9] The specific way EUCRISA works is not well defined.[6]

Crisaborole is combined with an Emollient-Rich Vehicle ointment. Ointments contain emollients, which can help lock in moisture and soften the skin.[6],[10]

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION & INDICATION

Do not use EUCRISA if you are allergic to crisaborole or any of the ingredients in EUCRISA.

EUCRISA may cause side effects including allergic reactions at or near the application site. These can be serious and may include hives, itching, swelling, and redness. If you have any of these symptoms, stop using EUCRISA and get medical help right away.

The most common side effect of EUCRISA is application site pain, such as burning or stinging.

EUCRISA is for use on skin (topical use) only. Do not use EUCRISA in your eyes, mouth, or vagina.

INDICATION

EUCRISA is a prescription ointment used on the skin (topical) to treat mild-to-moderate eczema (atopic dermatitis) in adults and children 2 years of age and older.

See Full Prescribing Information at EUCRISA.com.

The information above, along with the treatment regimen that you and your doctor decide upon, may help provide a better understanding of your eczema. If you have additional questions, be sure to speak with your doctor.

For more information about EUCRISA, visit www.EUCRISA.com or call 1-866-EUCRISA (1-866-382-7472).

The EUCRISA Copay Savings Card is now available for eligible patients for as little as $10.* You can receive your card by texting EOFFER4 to 42762 or by visiting our website: https://www.eucrisa.com/eucrisa-4-you.

By opting into the EUCRISA mobile program, you consent to receive up to 10 marketing or not-marketing text messages and/or push notifications per month from Pfizer Inc., such as refill reminders, fill confirmation and website information.

*See terms and conditions. Patients enrolled in state or federally funded prescription insurance programs are not eligible to use this card. Savings up to $700 per tube. Annual savings up to $2,800. This Card will be accepted only at participating pharmacies. This Card is not health insurance.

Eucrisa.com 1-866-382-7472 Pfizer Inc. PO Box 29387, Mission, KS 66201

This article is sponsored by Pfizer Inc.

PP-CRI-USA-1498

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[1] Kaufman BP, Guttman-Yassky E, Alexis AF. Atopic dermatitis in diverse racial and ethnic groups- variations in epidemiology, genetics, clinical presentation and treatment. Experimental Dermatology. 2018;27:340-357.

[2] Bieber T. Atopic dermatitis. Dermatol. 2012;1(3):203-217.

[3] Akdis CA, Akdis M, Bieber T, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of atopic dermatitis in children: European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology/American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology/PRACTALL Consensus Report. J Allerg Clin Immunol. 2006;118:152-169.

[4] Siegfried EC, Hebert AA. Diagnosis of atopic dermatitis: mimics, overlaps and complications. J Clin Med. 2015;4(5):884-917.

[5] Oszukowska M, Michalak I, Gutfreund K, et al. Role of primary and secondary prevention in atopic dermatitis. Postep Derm Alergol. 2015;32(6):409-420.

[6] EUCRISA® (crisaborole). Full Prescribing Information. October 2017.

[7] Jarnagin K, Chanda S, Coronado D, Ciaravino V, et al. Crisaborole topical ointment, 2%: a nonsteroidal, topical, anti-inflammatory phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor in clinical development for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. J Drugs Dermatol. 2016;15(4):390-396.

[8] Chan SC, Reifsnyder D, Beavo JA, Hanifin JM. Immunochemical characterization of the distinct monocyte cyclic AMP-phosphodiesterase from patients with atopic dermatitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1993;91(6):1179-1188.

[9] Sawai T, Uehara M. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate phosphodiesterase activity in peripheral blood mononuclear leucocytes from patients with atopic dermatitis: correction with respiratory atopy. Br J Dermatol. 1998;138(5):846-848.

[10] Eichenfield LF, Tom WL, Berger TG, Krol A, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis. Section 2: management and treatment of atopic dermatitis with topical therapies. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(1):116-132.


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New technology helps keep pets safe while traveling

2018-10-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – For many people, the health and happiness of their pets is a prime concern during travel. In fact, according to a recent survey, 48 percent of pet owners said that they actually care about their pets’ comfort more than their own when traveling. And while traveling with pets can be stressful — for the owner and the pet — the latest technology can help travelers rest easy knowing that their furry friends are safe and secure, no matter where they go.

Stay connected in the air

Air travel can be very stressful for pets and their owners, especially if pet owners find that their pet is not allowed to fly in the main passenger cabin. This means being separated from the pet as it is sent to the cargo area. The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that two million animals fly via cargo each year.

This shift can take an emotional toll on both owner and pet as the animal finds itself in an unfamiliar area with new sights and sounds — not to mention movement during take-off and landing. Not surprisingly, this change can cause major anxiety. Sitting in the passenger cabin with no knowledge of how a pet is doing can be hard for owners, too.

Fortunately, advancements with Internet of Things (IoT) and sensor technology can help improve this situation. A new app called Digi-Pet™ has the potential to provide added safety for pets traveling in the cargo hold, as well as more visibility for the owner. For example, with Digi-Pet, smart sensors placed on a kennel or carrier track the health and comfort of the pet during transit, including temperature, oxygen levels and vibration. Data can be tracked by airlines throughout the process as a way to study and improve the pet travel experience.

The solution was developed by global information technology company Unisys Corporation. Dheeraj Kohli, global leader for the travel and transportation practice at Unisys, first conceived of the idea after having to travel with his pet pug, Buster. Those experiences showed him there was a need for people traveling with animals.

“Our pets are members of the family,” said Kohli. “It’s nerve-wracking to send them to another part of an airplane even for just a few hours. With Digi-Pet, we are providing airlines with a way to improve how they transport animals, as well as deliver a better customer experience by providing assurance that their furry family members are well cared for.”

The pet-friendliest places at your fingertips

Digi-Pet is just one of the latest examples of how technology is being designed to help travelers and their four-legged friends make the most of their journey.

The free app BringFido, for example, lists the best hotels, beaches, restaurants, campgrounds and much more for pet owners. You can also find essential details about hotel pet reservation policies and fees that are often left out on other sites.

Dog Park Finder Plus is another app that provides a user-friendly map displaying dog parks in a given area. Using the current location, it searches the area and displays green dots on the map for dog-friendly parks and red dots for “no dogs allowed” parks.

GPS tracking for easy identification

A lost pet is a scary proposition for any pet owner. That’s why, if you haven’t already, now is the time to look into collars equipped with GPS tracking technology. These collars can measure activity levels and provide recommendations on how you can change or modify your pet’s activity, keep veterinarian records and also sport a light so you can see your dog in the dark. Most importantly, it will ensure that you’ll be reunited in the case of any type of accidental separation.

With pet technology tools on the rise, there are many options for keeping your furry friend (and you) safe and relaxed while you travel. Explore your options today and you will both enjoy your next adventure that much more.


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Take a road trip through Arkansas for the best fall foliage views

2018-10-10T12:01:01

(BPT) – With vibrant colors, crisp air and unmatched natural beauty, autumn is one of the most popular times of the year to visit Arkansas. During the months of October and November, The Natural State is the ideal destination for a long weekend trip to experience some of the most vibrant fall foliage in the U.S. Whether you’re traveling as a family, taking a couples retreat or exploring solo, consider driving along these scenic routes and enjoying the historic towns, state parks and nature trails along the way:

National Scenic 7 Byway: The National Scenic 7 Byway, the state’s first designated scenic byway, begins in southern Arkansas near El Dorado and runs 280 miles to the Missouri state line. The U.S. Forest Service designated approximately 60 miles of the highway that passes through the Ozark National Forest and the Ouachita National Forest as part of the National Forest Scenic Byways system. The route allows visitors the chance to explore attractions like the famed Bathhouse Row of Hot Springs National Park and numerous recreation areas, which provide opportunities to camp, hike, mountain bike, canoe and ride horses. As the byway cuts through the Ozark Mountains along the Buffalo River, visitors to Harrison can enjoy its historic downtown while hikers visit the Hemmed-In Hallow Trail, which contains the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and Appalachians.

Pig Trail Scenic Byway: A favorite among Razorback fans heading to football games in Fayetteville, the 24-mile-long Pig Trail Scenic Byway was named the top motorcycle ride in the U.S. by the USA Today Readers’ Choice poll. The trail snakes through the rugged and forested Boston Mountains region of Arkansas’ Ozark Mountains beginning on Ark. 23 from the south boundary of the Ozark National Forest to Ark. 16 at Brashears in Madison County.

Talimena Scenic Byway: Discover historic towns along the 54-mile drive on scenic route Ark. 88 from Mena to Talihina, Oklahoma. The drive displays breathtaking vistas as it passes through the Ouachita National Forest extending up Rich Mountain and then through Queen Wilhelmina State Park before it reaches the Oklahoma border. Visitors to the state park can stay in the 40-room lodge and dine on southern cuisine or enjoy campsites, picnic areas and trails.

Mount Magazine Scenic Byway: Starting in Havana, the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway (Ark. 309) begins its ascent through the forested slopes of Mount Magazine, the highest peak in Arkansas. At 2,753 feet, Mount Magazine State Park offers expansive views of Blue Mountain Lake and the Ouachita Mountains to the south and the Arkansas River Valley and the Ozark Mountains to the north. Located at the state park, Signal Hill Trail (1.5 miles from start to finish) is enjoyed by hikers who want to reach the state’s highest point to view fall foliage for miles in all directions.

Crowley’s Ridge Parkway National Scenic Byway: Contained within the Arkansas Delta’s level expanse, Crowley’s Ridge rises as much as 200 feet above the surrounding terrain and stretches from Malden, Missouri, to Helena. The Ridge is characterized by upland hardwood forests, farmland and orchards with a variety of recreational and historical resources. Seven state parks lie along the parkway, which also passes through the St. Francis National Forest, and makes for one of the most scenic motorcycle rides in the state.

Regardless of which byway you choose, beautiful fall foliage views are guaranteed. To learn more about the adventures that await you in The Natural State, visit Arkansas.com.


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5 things to know to help your pet live a healthier life

2018-10-10T09:54:00

(BPT) – Pets are part of the family, so it’s important to practice preventative care to support their well-being and help them live long, healthy lives. Just like people, pets can be affected by chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and allergies. That’s why it’s always good to stay informed and be proactive to help avoid or at least delay the onset of chronic conditions in pets. Here’s 5 things to know about caring for your pet:

More pets have allergies: Cats and dogs are more prone to certain conditions now than they have been in the past. For example, over the past 10 years there’s been a 30 percent increase in environmental allergy cases in dogs and an 11 percent increase in cats, according to the 2018 Banfield Pet Health Report.

Pets can have chronic conditions: Pets are also more prone to being overweight, and the number of obesity cases is rising. One in three pets is overweight and the numbers are growing. While you can make sure your pet exercises and eats a nutritionally balanced diet, there are many health conditions you have no control over. Just like us humans, pets can develop chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes and thyroid disease.

Pets need annual checkups too: Investing in preventative care is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your pet is healthy. Annual checkups allow your vet to screen for issues and provide insight on any concerns.

Pets’ chronic conditions are manageable: If your pet has a chronic condition that needs treatment, don’t panic. You may have to make some lifestyle adjustments to your pet’s diet or daily exercise routine, but these changes are usually manageable and well worth it for your pet’s health.

Pet prescriptions may be available at your local pharmacy: If you need prescription medications to treat your pet’s chronic conditions, look for alternatives that could save you money. Many of the same prescriptions we use to treat our chronic conditions are also used to treat pets, just at a different dosage. That means you can take advantage of the deep discounts offered with the Inside Rx Pets card which can be used in more than 40,000 pharmacies and offer savings on commonly prescribed medications such as insulin and antibiotics. More information is available at InsideRx.com/pets.

Taking preventative measures for your pets’ health will help save costs in the long run, just like it does with people. What’s more, it will help ensure that your favorite furry family members are by your side for many years to come.


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Simple health tips for busy moms

2018-10-10T08:15:00

(BPT) – Mothers are the CEO of the home. Organizing schedules, paying the bills, doing food shopping, managing pick-ups and drop-offs, and making sure everyone is healthy is just part of the job. Unfortunately, because they are so busy taking care of others, many moms often put off taking care of themselves or scheduling their own health appointments.

Making your health a priority can help you stay healthy and keep illnesses at bay. Here are a few tips to help:

Sleep consistency

You harp on the kids about the importance of a good night’s sleep, but when it comes to your own sleep, it’s often the first thing that’s sacrificed. Sleep deprivation is common among moms for a variety of reasons. Make it a priority to get 7 or 8 hours of quality rest each night. Keeping the bedroom quiet, cool, dark and free from the distractions of devices such as cell phones and tablets can help you relax and sleep.

Annual physicals

Just like with your kids, proactively seeing a doctor every year can help you tackle health issues head on rather than putting them off until they become a bigger problem. During wellness visits, your doctor will use health indicators like weight, blood pressure and heart rate to screen for common conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Doctors can then recommend treatments to help you stay healthy and feel your best.

Fill prescriptions

Your doctor’s treatment plan may include a prescription medication. Doctors advise that it’s important to fill and use the medication as prescribed. If you are not insured, or if your health insurance plan doesn’t cover the medication you were prescribed, you can check a free prescription savings program called Inside Rx which can help save an average of 40 percent off brand-name and 80 percent off retail on generic medications. Eligibility requirements and a complete list of the medications offered through the program can be found at InsideRx.com.

Boost nutrition

You meticulously pack your kids’ lunches, but when it comes to your own, sometimes you eat whatever you can grab. Eating well helps fuel the body and mind, so skip the junk and instead eat wholesome meals three times a day with healthy snacks in between. Stock the fridge and pantry with healthy foods that are easy to eat on the go and always have nutrient-packed snacks, such as dried fruit or nuts. Meal planning can help everyone enjoy healthy homemade foods throughout the week.

These simple tips will help you prioritize health as you take care of your family, so you can feel your best today and in the future!


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Simplicity and savings trigger flip phone comeback

2018-10-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – The good old-fashioned flip phone is enjoying a quiet resurgence, with sales having increased by 5 percent in 2017. While they’re not exactly poised to overtake the popularity of the iPhone, these venerable devices retain a timeless appeal for those who prefer the simple convenience of using a cellphone primarily for making and receiving calls, and with older users who find smartphones unnecessarily complex for their needs.

In fact, in a “Back to the Future” twist, most of the major smartphone makers are now working on foldable devices as the next big thing in cellphone design evolution. Having seemingly reached the limits when it comes to expanding the traditional rectangular smartphone handset, a device using two or more bendable panels to form a large touchscreen when unfolded is reportedly on the drawing boards of several tech giants, and could be on the market as soon as next year.

A practical choice

While fancy, foldable smartphones may be the future, the rugged and classic 12-key flip phone soldiers on in the present, gaining new fans for more than just its compact clamshell design. After more than a decade of smartphones integrating themselves into every aspect of our daily lives, many users are making a conscious decision to dial back their screen time and let their cellphone be what it was meant to be in the first place: a simple phone.

Then there’s the affordability. In addition to a full range of smartphones, Consumer Cellular, a leading no-contract wireless provider with a special focus on the needs of users over 50, offers flip phones for as little as $30, and wireless plans to go with them starting as low as $15 per month. If you’re on a limited budget, the savings of using a flip phone are huge, especially when compared to the cost of connecting with a flagship smartphone where the latest top-of-the-line releases come with price tags around $1,000 for the device alone.

An easy way to stay connected

As an added benefit, most flip phones today offer important features that make them surprisingly versatile. Some models can connect to the internet, though usually with limited functionality. Most include photo and video capabilities. And you can’t beat the battery life: a fully charged Doro PhoneEasy 626 from Consumer Cellular provides 16 days of power. By contrast, heavily used smartphone batteries will be drained after just 10-16 hours.

For seniors, or those with limited vision, the benefits are even greater. The flip phone’s tactile keys make it easy to find the right buttons when dialing. Many include an emergency alert button, an added safety feature which allows a user to connect with emergency contacts at the push of a single button. Flip phones even work with Bluetooth functionality, so calls can be made hands-free.

Fewer frills, fewer worries

A flip phone won’t fit the bill for everyone, especially if you’re a fan of using your phone for things like streaming movies, playing games or posting to social media. Photo resolution is less sharp on flip phone cameras than on most smartphones, and while you can send text messages, the typing process can be slow and cumbersome.

But viewed through another lens, many of these perceived shortcomings are precisely the charm for those who no longer feel the need to be plugged into their phone 24 hours a day, or have limited mobility or technical savvy. Add in the fact that flip phones are a great choice for anyone who likes having extra money in their pocket, and you can understand why they remain a popular and viable choice, even in today’s smartphone-dominated wireless world.


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How to create the perfect, four-season outdoor living space

2018-10-09T11:49:00

(BPT) – Creating an outdoor living space will give you an extra “room” to enjoy in all types of weather, even as the temperatures drop. You can start small with an inexpensive patio set and charcoal grill on a new deck, go all out with a fully installed kitchen, fireplace and living room, or something in between. It depends on your budget and how you plan to use the space.

Here are some ideas for must-have elements in your perfect outdoor living space that will allow you to enjoy your back yard in style with family and friends all year long.

* Deck

It’s the foundation of your outdoor space. Using real wood for your deck is the key to creating a natural, beautiful outdoor living space. One great option is Western Red Cedar. It’s resistant to rot, decay and insects so it lasts a long time with minimum maintenance. It’s also durable, yet surprisingly lightweight, which is one of the reasons DIYers and building professionals find it so easy to work with. It’s also a green choice. Woods such as cedar leave the smallest carbon footprint compared to any other building material.

* Fire

There’s nothing cozier on a crisp night than curling up in front of the fire. Adding a fire element to your outdoor room creates the same sort of ambiance. Imagine gazing up at the sky on a dark, starry night while sitting in front of the fire and you’ve got the idea. You’ll find a wide variety to choose from, including decorative metal fire pits or bowls; chimeneas, which are earthenware or stone outdoor fireplaces; or full-blown, permanent fireplaces like you might find inside the house. Whatever you choose, the crackling fire will draw people and create a focal point for conversation and reflection. Added bonus: It will provide a heat source for chilly nights.

* Outdoor kitchen

You can go big, creating a second full kitchen alfresco with a high-end gas grill, a wood-burning pizza oven, a fridge, a sink, storage for dishes and utensils, and a countertop for prep, or you can go small, with a simple grill. Either way, it’s essential to be able to cook outside so you won’t be stuck in your home’s kitchen preparing dinner while your family and friends chat on the deck.

* Furniture

A patio table and comfortable chairs are a must, as are some Adirondack or other sturdy, comfy chairs positioned around your fire source. But beyond that, think about how you’ll use the space. Does a chaise or two for lounging with a book and a cold beverage make sense? What about an outdoor sofa and chairs to create more of a living room–type feel? Whatever you choose, comfort, durability in all types of weather, and the size (not too big or too small) are prime considerations.

* Shelter

In addition to the standard umbrella for your patio table, creating shelter for your outdoor space lets you enjoy it in all types of weather. The sky is the limit on your choices: a simple wood and fabric canopy to shade your seating area, a more structured gazebo complete with mosquito netting, a decorative wooden pergola, or an outdoor sunroom or solarium that attaches to your home’s exterior wall. Get some ideas for great DIY projects, be it a pergola, a Tiki bar, a cover to protect your grill (and the grillmaster) from the elements, or for less experienced DIYers, a dining table, benches and chairs, by downloading free DIY project plans at http://www.realcedar.com.

* Landscaping

The final touch is the yard beyond your deck. Extend your outdoor space with a patio, create a walking path with stone pavers, or add shrubs, plants and flowers that will cycle and change with the seasons, giving your space a fresh look as the months go by.

For more information about creating your perfect outdoor living space or to download DIY plans, visit http://www.realcedar.com.