Ring In A Festive Season: With The Broward Center Holiday Spectacular Thu Dec 01 2022 17:01:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Broadway, Music And Comedy Headliners: Start the New Year Off With Some Excitement At The Parker Thu Dec 22 2022 17:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Ups And Downs Of Thyroid Concerns Chandrally “Chun” Mahajan, MPH - Chief Healthcare Correspondent June 9, 2023 Share Thyroid issues can be frustrating and the ups and downs that one goes through can affect Mental Health. Understanding the connection between Thyroid concerns and Mental Fortitude is the first step to combatting the added Stress of having these Health Issues. Moreover, trying some of the suggestions below may help improve quality of life–strengthening one’s approach in overcoming these Health Adversities. First, where is this Thyroid Gland? It is a small Butterfly-Shaped Gland that is right on the front of the Throat midway between the chin and upper chest. Be gentle when feeling it with the thumb and pointer finger. This Gland releases Hormones that are in charge of Metabolism primarily. These Thyroid Hormones can also affect Heart Rate, Body Temperature, Fatigue Levels and Mood. It is no wonder then that these Hormones being out of balance can affect one’s Mental Health. Emerging concerns of Depression, Anxiety, and altered levels of productivity could be signaling a Thyroid concern. Before taking Thyroid Supplements though, monitor Thyroid Function with a Health Professional to ensure that external substances don’t tilt the Thyroid Gland off balance. Some Supplements may not be suited for everyone so speak to aHealth Provider. Some things a provider may say if the Thyroid Gland is not functioning correctly is that these may be early clinical signs of Hyper-or-Hypo-Thyroidism. These conditions produce very different, distinct effects on the body. As a disclaimer though, just because people might have some of these symptoms, doesn’t mean they have a Thyroid problem. Similarly, just because someone may have a Thyroid problem, doesn’t mean all of these symptoms will surface. When overactive and producing too many Hormones, the Thyroid Gland is now considered to be in a HyperThyroid State. HyperThyroidism, then, is the diagnosis given to someone having an overactive Thyroid. It can cause one to be less tolerant of the heat; to sweat more; to significantly lose weight in what may be considered an unhealthy way; to have warm, moist skin; to have fine hair or thinning hair; to have visual changes; increased bowel movements; to burn through food more often; to be more hyperactive or restless or anxious than usual; or to have sleeping issues. We can also see increased Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, Palpitations, and breathing issues, along with a decline in sexual drive and possible complications for Fertility. For women in particular, HyperThyroidism can sometimes lead to Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. On the other hand, when underactive and not producing enough Hormones, the Thyroid Gland is sometimes considered to be “failing” and in a HypoThyroid state. Rather than think of it as “failing,” I like to believe that the Thyroid Gland has some room for improvement! As such, supplementation and a little help with Synthetic Thyroid Medications can go a long way to supporting an underactive Thyroid. HypoThyroidism—or the condition of having an underactive Thyroid—presents with distinct features. Some symptoms include being intolerant of the cold; sweating less; gaining weight; feeling bloated or retaining more water; being constipated; having dry, cool skin; having coarse and/or brittle hair that may come with some loss of hair; or having wrist pain. Also, this may come with feelings of fatigue, low energy or lethargy, Depression, Low Heart Rate, and breathing issues. Similar to HyperThyroidism, decreased sexual drive and complications of Infertility are possible. Women also may have Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. Should you have a number of these that have developed recently, it may be helpful to see your Health Provider for a wellness screening and to ask more about Thyroid issues. The big picture here is that this can be an overwhelming list of changes to your body that also blend into the realm of Mental Health. Understandably, Anxiety or Depression can creep into these conditions and affect one’s Overall Health. Depression is one of the most typical Mental Health Conditions linked to Thyroid difficulties. Depression is more common in people with HypoThyroidism than in people without Thyroid problems. In fact, studies have found that up to 60% of HypoThyroidism sufferers exhibit Depressive symptoms. This is so because an imbalance in the Thyroid Hormones, which are involved in controlling mood, might result in Depressed symptoms. Another Psychological Disorder that is frequently linked to Thyroid Issues is Anxiety. As we know now, Anxiety, Agitation and restlessness are all possible symptoms of HyperThyroidism. These symptoms may be incapacitating as they can dramatically and abruptly interfere with a person's daily life. So, what can be done to enhance the quality of life for people who have Thyroid and Mental Health problems? Take a look at some of these suggestions: • Engage in self-care: Taking care of your Physical and Mental Health is essential when managing Thyroid issues. Practice relaxation-based exercises like Yoga or Meditation for Stress Management. To enhance General Health, consume a balanced diet and engage in frequent exercise. • Attend a support group: Meeting people who are going through the same things as you can give you a sense of camaraderie and support. Thyroid sufferers and anyone struggling with Mental Health difficulties can find a wide variety of online support groups. One Thyroid support group on Facebook is called, “Thyroid Support Group.” • Seek Medical Attention: It's crucial to get help if you think you might have a Thyroid Issue or are having Mental Health issues. Your doctor can do tests to see if you have a Thyroid problem and can suggest appropriate treatments. Careful monitoring of Thyroid Function is essential because there are Complex Autoimmune Conditions that can start as HyperThyroidism and then progress to HypoThyroidism. Catching this early may help with long-term management of these diseases. • Take Medication as directed: It's critical to follow directions when taking any Medication, whether for Thyroid or Mental Health. Without contacting your doctor, skipping doses or quitting Medicines might suddenly make symptoms worse. • Think about Therapy: Managing the symptoms of Mental Illness can benefit greatly from Therapy. A Therapist can give you coping mechanisms and a secure environment in which to discuss your difficulties. This can go a long way in bolstering that Mental Strength! In summation, Thyroid issues can cause Mental Health Decline and decrease one’s quality of life significantly. Seemingly, and without explanation, the Thyroid can change its course and so monitoring Thyroid Function is essential. Moreso, just understanding the nature of Thyroid problems can take the pressure off. Suggestions for improving your Mental Strength to overcome Thyroid changes include practicing self-care, venting to others in a safe setting (like a support group), taking Medications or Supplements as recommended by a Healthcare Professional, and adhering to follow-up appointments with Health Providers, including a Therapist if that sounds comfortable. That’s it for now. Signing off! Contact Me: Want to learn more about what’s out there in the medical world? Put in a request at: brightenMDcare@gmail.com and I’ll do my best to report back to you about the latest trends and changes in healthcare. Please note that any medical questions must be asked to your Healthcare Provider and I am simply stating evidence-based findings. This is not to be interpreted as a professional opinion or that I am making personal recommendations for your personal care. Wishing you the best of health. Thank you! < Previous News Next News >

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The Water Damage Experts: 1st Priority Restoration Will Fix The Problem December 1, 2021 Share If your home has been damaged by water from a leaking pipe, intruding water from all the current rains or mold damage from moisture over time. How are you going to address these problems in your home? A Restora-tion Company such as 1st Priority Restoration is usually the first company to call following significant damage to a home from floods, water damage, sewage backup and other major water events. The job of a restoration company is to clean up the mess and to preserve the home, protect the home and its contents so that further damage will not occur. Flood damage can be found in any geographical area, regardless of elevation. The causes of flooding can range from natural disasters, burst pipes, leaking pipes, rain storms or sewer lines that are backing up. Even in a condo, you could have a water leak in your wall, under a toilet or behind a kitchen cabinet creating mold that can cause damage to your property and your health. 1st Priority Restoration can find the source of the leak, fix it, restore your property and work directly with your insurance. Regardless of the cause, restoration professionals are called upon to repair water damage, mold damage and restore flooded properties. The water damage restoration process is highly regulated in order to ensure that properties damaged by flood or sewer events, can be effectively restored to a safe space for a homeowner to remain safe during the cleanup. You need a company such as 1st Priority Restoration who you can trust to do the job correctly. The process is simple, when 1st Priority Restoration arrives, they will thoroughly walk through your home and discuss the areas that need to be cleaned & restored to their original condition. Your insurance company adjuster or claim representative may recommend what and how your home should be cleaned, but in the end, it is your decision to make. In the past year, we have all heard the word “Mitiga-tion” more times than we can count, but with water damage, that is exactly what needs to be done. Water damage restoration does not stop at restoring your real estate back to proper functioning. The professionals at 1st Priority will inspect the underlying causes that have caused the water damage in the first place and make sure there won’t be a reoccurrence. They will repair all of the damaged structures and replace the materials to make your property safe, for years to come. If your property has been exposed to water damage, you may have to do water mitigation. Strict actions are required in water mitigation, such as: removal of damaged materials such as drywall and flooring. Molds and mildew that have accumulated in areas in your property will be disinfected and deodorized to restore a healthy environment. Further cleaning and deodorizing should be done to make sure that your real estate is back in tip-top shape. Water damage mitigation should happen immediately after flooding or water buildup. Take action immediately, because letting your property sit in water can cause further damages and expenses. Materials soaking in water collect microbes and spread water-borne diseases. Furniture, wood flooring and walls will crack, sag and collect fungi after prolonged exposure to moisture. If your property is particularly old, it may be time to replace materials such as pipes to prevent a reoccurrence of water damage. If pipes are behind walls, it may require more extensive repairs. The water mitigation process will depend on how long your property has been exposed to water. Air humidifiers and drying equipment must be turned on around the clock in areas with severe water damage. Mold spores are especially dangerous to health and thorough cleaning and disinfecting should be done as part of the water damage mitigation. It is advisable to get the temperature, humidity and moisture of your property tested to see if it has been restored to normal standards, 1st Priority professionals can handle the entire process. After 1st Priority Restor-ation evaluates the work and equipment needed to clean your home, they will provide you QUICKLY with an estimate or contract/services. LEAK DETECTION: One tiny water leak can create huge problems. An undetected water pipe leak will not only dramatically increase your utility bills, but it can also lead to even more expensive water damage and mold. If you’ve had higher than average water bills, constantly have to refill your pool or hear running water, it’s time to call the leak detection specialists at 1st Priority Restoration! Is water pipe leak detection possible if the pipes are behind a wall? Yes, using the newest state-of-the-art detection tools, highly trained technicians are able to locate water pipe leaks that are hidden behind walls. They can even provide water plumbing leak detection within concrete slab foundations. Will insurance cover the cost of plumbing leak detection services? That all depends on your home's insurance plan. In many situations, when there is a need for water damage restoration, many insurance companies will cover the related costs. 1st Prior-ity Restoration representatives can work directly with your homeowners insurance to verify the need for the plumbing leak detection service, cause of the problem and the repairs that will be required to fix the situation. NEVER FOOL AROUND WITH MOLD & MILDEW: When it comes to mold and mildew, we cannot take those potential hazards lightly. A mold problem can cause you to experience dizziness, anxiety, depression and even hallucinations. If you have been experiencing a diminished attention span or problems with your memory, it might be a good idea to have your home inspected for black mold by a mold remediation crew. For people sensitive to mold, inhaling or touching mold spores can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes and skin rashes. People with serious mold allergies may have more severe reactions, including shortness of breath. At 1st Priority Restora-tion, this is what they do 365 days a year, nobody knows how to prevent potential dangers like they do. By dialing: 1 (800) 617-1112 – you can save financially and your health as well! MOLD AND YOUR HOME: Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the outside air can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, bags and pets, which can be carried indoors. Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, pipes or where there has been flooding. Mold grows well on paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles and wood products. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric and upholstery. With all of the rain and storms we have been having these past months, you can see a pattern of mold growth that will last. From leaks, flooding and driving rain, mold growth is a certainty in South Florida. If you are concerned that you might have a mold or mildew problem, it is best to call the professionals. Your health is your most important asset, so just like you go see a doctor for a test, your home needs testing as well. VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION: There are some important ways that we can prevent the spread of mold and what you can do to get rid of it. Keep an eye out for hidden leaks: Wet spots on your ceiling, the baseboards or on the floor are a telltale sign of a leaky pipe or roof. Your home's pipes are behind drywall, which can leave a small leak unnoticed. Mold can grow behind those walls and filter into the air through ducts or pipes. At 1st Priority, they can come in and assess the situation before it gets worse. Did you know that many air conditioner systems/ducts are susceptible to mold growth? They often trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for spores. Bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms create a lot of excess heat and humidity, especially here in south Florida – whether it is from a shower, stove or even a dryer, all of these areas should be well ventilated. Education is key to anything – when our health is at stake – knowing that mold spores can lay dormant for years after they are produced and could begin growing again at any time, it is extremely important to know. Because of this, regular cleanings and having 1st Priority Restoration to depend on, will certainly make our lives much easier. Ever wonder why you or your children wake up coughing and sneezing on a regular basis? The CDC may have the answer. According to the CDC, in 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found that there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, coughing, sneezing and wheezing in otherwise healthy people and in individuals susceptible with compromised immune conditions. Mold or mold spores may cause asthma attacks in people who have asthma and are allergic to mold. Even in some nonallergic individuals, mold can cause sym-ptoms of irritation in the eyes, skin and airways. For example, the "black mold" Stachybotrys, along with some other types of mold, produce toxins known as mycotoxins that can cause irritation of the skin and airways in susceptible individuals. Some-times, people may develop severe reactions to mold exposure, but cleaning and sanitizing by professionals you can trust, can help. EXPERIENCE IS EVERYTHING: With decades in the business, 1st Priority Restoration is a reputable company with over 20 employees that are licensed and insured. They have been doing all types of cleaning, sanitizing, leak/mold detection and water damage restoration for more than a decade. "We use the most efficient cleaning and water removal equipment to make sure that our customers are satisfied with the job we do for them. We try to use nontoxic (Green) safe chemicals for all mildew treatments. In all of the years that we have been helping our customers with water damage, they have always been pleased with the work that we do and we have never received a single complaint!” YEAR ROUND SERVICE: If you have lived in south Florida for any period of time, you already know that the weather is ever changing, for that reason, the rainy season can happen at any time. It doesn’t have to be a tropical system to cause flooding and everything that goes along with it, a leak or burst pipe can happen at any time of year, 1st Priority Restoration is available to help get your home back to a healthy environment for you and your family. What continues to separate them from anyone else is that they can take care of all of your water damage problems - as well as conducting leak and mold detections, working with your insurance company and your adjuster. By calling 1st Priority Restoration, you are getting a business that understands it all and is ready to spring into immediate action 12 months a year. From ceiling repair, drywall replacement, structural damage, roof leaks, floor repair, furniture cleaning, mold removal and treatments, they have it all covered. CUSTOMERS ARE ALWAYS SATISFIED: "If a customer calls and is not completely satisfied with any of the work, the crew will return promptly to your property. We strive to make our customers 100% satisfied with our work and will stand by that." Proud member of the Better Business Bureau. $25 OFF MOLD TESTING! 1st Priority Restoration 1-800-617-1112 1-800-996-7919 Closed Saturday & Jewish Holidays. < Previous News Next News >

Protecting Paradise: Alarming Statistics Show 1-in-4 Residents Are Willing to Defy Evacuation Warnings June 15, 2023 Share As summer approaches, the allure of pristine beaches and vibrant sunsets beckons Floridians to enjoy the season's bliss. However, amidst the allure, the looming threat of hurricanes casts a shadow over paradise. The American Automobile Association (AAA) has conducted a groundbreaking survey to shed light on the state of Hurricane Preparedness among Floridians. With 1-in-4 residents willing to defy evacuation warnings and a startling 67% lacking Flood Insurance, it is evident that education and comprehensive coverage are paramount. AAA published the findings of their survey and provides valuable insights into insurance policies that can safeguard both property and travel plans during Hurricane Season. Join us as we explore the implications of these statistics, delve into the importance of Flood Insurance, and discover the top insurance policies recommended to ensure peace of mind for Floridians facing the tumultuous Storm Season. The recent survey conducted by AAA exposes a concerning lack of preparedness among Florida residents as Hurricane Season approaches. Astonishingly, 1-in-5 Floridians (19%) fail to make any advanced preparations for severe weather. Equally disquieting is the fact that 24% of respondents admitted they would disregard Evacuation Warnings, putting their lives and properties at grave risk. Among those who would consider evacuating, a mere 56% would take action only when a Hurricane reaches a Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Understanding the motivations behind these decisions is crucial in addressing the gaps in preparedness. Survey respondents revealed a variety of reasons for ignoring Evacuation Warnings, including a desire to stay and repair Property Damage (40%), inability to accommodate pets (30%), faith in the storm changing course (22%), lack of knowledge regarding Evacuation Destinations (18%), fear of looting (17%), and financial constraints (15%). Importance of Adequate Insurance Coverage In the face of such alarming statistics, AAA urges Floridians to prioritize their safety and financial security by ensuring they have adequate Insurance Coverage. Hurricanes and Severe Weather can wreak havoc on homes, vehicles, and travel plans. Understanding the intricacies of Insurance Policies is crucial for protecting one's Assets. Here are the top Insurance Policies recommended by AAA for Comprehensive Coverage during Hurricane Season: Homeowner's Insurance: While this policy covers Wind Damage to your property, it does not extend to Flood Damage caused by rising water. Homeowners are strongly advised to acquire separate Flood Insurance Policies to ensure full protection. Flood Insurance: Flooding is a common and devastating consequence of Severe Weather, often causing extensive damage. AAA emphasizes that Flood Insurance is essential for all homeowners, regardless of their property's Flood Zone Classification. Waiting until a storm forms can be perilous, as new Flood Insurance Policies issued through FEMA have a Mandatory 30-day waiting period. Comprehensive Auto Coverage: To safeguard against potential Vehicle Damage from fallen trees, Flooding, or Hail during a Hurricane, AAA advises Motorists to ensure they have Comprehensive Auto Coverage. It is important to note that Vehicle Damage is not automatically covered under Homeowner's Policies. Travel Insurance: For those planning Summer or Fall vacations, Travel Insurance provides crucial protection against unforeseen disruptions caused by Severe Weather. Policies are available to reimburse covered losses resulting from flight delays, cancellations, and non-refundable deposits on hotels, cruises, and excursions. Steps For Homeowners To Take Immediately In addition to acquiring appropriate Insurance Coverage, AAA emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to protect one's property and ensure a smooth Claims Process. Here are some vital actions that Homeowners should undertake without delay: Review Your Insurance Coverage: Schedule a comprehensive review of your Homeowner's Insurance Policy with a Licensed Agent. Evaluate the adequacy of your coverage, discuss deductibles, and verify that recent home upgrades, such as pools, screen enclosures, and fences, are appropriately protected. Document And Store Essential Information: Store your Insurance and Flood Policy numbers on your Mobile Phone for quick access during emergencies. Familiarize yourself with various methods of filing Claims, including Online Platforms or Mobile Apps, to expedite the process. Additionally, maintain a thorough inventory of your belongings by recording a video or taking pictures, noting important details such as receipts, purchase dates, and model numbers. Preserve Important Documents: Store vital documents, including: Birth Certificates, Social Security Cards, and Insurance Policy information, in a portable waterproof container. This precaution ensures these valuable records remain safe from Water Damage during a Hurricane. The Significance of Flood Insurance The destructive power of flooding cannot be underestimated, as evidenced by the historic floods that ravaged South Florida earlier this year. AAA emphasizes that Catastrophic Flood Damage can occur regardless of one's residence being in a High-Risk Flood Zone. The organization strongly advocates for all Floridians to consider obtaining Flood Insurance, stressing that delaying this decision until a storm threatens could prove disastrous. Astonishingly, AAA's Survey revealed that a staggering 67% of respondents do not possess Flood Insurance. The reasons cited include residing outside a Flood Zone (57%), lack of prior flooding experiences (34%), concerns about affordability (24%), and a mistaken belief that Homeowner's Insurance provides sufficient Coverage (9%). Facts About Flood Insurance To emphasize the importance of Flood Insurance, AAA presents key facts that shed light on the magnitude of flood-related losses and the significance of proper Coverage: • Annual Flood Damage exceeds $5 Billion nationwide on average, making it the most costly Natural Disaster in the United States. • In 2022, the National Flood Insurance Program processed over 54,000 Claims, providing Policyholders with over $1.6 Billion in Coverage. • Hurricane Ian alone resulted in more than 46,000 Claims and $1.5 Billion in Policy Coverage. • Surprisingly, almost 40% of Flood Insurance Claims originate from homes located outside High-Risk Flood Zones. • Repairing just one inch of Water Damage in a home can cost over $25,000. • Flood Insurance Policyholders received an average Claim payment of $68,000 between 2016 and 2021, which never requires repayment. As Floridians bask in the Summer sun, the specter of Hurricanes looms large. This recent comprehensive Survey exposes alarming statistics surrounding Hurricane Preparedness and highlights the pressing need for proper Insurance Coverage. By prioritizing Safety and securing the right Insurance Policies, Floridians can protect their homes, vehicles, and travel plans from the devastating effects of Severe Weather. Flood Insurance emerges as a critical component of Comprehensive Coverage, as flooding can occur anywhere in the state. By taking immediate action and ensuring they have adequate coverage, Floridians can navigate Hurricane Season with peace of mind, confident that they are well-equipped to weather any storm. < Previous News Next News >

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