Many adults enjoy alcohol or use cannabis products for a variety of reasons. They may use these as ways to relax, but did you know that these substances can raise blood pressure? Here’s what you need to know about how alcohol and cannabis may raise blood pressure in adults.* 

Alcohol is a buzzkill for your liver

Alcohol is processed by the liver, which can handle only so much at a time. Too much alcohol can damage the liver over time. Drinking too much alcohol — beer, wine, or liquor — can raise the force your blood exerts on your arteries. What is “too much”? As with many substances, the poison is in the dose, which means — it depends on how much, your size, gender and age.

“We process alcohol differently as we age,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates. “Men and women handle alcohol differently. Medications also can impact how your body responds to alcohol.” 

Moderate drinking is considered to be two drinks or less in a day for men and one drink or less for women. Binge drinking means four or more drinks for women, or five or more drinks for men during an occasion. Heavy drinking means eight or more drinks for women, or 15 or more drinks for men during a week.

A “drink” is:

• 12 ounces of beer with 5% alcohol
• 8 ounces of malt liquor with 7% alcohol
• 5 ounces of wine with 12% alcohol
• A shot or 1.5 ounces of liquor or distilled spirts (80-proof liquor)
  • 80 proof means the liquor has 40% alcohol.
  • Types of liquor include brandy, gin, rum, tequila vodka, and whiskey.

“Even moderate alcohol consumption can interfere with blood pressure medication,” Dr. Brandon said. 

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: 

• Alcohol can alter the metabolism of a medication, speeding or slowing the clearance of the medication from the body and thus lowering or raising the blood levels of the medication.
• A medication can influence the absorption and metabolism of alcohol, potentially resulting in higher blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) and other adverse effects. 
• Alcohol can alter the pharmacological effects of the medication, which can increase or decrease the effect of the medication on the body.

Cannabis is not a chill as you might think (at least for your heart)

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary active compound in cannabis. It’s what gives users a “high.” THC can cause temporary spikes in heart rate and blood pressure. How your body responds to THC depends on several factors, including:

• Dose
• Method — smoking, gummies, edibles
• Overall health, including the presence of chronic conditions
• The presence of other substances, such as medications, alcohol, or tobacco
• Age
• Frequency and duration of use

The side effects of cannabis taken with blood pressure medication include:

• Marijuana’s biggest-known impact is with opioids, sleep medications, muscle relaxants and alcohol, because all affect the central nervous system. Marijuana use combined with these may boost the effects of both.
• Marijuana may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, blood thinners or other pain relievers, including ibuprofen and naproxen.
• Marijuana may affect blood sugar levels. If you are taking medication or insulin for diabetes, you should be watched closely by a health care provider.  
• Marijuana may cause low blood pressure, which may affect people on high blood pressure medication. 

As cannabis becomes legal in more places, both for recreational use and for medical purposes, people should stay informed about the potential health risks. One small study showed a moderate increase in systolic blood pressure with cannabis use. The general consensus is more research is needed, especially in older adults. 

Blood pressure and substance use

High blood pressure is referred to as a “silent killer,” due to the lack of symptoms. Long-term high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.

• High blood pressure is often symptom-free — hence “the silent killer.”
• Long-term high blood pressure  increases risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.
• Alcohol and cannabis can make it harder to manage or detect changes in blood pressure.
• Getting blood pressure checked regularly is key — even if you feel fine.

No judgment, just things to know:

• Your first step should be awareness. Get a baseline blood pressure reading with your health care provider at your annual checkup. Keep track of your blood pressure using an at-home monitor. Check your blood pressure after alcohol consumption or cannabis use. 
• Be honest with your health care provider so they can give you the best care and offer options to keep you safe and healthy. This may help you make smarter choices for your health. 
• Little tweaks can add up, and your doctor can help by adjusting medications or explaining how much to cut back. 

Checking in with your heart

Heart health isn’t about giving up things you enjoy; it’s about understanding how your lifestyle may affect your health. Talk to your doctor honestly about your drinking, even if it’s an uncomfortable topic.

“It is important for your health care provider to know if you are using alcohol or cannabis, even if it’s moderate use,” Dr. Brandon said. “There may be potentially harmful interactions that you don’t know about.” 

*Disclaimer: Recreational cannabis use is currently illegal in Kentucky and Indiana.

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You used to bounce back after a weekend of yard work — now your back feels it for days afterward. You started having knee pain when you use the stairs. Or maybe your hands started feeling stiff in the mornings. Any of this sound familiar?

As the years go by, our bodies change, and certain symptoms remind us of the aging process. But how do you know when these body aches and pains are just part of normal aging? When are they signs of something that needs medical attention?

“It’s important to address discomfort early, rather than pushing through pain or limiting your regular movement,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates. “Your primary care provider can suggest early interventions to help you remain active and independent for as long as possible.”

Normal aging aches and pains vs. red flags

As we get older, our bodies inevitably change. After age 55, normal signs of aging can involve some mild stiffness or achiness first thing in the morning, that improves as you move around. After being more active than usual, you might be more susceptible to general muscle soreness that resolves within a couple days. It might take longer to recover from physical exertion, compared with your younger years. Occasional joint stiffness, especially during weather changes, is common as well.

However, you should be aware of the red-flag symptoms when it comes to aches and pains associated with aging:

• Pain that interferes with your regular activities or hobbies you enjoy
• Pain that wakes you up at night
• Visible swelling or redness around joints
• Numbness, tingling or weakness in limbs
• Sharp pain with certain movements
• Pain that steadily worsens over weeks or months
• Discomfort that limits your daily activities or independence
• New symptoms that appear suddenly
• Over-the-counter medications not providing adequate pain relief

Common causes of aging aches and pains

As we age, a variety of factors can cause increased physical discomfort, including:

Arthritis: Over 50% of adults over 65 experience joint pain, with arthritis being one of the most common causes. Osteoarthritis, the wearing down of joint cartilage, is more common in older adults and often affects the knees, hips, hands and/or spine.
Inflammation: Our bodies may develop more chronic inflammation with age, which can contribute to general body aches, muscle pain, joint pain and discomfort.

Past injuries: Old injuries can reemerge as pain points with age. Whether you broke a bone playing high school sports or hurt your neck in a car accident many years ago, the pain may become noticeable again.

Muscle changes: Sarcopenia is the gradual loss of muscle mass in older adults. This can put additional stress on joints and increase the risk for added strain during normal activities.

Underlying conditions: Your primary care provider can help rule out an underlying medical condition. Conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, peripheral vascular disease and other health issues also cause pain, stiffness or discomfort in muscles and joints.

How your primary care provider can help

Many adults avoid mentioning new aches and pains during checkups, thinking they’re just part of getting older or fearing they’ll be told to “just live with it.” The reality is that your primary care provider can be one of your greatest advocates in maintaining mobility and comfort as you age.

Your provider can help rule out serious conditions and develop management strategies to address your pain. This may include lifestyle recommendations, medications or referrals to specialists like rheumatologists, orthopedists, physical therapists or pain management specialists.

3 ways to maintain mobility with age

Staying ahead of the aches and pains that come with aging can help preserve your mobility and independence during your older years. Incorporating the following lifestyle habits can help improve your quality of life:

1. Stay active: Regular, gentle movement helps maintain joint function and muscle strength. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends strength training exercises for older adults twice per week.
2. Maintain a healthy weight: A healthy weight can avoid additional stress on your joints. This includes regular movement, such as walking, and proper nutrition.
3. Have regular checkups: Take notice of symptoms and share details with your provider to help find the best treatment for you. Don’t hesitate to speak up during appointments. Instead of just saying your knee hurts, take note of when it hurts, what makes it better or worse and how it affects your activities.

When it comes to aging, you don’t have to accept persistent pain or misery as an inevitable part of the process. While some bodily changes come with aging, you don’t have to silently endure extreme pain without any medical help. Your provider can help support you on the journey of aging gracefully.

The post Aging aches and pains: Normal or a red flag? appeared first on Norton Healthcare.

The value of primary care for seniors

When dealing with elderly parents, having a plan in place for health care, living arrangements and other considerations before the need arises is a good idea. It’s also important to have an established primary care relationship.

“We can catch issues early and set a baseline for health, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels and other aspects of health,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates. “Then we can monitor changes over time.”

Primary care providers can help manage medications to avoid harmful drug interactions and can coordinate care services, including respite care or home care.

“We can make a plan for care services, home care or nursing home — whatever the family needs,” Dr. Brandon said. 

It also can be very helpful to have a primary care provider who knows the history and family dynamic of the aging parent.

“It can take time to build a relationship, so sooner rather than later is preferred,” Dr. Brandon said. 

When to offer support for aging parents

Knowing when or how to intervene in an elderly parent’s life isn’t always obvious. Here are some signs it might be time to start the conversation:

• Medication errors: forgetting doses or taking incorrect amounts
• A pattern of missed appointments
• No longer managing chronic conditions effectively
• Changes in sleep or eating patterns
• Notable changes in mobility
• Behavioral changes, including mood swings or withdrawal from typical activities
• Memory lapses beyond normal aging

How to talk to your aging parent about health care

The goal here is to find a situation that works for everyone while maintaining healthy boundaries and open communication. If you’re starting this conversation with the older adults in your life, approach with empathy, patience and an open mind. Frame your talk around maximizing independence for as long as possible, not taking it away. Address concerns — both those of the adult children and the elderly parent — openly and honestly. If it feels appropriate to include siblings, other family members or friends, bring them into the conversation as well. 

Making the most of doctor appointments

It’s a good idea for the elderly parent to take a friend or family member to doctor appointments. Before the appointment, make a list of questions or concerns to take with you, so you don’t forget anything important. 

Norton MyChart lets you see and update medications, review past diagnoses and treatments, and check upcoming appointments. You also can email your care team, and you can set up proxy access for your loved one’s Norton MyChart account. 

Practical next steps

After you’ve had the initial conversations around caring for your aging parent, you can start taking basic next steps, including:

• Making any doctor appointments together, including routine checkups
• Establishing a shared calendar
• Creating a medication system to help with doses and timing
• Considering further or more intensive care services
• Looking at nursing homes or other choices for living situations.
• Considering the need for home health care

Moving forward

As you have these conversations with your loved one about what life might start to look like in the coming years, emphasize that it’s a partnership.

“Even small interventions can make a difference and help build a deeper relationship between adult children and their parents,” Dr. Brandon said.

The post Caring for aging parents can be challenging. Here are some things to know appeared first on Norton Healthcare.

High blood pressure medication and sexual function

“We have a pretty good understanding about the link between high blood pressure and sexual dysfunction in men,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates. “We understand less about how it affects women.”

High blood pressure does not usually have symptoms. In time, this condition does damage to the lining of the blood vessels throughout the body. As the arteries harden and narrow, blood flow to the entire body is reduced, including the penis. This can lead to a condition called erectile dysfunction, which makes it difficult to get and maintain an erection. High blood pressure also can affect ejaculation. 

For women, it is possible that high blood pressure reduces blood flow to the vagina. Some women may also experience:

• Lowered sex drive or arousal
• Difficulty having an orgasm
• Vaginal dryness

Erectile dysfunction, lowered sex drive, difficulty reaching orgasm and other symptoms of high blood pressure can increase anxiety and relationship issues. 

There are several medications used to treat high blood pressure, and some of them may have sexual side effects. Some high blood pressure medicines can affect sex drive or the quality of sex.

• Water pills can decrease blood flow to the penis, which can make it difficult to get an erection. They also lower levels of zinc, which is needed to make the hormone testosterone. 
• Beta blockers especially older beta blockers such as propranolol, are often linked with sexual issues. 

Some high blood pressure medications may have fewer sexual side effects.

Other common medications and sexual health

Besides blood pressure medication, there are other kinds of drugs that can impact sexual function, including:

• Antidepressants (especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, known as SSRIs) 
• Antihistamines and allergy medications
• Cholesterol-lowering medications
• Diabetes medications
• Hormone therapies
• Parkinson’s disease and seizure medications

Taking control: Practical steps for better sexual health

If you think your medications are causing unwanted side effects, are impacting sexual activity or are affecting your quality of life, it is important to talk to your health care provider. You should always take medications as prescribed, and do not stop or start a medicine without direction from your provider. Consider keeping track of your medication schedule and any effects you notice around sex or intimacy, and share that with your health care provider. 

“We may be able to modify medications, adjust dosage, change prescriptions or recommend other changes you can implement,” Dr. Brandon said. 

It is very important to be as open and honest as possible with your physician. Here are some guidelines for talking about sexual health with your health care provider:

Make a list of side effects and questions you have before your appointment.

Find a way to start the conversation that feels comfortable. Here are some tips for talking to your doctor about this issue. Try saying things like:

• I’m having some concerns about my sexual health.
• I want to ask about a specific health issue.
• I am having issues with sexual desire/low libido/sexual performance.

Once you start the conversation, most providers will pick it up from there. If you sense your provider may be uncomfortable, ask for a referral.

Primary care providers are your ally in sexual wellness

Your provider is a valuable resource and adviser for all your health needs. It may feel uncomfortable, but you deserve to have your questions answered and find help. Sexual health is important for your overall well-being and quality of life.

“We can’t help if we don’t know there is an issue,” Dr. Brandon said.

Beyond medication: Additional Solutions

There are ways to manage sexual side effects of drugs, including antihypertensive medication, mental health medicine and other medications, including: 

• Mechanical aids such as vacuum devices or penile implants may help with erectile dysfunction. There’s also a vacuum device for women. Dilators may help people who experience narrowing of their vagina due to menopause. Devices like vibrators can be helpful to help improve sexual enjoyment and ability to achieve orgasm.
• Sex therapists can help people experiencing sexual issues that can’t be addressed by the primary care physician. Therapists often can do couples counseling.
• Behavioral treatments involve various techniques, such as addressing harmful behaviors or self-stimulation methods. 
• Psychotherapy with a trained counselor can help you address psychological factors that affect sexual function, including trauma from the past, feelings of anxiety, fear, guilt and poor body image. 

The next step

Sexual health is a concern at any age. Prioritize your overall well-being, including intimate relationships. Talk with your primary care provider about any concerns you may have.

The post Medication side effects and your intimate life: A guide for older adults appeared first on Norton Healthcare.

The offices feature roughly 6,000 square feet of space and 14 exam rooms split among Norton Community Medical Associates primary care, a Norton Immediate Care Center and, eventually, a Norton Orthopedic Institute office. The new location also will have laboratory testing and X-ray capability to help providers accurately diagnose a variety of illnesses and injuries.

“Norton Healthcare is committed to expanding access to health care throughout the area,” said Russell F. Cox, president and CEO, Norton Healthcare. “The comprehensive care that will be provided in this new space will make it easier for so many more people to receive the care they need.”

The new space, located at 10798 Dixie Highway, is Norton Healthcare’s southernmost primary care office and immediate care center in Louisville. The building is just off the Gene Snyder Freeway (I-265/KY 841), allowing easy access for those using the city’s highway system, while also supporting population growth in the southwestern part of Louisville. The location also provides access to care for people just outside the city limits, including parts of Meade and Hardin counties.

“It’s very exciting to see the growth in this part of our city,” said Stephanie Harmon, practice manager for the new Norton Community Medical Associates office. “As someone who grew up in the south end of Louisville, I know this is something we’ve needed. To be a part of the team providing that care is extra special.”

The primary care practice will be led by Arilennis Medel Leyva, APRN, family nurse practitioner, who will move from Norton Community Medical Associates – Fairdale. Her diverse, bilingual experience as a clinician enables her to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. Her philosophy emphasizes empathy, compassion and respect, focusing on individualized patient needs and holistic care.

“Access to primary care is essential for a healthy community,” Leyva said. “I’m excited to bring these services to Valley Station. I believe my experience and expertise can add to the level of care and trust we’ve already built in South Louisville, and I’m excited to care for and form relationships with patients in the area.”

The practice will have self-pay options and quick, easy access to the Norton Healthcare financial services teams for assistance with bill payment.

A Norton Children’s Medical Group pediatrician office will remain open in Fairdale at 189 Outer Loop, with plans to expand. Schedule an appointment by calling (502) 629-1234.

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Prediabetes vs. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes

In a healthy body, when sugar enters the bloodstream, the body releases insulin from the pancreas. The insulin unlocks the cells so they can accept the sugar as fuel. Chronically high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) cause damage to your veins and arteries, and over time can lead to kidney failure, loss of limbs or blindness, as well as contribute to metabolic syndrome. 

Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are elevated but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. This is a sign that your body is having difficulty processing glucose efficiently, requiring more insulin to convert food into energy. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder that affects the pancreas, the organ that produces the hormone insulin. People who have Type 2 diabetes either do not produce enough insulin or their bodies cannot use the insulin effectively.

How common is a prediabetes diagnosis?

According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 1 in 3 American adults over age 18 years had prediabetes in 2021. Prediabetes is more common in men (41%) than women (32%). Factors that may increase your risk for persistently abnormal high blood sugar levels include:

• Weight: Those at a higher weight may have insulin resistance, which means the cells in the body aren’t able to accept blood glucose for energy as easily.
• Family history: Those with a family history of diabetes, especially Type 2, have higher risk.
• Diet: Red meat, ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages increase your risk.

Misdiagnosed diabetes

Studies in 2023 estimated that up to 40% of adults over 30 with Type 1 diabetes may have been misdiagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. While Type 1 diabetes usually is diagnosed in children, it can develop at any age. Since adults are more likely to be diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, doctors may mistakenly assume that any new diabetes diagnosis in older adults is Type 2 — leading to serious consequences if the wrong treatment is given.

One major risk of this misdiagnosis is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) a dangerous condition that happens when the body doesn’t have enough insulin. Without insulin, blood sugar levels rise too high, and the body begins to break down fat for energy, creating harmful acids called ketones. If left untreated, the buildup of ketones in the blood can lead to DKA — which requires hospitalization and intensive care. This is why getting the correct diabetes diagnosis is crucial — to prevent life-threatening complications like DKA and ensure the right treatment is given from the start. DKA most commonly happens to people with Type 1 diabetes, but it also can occur in people with Type 2 diabetes in rare cases. If an adult with Type 1 diabetes is mistakenly diagnosed with Type 2, they may not be prescribed insulin right away. This can lead to DKA, since their body can’t make insulin at all.

The American Diabetes Association specifies three diagnostic tests for prediabetes; these can  help you and your doctor determine the best course of treatment for you:

• Fasting plasma glucose between 100 to 125 milligrams per deciliter
• Hemoglobin A1C between 5.7% and 6.4%
• Two-hour oral glucose tolerance test between 140 to 199 milligrams per deciliter

To prevent diabetes misdiagnosis, doctors confirm your results with a second test, either the same day or on a different day. When following this guideline, misdiagnosis is unlikely.

“There shouldn’t be any debate about how to make a diabetes diagnosis, but it is true that different tests can be different in different people,” said Lisal J. Folsom, M.D., adult and pediatric endocrinologist with Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute, a part of Norton Healthcare and Norton Children’s.

According to Dr. Folsom, who sees her adult patients at Norton Community Medical Associates – Endocrinology, it’s important to have the appropriate testing and typically confirm an abnormal result so the patient gets the right information about their health.

Treatment of prediabetes

Early detection is crucial, since 25% percent of people with a prediabetes diagnosis develop Type 2 diabetes within three to five years. 

Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes:

• Eating whole foods and vegetables
• Choosing whole grains
• Limiting ultra-processed foods, simple and added sugars, and alcohol
• Regular physical activity (150 minutes weekly)
• Taking walks after eating meals

According to Dr. Folsom, accurate prediabetes and diabetes diagnosis enables timely intervention and better health outcomes.

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Influenza symptoms and risks

The flu is common in during certain times of the year. This is called flu season. The North American flu season typically occurs from October to May. During this time, respiratory infection rates are high, and more people are at risk of catching and spreading these illnesses. Influenza is different from stomach flu, which commonly causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. 

The most common flu symptoms are:

• Fever
• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Chills and sweating
• Fatigue

It spreads through tiny droplets that come out of our mouths or noses when we speak, cough or sneeze. It may be possible to get the flu from touching a contaminated surface.

There are almost 3 million cases of flu each year in the United States, and thousands of flu-related deaths. Some factors may increase your risk for experiencing complications, including:

• Pregnancy
• Age
• Asthma
• Chronic lung disease, such as cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Heart disease
• Obesity; a body mass index (BMI) over 40

Pneumonia symptoms and causes

There are more than 30 causes of pneumonia, which are grouped by type. The types are:

• Bacterial pneumonia. The most common is Streptococcus pneumoniae. This type of illness is more common if you have compromised immunity or poor nutrition or are of advanced age. While bacterial pneumonia can affect anyone, those at higher risk include people who abuse alcohol or smoke cigarettes, have a respiratory disease or viral infection, or have another illness. 
• Viral pneumonia. Various viruses can cause this type, including the influenza virus, and it is responsible for about one-third of all pneumonia cases. If you have viral pneumonia, you may be more likely to develop bacterial pneumonia. 
• Mycoplasma pneumonia. This type is caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacterium. It has somewhat different symptoms and physical signs. 
• Other pneumonias. Less common pneumonias have other causes such as certain fungi. Atypical pneumonia is a less-severe type of this illness and is sometimes referred to as walking pneumonia. 

Symptoms of pneumonia include:

• Cough, which may produce phlegm
• Fatigue
• Sweating or chills
• Chest pain when you breathe or cough
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Shortness of breath
• Fever.

Can flu turn into pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a common complication of flu. The body’s immune system has been working to combat the flu, and that weakens its ability to fight off another illness. The highest-risk groups are children under 5, adults over age 65, pregnant people, and those with chronic medical conditions or an otherwise weakened immune system. Normally, flu symptoms can be treated at home, but you should be aware of worsening symptoms. 

You are also more likely to develop pneumonia after flu if you smoke, have asthma or diabetes, or have a BMI over 40.

Flu-related pneumonia

If your flu symptoms are not getting better, be cautious, especially if you have another chronic condition or have compromised immunity. Pneumonia symptoms may develop a few days after flu symptoms and may appear to mimic flu symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention for:

• A persistent, worsening cough with mucus
• Severe chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• A bluish tinge to the lips or fingertips
• A very high fever

Preventing the flu and pneumonia

There are vaccines for both the flu and pneumonia. It’s important to get a flu vaccine every year, as the virus changes and flu shots are reformulated for strains expected to be most prevalent. Talk to your doctor about the pneumonia vaccine to see if you should get one and how often. Other ways to prevent the flu, besides vaccines, include good hygiene — such as hand-washing and covering coughs and sneezes. Also, boosting the immune system can reduce infection risk. This includes exercise, a healthy diet and good sleep.

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What causes bronchitis?

Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes, which are the tiny openings that carry air to and from your lungs, become inflamed. This can cause coughing, mucus production, chest discomfort and shortness of breath. Bronchitis can be caused by:

Respiratory infection: Viral infections, including the common cold, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or COVID-19, can develop into acute bronchitis.

Bacterial infection: Although it is less common, bacteria sometimes can lead to bronchitis.

Environmental irritants: Chronic exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, dust, chemical fumes or other allergy triggers can lead to chronic bronchitis, which is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
 

Is bronchitis contagious? 

There are two main types of bronchitis, acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis.

Acute bronchitis is a short-term condition, often resulting from a respiratory infection. It can last several weeks and usually is caused by viruses that are contagious, such as the flu or common cold. While bronchitis itself is not a contagious condition, the viruses or bacteria that cause it can be spread from person to person. These germs can be passed to others through the respiratory droplets that are released when someone coughs, sneezes or talks, or by touching contaminated surfaces. 

“Anyone who has contracted a respiratory illness is generally contagious for a day or two before symptoms occur, at the onset of their symptoms, and for several days thereafter,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates primary care. “Generally, the lingering and persistent cough often associated with bronchitis is no longer contagious after symptoms have been present for more than a week. If a doctor determines you have bacterial bronchitis, the infection generally stops being contagious 24 hours after starting antibiotics.”

Chronic bronchitis involves ongoing inflammation and mucus production in the airways. Chronic bronchitis is not contagious, because it is not caused by a viral infection; it is caused by exposure to irritants. It can last for several months or more and may require ongoing treatment to manage symptoms.

How to prevent bronchitis

To reduce the risk of bronchitis, take proper precautions around people who are sick and always practice good hygiene. Frequently wash your hands with soap and water; cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow (instead of your hand); regularly disinfect surfaces, especially high-touch areas like phones, handles and doorknobs; and get vaccinated. 

Annual flu shots and other recommended immunizations can reduce your risk of severe symptoms, which include the respiratory symptoms that can develop into bronchitis. Other healthy habits, such as avoiding smoking and managing asthma or allergy triggers, also can help prevent bronchitis.

When to call the doctor for bronchitis symptoms

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many cases of bronchitis resolve on their own, without antibiotics. However, seek prompt medical attention if you experience:

• A persistent cough lasting more than three weeks
• A high fever (above 100.4 F) 
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Blood in mucus
• Chest pain or tightness
• Worsening symptoms, if you have a chronic condition like asthma or COPD

If you or a loved one is experiencing bronchitis symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your health care provider or schedule a visit through Norton Now. They can rule out more serious conditions, like pneumonia, and ensure proper bronchitis treatment.

Norton Now covers your urgent care needs at Norton Immediate Care Centers, primary care offices and Norton Prompt Care clinics, and via Norton eCare telemedicine. Need help scheduling? Book now or call (502) 629-1234, option 3.

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Most people recover on their own from influenza. Sometimes, the flu and its complications can be deadly. There is a flu vaccination, which can reduce your risk of getting the flu and the severity of flu symptoms. 

You are contagious for a period of time around your illness. Understanding when flu is contagious is important to stop the spread of seasonal flu. 

Understanding the flu virus

Flu is contagious via small droplets from your respiratory system that are expelled when you speak, cough or sneeze. These respiratory droplets can land in someone’s mouth, nose or eyes. In some cases, it spreads when someone touches an infected surface then touches their own nose or eyes. 

Common flu symptoms include:

• Fever, although not everyone with flu has a fever
• Cough
• Chills and sweating
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny nose

Symptoms come on suddenly with flu. Common cold symptoms build more gradually over time.

Contagious period with the flu

Flu takes one to four days to incubate in your system after you come into contact with the virus. You have the potential to spread flu before symptom appear. You are contagious for about three to seven days after symptoms appear. An infected person can spread flu even if they never develop symptoms severe enough to notice they are sick.

“Overall, you can be contagious or were contagious the day before you noticed any symptoms. You still can spread the flu for about a week after you started feeling sick or as long as you have symptoms,” said Rachel N. Alexander, APRN, nurse practitioner with Norton eCare. After symptoms decrease, the virus may continue to shed. Those with a weakened immune system may continue to shed flu virus for longer than an otherwise healthy person. 

The severity of your case of flu, your individual immune response and your flu vaccination status affect how long the flu is contagious. While the flu vaccination is not a guarantee you will not get the flu, it affects the severity of your symptoms and may help control overall flu spread.

Preventing flu spread

• Importance of staying home while contagious
• Proper hygiene practices (hand-washing, covering coughs, disinfecting surfaces)
• Use of masks in public or around vulnerable populations

If you develop symptoms of the flu, stay home and avoid contact with others. Wipe down surfaces in your home with antiviral wipes, wash your hands often and refrain from close contact with others in your home. If you are at higher risk for developing complications for the flu, seek immediate medical attention. 

Flu complications

Some people are at a higher risk of developing more severe symptoms of the flu. These groups include:

• Adults ages 65 and older
• Children under 5
• Pregnant women
• People with chronic health conditions
• People with weakened immune systems
• People with a body mass index of 40 or higher (Class III obesity)

If you develop these symptoms seek immediate medical attention:

• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Persistent dizziness, confusion or inability to wake up
• Seizures
• Not urinating (peeing)
• Severe muscle pain
• Fever or cough that improves then returns or worsens
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions

When can I resume normal activity after the flu?

Most flu symptoms go away in four to seven days for otherwise healthy adults, but you still may be contagious. You may go back to light exercise when you feel like it, but listen to your body and rest when you need to. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises staying home for at least 24 hours after your fever goes away without the help of ibuprofen (Motril or Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).

A flu vaccination is the best way to prevent spreading seasonal flu. The vaccine has been shown to reduce illness, doctor’s visits, time off work or school due to flu, and lower the risk of serious complications. 

Besides vaccination, everyday steps you can take to prevent seasonal flu spread include:

• Avoid contact with sick people and stay away from others if you are sick.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue if you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue away. If you cough or sneeze into your hand, wash your hands immediately.
• Wash hands often with soap and water. If those are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your mouth, eyes and nose. 
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be infected with flu virus.

There are many ways to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community from the flu. Getting a flu shot is the first step.

Read more on the flu

5 things to do if you have a fever

COVID-19 or flu? Each has some similar symptoms, but there are key differences

What’s the best time to get a flu shot?

The post Even when your fever goes away, you still can spread the flu for about 24 hours appeared first on Norton Healthcare.

If you have blood in your stool, a fever or unexplained weight loss, talk with your primary care provider about your symptoms.

Diarrhea, bloating and abdominal pain are signs that your gut health may be out of balance. Maintaining a healthy gut benefits your body far from your gastrointestinal tract. Gut health influences your immune system, brain function, weight and more.

“A healthy gut is really a healthy gut microbiome. The microbiome is a liquid organ in your digestive tract that needs a diversity of gut bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microorganisms to help break down food and metabolize it into energy while supporting the immune system and influencing the gut-brain axis,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates primary care.

Gut dysbiosis happens when the gut microbiota — the microorganisms that make up the microbiome — are out of balance. For example, there may be too little good bacteria or too much bad bacteria.

An unhealthy gut microbiome can hamper your immune system, making you more susceptible to infection. Digestive system issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea and bloating can arise from an unbalanced gut microbiome. And the gut-brain axis — the network of nerves sending signals between your gut and your brain — chiefly controls digestion and can affect mood, including anxiety and depression.

The basics of good gut health start with eating right, exercising and drinking plenty of water.

Healthy eating

Eating a healthy diet with fiber and fruit while avoiding processed foods and too much alcohol contributes to a healthy gut. Look for foods that contain fiber, prebiotics and probiotics.

Keep in mind that processed food includes chemical processing and mechanical processing. Packaged food often has large amounts of saturated and trans fat, added sugar, salt, and food additives that affect the gut.

Even mechanically processed foods can have an impact. Smoothies, with lots of fruit, might seem like a good choice. But in a liquid, the sugar in the fruit hits your system faster than whole fruit and produces a blood-sugar spike. That prompts your pancreas to send out insulin and sends a pleasurable signal to your brain, prompting you to crave more. And since the liquid passes through your system quickly, you may get hungry sooner, even though the smoothie was high in calories.

Here are some examples of foods that promote a healthy gut microbiome:

• Fibers: Whole grains like oatmeal and beans help food move through your digestive system. An important role of dietary fiber is to prevent constipation and support the movement of food through your body. Fiber adds bulk and absorbs water, which makes stool softer and easier to pass. Fiber can help you feel full, slow digestion, clear out your colon and improve gut health.
• Polyphenols: These are found in plants, so vegetables, fruits and whole grains have polyphenols. Particularly good sources of polyphenols are certain berries, herbs, spices and nuts.
• Naturally fermented foods:  These introduce probiotics, or healthy bacteria, into the digestive system. Examples of fermented foods include sauerkraut, kimchi and yogurt with live cultures.
• Healthy fats: Unsaturated fatty acids increase microbiome diversity. Examples of foods rich in unsaturated fats include avocados, almonds, cashews, pecans, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds and olive oil.

Exercise

Moderate and intense exercise, combined with a healthy diet, has been shown to improve digestive health. Exercise has a positive influence on how the cells in our body regulate energy production, expenditure and food intake. Metabolism, or how your body converts food into energy, is an important role for your gut microbiota.

The exact cause of the link between exercise and healthy gut microbes is being researched. High-intensity exercise brings more oxygen into the bloodstream, and this may help good bacteria flourish in the gut. Low intensity exercise may help the gut by encouraging the digestive tract to move food through faster.

A study found a link between a healthy microbiome and motivation to exercise (in mice, at least).

Water

Adequate hydration is important to overall health as well as the growth of a healthy gut microbiome and may contribute to diversity in the gut microbiota. Drinking water during or after a meal aids digestion and helps food move through the digestive tract.

In addition to water, hydrating foods include watermelon, cucumbers, oranges and berries Caffeine and alcohol, however, are diuretics that increase fluid loss.

Your urine should be a pale, light yellow. Darker urine suggests you need to drink more water.

The post How to improve gut health appeared first on Norton Healthcare.