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Life happens: Tax tips for the busiest Americans

2019-03-12T08:01:01

(BPT) – As tax season pushes on, millions of Americans have yet to file their taxes. While reasons for waiting to do so range from a fear of owing money, to not having the proper paperwork, take solace in the fact that if you still haven’t filed your taxes, you’re not alone.

In fact, previous research from H&R Block shows that 57 percent of Americans say they’ve lost sleep or sacrificed free time on the weekends just so they could deal with tax preparation.

Regardless of individual reasons for waiting to file, there are ways to ensure the process goes smoothly, whether you choose to go it alone, or seek out expert help. And because 2019 represents the first tax season under reform, it pays to be especially diligent this year.

So, what are the options for the busy Americans who want help with their taxes, but don’t have the time or flexibility to get into a tax office?

The nation’s tax professionals often begin with a seemingly simple piece of advice, which can pay dividends over time: Get organized now.

Organizing the necessary information is going to make tax time so much smoother, no matter how you choose to undertake it. Get all your important tax documents together in one place as they come in. Missing tax documents can lead to missing out on tax benefits you’re entitled to claim. If you need a little extra help with documents, hop online. The internet is full of free resources, like the tax prep checklist on hrblock.com.

For those who don’t want to see the inside of a tax office, but want the comfort of expert help, technology again stands as a strong option.

Karen Orosco is a senior vice president at H&R Block, and she said technology can be one of the greatest helps for time-crunched Americans this tax season.

“H&R Block Tax Pro Go is designed for clients who want help from a tax expert, but also want the convenience of not having to visit a tax office,” Orosco said. “If you or your tax pro have a question, you can connect and share additional information using our secure online portal, email or even talk on the phone if you prefer. There’s no office visit, no preparing your own return, just upload your documents, sit back and we’ll take care of the rest.”

Another concern often raised by time-conscious Americans regards the size of their tax refund, especially under reform. The biggest piece of advice being given by the nation’s tax professionals this year is in reference to the W-4.

If you don’t like what happened with your refund this year, you can take steps to help see it doesn’t happen next year — one way is by updating your withholding with your employer. Tax season presents a great time to make that update, because it requires a lot of the same information that goes on your W-4. It’s also good to make these updates at the start of the year so the changes are stretched out over your paychecks for a longer period.

Orosco also presented another point for seeing a change in one’s refund: Individuals may see refund benefits by contributing to a traditional IRA.

“Individuals may potentially increase their refund or decrease the amount they owe by contributing to a traditional IRA,” Orosco said. “You have up until the April 15 deadline to contribute and reap the potential benefits. H&R Block tax professionals can provide expert guidance for clients when they file their 2018 tax returns.”

The final piece of important advice may seem obvious, or even simple, but bears repeating year over year. Americans need to keep their life in mind, especially as large changes like having a child, purchasing a home or starting a new job can truly alter one’s tax situation.

Life changes typically mean tax changes, so when something significant changes, it may be a good idea to consider getting expert help.

If you want to be matched up with your own tax professional this year, it’s easy, it’ll save you time and it just might make your refund even better. You can go to hrblock.com/taxprogo to get matched with an expert tax pro and see your price.


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8 things to tell your physician anesthesiologist before surgery

2019-03-11T16:01:00

(BPT) – There is no such thing as TMI (too much information) when it comes to communicating facts about your health with your physician anesthesiologist before surgery or a medical procedure. You might not think taking ginkgo biloba for memory, using medical marijuana for pain, smoking or snoring are relevant, but these supplements, drugs and conditions are among the eight things you should disclose for your own safety.

“Your physician anesthesiologist isn’t interested in judging you, but rather wants to provide the safest, most effective anesthesia and pain relief,” said Dr. Linda J. Mason, M.D., FASA, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). “Your safety is our priority and this information is essential so we can adjust your anesthesia and pain management to ensure the best outcome.”

Anesthesiology was the first medical specialty to focus on championing safety, and physician anesthesiologists have continued to lead the way in ensuring patients receive safe care. ASA urges patients to be forthcoming about their health information. Be sure to tell your physician anesthesiologist if you:

* Take anything for your health, including:

– Medications — Many medications can affect anesthesia or pain management. While some medications (such as blood pressure medications) should be continued even during surgery, others may need to be paused for a day or longer. Discuss all your medications so the physician anesthesiologist can determine the best course of action.

– Supplements — Certain supplements can interact with anesthesia. Many people take Ginkgo biloba to improve their memory or ginseng as an immune system booster, but both can increase the risk of bleeding. Tell your physician anesthesiologist what supplements you take and the dosage.

* Smoke. Smoking damages your heart and lungs, can lead to breathing problems during or after surgery, and increases your risk of: developing pneumonia; needing a ventilator to help you breathe after surgery; suffering a heart attack during or after surgery; and reducing blood flow, which slows healing and increases the chance of infection. Your physician anesthesiologist will likely ask you to stop smoking at least a week or more before the procedure.

* Use marijuana. Marijuana has a sedative affect and can interact with anesthesia, so tell your physician anesthesiologist if you partake, whether by eating edibles, smoking or other methods.

* Drink alcohol. More than two alcoholic drinks a day can increase your risk of side effects from anesthesia as well as affect the amount of anesthesia you’ll need. Your physician anesthesiologist needs to know if you drink and may request you abstain before surgery.

* Snore. If your snoring is caused by sleep apnea, anesthesia is riskier because sleep apnea slows breathing and increases sensitivity to side effects. Sleep apnea also can make it more difficult for you to regain consciousness after surgery, so the physician anesthesiologist may adjust the sedative, keep you in recovery longer and prescribe non-opioid pain medications.

* Have had heat stroke or suffered a stroke. If you or a family member have ever had heat stroke or suffered a stroke tell your physician anesthesiologist. Both can increase your risk of having a potentially deadly reaction to anesthesia called malignant hyperthermia, which causes muscle rigidity and a sudden high fever.

* Have had a reaction to anesthesia. It’s important to share if you’ve had a bad reaction to anesthesia during previous procedures. Your physician anesthesiologist will ask detailed questions about what happened to adjust your anesthesia and prevent it from recurring.

* Have chronic health issues. Many chronic health conditions can have repercussions for anesthesia, including diabetes, heart disease, allergies, liver or kidney disease, asthma, high blood pressure, obesity and seizures or other neurological disorders.

You should discuss these issues and any concerns you have when you talk to your physician anesthesiologist before surgery. For example, if you are concerned about taking opioids, your physician anesthesiologist can discuss alternatives.

To learn more about preparing for surgery, visit asahq.org/wscpreparingforsurgery and download and print the Preparing for Surgery: An Anesthesia Checklist and The Path to a Safe Surgery: Preparing for Anesthesia Begins With You to take with you prior to surgery. To learn more about the critical role physician anesthesiologists play before, during and after surgery, visit www.asahq.org/WhenSecondsCount.


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6 features luxury home buyers desire

2019-03-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – Modern trends in luxury homes are not just about location, size or specific decor, but reflecting the sophistication of their buyers. Buyers in today’s luxury home market desire innovative features that enhance their quality of life, provide extra touches of relaxation and use smart technology to increase safety and security.

Junaid Siddiqi, CFO for the developer of the exclusive Four Seasons Private Residences in Baltimore, offers some of the latest trends seen in today’s luxury home designs.

* Luxurious outdoor spaces

Today’s luxury home buyers want more than just a patio and pool. Outdoor spaces with unique, extensive seating areas for homeowners to relax and entertain are a must. This might also mean specially designed water features like ponds or fountains to create a zen-like experience, plus a fire pit or even a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, for people to gather and socialize outdoors.

* Bathrooms that rival a spa

The finest luxury home bathrooms now resemble five-star resort spas. Desired elements might include a large standalone or sunken tub, walk-in showers — with enough space for two — complete with seating, radiated heated floors, towel warmers and even heated toilet seats. Bathrooms with a view are a recent trend, appealing to homebuyers in terms of their natural lighting and enhanced ambiance. Natural stone and wood elements create a beautiful effect seldom seen in bathrooms in the past.

* Kitchens fit for a chef

While top-notch kitchens have always been a must-have in the finest homes, modern state-of-the-art kitchens for the gourmet and gourmand alike require the most high-tech, commercial quality appliances. Would-be sommeliers look for a climate-controlled wine fridge or cellar, and java lovers want the highest quality coffee brewers or espresso machines. And the kitchens should look as great as they perform.

“The Four Seasons Private Residences Baltimore, for example, are outfitted with designer chef kitchens, equipped with professional-grade Miele appliances,” says Siddiqi. “Gorgeous waterfall marble countertops and the finest quality Eggersmann cabinetry complete the extraordinary kitchen experience.”

* Enhanced privacy, security and technology

Luxury homeowners expect the best use of modern technology to ensure their safety and peace of mind, including everything from outdoor surveillance cameras with night vision, safe rooms, back-up generators and automated security systems. Smart home features that connect homeowners easily to their appliances, security and entertainment systems are also increasingly expected in luxury homes.

* State-of-the-art gyms

Fitness facilities in modern luxury homes are not just about the latest workout equipment. Today’s fitness fanatic wants a flat screen TV for workout videos, built-in speakers for music plus a spa or indoor lap pool.

“The recently completed club level at the Four Seasons Private Residences Baltimore includes a private fitness and health center,” Siddiqi notes, “plus a sauna with windows overlooking the sky-high panoramic view of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, and a heated indoor infinity pool designed by Counsilman-Hunsaker.”

* Unique design elements

Today’s luxury homebuyers are attracted by special design finishes such as textured accent walls using reclaimed wood, shiplap, stone, tile or brick. Even unique wallpaper with a European flare is showing up on the walls of modern luxury homes. “Open concept designs with high ceilings or skylights, large windows and a light, airy ambiance are on the top of homebuyers’ wish lists,” shares Siddiqi.

Luxury home design has reached new levels of innovation and sophistication. The Four Seasons Private Residences Baltimore was developed for those looking to experience a ground-breaking lifestyle in the heart of Baltimore. The luxury condominiums range from 900 to 7,000 square feet, each with unique finishes such as herringbone-walnut floors.

“Every detail of the design, from the size of the outdoor balcony, the materials used in the kitchen, to the various offerings included on the club level were carefully researched, planned and executed by our team, and we are thrilled with the ultimate result,” says Siddiqi. “I have traveled the world, and I can proudly say that this property shines for its sophisticated design and sleek aesthetic.”


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Revive deteriorated concrete driveways, sidewalks and patios by resurfacing

2019-03-08T13:27:00

(BPT) – There are many simple and affordable ways to improve the curb appeal of a home. From power washing the siding and painting the shutters to landscaping the front yard and updating the mailbox, homeowners have countless do-it-yourself possibilities that will effectively add curb appeal to their home. However, a commonly overlooked project homeowners should consider more often is renewing old, worn-out concrete driveways, sidewalks and patios with a concrete resurfacer. Thanks to new technology, resurfacing concrete has become a DIY-friendly project rather than being perceived as too difficult or expensive.

For years, the only option for addressing slightly damaged, unattractive concrete was hiring a contractor to tear it up, haul it off and pour a new surface. This entire process can run as much as $5 per square foot, which can add up to thousands of dollars quickly depending on the size of the concrete surface. Today, homeowners have the alternative of resurfacing concrete for as little as 25 cents per square foot. In addition, the most advanced concrete resurfacers like Quikrete Re-Cap are four times stronger than the concrete itself. That means a concrete surface being renewed will fracture or crack before its bond with resurfacer will break. As a result, any homeowner can transform a deteriorated concrete surface into a durable, lasting driveway, sidewalk and patio.

Steps for resurfacing concrete

When working with cement-based products, always wear eye protection and waterproof gloves, then follow these steps:

* First, rigorously clean the concrete with a 3,500 PSI pressure washer to remove all dirt and debris from the concrete surface.

* Repair any deep cracks and spalled areas in the concrete with concrete resurfacer and allow to harden.

* Completely saturate the surface with water and then remove any standing water with a squeegee.

* Place weather stripping over concrete joints.

* Mix one 40-pound bag of concrete resurfacer with water in a five-gallon bucket for about five minutes until a pancake batter consistency is achieved.

* Pour the concrete resurfacer onto the concrete in 1-foot-wide strips.

* Scrub the material into the concrete surface using a long-handled squeegee.

* Evenly spread the concrete resurfacer back and forth onto the concrete surface.

* Apply a non-slip finish using a concrete broom after about five minutes.

* For temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit, moist cure with a fine water mist for 24 to 48 hours.

A 40-pound bag of concrete resurfacer will cover approximately 40 square feet at 1/8 inch thick and up to 80 square feet as skim coat, so it doesn’t require a lot of material to handle most projects, which can be walked on in eight hours and driven on in 24 hours. For more tips, directions and information, including a how-to video on Quikrete Re-Cap, visit www.quikrete.com or look for Quikrete on social media.


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Tech tools that can help you cut your healthcare costs

2019-03-08T12:38:01

(BPT) – If you find it challenging to understand the convoluted and sometimes conflicting information regarding your healthcare, you’re not alone.

Because the U.S. healthcare system is so complex, it can be a struggle for patients and even doctors to have clear, transparent information about the costs of medications and how they are covered by insurance.

Technological solutions have made a difference, helping to bring transparency and helping patients gain control of their care in a variety of ways.

Technology gives doctors access: For example, technology has helped give doctors information on the costs of the thousands of drugs they prescribe. Given the many different insurance plans that cover their patients, with each charging different amounts for these medications, it had been frustrating for patients trying to take personal and financial ownership of their health, and for the doctors trying to help them.

More than 85 percent of physicians now use electronic health record (EHR) technology, which makes it possible to utilize new tools and digital platforms that provide your doctor drug and plan coverage information right in the exam room, as well as options for lower-cost alternative medications. This helps guarantee that you’re getting the right medication at the best price, as well as know in advance if the medication requires prior authorization (PA). This avoids the frustration of going to fill your prescription at the pharmacy only to learn that it’s either not covered or needs a PA.

Wearable devices aid transparency: The availability and popularity of health and wellness tech tools has also exploded in recent years, with wearable devices and apps providing personalized health information such as heart rate, blood pressure and sleep patterns, as well as medication, hydration and exercise reminders.

“High-tech tools give doctors transparency into a patient prescription plan, allowing them to better monitor their patients’ conditions and make better treatment decisions, while also enabling patients to be much more knowledgeable about their health and more engaged in what they need to do to stay healthy,” said Dr. Lynne Nowak, chief physician experience officer at Express Scripts. “Technology can help make healthcare more of a partnership between the patient and the physician.”

Apps offer individualized information: Even when physicians are not using the latest technologies, their patients often have access to personalized treatment information from their smartphones. One such app available through Express Scripts provides individual information so you can learn about the medications you’re being prescribed and any existing safety issues, whether you need a prior authorization, what the out-of-pocket costs of the treatment will be, which pharmacies offer the best price and whether there are alternatives or generics available that would cost less.

Using these tech tools can help patients as they discuss options with their doctor, so they can receive a prescription they can fill at an affordable price.


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3 tips to help your adult children establish strong credit

2019-03-08T08:35:00

(BPT) – Today’s millennials and Generation Z face starkly different financial realities than their parents did at their age. As a parent of a young adult, how can you help your children understand their financial options to build a foundation for their futures? The first step may be to appreciate where they’re coming from and how their attitudes may differ from yours. Your assumptions about finances based on your experience at their age may no longer hold true. Once you understand your millennial children’s situation, you may better be equipped to help them make sound financial decisions.

Consider these recent findings about millennials and credit from VantageScore Solutions before advising your adult children.

1. Millennials and Gen Z young adults face hurdles when judged by traditional credit scoring methods

Now more than ever, credit scores impact everything from getting an apartment or home, acquiring loans with decent interest rates and more. A poor credit score makes it harder for young adults to get ahead. Because standard credit scoring models assess the length of time credit accounts are maintained and the number of accounts, millennials and their younger siblings are at an immediate disadvantage. It takes longer for them to build a credit history worthy of decent interest rates and large loans such as a home mortgage.

What you can do: Explain that establishing good credit now will increase their ability to borrow later, though it may take a couple of years to establish that history before they’re considered creditworthy of assuming substantial debt such as a mortgage. Help them find a good revolving credit account by checking out sites that assess credit cards in terms of interest rates, annual fee (if any), rewards programs and more.

2. Millennials are averse to debt

Most millennials carry higher amounts of student loan debt than their parents did. As a result, they are reluctant to acquire more debt. For this reason, they may have fewer revolving credit accounts. This behavior is actually smarter and less financially risky on their part, but it results in them having a “thin file,” the term for a history with three or fewer credit accounts. In fact, many thin-file millennials have average income levels and assets similar to their thicker-file counterparts. And because they do have the income, they actually have the capacity to handle new accounts. Fortunately, VantageScore Solutions, a rival to the FICO score, includes trended credit data. According to their recent online article, Millennial Credit Habits: A Major Shift, trended data attributions “change the focus of credit scoring models to better understand actual credit management behaviors over time versus static snapshots.” In other words, it takes into account the typical millennial’s prudent behavior when it comes to acquiring new debt. Lenders with this understanding of the bigger picture will be more likely to give your millennials the opportunity to borrow.

What you can do: Tell your adult children to utilize credit in a safe and sound manner, and to apply for new credit carefully in order to build a more robust credit history. Stress that they should never spend more on the card than they can afford. Setting up automatic minimum payments on cards can help them avoid late payments, but also advise that they can — and should — pay more than the minimum each month, and in full whenever possible.

3. Millennials are likely to put off major milestones

Because of millennials’ reluctance to assume debt, they may put off major life events such as buying a home until their student loans are paid off. Recent data from VantageScore “shows (millennials) are writing their own story when it comes to using credit,” says the company’s president, Barrett Burns. Some lenders won’t loan to would-be borrowers with thin credit histories, while others offer them more expensive subprime-like products. But the research found that millennials “are anything but conventional.” VantageScore credit scores, which take these behavioral differences into account, are used by lenders, landlords, utility companies, telecom companies and many others to determine creditworthiness. However, many mortgage lenders may be missing out on thousands of potential clients by relying solely on traditional scoring models.

What you can do: Reassure your adult children that, while some larger life goals may seem out of reach now, their responsible actions such as paying down their student loans will pay off, sooner than they might expect. Encourage them to make more than minimum payments on their student loans to save on interest and eradicate that debt sooner.

So what’s the upshot? While you may be eager to see your adult children settling down in a home filled with grandchildren, they are actually trying hard to put their financial ducks in a row. You can help by advising them on smart tactics to manage their money and improve their credit scores.


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Survey: Parents have misconceptions about opioids and kids’ pain relief

2019-03-07T18:00:53

(BPT) – News of opioid abuse, overdoses and reports that 90 percent of addictions start in the teen years could make any parent worry. Yet parents remain conflicted about opioids: While more than half express concern their child may be at risk for opioid addiction, nearly two-thirds believe opioids are more effective at managing their child’s pain after surgery or a broken bone than non-prescription medication or other alternatives.

That’s according to a nationwide survey commissioned by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA).

“The survey results shed light on the country’s conflicted relationship with and understanding of opioids,” said ASA President Linda J. Mason, M.D., FASA. “Opioids may not always be the best option. It really depends on the type of surgery and how long they are required. It is important for parents to know that there are many alternatives available that are as — or more — safe and effective for pain management.”

A physician anesthesiologist can create an individualized plan to best address patients’ pain based on the condition or type of surgery and decrease the risk of opioid misuse and addiction. Read on for four insights from the survey regarding opioids and pain management.

1. Parents aren’t asking about effective alternatives.

While opioids can help with pain management for a few days after surgery or injury, effective alternatives do not have the side effects and risks of opioids. But the survey results suggest parents often don’t ask about alternatives, or aren’t aware of the options.

* 59 percent said they would talk to their physician about pain management options, but only 37 percent of those whose children were prescribed opioids did.

* 88 percent recognized non-opioid, over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) and aspirin, are used to effectively help treat pain. However, few were aware the same applies to other non-opioid options, including steroids (23 percent), antidepressants (9 percent) and anti-seizure medications (7 percent).

Beyond medications, non-drug therapies can help with ongoing pain, including nerve blocks, physical therapy, biofeedback, meditation, virtual reality, massage and acupuncture.

2. Parents are unaware that safe storage and proper disposal are key

More than half of people who misuse prescribed opioids get them from a friend or relative. Safe storage and proper disposal of the drugs are important to help curb the epidemic.

* Only 50 percent said they stored or would store opioids in a safe and secure place.

* 60 percent of those whose children took opioids said they needed fewer than were prescribed and had leftover medication. But only 39 percent of all parents disposed or would dispose of leftover opioids as recommended, including taking them to a local pharmacy or health clinic, flushing them down the toilet or mixing them with dirt, kitty litter or coffee grounds before throwing them away.

* 61 percent correctly identified the ideal method of disposing leftover opioids, which involves taking them to a collection center at a local police station or drug disposal program at a pharmacy or clinic.

3. Parents understand importance of communication

When a child is prescribed opioids, parents need to have an open and honest discussion about the potential side effects and risks — not only with the child taking the medication, but other family members as well.

* 74 percent said they have talked to their child about the dangers of abusing prescription and over-the-counter medications and 20 percent said they intend to have the conversation.

* 91 percent said they are confident their children know that prescribed and over-the-counter medications can be just as dangerous as illegal drugs.

4. Parents recognize naloxone saves lives

Naloxone (Narcan) is a lifesaving medication administered via nasal spray or injection that rapidly reverses the effects of an overdose. It’s important to know about naloxone because anyone who uses opioids may be at risk for an overdose.

* 71 percent agreed that having naloxone on hand is the same as having other life-saving medication available for people who suffer from conditions such as allergies, asthma or diabetes.

* 80 percent said they would be more comfortable having it at home if their child or another family member was taking opioids.

* 92 percent thought all first responders should carry it.

The 17-question Engine Caravan Omnibus Survey was conducted online Nov. 25 to Dec. 2, 2018, among 1,007 parents of children ages 13-24, one-third of whom had been prescribed opioids.

Visit ASA’s website at asahq.org for information about all aspects of pain management and to access an opioid overdose resuscitation card that provides guidance on symptoms of an overdose and how to help.


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5 tips for your next road trip

2019-01-24T13:21:00

(BPT) – Does wanderlust have you longing to get away? Consider the possibilities of the classic American road trip. With a tank of gas, the right attitude and some smart supplies, you can explore amazing locales on a budget.

“The great American road trip is still very much alive, and we’re not just talking long endurance cross-country trips. Places you can go from your own hometown and return on just one tank of gas,” says Peter Greenberg, Emmy-award-winning producer, writer, radio broadcaster and TV correspondent. “If travel can be defined as an experience that is absolutely meant to be shared, then the road trip is still very high on my list. It offers shared adventure, shared experience and shared storytelling.”

Start planning your next affordable road trip by following these smart tips and tricks:

Discover one-tank destinations

You only need one day to get away, so research destinations you can get to on one tank of gas. This keeps fuel costs down, and because you don’t need to stay overnight, you won’t have to budget for a hotel. What’s more, people tend to forget the beautiful spots just a few hours away from home, so be sure to bring a map and see which direction catches your attention.

Fill up tires

Of course you’ll want to check your fluid levels, wiper blades, and spare tire before you leave. One of the best ways to maximize your vehicle’s fuel efficiency is to make sure tires are properly inflated. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can improve your gas mileage by 0.6 percent on average and up to 3 percent in some cases simply by keeping your tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

Strive for a high MPG

Some cars have better fuel economy than others. With a practical design and impressive fuel efficiency, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback is ideal for road trip adventures. Getting up to an EPA-estimated 42 miles per gallon on the highway, you won’t have to limit your road trip due to fuel cost concerns. Plus the roomy design makes it easy to get comfortable and enjoy the ride. Learn more at www.toyota.com.

Create comfort

Remember the journey should be as much fun as the destination. Clean out your car, make sure windows are sparkling clean to take in the views, pack car-friendly snacks and drinks, and bring along cozy pillows or blankets. Technology can create comfort, so charge those digital devices and utilize your vehicle’s features. For example, the Corolla Hatchback has Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa Connectivity, so podcasts, music and directions are always ready.

Pack smart

Whether you’re on an impromptu or well-planned road trip, you can ease costs and streamline fun by packing wisely. Things like sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable shoes are must-haves for any road trip. After all, you never know what adventures will come your way. Consider packing sandwiches — the ultimate road trip food — which are great for eating in the car or on a picnic so you don’t have to buy full meals.

“Some of my most amazing travel memories are from one tank road trips,” says Greenberg. “I think everyone should make these excursions part of their travel plans. They are fun, affordable and great for people of all ages.”


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A surprising reason you or your kids may be tired all the time

2019-03-07T11:57:00

(BPT) – Do you struggle to stay awake during the day? Is your child falling asleep in school? Does your teenager seem to be napping more than normal? If so, it may be due to excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS).

EDS means that you get overcome by an irresistible need to sleep during the day, and you can feel tired all the time. It’s the essential symptom of narcolepsy, and EDS is usually the first symptom that people notice.

Narcolepsy is not as uncommon as you might think. About 1 in 2,000 people in the U.S. is estimated to have narcolepsy. Often thought of as an adult sleep disorder, symptoms of narcolepsy most commonly start in childhood or adolescence. In fact, more than 50 percent of people with narcolepsy say their symptoms started before they turned 18. Misdiagnosis is common, and it can take as long as 10 or more years to get an accurate diagnosis after the onset of symptoms.

According to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, pulmonary and sleep specialist at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine, “Delays in diagnosis can impact the lives of children and adults alike. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the symptoms of narcolepsy and how they can look and feel differently in adults and children.”

There are five major symptoms of narcolepsy. You don’t need to have them all to have narcolepsy.

1. Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is an irresistible need to sleep during the day. EDS has been described by some as feeling fatigued or irritable, having difficulty concentrating, or having poor memory or mood changes. In children, EDS may appear as hyperactivity, problems paying attention, variable emotions, aggression or behavioral changes, which can lead to a misdiagnosis of ADHD or other psychiatric disorders.

2. Cataplexy is a sudden, brief weakening of muscles triggered by strong emotions such as laughter that can range from small muscle twitches to full body collapse. Cataplexy in children is sometimes mistaken for other conditions that can have a sudden, uncontrollable and unpredictable effect on the body such as epilepsy.

3. Hypnagogic/Hypnopompic hallucinations are vivid dreamlike experiences that seem real and are often frightening. They are called hypnagogic hallucinations if they occur while falling asleep and hypnopompic hallucinations if they occur while waking up.

4. Sleep paralysis is the inability to move or speak for a short time when you’re falling asleep or waking up. This can be a frightening or disturbing experience. Sleep paralysis can be hard to confirm in pediatric patients, as they may have difficulty describing it.

5. Disrupted nighttime sleep associated with narcolepsy means you often fall asleep quickly but wake up frequently throughout the night. You may report poor-quality sleep. Disturbed sleep can affect adults’ and children’s attention, memory and ability to think and reason normally. Sleep problems are also a cause of distress for parents and may be one of the primary reasons for caregiver stress in families with children who have chronic illnesses.

“My daughter Caroline started experiencing symptoms of narcolepsy in the eighth grade,” said Carol Arnette of Williamsburg, Virginia. “She was exhausted, depressed, and began to isolate herself from her friends and family. We thought it was normal teenage behavior, but her symptoms progressively worsened. We took Caroline to a sleep specialist and after participating in a sleep study, she was diagnosed with narcolepsy. Since her diagnosis her life has changed. She no longer experiences the shame or guilt about feeling sleepy all the time.”

If you or your child may be experiencing symptoms of narcolepsy, it may be time to talk to a doctor. Visit www.MoreThanTired.com to take the Narcolepsy Symptom Screener and to find a sleep specialist near you.


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Ways to empower women in celebration of International Women’s Day

2019-03-07T14:19:01

(BPT) – The month of March is a great time to celebrate the contributions of women worldwide, as International Women’s Day is March 8, and March is also Women’s History Month. Female entrepreneurs make up approximately 1/3 of all entrepreneurs worldwide, and this month is the perfect time to highlight, support and applaud women in business, in your community and across the globe.

Here are a few easy ways you can celebrate and support businesswomen and female entrepreneurs.

Shop women-owned businesses. Know about a restaurant, shop or service-oriented business in your area that’s owned and operated by women entrepreneurs? (If you don’t, do a little online research to find some.) Go out of your way to shop at their location, refer friends and family members to their businesses and be sure to let them know that you support their efforts in your community. Give them a boost by posting a positive review of their business on social media. Helping female-owned businesses thrive is a great way to empower women in your own backyard.

Mentor women and girls in your industry. Find ways to offer female students and younger employees a chance to learn more about educational and employment opportunities in your own field. Contact career counselors at high schools or local colleges and offer to let students shadow you at work, or give them a chance to do an informational interview with you to learn more about your business. Help them get connected within your business network and share your experiences. If your employer is willing, develop an internship or on-the-job training program to encourage and empower up-and-coming women in your industry.

Support companies actively involved in projects that empower women. Mars Wrigley Confectionery U.S. and DOVE(R) Chocolate have pledged $1 million to CARE, a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty, specifically to empower women in West Africa. DOVE Chocolate and CARE partnered to empower women in the cocoa growing communities of Cote d’Ivoire after an assessment of women’s involvement in West African cocoa farms found that women were not benefiting from cocoa production, even though they participate in more than half of cocoa-farming activities. On March 7, 2019, just before International Women’s Day, the first stone was laid on a new marketplace for women-led businesses in the village of Gueyo, a centrally located commerce area nestled among the cocoa fields of Cote d’Ivoire. Beginning this March, consumers can help support these efforts, as five dollars will be donated to CARE with every online purchase of qualifying DOVE Chocolate PROMISES.

This year, find special ways to celebrate and support the women in your neighborhood and around the world who are working hard to create better lives for themselves, their families and their communities.