New antibiotic developed to battle “superbugs”
By Chara A new antibiotic is being developed to fight “superbugs.” Recently, several news outlets reported that scientists in the United States were creating a modified version of vancomycin, a drug that’s effective when treating the bacteria enterococci. The Scripps Research Institute in San Diego has described it as a new drug that’s “magical in […]
Responsible social media usage important to mental health
Commentary by Carey Juez-Perez, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Social media can be a form of entertainment. It also can affect our mental health. For example, social media creates a false sense of reality, as people tend to solely post photos of themselves smiling, having a good time and enjoying life. Naturally, as humans, we tend […]
Be careful, it’s tick season
Commentary by Chara If you plan to be outside much over the next few months, be careful: Tick season has arrived. Ticks are usually found in people’s backyards, under leaves and in other places where they feel they can get blood to survive. Types of ticks include the blacklegged tick, which the Centers Diseases for […]
How to manage menopause
Commentary by Chara Coping with the symptoms of menopause can be difficult. Doctors define menopause as the absence of menstrual periods for 12 months. It can start as early as 30 years old or as late as 60. Generally, menopause is caused by a natural decline of estrogen and progesterone; however, it also may be […]
Area offers mental health facilities for the uninsured
Commentary by Carey Juez-Perez Seeking mental health treatment is challenging for the uninsured. Fortunately, there are many facilities in the Kansas City area that provide free or reduced cost services. Listed below are a few local options: *Community Mental Health Centers: The centers provide treatment to those with or without health insurance. However, patients must […]
The reality of mental health treatment
Commentary by Carey Juez-Perez, Licensed Clinical Social Worker For decades, the media have portrayed mental health treatment as scary, intimidating and undesirable. It’s no surprise, then, that only half of those with mental health disorders seek treatment, according to the National Alliance on Mental Health. Although there are numerous reasons that contribute to this staggering […]
How to plan ahead for extreme summer weather
Commentary by Carey Juez-Perez A typical Midwestern summer brings severe weather, including extreme heat and thunderstorms. However, planning ahead can turn miserable, hot days – or stormy days – into comfortable summer days. Consider the following tips to help keep your family cool and survive severe weather outbreaks: *Seek utility assistance: Utility bills tend to […]
It’s important for us all to manage our mental health
Commentary by Carey Juez-Perez, Licensed Clinical Social Worker When people hear the term “mental health,” they tend to think of mental illnesses – depression, anxiety and schizophrenia, to name a few. But there’s more to mental health than that. Our mental health begins as early as birth, as it’s shaped by chemicals in the brain, […]
Greater kidney disease awareness needed in Hispanic community
The Hispanic community needs to be made more aware of a serious health issue: kidney diseases. The kidneys are in charge of cleaning waste from our bodies, regulating blood pressure and balancing electrolytes. A person is diagnosed with a kidney disease when the kidneys aren’t working properly. A person with a kidney disease might experience […]
Recuerde tomar precauciones de seguridad durante el verano
El verano ofrece muchas oportunidades para disfrutar de actividades al aire libre divertidas. Sin embargo, con el calor del verano y el tiempo extra fuera, es importante tomar precauciones de seguridad. Considere los siguientes consejos para asegurarse de que usted y su familia tengan un verano seguro y divertido: * Manténgase hidratado: Es especialmente importante […]