We all know prevention is one of the keys to staying healthy. Oral hygiene is another important step in maintaining overall health. And, it’s not just about having whiter teeth and a brighter smile! People used to think that tooth loss was the worst result of gum disease. But studies have shown oral health affects…
Overall good Alpha nutrition includes a healthy diet. Check out www.choosemyplate.gov and download the app. Some guidelines to remember: Not too much or too little Lots of different foods of plant or animal origin A balance between the energy you take in and the energy you put out All food and beverage choices matter Focus…
Many workplaces contain harmful substances. They put healthy people at risk, and are very harmful to Alphas. Being aware of risk factors at work may help you make informed choices about your job and your career. For example, if you’re a young Alpha, avoiding jobs that expose you to toxic substances reduces your risk of…
Poor outdoor air quality and air pollution affect everyone, but they’re very bad for people with lung and liver problems. Going outside exposes you to outdoor risk factors like air pollution secondhand smoke dust fumes chemicals mold, fungi, and bacteria Certain places have poorer air quality than others. The American Lung Association has information about…
Air travel poses special challenges to Alphas who use oxygen therapy. But, with a little advance planning, you’ll have no problem. What’s tricky about air travel for Alphas? As your airplane gains altitude, air pressure in the cabin decreases, and so does the amount of oxygen in the air. This isn’t usually a problem for…
Being an Alpha doesn’t mean you have to give up business travel, vacations, and visits to friends and family. With careful planning, you can travel safely and have just as much fun. These general travel tips can help. Travel tips — before you go Discuss your travel plans with your doctor to make sure you’re…
If you use supplemental oxygen at home, you’ll have to do a bit of extra planning before you travel. But, taking care of your oxygen needs ahead of time gives you more freedom to enjoy yourself during your trip. Here are some guidelines for travel with oxygen therapy. General guidelines for travel with oxygen therapy…
Good planning and organization are critical to travel with augmentation therapy. You have to plan ahead to make sure you have the drugs you need — and an infusion provider. Give yourself plenty of time to make arrangements. Talk to your doctor about your plans to travel with augmentation therapy. Start by sharing your travel…
Before you choose an oxygen delivery system, discuss your choices with your healthcare practitioner. Then explore companies in your area that provide service. Start by checking with your health insurance provider. They may have contracts with specific companies in your area. If you’re free to choose for yourself, shop around. Companies generally offer the same…
Oxygen is a well-known fire hazard. It saturates clothing, hair, and bedding. That makes it easier for fires to start and spread. Here are some home oxygen safety tips to keep your home and family safe: Keep oxygen canisters at least 5-10 feet away from gas stoves, lighted fireplaces, wood stoves, candles, or other sources…
Home oxygen equipment has two essential components: the oxygen storage system and the oxygen delivery system. The first stores oxygen. The second moves the oxygen from the storage container to your lungs. Your oxygen delivery options include: Nasal cannulas Transtracheal catheters Reservoir cannulas Pulsed delivery systems Face masks Oxygen-conserving devices Nasal cannula Most people who…
Being told that you need oxygen therapy can make you feel uncertain, frustrated, scared, and sad. Some people choose not to use supplemental oxygen, even if their doctor suggests it. However, if you can reframe your thoughts about oxygen therapy, you may have an easier time accepting this life-saving treatment. How to reframe your thoughts…
