My child was diagnosed with asthma. How can I make my house healthier for her?
The air pollutants in the house can be just as bad as the triggers that cause asthma attacks outdoors. The more you reduce the chemicals, particles, and dust in your house, the better for your lung health. You MUST change the filter in your air conditioner monthly. Keeping humidity low will also decrease the risk from dust mites. Open windows some times to let fresh air in. Hard floors, rather than carpet are easier for cleaning, and keep the air cleaner.  Also, when you cook
Managing COPD
by Dean Heller MD October 7th, 2011 | Ask the Doctor
My COPD symptoms always seem to worsen this time of year. What can I do to decrease these symptoms?
As you know you have COPD, I assume that you do not smoke any longer. That is the most common cause of COPD, which is a chronic lung disease. The most common symptoms are shortness of breath and cough. It is true that we see a winter peak in COPD exacerbations. One of the reasons for this is transmission of mild upper respiratory illnesses in the winter, and around holidays, and this puts you at risk. If you can avoid large crowded places when possible, always wash
Read More
As you know you have COPD, I assume that you do not smoke any longer. That is the most common cause of COPD, which is a chronic lung disease. The most common symptoms are shortness of breath and cough. It is true that we see a winter peak in COPD exacerbations. One of the reasons for this is transmission of mild upper respiratory illnesses in the winter, and around holidays, and this puts you at risk. If you can avoid large crowded places when possible, always wash
Sinusitis
by Dean Heller MD September 30th, 2011 | Ask the Doctor
I am frequently sick with symptoms in my nose and face. My doctor says I may have sinusitis. How do I know when it is not just a cold or a case of the flu?
The symptoms of sinusitis include: nasal discharge, facial pain, headache ,fatigue, and bad breath. The treatment is different than that of the cold or flu and includes a nasal steroid. If you are concerned about any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor.
Expert: News Canada
To learn more about sinusitis, watch this video from VideoMD.com.
Read More
The symptoms of sinusitis include: nasal discharge, facial pain, headache ,fatigue, and bad breath. The treatment is different than that of the cold or flu and includes a nasal steroid. If you are concerned about any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor.
Expert: News Canada
To learn more about sinusitis, watch this video from VideoMD.com.
Gestational Diabetes
by Dean Heller MD September 23rd, 2011 | Ask the Doctor
My OB doctor says I have developed diabetes of pregnancy. Is that common, and why did I get it?
Diabetes developed during pregnancy is called gestational diabetes, and it is common. It occurs in about 5% of all pregnancies. You are at risk for gestational diabetes if diabetes runs in your family, if you become pregnant after the age of 30, or if you are overweight. All women should be screened for gestational diabetes between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy.
Expert: Mercy Family Health Partners
To learn more about gestational diabetes, watch this video from VideoMD.com.
Read More
Diabetes developed during pregnancy is called gestational diabetes, and it is common. It occurs in about 5% of all pregnancies. You are at risk for gestational diabetes if diabetes runs in your family, if you become pregnant after the age of 30, or if you are overweight. All women should be screened for gestational diabetes between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy.
Expert: Mercy Family Health Partners
To learn more about gestational diabetes, watch this video from VideoMD.com.