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The Rise Of Maternal Deaths Is Something Of Concern

Health Resources, News

 

US sees continued rise in maternal deaths and ongoing inequities, CDC report shows

There has been a slight rise in the number of women dying due to pregnancy or childbirth each year in the United States, and the maternal death rate among Black women is still three times the rate for White women, a new federal report shows.

The overall number of women identified as having died of maternal causes in the United States climbed from 658 in 2018 to 754 in 2019 and 861 in 2020, according to the new National Center for Health Statistics report, released Wednesday by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The report also shows that the nation’s maternal death rate has increased from about 17 deaths per every 100,000 live births in 2018 to 20 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019 and nearly 24 per 100,000 in 2020.

The report finds that in 2020, the maternal death rate for Black women was 55.3 deaths per 100,000 live births.

The report also finds maternal death rates increased with age, rising in 2020 from nearly 14 deaths per 100,000 live births among women younger than 25 to about 23 deaths per 100,000 for those ages 25 to 39 and nearly 108 deaths per 100,000 for those 40 and older. The data shows that the rate for women 40 and older was 7.8 times higher than the rate for women under 25.

The new report is based on national death data from the CDC’s National Vital Statistics System, and a maternal death was defined as a woman dying either while pregnant or within 42 days following pregnancy.

Health care practitioners and advocacy groups have raised the alarm that the pandemic, which has disproportionately affected communities of color and strained the resources of the country’s health care system, may further increase barriers to care for pregnant people.

The increased attention on health care disparities has spurred federal lawmakers to action. Last year, Rep. Lauren Underwood, Rep. Alma Adams, Sen. Cory Booker and members of the Black Maternal Health Caucus introduced the Black Maternal “Momnibus” Act, a sweeping bipartisan package of bills that aim to provide pre- and post-natal support for Black mothers, but most of the bills in the package are still making their way through Congress.

Meanwhile, the United States has the highest maternal death rate of any developed nation, according to the Commonwealth Fund and the latest data from the World Health Organization.

While maternal death rates remain unchanged or are rising in the United States, they are declining in most countries.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.


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February 28, 2022
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What To Know About New Omicron Variant

News

 

Omicron: What do we know about the ‘stealth variant’?

Scientists identified the BA.2 subvariant of Omicron in India and South Africa in late December 2021. It has spread to several countries, including the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The subvariant virus has also spread rapidly in Denmark, increasing from 20% of all COVID-19 cases in the country in week 52 of 2021 to 45% in the second week of 2022. Despite its rapid spread in the country, initial analyses show no difference in hospitalizations between the BA.2 subvariant and the original form of Omicron, also known as BA.1.

Studies are still ongoing to understand the infectiousness of BA.2, alongside how effective vaccines are against it. While BA.2 is not currently a variant of concern, public health officials in the U.K. have taken enough interest in its spread to designate it as a variant under investigation.

Up until now, the overwhelmingly large majority of all Omicron cases has been BA.1. However, in some places, the BA.2 has emerged and has spread faster than BA.1. This variant is interesting because it seems to be displacing Omicron in certain parts of the world. There is speculation that it may be more transmissible than the other versions of the sub variants.

If some countries are now reporting a surge in the proportion of BA.2 subvariant infections, is it because the additional mutations make it more transmissible or allow it to evade the immune response more easily than the other Omicron subvariants?

These are some of the questions that public health experts must take into consideration while keeping this subvariant under observation. While researchers are still gathering data on how BA.2 may affect the population at large, laboratory studies have already verified many of its molecular properties. BA.2 is missing the spike 69-70 mutations, so it does not cause S gene target failure, making it harder to identify on PCR tests.

It remains to be seen how BA.2 will compete against currently circulating viruses, and also whether it causes more severe disease. We know that this has been a variant that has been present since the early days of Omicron and that it has some similar and some distinct mutations. It is unclear, as of now, whether it is more transmissible.

Even if vaccinated, people should consider adhering to nonpharmaceutical interventions, such as face masks, physical distancing, and handwashing, particularly when in crowded and/or high transmission environments.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.


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February 22, 2022
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Things To Know About Deductibles

Individual and Family, Medicare, Short Term, Supplemental

 

8 Things You Should Know About Deductibles

What is a deductible? 

A deductible is the amount you pay for health care services each year before your health plan starts to pay. For example, if you have a $1,500 deductible, you pay the first $1,500 of the services you need.

Depending on your plan, you may also need to meet this in-network deductible before you pay for covered prescription drugs. This means you will pay the prescription’s full cost upfront until the deductible is met. Then you will pay your copay or coinsurance amount until you meet your yearly out-of-pocket maximum. But some plans do not have a deductible. And some types of medicines may be available at a lower cost (as little as $0), even if the deductible has not been met first.

What happens after I meet the deductible?

Once you’ve met your deductible, you usually pay only a copay and/or coinsurance for covered services. Coinsurance is when your plan pays a large percentage of the cost of care and you pay the rest. For example, if your coinsurance is 80/20, you’ll only pay 20 percent of the costs when you need care. Your health plan pays the rest.

Does the deductible reset each year?

Yes. Since your deductible resets each plan year, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the figures. If you’ve met your deductible for the year or are close to meeting it, you may want to squeeze in some other tests or procedures before your plan year ends to lower your out-of-pocket costs.

Is a health insurance deductible different from other types of deductibles? 

Unlike auto, renters or homeowner insurance where you don’t get services until you pay your deductible, many health plans cover the cost of some benefits before you meet the deductible. For example, your plan may cover the cost of annual physicals and many preventive health screenings before the deductible is met.

My plan information says I have a family deductible, too. What does that mean?

If your plan covers your family, there will probably be a deductible for each person and a separate family deductible. As soon as the family deductible is met, your plan starts paying at the coinsurance amount for everyone’s care. That’s the case even if some family members haven’t met their individual deductible. 

With a family deductible, once you’ve met that one family deductible amount, no other individual deductibles are needed. After the family deductible is met, you’ll only pay your copay and/or coinsurance amount for services for each family member.

Some plans, like a health spending account (HSA) may only have a family deductible, so your member ID card will only list one deductible. Check your benefit details if you aren’t sure.

Do all health care services apply to my deductible until it’s met?

Not always. Some plans fully cover preventive services, which means you don’t pay anything at the time you get them. Because you don’t have an out-of-pocket charge, those services won’t count toward meeting your deductible. 

If you receive care that isn’t covered by your health plan, it often won’t count toward your deductible. This might include such things as cosmetic procedures or seeing a provider who isn’t in your health plan’s network.

What are the pros and cons of a high or low deductible?

In most cases, the higher a plan’s deductible, the lower the monthly premium. If you’re willing to pay more when you need care, you can choose a higher deductible to reduce the amount you pay each month.

The lower a plan’s deductible, the higher the premium. You’ll pay more each month, but your plan will start sharing the costs sooner because you’ll reach your deductible faster.

Some people who don’t often need medical care would rather have a smaller premium and pay more up front for care as they go. But it can mean taking a chance that you might end up paying a big medical bill if you have an unexpected illness or injury.

Other people like knowing that when they need their insurance, they won’t have to come up with a large sum of money before their plan starts helping with the cost. They’d rather have a higher premium, but a lower deductible. It makes costs more predictable.

If I pay so much out of pocket before my insurance kicks in, why should I have coverage?

Health coverage can lower your costs even when you must pay out of pocket to meet your deductible. Insurance companies negotiate their rates with providers, and you’ll pay that discounted rate. Without that discount, people often pay twice as much — or more — for care.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.


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February 17, 2022
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How Disruption In Sleep Is Linked To Alzheimer’s

Health Resources, Life Insurance

 

Alzheimer’s: Addressing sleep disturbance may alleviate symptoms

Older adult asleep in bed during the day

Dementia is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The most common form, Alzheimer’s disease affects 1 in 9 people aged 65 and over in the United States and 1 in 14 in this age group in the United Kingdom.

A feature of AD is a disruption in circadian rhythms, the daily physical, mental, and behavioral changes that control our sleep and wakefulness. People can experience sleep disturbances, which are associated with more severe symptoms, years before receiving an AD diagnosis.

They carried out their research in a laboratory, using cells derived from mouse white blood cells. The researchers identified a molecular mechanism that may be responsible for the connection between AD and circadian rhythms.

Protein buildup

Alzheimer’s is a neuroinflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of beta-amyloid. The most damaging of these is beta-amyloid 42 (Aβ42). The proteins form plaques that collect between neurons and disrupt cell function.Scientists believe the growth of amyloid plaques is a crucial step in the development of AD.

Immune cells called microglia play a role in clearing amyloid plaques. This process, called phagocytosis, is essential for maintaining healthy neurons. Using mouse cells, the researchers found that phagocytosis changes throughout the day and night. When phagocytosis is interrupted, for example, by sleep disruption, Aβ42 builds up.

Symptoms

People with AD experience a range of symptoms, including memory loss, confusion, delusions, and impulsive behavior. There is a strong association between the buildup of plaques and the development of AD, but it is not yet clear whether the plaques cause the symptoms.

Scientists think that amyloid plaques accelerate the development of tau tangles, which further damage neurons. Many Alzheimer’s symptoms are due to neuronal damage.

Immune cells in the brain are known to clear amyloid, which is one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s. The researchers found that the timing of expression of certain molecules on immune cells helps time the uptake and clearance of amyloid.

Decreased plaque clearance

The researchers found that molecules on the cell surface called heparan sulfate proteoglycans were key to the phagocytosis of Aβ42.

These heparan molecules respond to circadian rhythms, with the number of molecules fluctuating during the 24-hour cycle. The researchers found that when heparan levels were higher, phagocytosis of Aβ42 decreased.

Sleep disruption

Therefore, the sleep disruption that is common in AD may affect heparan levels. This, in turn, affects the accumulation of amyloid plaques. The researchers suggest that controlling circadian rhythms may help control inflammatory conditions such as AD.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.


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February 16, 2022
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How To Start Dieting For a Healthier Life

Health Resources

Long life comes from eating right, studies say. Here’s how to begin

Living a longer, healthier life can start with your diet. You could add up to 13 years to your life if you ate a few red and processed meats and more fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains and nuts, a recent study revealed.

The largest gains in longevity were found from eating more legumes, which include beans, peas and lentils; whole grains, which are the entire seed of a plant; and nuts such as walnuts, almonds, pecans and pistachios.

Plant-based diets are winning top nutritional honors. Diet can be as much of a vital sign as blood pressure, temperature and pulse rate, said Dr. David Katz, a specialist in preventive and lifestyle medicine and nutrition who has published research on how to use food as preventive medicine.

These are five expert-recommended ways to change your diet for the better.

1. Track your current eating habits

Many of us eat mindlessly, not really understanding all that we put into our mouths. That’s why becoming aware of your real eating habits is the first step, said registered dietitian nutritionist Kathleen Zelman.

Write down everything you eat for a day and include details such as time, location and other factors that affect your dietary habits. 

Don’t try to be perfect when you start to change your diet, she added. Look for small steps that you can sustain. Then do it again next week.

2. Plan for success

We eat what surrounds us. To get started, it’s best to shift your food environment, including your home, your work and your car. Pack healthy lunches and snacks, and don’t forget to travel. Stop at a grocery store before you get to the hotel so you can stock your room like you would stock your home.

3. Remove sugar from breakfast

Start your day with a healthier bang by removing sugar from breakfast. There’s many benefits to cutting sugar from the first meal of the day. Your blood sugar stays level; your energy and creativity stays high, and it sets the tone for the day.

4. Make one meal meatless

The simplest way to start eating more plants is to replace one meat-based meal a day with a plant- or grain-based choice, experts say. Starting with lunch by adding lentils, whole grains or beans to a meatless salad helps raise those blood sugar levels slowly, which gives your brain the energy it needs to make it through the afternoon slump. It also reduces overeating at night, experts say.

5. Eat what you love

We all know eating fruits and veggies are good for us, but they aren’t typically our favorite foods. Yet in order for this new habit to stick you need to get enjoyment out of eating delicious, healthy food.

Work with an expert or think about ways to incorporate the flavors of food you love into your daily routine until it becomes a habit to eat those foods.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.

 
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February 15, 2022
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Things To Know When Screening for Psoriasis

Health Resources

 

Important Health Screenings for People With Psoriasis

The cause of psoriasis is still a mystery, but what is known is that the immune system and genetics play a role in the development of the skin condition. Psoriasis causes red, raised, scaly patches to appear on the skin. It appears outside of the elbows, knees or scalp. However, it can appear in any location throughout a person’s whole life. In many people, psoriasis appears with other conditions or diseases. That’s why it is important to receive health screenings from your doctor to understand if you have psoriasis or other related conditions. If you are diagnosed, you and your doctor can discuss treatment options that are best for you.

There are six main types of psoriasis: plaque, nail, guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis. Your doctor can help you understand which type of psoriasis you have and which treatment is best for you. When visiting your doctor, you will receive a health screening to determine if you have psoriasis and which type you have. Once your doctor reviews your medical history, the health screening will begin.

First, the doctor will perform a physical examination. This involves an exam of your skin, scalp and nails. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any other symptoms that may seem unrelated to your psoriasis. This is because psoriasis is actually linked to other diseases, conditions and behavioral problems. These include:

  • Obesity

  • Depression, low self-esteem, or social anxiety

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • High blood pressure

  • Cardiovasular disease

  • Parkinson’s disease

  • Kidney disease

  • Other immune diseases (including psoriatic arthritis, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease)

Therefore, in addition to your psoriasis screening, your doctor may screen you for these other diseases and conditions. For instance, if the doctor thinks you may have obesity, they may measure your blood pressure, weight and body mass index. You may also need to provide a blood sample to test your blood glucose levels, cholesterol levels, kidney function, and other markers that may indicate if you have another condition.

Common Health Screenings

Blood glucose and A1c:. 

  • After fasting for at least 8 hours, a finger prick helps draw out a drop of blood that is applied to a test strip. Your A1c is measured through a regular blood test that is then analyzed by a lab. The results of your blood glucose and A1c tests help determine if you have diabetes.

Blood pressure: 

  • To measure your blood pressure, a cuff is placed around your upper arm. High blood pressure can put you at greater risk for a heart attack or stroke.

Cholesterol levels: 

  • After fasting for at least 8 hours, a healthcare professional will take blood. The results of this blood test will reveal your total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and HDL (good) cholesterol. High cholesterol can put you at greater risk for a heart attack or stroke.

Body mass index (BMI): 

  • BMI is calculated by taking a measurement of your waist circumference or by using your body weight taken by a scale. A high BMI can put you at risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Kidney function: 

  • To determine how well your kidneys are functioning, a healthcare professional will take blood and a urine sample. The results of your blood and urine test will reveal if your kidneys are properly removing wastes and excess fluid from your body. Abnormal kidney function may be a sign of kidney disease.

Depression: 

  • There are many instruments used to screen for depression. The most common methods are short questionnaires in which you rate your responses. Your healthcare provider may also ask you a series of questions that you should answer as honestly as possible.

After health screenings, your doctor can help determine the best treatment plan for your psoriasis. If you have another associated condition or require further testing, your doctor may refer you to another doctor who specializes in that specific disease or condition.

Overall, the treatment for psoriasis depends on the type of psoriasis you have and whether your psoriasis is mild, moderate or severe. Typically, topical creams, ointments, moisturizers and shampoos are used for mild psoriasis. While there is no cure for psoriasis, routine health screenings with your doctor and staying on top of your treatment plan can help reduce symptoms and clear the skin.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.


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February 14, 2022
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Supplements And Their Benefits For Your Immune System

Health Resources

 

Do supplements really benefit the immune system?

Various vitamins and minerals, often referred to as “micronutrients,” are necessary for a healthy immune system. The main micronutrients that play a role in the immune response include:

  • vitamin A

  • vitamin C

  • vitamin D

  • vitamin E

  • vitamin B6

  • vitamin B12

  • folate

  • zinc

  • iron

  • copper

Many people worldwide have nutrient deficiencies. In the United States, nearly 95%  of the population is not meeting the daily requirements of vitamin D, 84%  does not get enough vitamin E, 46% does not get enough vitamin C, 45% does not get enough vitamin A, and 15% does not get enough zinc. Studies show that even a marginal deficiency in one or more of these vitamins and minerals can lead to impaired immune function.

Many factors, such as stress and infection, can further deplete nutrient stores throughout the body. Meanwhile, aging increases the body’s demand for micronutrients. People over 50  tend to need more of certain nutrients, including vitamin D, calcium, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12.

Dietary supplements and immunity

To support a healthy immune system and meet nutritional requirements, a person can make sure that their diet is healthy and take a multivitamin that contains 100% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of each nutrient.

However, many standard multivitamins may not contain enough vitamin C. Researchers believe that 200 milligrams (mg)  a day is necessary for immune health. If a person already has a deficiency, they likely need more of that nutrient than a multivitamin contains.

Although some studies suggest that supplementation with multiple immune-supporting micronutrients is beneficial, more research is needed.

Currently, the strongest evidence suggests that these three micronutrients offer immune support: vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc.

Let’s take a look at the supplements below and their benefits. 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin known for its ability to support a strong immune system. In addition to promoting various cellular functions of the immune system, vitamin C helps the body grow and repair tissue, heal wounds, and absorb iron. Studies show that a vitamin C deficiency can lead to an impaired immune system and an increased risk of infection. The human body cannot make vitamin C, so it needs to come from foods or dietary supplements.

The RDA for vitamin C is 90 mg for male adults and 75 milligrams for female adults. However, many scientists believe this is not enough and recommend 200 mg per day for maximum health benefits.

While most studies show that taking vitamin C does not prevent colds in the general population, it may help reduce the symptoms and severity of a cold. Vitamin C supplementation may be even more beneficial for people who perform heavy physical activity. In five trials with 598 total participants, who were exposed to short periods of extreme physical stress, vitamin C reduced common cold risk by nearly 50%.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a critical role in keeping the immune system strong so that the body can fight off bacterial and viral illnesses, such as a cold. Some clinical trials suggest that supplementation of 400 international units (IU), or 10 micrograms (mcg), of vitamin D per day may help prevent the common cold.

Some researchers also believe that there is a link between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of COVID-19 hospitalization, though there is controversy about this claim. In some cases, it has been used to minimize the impact of socioeconomic factors for at-risk groups.

Many experts believe that the current vitamin D RDA of 600 IU (15 micrograms) for people up to age 70 and 800 IU (20 micrograms) for people over 70 is not enough to support healthy immune function.

However, the evidence remains inconclusive, and finding the dosage that best supports immune function requires further research.

Zinc

A zinc deficiency can weaken the immune system by impairing the formation, activation, and maturation of lymphocytes, white blood cells that are an active part of the immune system.

Several studies suggest that low zinc levels can increase the risk of viral infections. Some also show that zinc lozenges may shorten the duration of the common cold. However, identifying the best dosages for supporting immune health and treating colds will require further research.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.


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February 11, 2022
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How To Quit Smoking

Health Resources

5 things that happen to your body when you quit smoking

What happens when you quit smoking?

After you smoke your last cigarette, your body begins to change. 

1. Your blood pressure goes down.

The nicotine in cigarettes can increase your blood pressure, raising your risk of heart attack or stroke. But 20 minutes after your last cigarette, your blood pressure starts to normalize.

2. Your oxygen levels rise.

Within just 8 hours of quitting smoking, your body’s oxygen levels increase. And your lung function will begin to improve. As your lungs start to heal, you may:

  • Feel less short of breath

  • Cough less

  • Breathe easier

  • Have more stamina, especially during exercise

3. Your risk of developing cancer decreases.

After you take that final puff, your risk of developing lung cancer is cut in half. Your risk for developing esophageal, bladder and pancreatic cancers decreases, too.

4. Your skin, hair and nails look better.

Smoking stains your teeth and nails with a yellow film. It can also dull your skin and make your hair brittle. Quitting improves blood flow, making your skin look more radiant. Your smile will look brighter after you take that final drag, too.

5. Your sense of taste and smell improves.

Smoking deadens nerve endings in your mouth and nose, which dulls your sense of taste and smell. But when you stop smoking, these nerve endings start to regenerate. And your sense of taste and smell reawakens. With your tastebuds back to life, you may find a whole new appreciation for your favorite foods.

Other benefits of quitting

Besides lowering your cancer risk and increasing your oxygen levels, quitting smoking offers a few other benefits such as:

  • Fresher breath

  • Cost savings

  • Stronger immune system

  • Less stress

How to quit smoking

Start by talking to your doctor. They can point you in the direction of free resources and help you build a plan to stop smoking for good.

Other steps you can take to quit smoking include:

  • Throw out your ashtrays, cigarettes and lighters: Doing this can help you avoid temptation. You can also go one step further and ask friends and family members not to smoke around you.

  • Replace your craving: When you get the urge to light up, chew gum, drink water or go for a walk. Getting your mind off cravings can help you move past them.

  • Download an app: Want to stop smoking? There’s an app for that. Many help with monitoring your progress and tracking your moods and cravings. Others offer live chat support to keep you motivated. Browse the store of your smartphone or tablet for an app that works for you.

  • Join a smoking cessation support group: Build a support network of people who are all trying to quit smoking, too. These support groups can boost your confidence and help you see you aren’t alone. Look online to find a group in your area. Or, if you prefer, join a virtual group.

  • Use nicotine replacement therapies: Devices are available to help gently step you down from nicotine. Popular methods include:

  • Gum

  • Patches

  • Inhalers

  • Lozenges

  • Nasal spray

  • Try medication: If you need extra support, your doctor may recommend prescription medications.

  • Health coaching: A health coach can help you work through the physical and emotional effects of quitting smoking with personalized sessions.

Most importantly, don’t give up: You may have a few stops and starts along the way, especially if you’ve smoked for a long time. That’s okay. Be gentle with yourself and keep trying until you’re ready to quit.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.

 
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February 10, 2022
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Melatonin May Be Harmful If Used Too Much

Health Resources, News

Using melatonin for sleep is on the rise, study says, despite potential health harms

Many adults are taking over-the-counter melatonin to get to sleep, and some of them may be using it at dangerously high levels.

While overall use among the United States adult population is still low,  the study does document a significant many-fold increase in melatonin use in the past few years. 

The study, published Tuesday in the medical journal JAMA, found that by 2018 Americans were taking more than twice the amount of melatonin they took a decade earlier. Experts worry that the pandemic’s negative impact on sleep may have further increased the widespread reliance on sleeping aids.

Taking sleep aids has been linked in prospective studies with the development of dementia and early mortality. Melatonin has been linked to headache, dizziness, nausea, stomach cramps, drowsiness, confusion or disorientation, irritability and mild anxiety, depression and tremors, as well as abnormally low blood pressure. It can also interact with common medications and trigger allergies.

Since 2006, a small but growing subset of adults are taking amounts of melatonin that far exceed the 5 milligram a day dosage that is typically used as a short term treatment.

However, pills for sale may contain levels of melatonin that are much higher than what is advertised on the label. Unlike drugs and food, melatonin is not fully regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration, so there are no federal requirements that companies test pills to be sure they contain the amount of advertised melatonin.

Previous research has found that melatonin content in these unregulated, commercially available melatonin supplements ranged from – 83% to +478% of the labeled content.

Nor are there any requirements that companies test their products for harmful hidden additives in melatonin supplements sold in stores and online. Previous studies also found 26% of the melatonin supplements contained serotonin, a hormone that can have harmful effects even at relatively low levels.

Taking too much serotonin by combining medications such as antidepressants, migraine medications and melatonin can lead to a serious drug reaction. Mild symptoms include shivering and diarrhea, while a more severe reaction can lead to muscle rigidity, fever, seizures and even death if not treated.

Because it is purchased over the counter, experts say many people view melatonin as an herbal supplement or vitamin. In reality, melatonin is a hormone made by the pineal gland, located deep within the brain, and released into the bloodstream to regulate the body’s sleep cycles.

There is a view that if it’s natural, then it can’t hurt. The truth is, we just really don’t know the implications of melatonin in the longer term, for adults or kids.

Another reality: Studies have found that using melatonin can be helpful in inducing sleep if used correctly, but the actual benefit is small.

When adults took melatonin, it decreased the amount of time it took them to fall asleep by four to eight minutes. So for someone who takes hours to fall asleep, probably the better thing for them to do is turn off their screens, or get 20 to 40 minutes of exercise each day, or don’t drink any caffeinated products at all.

There are other proven sleep tips that work just as well, if not better than sleeping aids, experts say. The body begins secreting melatonin at dark. What do we do in our modern culture? Use artificial light to keep us awake, often long past the body’s normal bedtime.

Research has found that the body will slow or stop melatonin production if exposed to light, including the blue light from our smartphones, laptops and the like. Any LED spectrum light source may further suppress melatonin levels.

So ban those devices at least an hour before you want to fall asleep. Like to read yourself to sleep? That’s fine, experts say, just read in a dim light from a real book or use an e-reader in night mode.

Other tips include keeping your bedroom temperature at cooler temperatures of about 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit. We sleep better if we’re a bit chilly.

Set up a bedtime ritual by taking a warm bath or shower, reading a book or listening to soothing music. Or you can try deep breathing, yoga, meditation or light stretches. Go to bed and get up at the same time each day, even on weekends or your days off. The body likes routine.

If your doctor does prescribe melatonin to help with jet lag or other minor sleep issues, keep the use short-term.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.

 
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February 9, 2022
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Shortage of Home HealthCare Aides Caused By Pandemic Leaves Many Without Help

Medicare, News

Pandemic-fueled shortages of home health aides strand patients without care

The elderly are finding it harder than ever to get paid help amid acute staff shortages at home health agencies. Several trends are fueling the shortages: Hospitals and other employers are hiring away home health workers with better pay and benefits. Many aides have fallen ill or been exposed to Covid-19 during the recent surge of omicron cases and must quarantine for a time. Staffers are also burned out after working during the pandemic in difficult, anxiety-provoking circumstances.

The implications for older adults are dire. Some seniors who are ready for discharge are waiting in hospitals or rehabilitation centers for several days before home care services can be arranged. Some are returning home with less help than would be optimal. Some are experiencing cutbacks in services. Some simply can’t find care.

Everyone is experiencing shortages, particularly around nursing and home health aides, and reporting that they’re unable to admit patients. We’re seeing increasing demand on adult protective services as a result of people with dementia not being able to get services. The stress on families trying to navigate care for their loved ones is unbelievable.

Ninety-three percent of Medicare-certified home health and hospice agencies and 98% of licensed agencies said they had refused referrals during the past year. Members say they’ve never seen anything like this in terms of the number of openings and the difficulty hiring.

Another agency that provides non-medical services is giving priority for care to people who are seriously compromised and live alone. People who can turn to family or friends are often getting fewer services. Most clients don’t have backup.

This is true of older adults with serious chronic illnesses and paltry financial resources who are socially isolated. Many agencies are focusing on patients being discharged from hospitals and rehab facilities. These patients, many of whom are recovering from Covid-19, have acute needs, and agencies are paid more for serving this population under complicated Medicare reimbursement formulas..

When paid home care or help from family or friends isn’t available, vulnerable older patients may be forced to go to nursing homes, even if they don’t want to. Many nursing homes don’t have enough staffers and can’t take new patients, so people are simply going without care.

Patients with terminal illnesses seeking hospice care are being caught up in these difficulties as well. Brody is running a research study with 25 hospices, and “every single one is having staffing challenges,” he said. Without enough nurses and aides to meet the demand for care, hospices are not admitting some patients or providing fewer visits, he noted.

Before the pandemic, hospice agencies could usually guarantee a certain number of hours of help after evaluating a patient. Now, they really are not able to guarantee anything on discharge.

For more information on health insurance or healthy tips, visit us through Healthedly Insurance Services to learn more.

 
Also, utilize these resources to help navigate what you’re looking for: 
 
  • ACA
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February 8, 2022
https://secureservercdn.net/45.40.152.202/720.193.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Healthedly-Blog.png?time=1656342016 900 1366 healthedly23 https://secureservercdn.net/45.40.152.202/720.193.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Healthedly.svg healthedly232022-02-08 16:26:002022-05-27 21:49:33Shortage of Home HealthCare Aides Caused By Pandemic Leaves Many Without Help
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