Spirometry is a common and effective diagnostic test that can easily be done in your health care provider’s office. Spirometry is the most reliable way to test your lungs for COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and asthma. The earlier it’s done, the earlier lung disease can be detected and treated. Who should have spirometry testing? People with asthma: Spirometry is an important diagnosis and management tool for people with asthma. If you have asthma and have never had a spirometry test, please talk to our respiratory therapist about spirometry. Smokers and former smokers: If you are over 40 and smoke or used to smoke, you may have COPD. Take this quick test:
If you answered "Yes" to one or more of these questions, you may have symptoms of COPD. See our respiratory therapist to find out what is causing your symptoms Why should I see a respiratory therapist? Can't it wait? If you get early treatment for COPD you can slow down the damage to your lungs. Referrals to our respiratory therapist are generated through the Temagami FHT’s physician, nurse practitioner, registered nurse or through self-referral by calling (705) 569-3244 to request an appointment. Early detection and intervention contribute
to the best possible health outcomes! Fast Facts:
Stroke Can Happen at any Age Although stroke is most common in people over the age of 70, the new data, according to the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation, reveals an alarming increase among those under 70. Over the past ten years, strokes in people in their 50s have increased by 24 per cent and, in those in their 60s, by 13 per cent. Even more troubling, recent international studies predict that stroke rates among younger people (ages 24–64), will double in the next 15 years. What are the Five Signs of Stroke?
Stroke is a medical emergency and every minute counts. Anyone who witnesses or experiences the signs of a stroke should call 9-1-1 immediately so the person can get to a hospital that is equipped to provide emergency stroke care. The sooner someone who is experiencing stroke gets to hospital and receives appropriate treatment, the better their chances of recovery. Prevention every step of the way There is hope -- stroke is treatable and preventable. Up to 80 per cent of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented. It’s never too late to adopt healthy behaviours that will decrease your risk factors for stroke, even after a stroke has occurred. Go to https://ehealth.heartandstroke.ca/heartstroke/hsra to take the Heart and Stroke Risk Assessment and get tips on how to maintain healthy changes. If you are a rostered patient and do not have access to a computer, feel free to call the office at (705) 569-3244 to make an appointment with our dietitian who can take you through the risk assessment. Preventative Health Care – the Easiest Way to Protect Your Future! Your foot is a very complex part of your body. Each foot contains 26 bones, held in place by hundreds of ligaments, tendons and muscles. The average adult puts well over one million pounds of force on their feet every day. However, the foot acts as a complex set of shock absorbers that protect the body with every step. This is only one of many important reasons why you should take good care of your feet. People with Diabetes If you have diabetes you are at a greater risk of foot problems. In fact, diabetes can often first be detected in the foot. In addition to regular screening, be aware of these warning signs:
To help prevent issues arising with your feet you should:
From the first baby steps you take and in all of the phases throughout your life, having healthy feet is important. You only have one pair of feet to last a lifetime so take good care of them! Preventative Health Care – the Easiest Way to Protect Your Future!
Most Canadians don’t like to talk about colorectal cancer but the month of March is a great time to change that. Screening for colorectal cancer is recommended for men and women beginning at age 50. Some of the screening tests designed to help diagnose colorectal cancer include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and flexible sigmoidoscopy. The benefits and risks of these screening methods vary. Discuss with your health care provider which test is best for you. Since every patient has a unique medical history, it is extremely important to talk with your health care provider about your personal risk factors and/or experience with colorectal cancer. By talking regularly and openly with your provider, you can take an active role in your health care. Questions to ask your health care provider about colorectal cancer screening:
Preventative Health Care – the Easiest Way to Protect Your Future!
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AuthorEllen Ibey Archives
August 2022
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