To Enrich Lives

Courtesy of ConvaTec

It’s that time of year again – lower temperatures have everyone bundling up and dreaming of snowy days.

This also means homes are closed up trying to keep the heat from getting out. Unfortunately, other things such as dust, pet hair and other tiny particles can’t get out either. This may affect the seal around your stoma.

Here are a couple of tips to help you maintain a good seal:

Aim to Minimize Leaks

It’s important to get the best seal you can to help prevent leakage. There are several different types of pouching systems and skin barrier options available – find the combination that works for you. See help from an ostomy nurse if you need assistance. Don’t settle for anything less.

Get in a Good Routine

You shouldn’t wait for a leak to occur before changing your pouch. This will damage your skin and cause irritation, which can make it harder to achieve a good seal going forward. Make sure you are properly applying your pouch and change it at the appropriate intervals.

From the Alzheimer’s Association

Physical activity is a valuable part of any overall body wellness plan and is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline. If it’s safe for you, engage in cardiovascular exercise to elevate your heart rate. If you’re not sure, then you may consult a cardiologist in Rock Hill, SC. This will increase the blood flow to your brain and body, providing additional nourishment while reducing potential dementia risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.

• Physical activities
• Take care of your health

Physical activities

Consider physical activities that may also be mentally or socially engaging, such as walking with a friend, taking a dance class, joining an exercise group or golfing. Incorporate activity that you enjoy so you will continue to engage in it. For example, bike riding, gardening or walking the dog. Adopting healthy exercise habits today will allow you to enjoy the lifelong benefits of regular physical activity. However, it’s never too late to start — making healthy choices at any age is beneficial to your well-being. Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

Take care of your health

Keep your heart healthy to help keep your brain healthy. Growing evidence suggests that many factors that increase the risk of heart disease also may increase the risk of dementia. These factors include smoking, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

• Visit your doctor regularly.
• Get your “numbers” checked, including weight, blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol. Actively seek treatment to keep yourself within healthy ranges.
• If you have diabetes, manage it properly.
• Stop smoking. If you don’t smoke, don’t start.
• Take action to minimize stress. Studies have found that regular physical activity decreases stress, increases your ability to manage stress and leads to better mood overall.
• Get enough sleep. Inadequate sleep due to conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea can result in problems with memory and thinking.
• Avoid excess alcohol.
• Seek professional assistance to address anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns.