- Senior Care, Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogThe holidays are usually a time to gather with family and friends. Our calendars fill up with parties and other social outings. We celebrate with our loved ones. We reflect on the past year and look forward to the future. But the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has led to months of physical distancing as we work together to slow the spread of the virus. This has sparked feelings of loneliness in many people. Including seniors, who may be at risk of severe illness from COVID-19. 43 percent of seniors say they feel lonely on a regular basis. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), about 20 percent of adults who are at least 65 years old live alone. Those who are lonely can suffer from health problems as a result. The health effects of social isolation In her 2015 study on public health and loneliness, Brigham Young University Professor Julianne Holt-Lunstad said social isolation can be as damaging to one’s health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. And according to the NIA, research has also linked loneliness to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weaker immune system, depression, anxiety and dementia. Having loved ones around often encourages people to take better care of themselves. Including eating well, exercising and taking necessary medications. Living alone and not leaving the house on a regular basis are two major things that can cause loneliness in seniors. How you can help Feeling connected to others is key. And these days, many of these connections are happening virtually. Thanks to FaceTime, Zoom and Skype, staying in touch is easier than ever. If you have an older family member or friend who wants to learn to use the new technology, set up some time to explain to them how it works. Or, simply give them a call. Chat with them about their worries and concerns. Let them know you are thinking of them. This year has been like no other. This holiday season will be no exception. The best gift you could give during the holidays or any day is to reach out to those who may be feeling lonely. Offer them connection and companionship. It costs nothing, and you’ll brighten someone’s day. Author Lil Banchero is the senior director of Luminis Health AAMC’s Institute for Healthy Aging. Originally published Dec. 16, 2019. Last updated Dec. 7, 2020.
- Primary CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAs the new year begins, many across the country are looking to improve their health. You may hear about family, friends or colleagues trying a “Dry January,” a growing trend to abstain from alcohol for the first 31 days of the year. This movement continues to grow in the US, especially as the World Health Organization emphasizes that no level of alcohol consumption is safe for health. However, any month can be a dry month. Taking a break can provide some significant health benefits and offer you a chance to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. Benefits of a Dry Month The impact of a month without alcohol can be profound. Studies reveal that participants experience numerous benefits from a dry month, including improved sleep, weight loss, increased energy, and even noticeable enhancements in skin quality. Mental health and overall well-being can also undergo positive transformations. Let’s not overlook the obvious perks: financial savings and the welcome lack of hangovers. Exploring Alternatives Discover various substitutes, social strategies and activities to make the dry month experience enjoyable and sustainable. Prepare by having alternative beverages on hand; flavored seltzer water and low-sugar beverages make a great substitute in social situations. Challenging your friends and family to participate in a dry month can make the experience fun and competitive. You can also opt for outdoor activities away from alcohol-serving venues to add exercise to your routine as well. It may be helpful to keep a weekly journal to document the personal health milestones and benefits that you experience. Preparing for Success Considering a dry month? Just like any challenge, preparation significantly boosts your chance of success. Most importantly, if you drink every day, are concerned about your alcohol use or have experienced withdraw symptoms in previous attempts to quit, it is important to talk to your doctor or seek professional help before stopping alcohol. Taking a break from alcohol can be a great way to kickstart a healthier version of yourself in 2024. Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the US, behind tobacco consumption, and illegal drug use. While complete abstinence is the healthiest choice, even a reduction can have positive effects. Thinking about New Year’s resolutions? Challenge yourself and explore the health benefits that a dry month can bring about. If you find yourself struggling with avoiding alcohol, this is a great opportunity to talk to your health care provider about your challenges. For those seeking professional assistance or guidance on alcohol use, Luminis Health Pathways is a comprehensive addiction treatment center, offering a range of services to support individuals on their journey towards recovery and a healthier lifestyle. Your journey to better health matters. Connect with our primary care teams for continual support in achieving a longer, healthier life. Author Dr. Andrew McGlone is the executive medical director of Luminis Health Primary Care and Population Health.
- Pregnancy & BirthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIf you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, congratulations! This is such an exciting time. We hope you’re savoring every precious moment… without stressing too much. But first, a reality check. According to Prince George’s County health data, only about 6 in 10 mothers receive early prenatal care, and the maternal mortality rate is twice the national average. Luminis Health is committed to improving maternal health by expanding services, advancing health equity, and eliminating disparities. We’re here to help you with expert advice to help you maintain a healthy pregnancy and safeguard your baby before and after delivery. Here are some dos and don’ts: Pregnancy dos Since every pregnancy is unique, your doctor will always have the best answers for you. But generally, it’s important to remember to: Eat well. A healthy, well-balanced diet will fuel your baby’s growth. Make sure to add seafood, especially fish high in omega-3 fatty acids. Exercise regularly. You don’t need a gym to stay active, there are plenty of ways to move your body at home. Try gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility or follow an online prenatal yoga video to ease stress and promote relaxation. Even simple activities like walking around your home, doing light bodyweight exercises, or practicing deep breathing techniques can help keep you active and feeling your best during pregnancy. Get plenty of sleep. It’s common to feel tired when you’re pregnant, and it can be hard to get comfortable with your growing bump. But sleep is essential for mother and baby (7-9 hours each night is best). Get your flu shot and other recommended vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control recommend certain vaccinations during pregnancy to help mothers develop antibodies that can be passed on to their babies, providing protection during the first few months of life. For example, the flu shot is safe and will protect you and your baby. The RSV vaccine is now recommended between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, particularly during RSV season (September thru January). Go to all your prenatal appointments. Pregnancy care is key to keeping your baby healthy. Consider joining CenteringPregnancy,® a new program offered at Luminis Health Ob-Gyn Greenbelt. With group sessions for expectant mothers and personalized consultations with trusted OB-GYNs and midwives, this nationally recognized program has been shown to improve birth outcomes, breastfeeding rates and patient satisfaction for new moms. Limit stress and maintain your mental well-being. When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes, all of which can affect your mental health. Any steps you can take to feel connected, grounded and centered will go a long way toward ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Take a prenatal vitamin. Ask for doctor recommendations and look for a vitamin that includes folic acid and iron if needed. Travel safely. Your doctor will help you make informed decisions about traveling, including telling you when it’s best to stop traveling (usually by 36 weeks). Pregnancy don’ts To protect your health and your growing baby, there are a few things you should avoid during pregnancy, including: Dangerous chemicals, including some household cleaners, and refrain from cleaning cat litter boxes Foods that increase the risk of foodborne illness, including deli meats, raw or processed meats, and unpasteurized milk and cheese Excess caffeine (one cup of coffee a day is usually safe) Hot tubs and saunas Radiation exposure, including X-rays, unless absolutely necessary Alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs Taking these steps can help you lower your risk of complications and prepare for a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery. Authors Dr. Jonelle Samuel, a Luminis Health Ob-Gyn, is a Prince George’s County native and practices in Greenbelt.
- WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIt may not feel that way, but 60% of your body weight is water. Proper hydration is vital, particularly during the hot summer, to help maintain your health and wellness. Here are just some of the reasons you should be sure to maintain hydration: Water helps regulate body temperature through sweating. Hydration is crucial for the digestive system. It boosts the body’s ability to break down food and absorb essential nutrients. Proper hydration helps your kidneys filter your blood and excrete waste products and toxins through your urine. Proper hydration can enhance your mood and prevent headaches. Mild dehydration can impair cognitive function and affect concentration, alertness, and short-term memory. Hydration helps your body maintain a robust immune system. Water is the most significant component in synovial fluid, reducing joint friction. Staying hydrated is key to optimal performance by athletes and those who engage in physical activity. Water helps maintain skin elasticity and moisture to give it a healthy and youthful appearance. Drinking water can help weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness. Be sure to drink water regularly. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty; thirst is a sign you are already dehydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle so you can drink at any time. Eat fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon. Finally, you can use phone apps or set alarms to remind you to drink water regularly. Be careful what you drink Not all liquids are the same in terms of hydration. Many beverages that claim to be hydrating contain sugar and salt, which can cause dehydration. Here are a few common culprits: Sugary sports drinks may say they replenish electrolytes after intense physical activity, but some contain large amounts of sugar. That can lead to weight gain and increase your risk of Type 2 diabetes. Soft drinks and fruit juices may temporarily quench your thirst, but their high sugar content can lead to quick spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels. These drinks can also contribute to obesity and other metabolic disorders. Flavored waters may seem like a healthy alternative, but they can be high in sugar and contain artificial additives. Be sure to read nutritional labels carefully to make sure the flavored water you’re about to drink does not contain almost as much sugar as a can of soda. Alcoholic beverages can make you urinate more frequently and cause your body to lose more water than it takes in. That can lead to dehydration, particularly in hot weather. An ice-cold beer might seem refreshing, but it’s not the best choice for hydrating yourself. Here are some healthy choices that can help you stay hydrated: Plain water is the best and most natural way to stay hydrated. It has no calories or sugar, and it’s readily available. Herbal teas, hot or iced, are excellent for hydration because they typically contain no caffeine, sugar, or calories and are available in many flavors. Unsweetened coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium. That makes it an excellent choice for hydration, particularly after exercise. Infused water can be a refreshing alternative to plain water. Add slices of fruits like strawberries, oranges, or watermelon, and herbs like basil or rosemary to a water pitcher. Let it sit for a few hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to blend. Diluted fruit juices let you enjoy the flavor without the high sugar content. Mix one part juice with two or three parts water to reduce the sugar content. Electrolyte tablets that dissolve in water will let you replenish electrolytes after intense workouts. The tablets typically contain less sugar than sports drinks and can be a convenient way to stay hydrated. Watermelon has a high water content, making it a delicious and hydrating snack, perfect for hot days. Making intelligent choices about what you drink is essential for staying hydrated and maintaining overall health. Remember, the best hydration comes from natural low-calorie options that support your body’s needs without adding unnecessary sugars or salts. Stay smart, stay hydrated, and enjoy the benefits of better beverage choices. Author Waseem Hussain, MD, is Associate Regional Director of Primary Care at Luminis Health who has expertise in all areas of family medicine including intense management of neurologic, pulmonary and cardiac diseases as well as diabetes and gynecologic care.
- WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWhether it’s coffee to start the day, a cold soda to revive the afternoon, or a beloved pumpkin spice latte to embrace the season, caffeine is a popular pick-me-up for many. However, while these caffeinated drinks can provide a much-needed boost, excessive consumption can have negative effects on your health. In rare instances, it can even be fatal. That’s why it’s important to know the facts. What is caffeine? Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant that affects your central nervous system, helping you feel more awake and alert. It’s found in coffee beans, tea leaves, kola nuts, yerba mate, guarana berry, and cacao beans. Safe limit for caffeine: How much is too much? According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, most healthy adults can consume 400 milligrams of caffeine a day without any dangerous or negative health effects. If you are pregnant, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests keeping your caffeine intake below 200 milligrams a day. The amount of caffeine in beverages can vary greatly, making it easy to consume too much caffeine. Here are some typical caffeine ranges for beverages: An 8-ounce cup of coffee has between 80 to 100 milligrams of caffeine. An 8-ounce cup of green or black tea has between 30 to 50 milligrams. A 12-ounce/regular-size can of caffeinated soda has between 30 to 46 milligrams. An 8-ounce energy drink has between 40 to 300 milligrams. Many energy drinks only come in 12-ounce or 16-ounce cans that can contain up to 400 milligrams of caffeine—the safe daily limit. When adding up your caffeine intake for the day, make sure you include all caffeine sources. Caffeine can also be found in chocolate and baked goods, like cookies. It’s even in some medications, such as those for headaches. And decaffeinated coffees and teas may still contain between two to 15 milligrams of caffeine. Whenever possible, read all package labels to see how much caffeine a product contains. Side effects of too much caffeine Side effects that you have had too much caffeine include: Agitation or irritability. Fast heart rate. Feeling anxious or restless. Increased urination, which can lead to dehydration. Insomnia or trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Muscle twitches, such as eye twitches. Nausea or upset stomach. Can you overdose on caffeine? Consuming around 1,200 mg of caffeine at one time can cause toxic effects on your health, according to the FDA. While rare, it is possible to overdose on caffeine, which can lead to death. Severe side effects of too much caffeine include: Cardiac arrest. Disorientation. Hallucination or psychosis. Irregular heartbeat. Muscle breakdown, called rhabdomyolysis. Seizures. The overdose risk increases if you use dietary liquid or powdered caffeine supplements, which often contain high concentrations of caffeine. For example, just one teaspoon of powdered caffeine has the same amount of caffeine as 28 cups of coffee. Why you should space out your caffeine intake When you consume caffeine, it takes 45 to 60 minutes before you start to feel it. The stimulant effects can last between three to five hours. Consuming too much caffeine all at once or having caffeinated products too close together in your day can lead to bothersome and dangerous side effects. Remember, limit your caffeine intake to 400 mg a day. And when possible, space out your caffeine intake by three to five hours, to reduce the risk of side effects. To keep caffeine from interrupting your sleep, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends avoiding caffeine at least six hours before bedtime. So, if you go to bed at 10 p.m., stop consuming caffeine by 4 p.m. Who should avoid caffeine? Some medical conditions may make it more likely to have side effects from caffeine. Talk to your doctor about what amount of caffeine is safe for you if you have: Cardiovascular disease, especially irregular heartbeat. High blood pressure. Severe anxiety. Peptic ulcer disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Liver or kidney disease. Seizures. The bottom line on caffeine Different people can experience the effects of caffeine differently. If you experience side effects from caffeine, see the specialist team at Luminis Health. They can help figure out why you may be more sensitive to caffeine. Waseem Hussain, MD,is Associate Regional Director of Primary Care at Luminis Health who has expertise in all areas of family medicine including intense management of neurologic, pulmonary and cardiac diseases as well as diabetes and gynecologic care.
How can we help?
Common Searches
Common Searches
Log in with MyChart
Access personalized site features & view your health records.
Learn more about MyChartDon’t have a MyChart account?
Your Account
View your Dashboard
Messages
Find Care
Schedule Appointment
My Care Team
My Record
Appointments
Medications
Log in with MyChart
Access personalized site features & view your health records.
Learn more about MyChartDon’t have a MyChart account?