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According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health, more than 25 million people in the U.S. are known to have asthma.

 

Asthma is a chronic lung disease which causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways which can ultimately cause severe breathing difficulties and even be fatal. Common symptoms of this condition include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and a feeling of tightness in the chest.

 

Asthma may often be aggravated by certain triggers, such as dust, pet dander, mold, pollen, chemicals and air pollution, and other factors. Upper respiratory infections can also exacerbate symptoms. While asthma symptoms can be frustrating and scary, there are steps for treating and managing this illness. Consult a healthcare professional to assess symptoms and develop an individualized plan of care.       

 

Listed below are some helpful links for more information and resources on asthma.

- National Institutes of Health. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: What is Asthma? http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/asthma/.

- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Asthma: Basic Information. http://www.cdc.gov/asthma/faqs.htm.

- American Lung Association. Asthma. http://www.lung.org/lung-disease/asthma/.

 

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

-National Institutes of Health. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: What is Asthma? http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/asthma/.

  

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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Temperatures have finally risen and the first day of summer is not far off! As fun as this time of year can be, the season can wreak havoc on those with asthma and allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 1 in 5 Americans suffer from allergies and over 24 million report having asthma. Those are big numbers for issues that are often overlooked or insufficiently treated. Read on for some helpful terms and tips for preventing allergy symptoms!  

 

 

Terminology (From the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America)  

 

• Allergen: A substance that triggers an allergic reaction.

• Allergic rhinitis: An allergy affecting the mucus membrane of the nose. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is often called “hay fever.”

• Skin prick test: A test where a needle is used to scratch the skin with a small amount of allergen. A response can usually be seen within 15 to 20 minutes.

• Intradermal test: A test where an allergen is injected just underneath the skin. Intradermal tests are generally used when results from a skin prick test are unclear.

 

Tips for Preventing Allergy Symptoms

 

• Keep areas within the home clean and vacuumed as much as possible. Avoid dust accumulation and wash bedding frequently to help control dust mites.

• Avoid pollen by keeping windows shut and using a quality air filter.

• Keep aware of the local pollen count and allergy forecast here.  

• There are treatment options available for controlling symptoms so that allergies don’t derail one’s life! Talk with a healthcare professional for developing an individualized plan of care.

 

 Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=5&sub=72.

- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Glossary of Allergy Terms. http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=9&sub=103&cont=473.    

- Pollen.com. Allergy Forecast. http://www.pollen.com/allergy-weather-forecast.asp.

 

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

 

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From online tracking tools to brochures and websites, there are resources for living with arthritis for just about anyone! Listed below are some of the many arthritis resources available.

 

• Arthritis Weather Index – This handy online tool from the Arthritis Foundation^® helps to predict potential joint pain based on local weather conditions. Check it out here.

•  Track + React – This online program from the Arthritis Foundation^®  tracks a variety of factors including physical activity, sleep, nutrition, and arthritis symptoms, so that the correlation between symptoms and other factors can then be viewed over time in the results section. The easy-to-use tracking program provides results in a graph of all data recorded. Check out Track + React here.   

• Solutions for Living Series from Wyoming AgrAbility – Wyoming AgrAbility offers a variety of informative publications related to health and injury prevention, including the Solutions for Living series. This publication highlights adaptive tools, protective equipment, and solutions for addressing everyday tasks to promote continued independence. The Solutions for Living Series can be viewed on the Publications page of the Wyoming AgrAbility website here.  

• Arthritis and Agriculture: A Guide to Understanding and Living with Arthritis – This booklet is available online and through AgrAbility, and addresses the different aspects of arthritis within the agricultural community. Topics discussed include arthritis management, types of arthritis, self-care, and more. View this publication here. 

• Arthritis & Agriculture – Part of a collaborative partnership between the National AgrAbility Project and the Arthritis Foundation-Indiana Chapter, this website provides information on arthritis and its impact on agricultural workers, types of arthritic conditions, symptom management, and more. Check out the site here.

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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Warning Signs & Symptoms of Arthritis:

• Stiffness, swelling, redness or feeling of heat in joints.
• Frequent pain and/or tenderness; pain that may come and go.
• Difficulty with moving joints and performing daily activities.

 Arthritis Facts

• Two-thirds of people with arthritis are under the age of 65, including approximately 300,000 children.
• In the U.S., arthritis is accountable for work limitations in approximately 1 out of every 3 individuals with the condition.
• Over half of adults with diabetes and/or heart disease are also affected by arthritis.
• Arthritis is more prevalent in women than men. Approximately sixty percent of individuals with the condition are female.

Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about arthritis or need information for a plan of care.   

 

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

-News from the Arthritis Foundation. 2011.   

http://www.arthritis.org/media/newsroom/Arthritis_Prevalence_Fact_Sheet_5-31-11.pdf.

-Arthritis Foundation: Arthritis in Women. http://www.arthritis.org/women.php.

- Arthritis Today®. Arthritis Foundation. Signs and Symptoms. http://www.arthritistoday.org/about-arthritis/signs-and-   symptoms/index.php.  

 

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986

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May is National Arthritis Awareness Month! This awareness campaign is lead by the Arthritis Foundation® and serves to educate people on all aspects of arthritic conditions. An important emphasis of this campaign is that arthritis can be managed and does not have to result in debilitating symptoms. There are many options available for treating and possibly preventing arthritis, including lifestyle changes and regular exercise. For more information, visit the Arthritis Foundation® website here. 

Arthritis Facts

• There are over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions.

• Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the U.S.

• Arthritis affects 1 out of every 5 adults.

• Some of the more common forms of arthritis and related conditions include osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), lupus, gout, fibromyalgia, and osteoporosis.  

• Arthritis affects approximately one-third of adults in farming and ranching. Farmers and ranchers may be at an increased risk due to the nature of agricultural work.

Through education, self-care, and individualized treatment, it is possible

to manage arthritis and preserve quality of life!

 

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

-News from the Arthritis Foundation. 2011.  http://www.arthritis.org/media/newsroom/Arthritis_Prevalence_Fact_Sheet_5-31-11.pdf

-Arthritis Foundation: Arthritis in Women. http://www.arthritis.org/women.php

-Agriculture and Arthritis.  http://www.arthritis-ag.org/arthritis-and-you/agriculture-and-arthritis.aspx

 

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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Here are the answers to last week’s trivia questions!

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1. What types of health issues fall under the category of heart disease?

According to information from the Mayo Clinic website, heart disease is a broad term used to describe a variety of conditions that affect the heart, such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, heart infections, and congenital defects.   

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2. How many types of diabetes are there and what are the differences between them?

The two primary types of diabetes include Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is less common and occurs as a result of the immune system destroying cells in the pancreas, which leads to an inability to produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes is much more common and can be the result of either progressive insulin resistance or an inability to produce enough insulin. While medication may be required to manage either type of diabetes, in many cases it is possible to manage Type 2 diabetes with proper diet and exercise. There are sub-types of diabetic conditions as well, such as gestational diabetes and pre-diabetes.

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3. What numbers designate high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition and is typically identified as a reading of 140/90 and higher. Visit a healthcare professional to obtain an accurate blood pressure screening and consultation.

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4. What month is designated as Arthritis Awareness Month? May is designated as Arthritis Awareness Month.

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Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

- Mayo Clinic. Health Information: Heart disease. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heart-disease/DS01120.

- Mayo Clinic. Health Information: Type 1 diabetes.  http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/type-1-diabetes/DS00329.

- Mayo Clinic. Health Information: Type 2 diabetes.

- American Heart Association. Conditions: High Blood Pressure: Understanding Blood Pressure Readings. http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HighBloodPressure/AboutHighBloodPressure/Understanding-Blood-Pressure-Readings_UCM_301764_Article.jsp.

 

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

 

 

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2013 marks the 43rd observance of Earth Day. It began in 1970 when two individuals separately asked Americans to join the grassroots movement to promote an interest and gather national support for environmental issues facing the world. Millions participated and today Earth Day continues to be widely celebrated with events on both dates. San Francisco activist John McConnell chose to celebrate it on March 21, 1970 and Senator Gaylord Nelson (WI) chose April 22, 1970. The most common practice of celebration is to plant new trees for Earth Day but should not be limited to just that. Many cities sponsor community-wide clean up days on or around the celebration of Earth Day as a way to involve and raise awareness of the importance of taking care of the planet and in turn our country, hometowns, families and ourselves.

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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It’s time for some more health & wellness trivia! The following questions pertain to some significant health issues and relevant topics. Test your knowledge and respond via Facebook, WordPress, or Twitter, and the answers will be revealed next week! Happy info searching, and may the forces of health & wellness be with you!

1. What types of health issues fall under the category of heart disease?

2. How many types of diabetes are there, and what are the differences between them?

3. What numbers designate high blood pressure?

4. What month is designated as Arthritis Awareness Month?

 

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

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While spring may have begun last month, it certainly doesn’t mean the end of cold weather and snowstorms just yet. We saw a heavy storm throughout the state this week and it looks like there is definitely more winter weather expected with significant snowfall. With ongoing winter storm forecasts and some areas receiving well over 15 inches of snow, this serves as a reminder of the importance of weather safety and storm preparedness. Read on for some winter storm safety and preparedness tips and helpful resources for further reading.

 

• Stay up-to-date on weather forecasts/alerts/storm warnings.

• Weatherproof your home and make sure there is adequate insulation. Make sure to have an emergency supply kit in vehicles and within the home.

• Avoid driving in poor weather conditions as much as possible. If travel is necessary, make sure to decrease speed and leave plenty of room for stopping safely.

• When traveling, make sure headlights are on, and keep lights and windows clean for optimal visibility.

• Use extra caution when traveling over bridges, less-traveled roads, steep hills, and when passing other vehicles. When slowing or stopping, break gently to avoid sliding.

• Avoid going outdoors in poor weather conditions and extreme cold. If going outdoors is necessary, make sure to dress in warm, layered clothing and cover extremities.

• Be aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbite and take precautions.

• If heading outdoors in winter weather conditions, notify someone of where you will be and keep some type of open communication line such as a cell phone or two-way radio device. Make sure cell phones are fully charged in the event of a storm, and keep a portable charger on hand when traveling. 

Stay up-to-date on weather conditions and storm forecasts!

• National Weather Service.  http://www.weather.gov/forecastmaps. 

• The Weather Channel. http://www.weather.com/forecast/.

Helpful Resources for Winter Storm Safety & Preparedness:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Emergency Preparedness and Response: Winter Weather.

• National Weather Service. Office of Climate, Water, and Weather Services: Winter Weather Safety and Awareness.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Extreme Cold: A Prevention Guide to Promote Your Personal Health and Safety.

Winter Safety & Agriculture:

• Wyoming AgrAbility. Preventing Cold-Related Illnesses in Agricultural Workers. http://www.uwyo.edu/agrability/fact_sheets/preventing_cold.pdf.
  

• National AgrAbility Project. Cold Work Injuries in Agriculture – Strategies for Prevention and Rehabilitation, by Robert Stuthridge and Qiuqing Geng. http://www.agrability.org/Online-Training/archived/index.cfm.   

 

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

-The Weather Channel. Driving Safety Tips: Winter Storms: Driving in Snow and Ice.  http://www.weather.com/activities/driving/drivingsafety/drivingsafetytips/snow.html.

-Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Emergency Preparedness and Response: Prepare Your Home for Winter Weather. http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/beforestorm/preparehome.asp

- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Emergency Preparedness and Response: Winter Weather: Outdoor Safety. http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/duringstorm/outdoorsafety.asp.

 

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.

 

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While this may be an overview for some, the agricultural sector remains one of the most hazardous industries and agricultural health and safety are crucial themes for discussion. Read on for information about some of the health risks that agricultural workers frequently encounter, steps to prevent injury and illness, and additional resources on these topics. 

Common Health Risks:

- Excessive noise exposure from machinery, which can lead to significant hearing impairment.

- Frequent sun exposure, which can increase risk for developing skin cancer.

- Exposure to toxic gases, dust, pesticides, and other chemicals which can affect health immediately or over time.

- Physically demanding work which can lead to injury and/or arthritic conditions.  

- Stress accumulating from myriad factors such as long work hours, environmental impacts on crops, health factors, and other issues.      

There are many things individuals working in agriculture can do to minimize risk and help prevent illness and injury! Much of this involves having a proactive approach and prioritizing health and safety in the work environment as much as possible. Below are some things that farm and ranch workers can do to help reduce risk of injury and illness. 

Implement PPE!

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should be worn when using tools, operating machinery/equipment, and when handling chemicals. Examples of personal protective equipment include eye protection and face shields, ear plugs, gloves, sunscreen, dust masks and respirators, and other protective clothing. PPE should fit properly and not limit mobility.  

Adequate Ventilation

When working around livestock, chemicals, and manure spaces, make sure areas are well ventilated. Use respiratory protection when necessary, and make sure equipment fits properly and is in good condition. 

Prioritize Self Care 

With farming and ranching, it can be easy to forget one’s own needs and invariably put work first. Self care is extremely important though, and can actually help with work productivity and safety.  Things like adequate sleep, healthy eating habits, regular exercise, social support, and staying up-to-date on routine health check-ups are all important components to overall health and wellness.

Below are some additional resources on health risks, personal protective equipment, and safety tips for agricultural workers.

National Safety Council. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Wyoming AgrAbility. Ranching and Farming with Arthritis. 

Wyoming AgrAbility. Tips for Ranching and Farming with Back Pain and Injury.

Bean, T.L., Nolan, J.A. (2008). Recognize and Manage the Stress of Farm Life. Ohio State University Extension. Agriculture and Natural Resources. 

National AgrAbility Project. http://www.agrability.org/.    

 

Information obtained and adapted from the following sources:

- OSHA Fact Sheet: Farm Safety. (2005). http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_General_Facts/FarmFactS2.pdf

- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Workplace Safety & Health Topics: Agriculture http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/agriculture/   

 

This information is provided courtesy of the Wyoming AgrAbility Project. For more information, visit our website or call toll-free at 866-395-4986.