Category: Health Tips & Health Literacy

Prevent Heatstroke

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short. With the summer heat in full swing taking precautions and ensuring you stay safe while enjoying outdoor activities is important. Excessive heat and intense sun exposure can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Today I will share some tips on beating the summer heat and enjoying your favorite activities while staying cool and protected.

 

Understanding Heat Exhaustion:

Heat exhaustion can occur when your body is exposed to high temperatures or when you overexert yourself in hot weather. Recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion is crucial. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, increased heart rate, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and nausea. It’s important to note that heat exhaustion can develop slowly or rapidly, and everyone’s tolerance for heat varies. Watch for these symptoms in yourself and those around you who may be more susceptible to heat related illness’s like heatstroke.

 

Taking Action for Heat Exhaustion:

Taking immediate action is essential if you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion. Get out of the heat and into a cooler environment quickly. Drink plenty of water to rehydrate, and consider using cooling towels or ice packs to lower body temperature. Resting in a shaded area and elevating the legs can also be helpful. Remember, addressing heat exhaustion promptly can prevent it from escalating into a more severe condition like heatstroke.

 

Understanding Heatstroke:

Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Symptoms of heatstroke may include hot, red skin (dry or damp), a body temperature of 103°F or higher, rapid pulse, and confusion or loss of consciousness. If you encounter someone experiencing heatstroke, call for medical help immediately, as this condition can be life-threatening. In the meantime, move the person to a cooler area, remove excess clothing, and cool their body using wet towels or a cool bath.

 

Tips for Staying Cool and Safe:

Preventing heat-related illnesses like heatstroke starts with taking proactive measures. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Take Regular Breaks: Whether you’re working or engaging in outdoor activities, schedule regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Allow your body time to cool down and recover.

2. Use Cooling Strategies: Cooling towels, wet rags, or wearing a damp t-shirt around your head or neck can help regulate body temperature and provide relief from the heat.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential to prevent dehydration. To stay hydrated, if plain water isn’t appealing, try consuming foods with high water content, like berries, cucumber, and yogurt. Remember, thirst is a sign of dehydration, so drink water even before you feel thirsty.

4. Dress Appropriately: Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors to reflect sunlight and keep you cooler. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using sunscreen with a high SPF also offer protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

 

Conclusion:

Enjoying the summer while staying cool and safe is possible with some simple precautions. By recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and using cooling strategies, you can protect yourself and others from the risks of excessive heat exposure. So get out there, enjoy the summer, and keep cool!

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.
-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Ear Wax Removal

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW. Today, let’s talk about a common condition many experience—ear wax. While ear wax is usually harmless, there are instances when it can cause discomfort and require medical intervention. In this article, we will explore: the symptoms of excessive ear wax, the importance of seeking professional care, and what to expect during a visit to a healthcare provider for ear wax removal.

 

Symptoms of Excessive Ear Wax:

Excessive ear wax buildup can lead to various symptoms that may require attention. These include pain, hearing loss, pressure, muffled sounds, hearing an echo, dizziness, and a sensation similar to being underwater or changing altitudes. If you experience any of these symptoms, please consider consulting a healthcare provider. A healthcare provider can determine if ear wax removal is required.

 

Professional Care and Avoiding Self-Help Methods:

When faced with ear wax-related issues, avoiding the use of cotton tips, bobby pins, or any other objects in your ear is crucial. These methods can push the ear wax deeper into the ear canal, exacerbating the situation or potentially causing damage to the delicate structures of the ear, including the eardrum. Seeking professional care is the safest approach for effective, safe removal.

 

Visiting a Healthcare Provider:

During a visit to a healthcare provider, an examination will be conducted to determine the presence and extent of ear wax buildup and if ear wax removal is required. The provider will use an otoscope, a medical device that shines a light deep into the ear, to inspect the ear canal thoroughly. If excess wax is observed, the provider may opt to soften the wax by introducing a water-based solution containing either hydrogen or carbamide peroxide into the ear. This process typically produces a popping or crackling sound similar to crisp rice cereal.

 

Wax Removal Procedure:

After allowing the wax-softening solution to take effect for a few minutes. Finally, the provider will conduct the ear wax removal using a bulb syringe or a spray bottle filled with warm water. It is vital for the provider to examine the eardrum before and after wax removal. This allows the provider to ensure there is no infection or damage. 

 

Conclusion:

Excessive ear wax can cause discomfort and affect your hearing. If you experience symptoms related to ear wax buildup, it’s important to seek professional care instead of attempting ear wax removal yourself. A healthcare provider will assess the situation, soften the wax using a safe solution, and remove it using appropriate tools. Remember, maintaining ear health involves avoiding inserting objects into your ear and seeking professional care when necessary.

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.

-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Important Health Tips Before Surgery

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW. I want to discuss some information health tips to know before surgery, tips that patients rarely receive regarding surgery. Surgery can be a daunting experience, but being well-prepared and informed can help alleviate some of the anxiety. So let us discuss some crucial aspects to consider before undergoing surgery. Often overlooked factors can significantly impact your post-operative experience and overall recovery.

Pain Medication and Constipation Risk:

It’s essential to be aware that certain medications prescribed for pain relief before, during, or after surgery can lead to constipation. Powerful painkillers, such as narcotics, can affect your digestive system, causing disruptions in regular bowel activity. To minimize the risk, consider taking a stool softener a few days before the surgery and while using pain medications. This simple step can help prevent discomfort and ensure a smoother recovery process.

 

Hydration and Frequent Urination:

During recovery, you may find yourself resting in bed and drinking less water than usual. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to stay hydrated and make a conscious effort to pee regularly. Holding urine for extended periods can create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Additionally, prolonged immobility weakens bladder muscles, leading to potential complications.

 

Movement and Blood Clot Prevention:

If your surgeon allows it, staying active or mobile after surgery is highly recommended. Prolonged periods of sitting or lying down without movement can impede blood flow, potentially leading to the formation of blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Blood clots can have severe consequences and even be life-threatening. By engaging in light activity and regular leg movements, you encourage blood circulation, reducing the risk of DVT and promoting a faster recovery.

 

Open Dialogue with Your Surgeon:

Open communication with your surgeon is vital before, during, and after surgery. Ask questions about the procedure, expected outcomes, potential alternatives, and necessary preparations. Being well-informed will help you mentally prepare and have realistic expectations, whether the surgery is minor or major. An open dialog with your surgeon ensures that you know what to expect and can actively participate in your recovery.

 

Conclusion:

Surgery can be a challenging experience, but being well-informed about potential risks and taking appropriate precautions can greatly improve your recovery. Remember to address concerns regarding pain medication, stay hydrated and make frequent bathroom visits, remain as active as allowed under your surgeon’s guidance, and engage in open conversations with your surgeon. Implementing these important health tips before surgery can enhance your surgical experience and set the foundation for a successful recovery.

Vaping: Beyond Harmless Water Vapor

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW. I recently partnered with the Nevada Cancer Coalition to discuss the dangers vaping poses to young people. In recent years, e-cigarettes or vape pens have gained popularity among young adults as a safer alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes. However, it is crucial to understand that vaping poses significant risks to the health of young individuals, particularly those under 25. Contrary to popular belief, e-cigarettes do not merely emit harmless water vapor. In this blog post, we will explore the potential dangers of vaping and shed light on the importance of raising awareness about these risks.

The Reality of Vaping

E-cigarettes produce an aerosol, commonly mistaken for water vapor, that can contain harmful chemicals found in the e-juice used to fuel them. When inhaled, these aerosols enter the lungs, similar to traditional tobacco cigarettes, and like combustible cigarette smoke, this aerosol is also exhaled into the surrounding environment. This exhaled aerosol can pose a potential danger to those nearby, making passive exposure a cause for concern.

Nicotine and Its Impact

One of the most common concerns associated with vaping is the presence of nicotine. Nicotine, when inhaled, can disrupt the development of both the lungs and the brain, particularly in individuals under the age of 25. Young adults are still in a critical stage of growth and development, and exposing their developing bodies to nicotine can have long-lasting effects. It is important to realize the dangers of vaping extend beyond addiction; they can affect overall health and well-being.

Unintended Consequences of Flavoring

Flavored e-juices are extremely popular among e-cigarette users, with approximately 85% opting for flavored options. However, these flavors were not designed to be inhaled and may pose serious health risks. Artificial flavors used in e-cigarettes have been linked to the development of lung diseases. Shockingly, these flavors can contain dangerous chemicals such as benzene and heavy metals like nickel, tin, and lead. The inhalation of these substances can have severe consequences on respiratory health.

Taking Proactive Steps

Young adults must understand the risks to their health and the health of those around them. Recognizing that there is no safe use of e-cigarettes among youth, especially between the ages of 10 and 25, is the first step toward informed decision-making. By understanding the dangers of vaping, young individuals can make more informed choices about their well-being.

Conclusion

Vaping is not the harmless activity it is often portrayed to be. The risks associated with e-cigarettes extend far beyond harmless water vapor. The aerosol produced by these devices contains harmful chemicals, which, when inhaled, can disrupt the development of the lungs and the brain in young adults. Moreover, while enticing, the flavors used in e-cigarettes can introduce dangerous substances into the respiratory system. 

For more information on this topic, please visit HealthyLungsNV.org or these other sources.

Remember, your health matters.

Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Maternal Mortality – Health with Attitude

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, participates in a regular segment with Eugene L. Green called Health With Attitude.  In the most recent installment, Dr. BCW talks with Eugene on Mother’s Day about Maternal Mortality in Black Mother’s.  There are serious disparities between black mothers and white mothers when it comes to death during pregnancy and it is something that needs to be addressed and taken seriously as it is literally killing mothers.

Dr. Curry-Winchell also recently did a blog on this topic as well.  Find that here – https://drbcw.com/maternal-mortality-in-black-women/

Check out this important video that highlights a serious equity issue that is terrorizing the black community.

Remember, to subscribe to Beyond Clinical Walls.  It really helps the channel and it helps Dr. BCW continue to provide helpful informations on health topics, health literacy and health inequity .  Thank you so much for your support – Dr. Curry-Winchell

Danger of Supplements

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell’s, health series Beyond Clinical Walls, talks about the danger of supplements after a recent study that found dangerously high levels of Melatonin in some gummy supplements.

In this episode of Beyond Clinical Walls, Dr. Curry-Winchell M.D., aka Dr. BCW, talks about a recent study that found dangerously high levels of Melatonin in some gummy supplements that were reviewed.  With some gummies having over 300% the recorded amount of Melatonin and some having zero Melatonin.  And some had substances that were not even recorded on the label at all.  It is important to be very mindful about vitamin and hormonal supplements you take.  Some can have negative impacts on your health.  Since there are no regulations regarding the manufacturing, distribution or marketing of supplements you also never know what you are actually getting.  To learn more about the danger of supplements, check out this video to learn more.  Make sure and check out this episode to learn more.

Remember, to subscribe to Beyond Clinical Walls.  It really helps the channel.  It also helps Dr. BCW continue to provide helpful informations on health topics, health literacy and health inequity .  Thank you so much for your support – Dr. Curry-Winchell

No Menthol Sunday

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW, and today, let’s talk about No Menthol Sunday. No Menthol Sunday is an important initiative that aims at addressing the issue of menthol cigarettes and their impact on Black communities. Let’s delve into this topic and shed light on menthol.

The Influence of Menthol Marketing

Menthol is a minty flavor added to tobacco products, enticing younger individuals to start smoking and making it more challenging for them to quit. Shockingly, research reveals that 85% of Black smokers prefer menthol cigarettes, while only 30% of White smokers do. This is not an accident. This results from decades of targeted marketing efforts by the tobacco industry in Black communities.

The Role of the Tobacco Industry

The tobacco industry has invested heavily in advertising menthol products in Black publications and communities for years. This deliberate strategy has perpetuated the disproportionate prevalence of menthol cigarette use among Black smokers. By specifically targeting these communities, the tobacco industry has contributed to the disparities in health outcomes Black individuals face.

The Difficulty in Quitting Menthol

Studies have shown that quitting menthol cigarettes is more challenging than quitting tobacco without this flavor. The menthol’s cooling sensation can create a soothing effect, making it harder for individuals to break free from the addiction. Consequently, many Black smokers find it especially difficult to quit smoking.

The Impact on Health and Quality of Life

More than 16 million Americans currently live with smoking-related diseases. Black smokers, in particular, experience a higher burden of smoking-related health issues, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough, and recurring lung infections. These symptoms disrupt their ability to engage in daily activities and enjoy life fully.

No Menthol Sunday and Taking Action

No Menthol Sunday is an important initiative to raise awareness about the impact of menthol cigarettes and support Black communities in overcoming this challenge. By educating individuals about the harmful effects of menthol and providing resources for quitting, this campaign seeks to empower Black smokers to make healthier choices and improve their overall well-being.

Getting Involved

I highly recommend watching “Black Lives / Black Lungs” by Lincoln Mondy on YouTube (link here). This eye-opening video sheds light on the intersection of race, tobacco marketing, and the impact on Black lives. To learn more about “No Menthol Sunday” and the organization responsible for establishing it, The Center for Black Health and Equity, please visit their websites. By supporting these organizations and spreading awareness about the impact of menthol cigarettes, we can help reduce health disparities and promote healthier communities.

Conclusion

The impact of menthol cigarettes on Black communities is a pressing issue that requires our attention. We can make a difference by supporting initiatives like “No Menthol Sunday” and promoting health equity for all. Stay informed, take action, and remember your health matters.

– Dr. BCW (Dr. Curry-Winchell)

Black People and Skin Cancer

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell’s, health series Beyond Clinical Walls, talks about black people, skin cancer and sunburns and some myths associated. Before you go out and enjoy the sun or have your next doctor visit make sure and educate yourself on the truth behind these topics.

In this episode of Beyond Clinical Walls, Dr. Curry-Winchell M.D., aka Dr. BCW, talks about sunburns, skin cancer and having dark skin.  Often there are myths surrounding people of color and things like sunburns and melanoma.  Many people believe that people of color cannot get sunburns.  And many believe that people of color cannot get melanoma.  These are both untrue, common misconceptions that can lead to major health disparities for people of color.  Make sure to learn more about the true nature black people, skin cancer and sunburns check out Dr. BCWs quick video on the topic, you might find that some of your long held believes are not 100% correct.  Make sure and check out this episode to learn more.

Remember, to subscribe to Beyond Clinical Walls.  It really helps the channel.  It also helps Dr. BCW continue to provide helpful informations on health topics, health literacy and health inequity .  Thank you so much for your support – Dr. Curry-Winchell

More Black Doctors, Longer Life Spans

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Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell’s, health series Beyond Clinical Walls, talks about a recent study that shows that counties with more Black Doctors results in Longer Life Spans for Black residents.

In this episode of Beyond Clinical Walls, Dr. Curry-Winchell M.D., aka Dr. BCW, talks about a recent study from The Journal of the American Medical Association, which showed a correlation between the number of Black Physicians in a county and the life span of Black residents in that county. This is another example of the critical role that Black Doctors play in bringing Health Equity to our healthcare system.  It is important to support improving black representation to help bring equity to health care.  This topic is incredibly important to Dr. BCW; in fact, it was the topic of her first TEDx talk – Why Do Blacks Mistrust the Healthcare System?  To learn more about how More Black Doctors equals Longer Life Spans, check out this video to learn more.  Make sure to check out this episode to learn more.

Remember, to subscribe to Beyond Clinical Walls.  It really helps the channel.  It also helps Dr. BCW continue to provide helpful informations on health topics, health literacy and health inequity .  Thank you so much for your support – Dr. Curry-Winchell

Parkinson’s and the Black Community

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Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, M.D. or Dr. BCW, talks Parkinson’s and the Black Community, a group not normally considered impacted by Parkinson’s in her latest episode of Beyond Clinical Walls PODCAST.

Synopsis:

In this Beyond Clinical Walls Podcast episode, Dr. BCW hosts a discussion on Parkinson’s disease. Featuring guests Dr. Shah and Mr. & Mrs. Coley. The guests share their experiences and work raising awareness about Parkinson’s disease. They emphasize its impact on various communities, specifically communities of color with which Parkinson’s is not commonly associated. Dr. Shah, a neurologist and movement disorder specialist, focuses on addressing healthcare disparities, increasing access to care, and ensuring high-quality treatment for Parkinson’s patients.
Mrs. Coley, a Parkinson’s advocate and patient herself, highlights her efforts to provide education, resources, and research on Parkinson’s to underrepresented communities. Mr. Coley, her care partner, emphasizes the ripple effect of the disease on the entire family and discusses the importance of addressing health disparities, particularly in communities of color.
Dr. BCW acknowledges the progressive nature of Parkinson’s and the challenge of detecting its symptoms, especially in underrepresented groups. The conversation aims to shed light on the intersectionality of Parkinson’s and its impact on individuals and communities. The guests discuss invisible symptoms, known as non-motor symptoms, which can affect various organ systems in the body. They stress the significance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent individuals from suffering without appropriate care.
The episode concludes with Dr. Shah discussing the group’s work on their book PD Movers, a free book aimed and providing increased health literacy regarding the impact of Parkinson’s on the Black community. Check out this great episode in its entirety for more information.

Closing:

BCW Podcast is a platform to discuss health-related topics in an open forum to help improve health literacy.  Some make sure and check out the podcast and subscribe so you don’t miss the next episode.  Subscribing really helps Dr. BCW’s efforts and she is very grateful for all of the support.  Thank you all so much for your continued support.

Beyond Clinical Walls PODCAST is available on all major podcast platforms.  This includes Apple Podcasts, Spotify,  iHeartRadio, and many more.