The fall season is upon us which means it’s time for crisp mornings, football games, falling leaves and pumpkin spice everything. Unfortunately, it’s also the time when we see an increase in flu cases. Flu season starts in early autumn and can last through spring, with the peak being sometime between December and February. While anyone can get the flu, there are steps we can take to minimize risk of illness and prevent getting it. Keep reading to learn how to protect yourself from the flu this year.

Get the Flu Shot

The most important step to protecting yourself and others from the flu is getting your annual flu shot. The CDC recommends anyone 6 months and older get the influenza vaccine once every year in September or October. Flu vaccines are offered at physician offices, clinics, pharmacies, health departments, schools and many more locations. The vaccine takes two weeks for antibodies to develop and provide protection against the flu virus.

Stay Home when You’re Sick

Even if you haven’t been tested for the flu, if you’re experiencing flu symptoms it is best to stay home from work, school or social events. The most common symptoms are fever, headache, dry cough, body aches, muscle and joint pain, sore throat and runny nose. If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s best to practice social distancing.

Practice Healthy Habits

While healthy habits are important all year round, they are especially crucial during flu season. Keep your hands clean by washing them with soap and warm water after using the restroom and regularly throughout the day. Germs are most likely to enter your body through the eyes, nose and mouth, so to reduce infection it is important to keep your hands away from your face and avoid touching these areas. If you do get sick, be sure to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent your germs from spreading to others.

Go to the Doctor

If you think you have the flu, you may want to make an appointment with your doctor. Your physician will be able to test you, identify any potential risks, and determine whether or not you should take antiviral medication.

Know Your Risks

While anyone can get the flu, there are certain people who are at a higher risk for getting severely ill or having complications. Adults 65 and older, children under 5, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions can be at higher risk. If you suffer from any chronic health conditions, talk to your doctor to see if you are at risk for complications from the flu.

If you need a flu shot or think you may already have the flu, Southwoods Express Care is here to help. With convenient walk-in service, shorter wait times, and lower costs than an ER visit, Express Care is open 7 days a week in Boardman, Campbell and Columbiana.

After a procedure or suffering an injury or illness, the best place to recover is in the comfort of your own home. It is where you feel safest, the surroundings are familiar and where you spend the most time with family and friends. For over 25 years, Southwoods Health’s focus has been on the needs of the communities it serves. We’ve continued to expand clinical offerings to ensure patients have access to the important care they need, while providing an exceptional patient experience. We are proud to offer a new service with that same focus, in Southwoods Health at Home. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of home health care.

Faster Recovery

One of the biggest advantages of home health care is a faster recovery time. When you’re in the comfort of your own home, you can truly relax, which helps speed up your recovery and healing time. Hospitals can be noisy, temperatures can vary, and you may have a roommate – all factors that can make you uncomfortable and lead to a longer recovery.

Improving or Maintaining Level of Function
While a stay in the hospital is often necessary, it can sometimes lead to a decline in levels of function. Spending a prolonged period of time in a hospital bed can lead to muscle loss, weakness and loss of normal function. While you’re at home, you can receive personalized care and attention that will help you improve or maintain your level of function.

Medication Management

After an illness or procedure, you may be given new medications. With a home health care provider, you can avoid harmful drug interactions, make sure you are taking the correct doses and never miss a dose. When you aren’t feeling your best or sleeping more than usual, it can be easy to lose track of medication – Southwoods’ Health at Home professionals can ensure this doesn’t happen.

Living Environment Assessment

When you are back home after a stay in the hospital, it is important to make sure your home is safe for you to recover in. Steps without railings, slippery rugs, hard to reach cabinets and many other factors can all be a hazard to someone recovering from illness or surgery, and home health care professionals can help identify these issues.

Regaining Independence

It can be hard to admit you need help in your own home, however, having someone there to can put you on track to regaining independence over time. You can slowly start to do everyday tasks like cooking, bathing, getting dressed, taking out the trash and more as you continue to improve. A home health care provider can bring you peace of mind knowing that you have a set of helping hands.

Relief for family

Not only will home health care benefit you, it will also help family caregivers. It can be tough for family members to care for someone, especially if they do not have any medical or healthcare background. A home health care provider can assist with bathing, dressing, medical care and other tasks.

Whether you need help at home or are a family member or doctor assisting a patient, Southwoods can help. Our goal is to provide expert care, the Southwoods Way, offering compassionate support, encouragement and genuine peace of mind for you and your family. To learn more, visit www.SouthwoodsHealthAtHome.com.

September is Pain Awareness Month, a time to promote pain education and raise awareness about issues related to chronic pain. Approximately 50 million Americans suffer from chronic pain that impacts their daily activities and overall quality of life. Fortunately, there are treatment options available that can help alleviate suffering and bring patients relief. As we begin Pain Awareness Month, here are some available options to relieve chronic pain.

Injections

Depending on the source of pain, an injection may be the best solution for treating pain.

  • Joint Injections are a commonly performed treatment to provide quick relief of pain and inflammation in your joints.
  • Epidural Steroid Injections are common for lower back pain but may also help with upper back and neck pain.
  • Trigger points are painful areas in muscles that can be described to feel like a “knot” or specific area of tightness. When pressure is applied to the trigger point, the pain spreads out to other areas of the body. Trigger Point Injections are administered directly to the trigger point, which can reduce pain and increase physical function.
  • Bursa Injections are injections of a steroid medication into your bursa – the gel-filled sac that helps muscles and tendons glide over bones. When bursae get swollen, they can cause joint pain.
  • Facet Joint Injections can reduce pain, as well as help in determining if the facet joint is the cause of the patient’s pain. Each vertebra on the spine has two pairs of facet joints, one pair points up (connecting with the vertebrae above) while the second pair points down (connecting with the vertebrae below).

Medication Management

When other therapies and injections don’t seem to work, medication may be the best option. Medication can play a crucial role in the management of chronic pain, but needs to be monitored closely by a specialist to ensure the correct medication is being administered and that it is working as it should be on the patient.

Surgical Implants

  • An Intrathecal Infusion Pumps is a device that delivers small quantities of pain medication directly to the spinal fluid. When delivered in small doses, pain medications may minimize the side effects often experienced with larger oral doses of the same medications.
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation is an implantable device that sends low levels of electricity to the spinal cord. Designed to relieve pain, this device blocks pain signals prior to them reaching the brain.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) uses an electric current to heat up an area of affected nerve tissue to reduce pain. This procedure stops the nerve from sending pain signals to the brain.

Headache Therapy

Headache is one of the most common pain conditions in the world. Up to 75% of adults worldwide have had a headache in the past year. They are different for each patient so treatment depends on symptoms, severity of pain, frequency, etc. Headache Therapy treatment options range from medication management to stress management to physical and neurological examinations to help determine cause. OnabotulinumtoxinA Injections can be used to prevent headaches in adults suffering from chronic migraines that are sometimes accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to sound or light. Patients who are candidates typically suffer 15+ days each month with headaches lasting four hours or longer. This injection is given as a number of tiny injections intended to affect only the area where injected.

Recognizing the far-reaching effects of chronic pain, Southwoods places great importance on providing access to the region’s most capable team of physicians and advanced practice providers. The comprehensive team at the Southwoods Pain & Spine Center is dedicated to finding effective results that reduce or eliminate pain altogether. If you or a loved one is suffering, call 330-314-9100 to schedule an appointment.

Sometimes it feels like as soon as you’re done unpacking from your summer vacation, it’s time to start packing new school supplies into backpacks and preparing lunches again. Getting back into a routine to start the new school year can be tricky to navigate at first, but, if you plan ahead and explain the plan to your kids in advance, your school year could get off to a smooth, organized start!

Get Back to a Bedtime Schedule Now

When the school year ends, parents and kids are typically excited to relax the rules and sleep later than usual. While this is enjoyable at the time, it can complicate things when the next school year comes around. To get back on track, parents should start setting bedtime guidelines before the first day of school. On average, it takes 10-14 days for our bodies to fully adjust to sleep pattern changes. You should make changes in smaller increments and start bedtime about 30 minutes earlier each time. Then continue to move bedtime up every couple of days until you reach the appropriate bedtime start.

Make Back to School Shopping a Joint Effort

While kids may not be excited to have homework, they may be more enthusiastic to use the supplies they helped pick out to complete it. With most schools supplying parents with recommended shopping lists, kids can be involved in choosing which pencil case, bookbag, folders, and more they wish to use throughout the year. The same can be said when it comes to new clothes and shoes. While parents may not always agree with their kids’ style choices, looking good can lead to feeling good and build confidence for kids heading back to the classroom. It can be fun picking out everything they need to start the new school year off right!

Develop a Morning Routine

Just like developing a steady bedtime routine is important, a morning routine can be the difference between catching the bus and missing it. If you discuss with your children how the mornings should go, it can make things easier and prepare them to get ready for their day. If several family members are trying to get ready to get out the door at once, having dedicated time in common areas can help everyone get to where they’re going on time. Communication is key to getting everyone on the same page.

Prep the Night Before

While the best laid plans can make your mornings go more smoothly, you’ll still have hiccups that arise to keep things from going according to plan. If you can do some prep work the night before, your morning routine will be easier. Some things you can do ahead of time include:

  • Laying out clothes so kids can get dressed quickly
  • Preparing lunches and snacks as much as possible
  • Showering or bathing at night instead of in the morning
  • Packing book bags once homework is complete so kids can grab and go

The start of the school year can be hectic and stressful for students and parents. But if you start with a plan and develop a routine everyone is comfortable with, you can make the first days back more enjoyable. And students who are well-prepared at the start of each day, are poised to thrive and succeed throughout the year!

Summer is in full swing, and while you’re out enjoying the weather and the company of family and friends, it is important to remember to stay safe and avoid any potential mishaps. Whether you’re planning a vacation to the beach or are planning to spend your summer days in your backyard, here is a list of safety tips to keep you and your family safe this summer.

Swim with Caution

On a hot summer day, there is nothing better than a refreshing swim. While many fun memories can be made during a day at the pool or at the beach, it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Don’t overestimate the swimming abilities of children or adults, and always avoid swimming alone. Be sure children know how to swim, or are equipped with a proper lifejacket or flotation device. If swimming in the ocean, pay attention to currents and stay close to the shore.

Travel Safely

If you’re traveling abroad, be sure to check the travel guidelines of the country you are visiting and get any required vaccinations at least 4-6 weeks before you travel. If driving to a destination, map out the drive beforehand and make sure your car is equipped with any safety supplies you may need.

Wear Sunscreen 

Sunburn is one of the most common summertime injuries and can happen to anyone. No matter your skin type, it is important to protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, finding shade or wearing protective clothing. If you are going to be outside, plan ahead and pack your sunscreen, even if it is a cloudy day. It is also important to reapply at least every two hours, and immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. Also, remember to apply sunscreen to every part of your skin that is exposed. It’s easy to forget to coat your lips, eyelids, ears and feet, but these areas can easily burn.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is important for your health all year long, but during the warm summer months it is more important than ever. The hot temperatures cause you to sweat more, which in turn depletes your body of hydration. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to start sipping water, as this can be an early sign your body is already dehydrated. Staying hydrated will also help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Safely Use Fireworks

Fireworks are a staple during the summer months and for many people, they are as much a part of summer as hot dogs and popsicles by the pool. While they can bring a lot of enjoyment and family fun, they can also be very dangerous if not handled properly. If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, make sure to buy proper fireworks, light them safely, keep them away from children and be sure to dispose of them correctly. To learn more about firework safety, read our Firework Safety blog.

Use Bug Spray

Besides just being itchy and annoying, bug bites have the potential to be dangerous. Mosquitos and ticks can spread diseases such as Malaria, Dengue Fever, West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease. Use insect repellent, remove standing water in your yard, wear clothing that covers your arms and legs and use mosquito netting to avoid bug bites.

Play Safely

Before you head outside to play, be sure to take necessary precautions beforehand. If you or your children are spending your free time biking, skateboarding or roller skating, be sure to wear a helmet and any other necessary padding. If you’re going to use a trampoline, make sure to use it one at a time and jump safely. While playing catch or other games, keep a safe distance from others and keep your eye on the ball.

While you enjoy your summer this year, be sure to keep these tips in mind to keep your family safe. If an accident does occur, visit Southwoods Express Care for your non-emergent medical needs. With three convenient locations in Boardman, Campbell and Columbiana, Express Care is open 7 days a week to provide you with care when you need it.

Fireworks are a staple at any Fourth of July celebration. For many people, they are as much a part of summer as hot dogs and popsicles by the pool. While they can bring a lot of enjoyment and family fun, they can also be very dangerous if not handled properly. If you are planning to celebrate with fireworks, be sure to keep these safety tips in mind.

Follow the Rules

Before you head to the store to purchase fireworks, it is important to know any rules or regulations that may be in place. Firework laws vary state by state, and some cities and neighborhoods may have regulations in place as well.

Buy Smart

If you’re planning to purchase fireworks, remember that all fireworks are not the same and you will need to do some research before purchasing. Make sure to only purchase from licensed firework retail locations and stay away from anything that isn’t clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer’s name and instructions for proper use. Lastly, know the difference between a dangerous explosive and a legal firework. Names such as M-80, M100, Blockbuster and Quarterpounder are illegal and banned.

Keep Away From Children

Fireworks of all types should be kept away from children. While they may seem fun, fireworks like sparklers, rockets and firecrackers can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. If you do allow your children to use sparklers, make sure to closely monitor them, keep them outside and ensure they keep the sparklers away from their face, hair and clothing.

Light Safely

Fireworks should always be lit outside and pointed away from houses, people, brush, leaves, trees and other flammable objects. Do not light fireworks in any type of container, and be sure to have a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of emergency. If a firework does not go off the first time it is lit, soak it in water and throw it away – do not attempt to re-light.

Protect Yourself

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 19 percent of firework-related injuries affect the eyes. Serious injuries can lead to hospitalization and even blindness. Besides being dangerous for your eyes, the sounds can potentially damage your hearing. To prevent any injury to your eyes or ears, consider wearing protective glasses or earplugs.

Avoid Alcohol

While many celebrations include alcohol, it is important to avoid alcoholic beverages if you plan to handle fireworks at any point during the day. Impaired judgment can lead to improper use of fireworks and lead to very serious accidents.

Dispose of Fireworks Correctly

Once your firework display is over, it is crucial that you properly dispose of the fireworks. Submerge them in a bucket of water and let them soak overnight or longer. Once they have soaked, they can be placed in household garbage cans and be set out with the trash.

Fireworks can be a fun and festive part of celebrating summer. By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can ensure everyone is safe and avoid injury. If an injury does occur, seek medical attention immediately.