5 Popular Medications That Can Affect Wound Healing

Wounds can be slow to heal for a number of reasons, including a person’s age, weight, and nutritional factors or vitamin deficiencies.

But a factor that can affect wound dealing for anyone is a side-effect of certain medications. Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing would like to detail the effects medicine has on the speed and effectiveness of healing a wound.

1. Antiplatelets (e.g., Aspirin)

Using medication like aspirin can thin the blood and prevent the inflammation phase of healing to begin. It also causes decreased platelet adhesion and activation.

2. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs – NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)

NSAIDs are okay in low to moderate doses, but high doses of this medication can cause the wound area to be weak, along with reducing wound contraction.

3. Immunosuppressant Drugs (e.g., Treatments for Psoriasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, etc.)

This class of drugs can weaken the immune system and increase the risk that your wound could get infected.

4. Anticoagulants (e.g., Heparin)

These medicines are used to increase the time it takes for blood to clot. They have a similar negative effect as aspirin does on wound healing. They prevent clotting and could cause the wound to bleed too much, requiring medical attention.

5. Corticosteroids (e.g., Cortisone, Hydrocortisone, and Prednisone)

These medicines combine nearly every issue we talked about above. They can reduce wound contraction, cause issues with the inflammatory response, interfere with the production of granulation tissue, and increase the risk of infection.

If you suffer a wound that you would deem to be out of the ordinary, a good rule of thumb would be to contact your doctor to ask if the medications you’re taking will have any affect on the wound’s ability to heal.

 

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.

When Men Should Worry About Low Testosterone Levels

It’s estimated that around 40% of men age 45 or older have low testosterone. In response, home tests for testosterone levels have skyrocketed, as have supplements and treatments to boost the production of the hormone.

When men are aging and feeling sluggish, more tired than usual, and noticing a decrease in sex drive, low testosterone is often to blame, but are tests and treatments necessary?

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing looks at when “low T” is a problem or when natural solutions are likely a better way to improve symptoms.

Is a Testosterone Test Necessary?

At-home testosterone tests have become huge business since the COVID-19 pandemic, as testing company Everlywell said that it saw test sales triple from 2020 to 2021.

While low testosterone could be to blame for that overall sluggish feeling, experts warn against going the self-diagnosis route and taking an at-home test without seeing a doctor first.

One reason is that testosterone levels can fluctuate from day to day or even in different parts of the same day.

Are There Downsides to Testosterone Therapy?

Yes—if a doctor doesn’t consider your levels to be low enough to require a testosterone boost, taking more to raise your levels anyway can lead to problems.

First, it may not cause any noticeable changes. It can also bring on a hormone imbalance that may require more medication.

Testosterone supplements can also, over time, cause the body to stop producing the hormone naturally. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration also put out a warning in 2015 that testosterone could increase the risk of cardiovascular events like a heart attack or stroke.

Bottom Line: Check With Your Doctor

Experts say if you’re concerned, talk to your primary care physician or a urologist. Things like having less energy and a low libido can be caused by poor diet, lack of exercise, not getting enough sleep, being clinically depressed, and many other factors. Your doctor will be able to work with you to see what the causes of the issue might be and work to solve them naturally.

 

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing on the Continued Fight Between Medicare and Alzheimer’s Association for New Treatment

The debate between the Alzheimer’s Association and the U.S. federal government over a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease took another turn in March 2022, as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that the drug Aduhelm will only be covered by Medicare for those who receive it as part of a clinical trial.

This is despite the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approving the treatment for approximately 1.5 million eligible people.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at the debate from both sides and what the potential next steps are regarding the treatment.

What Is Aduhelm?

Aduhelm, the name for the drug aducanumab created by Biogen, was approved by the FDA a year ago, but trial data just came out in early 2022.

The drug is given in the form of an infusion of monoclonal antibodies on a monthly basis. It is designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s by trying to reduce the production of amyloid, an abnormal protein that is produced in bone marrow and ends up in the brain of dementia patients.

Why the Controversy?

It seemed to start in June 2021, when in the FDA approval process, the agency said that it was unclear if the drug was beneficial. It was initially authorized for those with mild cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s.

In addition, clinical trials found that some patients had a slowing of cognitive decline, but patients in another one found no difference. Brain swelling or bleeding was also a side effect reported by around 40% of people in one study.

Also complicating matters is the fact that some researchers believe that reducing the amyloid protein won’t make a difference when it comes to slowing down cognitive decline.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s Stance

While Medicare denied full coverage due to these questions, the Alzheimer’s Association argues that Medicare has always covered FDA-approved treatments for cancer, heart disease, and HIV/AIDS. The group is also concerned that the decision will also be automatically handed down to other similar drugs that are coming down the pipeline.

Medicare, however, said that each drug will be considered on its own merits and results of clinical trials, which is a minor win for advocates of Aduhelm because decisions on a certain drug are typically applied to other similar drugs.

A drug typically needs two convincing clinical trials to win full FDA approval, so the news on these potential Alzheimer’s treatments could change rapidly.

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.

Campaign: Care that Moves You

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing With 4 Ways Blueberries Pack a Healthy Punch

Blueberries are almost a superfood among superfoods. One of the healthiest foods you can eat, blueberries are rich in nutrients and antioxidants, providing a benefit to nearly every part of the body.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has details on four ways blueberries pack a healthy punch for the whole body.

1. Antioxidant Powers

Quite simply, antioxidants help keep the body healthy and free from toxins or inflammation. Blueberries have been found to be one of the best foods at reducing inflammation, which promotes overall health. Specifically, blueberries can keep DNA healthier to slow the aging process along with lowering the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.

2. Increases Heart Health

Due to their ability to reduce inflammation, research shows that blueberries can help prevent arteries from hardening, which is a risk factor for a heart attack or stroke. Studies also show that eating a cup of blueberries per day improves artery function and leads to better cholesterol levels in men.

3. Good Brain Food

Several studies show that blueberries can increase cognitive performance in several ways, ranging from children to the elderly. Blueberries can help with hand-eye coordination, the ability to plan, focus, and multitask, and even help with long-term retention or the ability to recall information.

4. Helps With Muscle Recovery

That feeling you get after a hard workout—the soreness, stiffness, and sometimes weakness—is from muscle damage. But studies found that consuming blueberries (or other foods high in antioxidants) allows muscle strength to recover faster.

As a side note, you don’t have to eat fresh blueberries to reap these benefits. Frozen berries with no added ingredients have all the same benefits—just don’t nuke them in the microwave, as that will actually zap them of their nutrients.

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing on Modern Home Security Options

Home security systems were once for large and affluent properties, but in the past decade or so, wireless access has allowed this perk to become commonplace in the housing market.

With this surge in the marketplace comes with it several different options from nearly a limitless number of companies.

To help make sense of it all, Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has four things to consider if you’re in the market for a home security system.

1. How Much Protection Is Needed?

If you’re looking to just prevent break-ins while no one is home, door and window sensors may be enough. But you can add motion sensors, video doorbells, and additional cameras to monitor the front porch for deliveries and the backyard for potential intruders.

2. Installation Options

In order to keep costs low, some security companies will ship the sensors to you for you to install yourself. If you’re looking at a more complex service that’s wired into the home’s power supply, you’ll want a commercial installation. In addition, DIY systems do require you to be a little tech-savvy.

3. Will You Need Professional Monitoring?

If you install cameras and sensors, you can do the monitoring yourself, as there are apps that will notify you when a sensor is triggered. But a professional service takes some of the burden off of you, especially when you’re sleeping or traveling and unable to monitor conditions around the home.

4. Do Your Research

Using the link above and other online searches, along with word-of-mouth from friends and family, will help you pick a security system that fits your needs, fits into your budget, has the customer support you need, and is easy enough for you to use and maintain.

 

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing With 4 of the Best Ways to Curb Cravings

Giving into a craving is one of the sure-fire ways to derail a diet, but if this is you, don’t fret, as you’re not alone. One study found that nearly every woman (97%) and two-thirds of men (68%) report having food cravings.

One of the best ways to curb cravings is not by ignoring them but to have healthier options standing by than what you’re craving. In addition, certain foods can keep you feeling full longer and will reduce the cravings you have.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing is looking at four of the best ways to curb those cravings that might feel like a good idea at the time but leave us unfulfilled.

1. Have Soup as a First Course

One study found that people who had a cup of soup before their main course consumed around 20% fewer calories in their overall meal. Find a low-calorie, low-sodium broth to use or have minestrone or a bean soup that is high in belly-filling fiber.

2. Eat Fruit

Instead of a salty mid-afternoon snack, have some fruit. The natural sweetness will satisfy you while many options are loaded with fiber to leave your stomach satisfied as well. Great options include raspberries, apples, blueberries, and pears.

3. Start Your Day Off With Healthy Protein

Aim for around 25 or 30 grams of protein at breakfast through the form of eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, or lean poultry like turkey sausage. If you’re one to wrap your protein in bread, choose a whole-grain option instead of white bread or a bagel.

4. Keep Dark Chocolate in Case of Emergencies

If you’re having a chocolate craving that you can’t control, having dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cacao won’t send your blood sugar through the roof, is lower in calories, and also contains plenty of antioxidants.

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing on 3 Types of Fuel You Need for Your Workouts

If you’re partaking in an active lifestyle, your body needs more fuel than it would normally need. But this isn’t an excuse to tack on empty calories, as that would counteract the positive effects of exercising!

So, what foods to you need to eat in order to give your body enough energy to make it through a workout and ensure that you still feel good afterwards?

Complex Carbohydrates

You want to avoid simple carbohydrates like white bread, flour, and sugar, as they contain no beneficial nutrients. Complex carbohydrates are found in the fibers and starches of plant foods, so this includes vegetables and whole-grain breads and pasta. So complex carbohydrates give you essential nutrients and also provide your body with sugar for it to burn in a workout.

Healthy Fats

Fats provide your body with endurance and immunity when it comes to exercising and overall health. Focus on healthy fats like those found in nuts and seeds, avocado, and legumes like black beans and edamame. Even some greens tossed with extra-virgin olive oil gives you plenty of good fat. Having a diet that is too low in fat is not recommended for those who are especially active, as their bodies will not have enough energy to get through the day, forcing the body to work harder than it should, and that can negatively impact your immune system.

Protein

Protein builds muscle strength. You should focus on low-fat protein options, as the protein found in red meat is good, but the food itself can be too fatty if you eat it regularly. Instead, choose low-fat options like white meat (chicken or turkey), walnuts, almonds, and hummus.

 

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing With 6 Ways to Make Sure You Don’t Outlive Your Savings

Studies show that if you’re turning 65 now, you have a one in three chance of living past 90 if you’re a woman and a one in four chance if you’re a man. So, save accordingly!

Those numbers are, of course, for a general population. If you search “life expectancy calculator” in Google, you will find a number of different sites that can take your specific circumstances into account to give you a more accurate prediction of your life expectancy.

In order to make sure your money lasts, Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has six tips to make sure that you don’t outlive your savings.

1. Stay on Budget

You can search for retirement income calculators or talk to a financial advisor to make sure that your Social Security and retirement accounts will be enough to keep you going even if you live past your expectations.

2. Be Aware of Your Own Needs

Studies show that among the parents who helped their adult children during the COVID-19 pandemic, around 80% percent of them—to the tune of an average of $4,100—said that they would have used that money to improve their own financial situation instead.

3. Defer Social Security Payments

The longer you can hold off on taking Social Security payments, the more money you will take in per month. If you delay taking payments from age 62 until the full retirement age (either 65 or 67 depending on when you retire), you will get 25-30% more per month. If you wait until after retirement age, you’ll get around 8% more for each year you delay.

4. Review Your Health Coverage Plans

Depending on your medical needs, review your coverage during open-enrollment periods. Medicare’s Plan Finder can make sure you’re not buying more coverage than you need.

5. Stay Involved in the Work Force

Of course, this doesn’t mean carrying a 40-hour-per-week job, but many people do work into their 70s and beyond at something they find fun. This could include working part-time at a craft store or at a golf course.

6. Review Your Investments

Consult your financial planner to see how aggressive you can be with part of your savings in order to try and drum up more money while keeping part of your nest egg safe at the same time.

 

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing on How to Develop a More Positive Outlook

We all know someone who is inherently optimistic no matter the time or situation. While it may annoy us, we also might secretly envy them. In addition, research shows that people who self-rated themselves as having high levels of optimism were more likely to live past 85 than those who don’t.

But can we train ourselves to become more optimistic even if our personality is rooted in either realism or even pessimism?

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at changes you can make in to your mindset to help shift your outlook, regardless of outside factors like socioeconomic status.

Focus on Strengths

Think about what you feel or what other people tell you that your strengths are. If being kind makes you happy, perform acts of kindness. If you’re feeling best when you’re challenged to solve a problem, find a task that you can complete that will help you feel fulfilled.

Be Grateful

People often focus on the things they don’t have in life and take for granted what they do have. Actively practice gratitude by keeping a journal where you list what you’re thankful for. If you’re in good health, be sure to include that, as many do not appreciate their health until it starts to falter.

Envision Your Best Possible Self

Think about what you want to be doing in five of 10 years. This exercise helps you not only assess what you’re doing now, but it will tell yourself what’s important to you and what you care about most.

Practice What You Preach

It’s easy to try and stay positive when things are going well, but whether it’s a serious issue or just one of life’s annoyances, try to look toward a positive alternative that you can think about or do when something less than ideal is happening.

 

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.