white-wilson

Tag: Health Tips

  • Hearing Loss : Signs and Symptoms

    Do you struggle to hear when you are talking on the phone? Do you find it challenging to pick up conversations when you’re in a group setting?

    Hearing loss is a medical condition. Surgery can only correct hearing loss in a small percentage of people, whereas medical devices and rehabilitation can significantly decrease hearing loss in many patients who cannot benefit from surgery.

    The most common cause of hearing loss in children is otitis media. For the elderly, which is the largest and most vulnerable group affected, excessive noise, medications, toxins, and genetics are the greatest contributing factors. 

    Dr. Tim Skinner, an audiologist at White Wilson Medical Center, explains the warning symptoms of hearing loss. The following are various indicators that you may be experiencing hearing loss.

    • Even with a minor hearing loss, the most common difficulty is understanding speech, especially in noisy situations or when multiple people are talking. Observe how you interact at the next family dinner and note any complaints you have about people mumbling.
    • The next sign is having difficulties hearing on the phone. You may frequently respond by requesting the person on the other end to speak louder or repeat themselves. Another clue could be the need to raise the TV’s volume above its normal level.
    • When you have hearing loss, you will find it more difficult to enjoy social interactions. When a person withdraws from activities they normally like and lacks confidence in social contacts, it indicates a more serious loss.

    If you or your elderly loved ones are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your primary provider or visit the White-Wilson Audiology service for a hearing health evaluation. For more information, click here.

    The content of this article has been adapted and updated from our video library. If you wish to watch the video, click here.

  • Healthy Aging

    Maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly important for optimal aging. The things we do to keep our body and mind healthy, such as a nutritious diet, physical activity, and social connections, can help promote health and wellness.

    Healthy aging is about maintaining physical, mental, and social well-being as we grow older. Regular exercise helps keep muscles strong and joints flexible, while a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports overall health. Staying mentally active—whether through reading, puzzles, or learning new skills—can help preserve cognitive function.

    Social connections also play a vital role in aging well. Engaging with friends, family, and community activities can combat loneliness and enhance emotional well-being. It is also important to schedule regular health check-ups to catch potential issues early.

    Healthy aging isn’t about avoiding aging altogether but embracing it with vitality and resilience. Small lifestyle adjustments can lead to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

    Here are some things you can do to age healthily:

    1. Eat well and healthy.
    2. Exercise and stay physically active.
    3. Manage your weight.
    4. Learn new things and make time for hobbies.
    5. Get enough sleep.
    6. Be mindful of your medications.
    7. Avoid substance abuse, stop smoking and limit alcohol.
    8. Maintain social relationship.
    9. Manage stress levels.
    10. Engage your brain to improve cognitive functions.
    11. Know your blood pressure and schedule regular medical checkups.

    Whatever your age, the time to make healthy changes is now. You will get the greatest benefits from starting early, but it is never too late to make healthy changes now.

  • Cooling off with Healthy Lungs: Experience a Breathable Summer Season 

    As the summer heat rolls in, it becomes increasingly important to stay in tune with our bodies. The most common thought that comes to mind is wearing sunscreen and protective gear, such as hats and sunglasses, to shield our skin from harmful UV rays. However, many people forget that it is also necessary to prioritize lung health amid the sweltering season. 

    “The summer months can be challenging when it comes to lung health,” says White-Wilson Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Ashley “Nani” Cusson. “While those with respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease need to be especially mindful, the effects of our environment can cause lung issues for anyone who isn’t taking the right precautions.”

    During the scorching summer months, your body will utilize more oxygen than normal to regulate body temperature, explains APRN Cusson. Thus, you tend to breathe in large amounts of pollen, water vapor and pollution, all of which are in excess quantities anyway due to the hot temperatures causing plants to bloom, humidity levels to be higher and pollution to become more easily trapped in the ambient air. 

    “Breathing in an excess amount of these can cause irritation of the nasal cavity and lungs, as well increase the likelihood of coughing, breathing difficulties or shortness of breath,” continues APRN Cusson. “Thankfully, there are steps we can take to safeguard our lungs during this time of year.”   

    • Stay Hydrated: Hot weather can make you sweat, causing dehydration. Ensure you’re drinking enough fluids, especially water, throughout the day to ensure your body is getting the hydration it needs to promote proper lung function. 
    • Practice Sun Safety: Protecting yourself from UV rays will indirectly benefit your respiratory system because it will help regulate your body temperature and avoid the possibility of overheating. Apply board-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing and avoid being out for long periods of time or during peak heat times. 
    • Check the Weather: Daily weather forecasts typically show air quality indexes, including heat waves, pollen count and smog or pollution levels. Be sure to use this forecast to plan your activities for the day. 
    • Keep the Inside Cool & Clean: Use air conditioners to help remove moisture and keep temperatures low but be sure to routinely replace filters to avoid circulating indoor air pollutants. Regularly clean and dust, keep windows and doors closed and consider using air purifiers or plants that naturally improve air quality. 
    • Take Advantage of Indoor Activities: Engaging in indoor activities such as visiting a museum, library, store or gym will allow you to escape the heat and avoid overworking your lungs.  

    APRN Cusson emphasizes that, at the end of the day, taking action to minimize the potential for lung issues during this time of year is crucial. Although you should not feel that you must shelter inside during summer, it is nevertheless good to understand how to keep your lungs healthy while enjoying the weather. All in all, be sure to talk with your primary care provider for further explanation and guidance on your unique lung health needs and how your routines may be impacting your overall health and wellness.  

    Ashely Cusson, APRN provides comprehensive care with the White-Wilson Pulmonology, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine team in Fort Walton Beach. She believes that focusing on her patients’ health care needs and treatment plans, as well as making their visits with her comfortable and educational, allows her to provide the best care possible. Learn more about APRN Cusson and her approach to patient care here. 

  • Myth Busters: Cheap Sunglasses Don’t Offer Protection 

    It’s finally summertime and you’ve been waiting all week for the perfect beach weekend! The cooler is packed, sunscreen has been applied, floaties have been inflated and your favorite swimsuit is on. Next stop: paradise. 

    But wait! You’ve lost your sunglasses (again!) and need to quickly get a pair before beginning your staycation. Not to worry – the gas station sells them, so you run in to buy a pair. Yet, as you make your selection from the rack, you pause and wonder: Do cheap sunglasses actually offer protection? 

    “The best way to differentiate good sunglasses from bad sunglasses is by first understanding what ultraviolet radiation is and how it can be harmful,” says White-Wilson Ophthalmologist Dr. Julian Tokarev. 

    Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of radiation that is present in sunlight. “It is known for allowing the body to produce vitamin D, an important vitamin for human health,” explains Dr. Tokarev. While it certainly has its benefits, exposure only in small quantities is recommended. In fact, The World Health Organization recommends 5 to 15 minutes of sun exposure two to three times every week. 

    “People typically associate UV radiation with a sunburn, which is why sunscreen should be applied to the skin prior to going out into the sun,” continues Dr. Tokarev. “However, your eyes are also susceptible to damage from UV radiation, which means wearing sunglasses is just as important.”  

    Failing to protect your eyes from sunlight can lead to long-term problems and even potentially blinding eye diseases, so ensuring you select the right pair of sunglasses is essential. That being said, just because a pair is inexpensive does not mean they are “bad sunglasses,” just like an expensive pair does not guarantee they are “good sunglasses.”

    “At the end of the day, what constitutes quality protection when it comes to sunglasses is the amount of UV rays that they block,” says Dr. Tokarev. “If you find a pair with a label that indicates UV 400 or 100% UV-blocking, this means it offers maximum defense and you will be good to go. It’s important not to settle for less because harm may occur.” 

    Dr. Tokarev emphasizes that there are many inexpensive sunglasses out there that offer full protection, but you just need to keep your eye out for a label and imprint that confirms this. Whether you are considering name brand or generic, be sure to check the level of UV protection and opt for the maximum. While you should also take into consideration additional features such as comfort, visibility and glare protection when making your selection, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a low-cost, adequate pair in a pinch. 

    Dr. Julian Tokarev leads the White-Wilson Medical Center Ophthalmology Clinic in Fort Walton Beach and cares for patients of all ages. He is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who is able to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions in adults. Learn more about Dr. Tokarev and his approach to patient care here. 

  • Stomach Bug Survival Tips 

    Catching a stomach bug, also called viral gastroenteritis, is never fun. The sickness is most often associated with vomiting, diarrhea, fever, cramps and nausea, and it is unfortunately very common, especially among young children. While the sickness typically lasts a few hours to a few days, it is nevertheless important to be prepared if or when you or a family member catches it. 

    There are several viruses that can cause a stomach bug, explains White-Wilson Nurse Practitioner (APRN) Julie Powell. Two of the most common ones are norovirus and rotavirus, and they both are spread through close interaction with infected individuals and from contact with contaminated objects or surfaces. 

    “One of the most effective ways to prevent catching a stomach bug is through washing your hands regularly,” says APRN Powell. “Before eating, after using the bathroom and once arriving home from an outing will help. These types of viruses can spread quickly through a household, particularly if you have children. In that case, your best defense is to thoroughly clean high touch surface areas and doorhandles, remotes, cell phones, and toys.”

    If you or a family member does catch a stomach bug, APRN Powell recommends following these care tips:

    • Remain hydrated. Even if you are not able to keep solid foods down, be sure to frequently take small sips of water and an electrolyte solution, such as Gatorade or Pedialyte. Sucking on ice chips is another common way to help stay hydrated.
    • Avoid certain foods. Consuming foods such as caffeine, candy or ice cream may make symptoms like diarrhea worse. Instead, opt for soft and bland foods that are easy on the stomach such as chicken and vegetable soups and broths or plain crackers. 
    • Stay home and rest up. Illnesses such as this one can make you feel weak and tired, so it is important to give yourself time to regain your energy. Additionally, be sure to avoid contact with others to mitigate the potential spread of the virus. The CDC recommends staying home for two days after symptoms stop. 

    “While stomach bugs are usually treatable at home, be sure to seek additional care if you become dehydrated or your symptoms persist beyond three days,” stresses APRN Powell. “Our Immediate Care team treats stomach bugs frequently, but be sure to seek emergency medical care as soon as possible if your symptoms become worse.”

    Julie Powell, APRN is a registered nurse practitioner with White-Wilson Medical Center’s Immediate Care team. She prides herself on her attention to detail, being down-to-Earth and easy to talk to. Learn more about APRN Powell and her approach to patient care here. 

  • Myth Busters: Ice is the best way to relieve pain from a burn

    Picture this: You set your favorite dinner, fresh out of the oven, onto the counter to let it cool while you grab a plate and fix your drink. In the process of moving items around, you accidentally brush against the scalding hot dish, giving yourself a minor yet painful burn. Ouch! 

    Is your first reaction to pluck an ice cube out of your glass?

    Thankfully, the majority of first-degree burns can be treated at home. However, there are so many rumored remedies for tending to your red and stinging skin that you might be feeling overwhelmed trying to figure out which one is best. This could leave you asking: Is it okay to ice a burn? 

    A first-degree, or superficial, burn is one that only disturbs the outer layer of skin, explains White-Wilson Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Shawn Lee. Minor burns like this don’t typically create blisters, but they are usually red, dry and painful. It is important to properly treat them to avoid scarring or prolonged discomfort. 

    “While you should work to cool a burn immediately after it occurs, never place ice on it,” warns APRN Lee. “Because ice is extremely cold, it can actually cause damage to the skin tissue and increase your risk of an infection.”

    APRN Lee continues, “If you place ice on a burn, you will likely not be able to feel just how cold your skin gets. Making the skin too cold will lead to a decrease in blood flow, effectively depriving the tissue of oxygen and causing lasting harm.”

    Instead, place the burn under cool tap water or use a wet, cold compress, elaborates APRN Lee. Doing this for at least 10 to 20 minutes will reduce the stinging sensation as well as help decrease the possibility of scarring or swelling. Once the pain subsides and the skin has cooled, be sure to follow these steps for a full recovery:

    • Carefully apply moisturizer such as petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel to avoid drying out the skin. This will diminish soreness and the chance of infection.
    • Cover the area with a sterile nonstick bandage or dry cloth to protect it from additional damage. 
    • Use mild soap and antibiotic cream as needed to keep the area clean. 
    • Take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to subdue any persistent aching or inflammation. 

    “When in doubt, always err on the side of caution,” emphasizes APRN Lee. “Never use ice, and be sure to consult a health care professional if you are concerned. Our Immediate Care team treats these types of common injuries all the time and can work with you to help prevent infection or scarring. However, if you experience a severe burn, be sure to seek emergency medical care as soon as possible.” 

    This myth is busted!

    Shawn Lee, APRN provides care at White-Wilson Immediate Care in Niceville. Calming and decisive, she believes that communication, listening and explaining the rationale for treatment helps patients to be comfortable in making informed health-related decisions. Learn more about APRN Lee and her approach to patient care here.