The Nova Scotian Health Advocate

Do you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Typical symptoms of IBS include bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

While IBS is unlikely to harm your digestive tract or increase your likelihood for colon cancer, symptoms are often bothersome and distressing when they interfere with your daily life. Pain in the abdomen and cramping are among the most common that people encounter. Constipation, diarrhea, or both are experienced on a regular basis.

Do you know that there are different types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)? The way your stools (p**p) appear on days when your symptoms flare up is how experts classify IBS.

It's a chronic (long-term) problem that most people can control with specific medications, behavioural treatment, dietary and lifestyle adjustments.



To know more about symptoms, causes, associated risk factors, and simple strategies you can apply to manage IBS, click:

Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)? An unpleasant or distressing set of abdominal symptoms is referred to as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS. Typical symptoms of IBS include bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, and constipation. IBS is unlikely to harm your digestive tract or increase your likelih...

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It's National Poison Prevention Week!

FACTS:
Around 4,000 Canadians die each year due to poisoning.

In 2020, poison centres across Canada received more than 215,000 calls. More than a third of cases were related to children under six.

Poisoning is the third-leading cause of unintentional injury hospitalizations for Canadian children aged 14 and under.

Canada has a toll-free 24/7 number for poison centres. If you suspect a poisoning, call 1-844-POISON-X (1-844-764-7669). Or 1-800-565-8161 (within NS, PEI and NL only)

If the person loses consciousness or has difficulty breathing, call 911.



To read the complete article, click

Is Your Home a Poison-Safe Zone? - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Poisoning claims the lives of almost 4,000 Canadians annually and ranks third among unintentional injury hospital admissions for children in Canada under the age of 14. In 2020, over 215,000 calls were made to poison centres across Canada; of those calls, over one-third involved children under the a...

Bringing attention to the importance of early recognition and intervention of delirium; and to raise awareness of the latest research, guidelines, and best practices in the field.

Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Building is looking for choir assistant volunteers for our music program.

No experience in Choir or music is required.

ABOUT THE VOLUNTEER POSITION:
Days: Mondays
Shifts: between 1:00- 3:00 pm
Hours per day: 1-2 hours
Volunteers required: unlimited

For more details, interested parties can reach out to Esraa Mahmoud, our Volunteer Coordinator.

Office: 902-473-6658
E-mail: [email protected]

Support our older veterans!🙂

Inflation continues to be a burden for Canadians, affecting not just their financial security but also their mental well-being. Canadians are being pushed to the point where they are experiencing stress and social anxiety as more people express concern about their current amount of debt.

It seems like every purchase you make these days serves as a reminder of inflation. The items that the cashier rings up as affordable have all of a sudden become overpriced. You are not alone if you find all of the chatter about inflation to be overwhelming and confusing.

"Inflation isolation" seems to be the result of rising prices and interest rates. In a recent poll, the majority of Canadians said they are staying home more often to save money, and 2 of every 5 said they are cutting back on socializing.

When inflation rises more quickly than anticipated, it is simple to feel overburdened and concerned. It lessens the purchasing power of your money, which might lead to a rise in financial stress. Stress related to money can lead to long-term worry, tiredness, broken relationships with spouses, and the inability to obtain housing, healthcare, or education.

An article by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMCHA) reveals Canadians’ mental health is worsening due to rising cost of living. Inflation-affected Canadians report greater levels of perceived anxiety (33%) and depression (32%), as well as a greater incidence of recent mood disorder diagnosis (14%), su***de ideation (31%), and other mental health issues.

Each person will be affected by inflation differently, so it's important to be gentle with yourself as you navigate this and to be honest with loved ones about the negative impacts of inflation's effects on you.

For helpful tips on maintaining your mental wellness throughout inflation related hardships, read: http://nshealthadvocate.ca/building-resilience-mental-health-practices-for-dealing-with-inflation/

Home - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving....

Some people tend to overindulge more than others, or they don't seem to be able to say "no" or "enough already."

The phrase "addictive personality" may be used to characterize someone who feels that there can never be enough of a good thing.

People with addictive tendencies occasionally develop drug and alcohol problems. Some people could get addicted to particular activities or behaviours.

Internet addiction, pathological gambling, obsessive sexual behaviour, compulsive shopping, exercise dependence, food addiction, and work addiction are examples of non-substance related behavioural addictions.

Addictive personality is not formally classified as a mental health diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the reference for mental health diagnoses.

Nonetheless, certain character traits increase an individual's risk of addiction. Not everyone who exhibits these qualities will become addicted. Having any or all of these does not guarantee your fate. Various genetic and environmental factors, support systems, and individual choices influence the risk of developing an addiction.

Let’s take a closer look at common traits and their associated risk for addictive behaviours:

Reckless or looking for thrills
Diagnosis with attention deficit disorder
Comfortable lying or keeping secrets
A desire for quick gratification
Having trouble taking responsibility
Inability to maintain self-control
Displays risk-taking habits
Trauma in early childhood
Drug and alcohol use
Addiction in the family history
Impulsiveness
Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety
Excessive sensitivity or anxiety,
Compulsive and obsessive actions

If you suspect you’re at risk of addiction, being proactive is important. To know more about the steps you can take to minimize your risk for addictive behaviour, click below: http://nshealthadvocate.ca/the-truth-behind-addictive-personality-traits-and-coping-strategies/

The Truth Behind Addictive Personality: Traits and Coping Strategies - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is the American Psychiatric Association’s guide for mental health diagnoses, does not include addictive personality. Although there are many distinct kinds of addictions and obsessive behaviours, psychologists ...

Is there a difference between Hyperthyroidism, Thyrotoxicosis and Grave's Disease?

All of these conditions are characterized by higher-than-normal levels of thyroid hormones in the body. But there's a slight difference among these terms.

Hyperthyroidism refers to your thyroid gland’s physical overproduction of hormones.

Thyrotoxicosis is a broader term which refers to the presence of too much thyroid hormone in your body, regardless of whether it came from the gland, medication, or other outside factors.

Graves’ disease, is an autoimmune disorder and the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. In Graves’ disease, your immune system attacks your thyroid gland with antibodies, resulting in the release of too much hormone.

Too much thyroid hormone in the body can exhibit a group of symptoms indicating that you need to consult a doctor. These are:
Neck mass
Weight loss
Palpitations
Chest pain
Menstrual irregularity
Confusion
Tremors
Nervousness, anxiety, or emotional lability
Excessive Sweating
Heat intolerance
Fatigue
Weakness
Edema
Difficulty of breathing
Diarrhea

To know more about the next steps such as diagnosis, treatment, and symptom management, when experiencing these symptoms, click http://nshealthadvocate.ca/decoding-high-thyroid-hormones-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/

Home - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving....

Hypothyroidism happens when your thyroid gland doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. This condition is also called Underactive thyroid.

This may be caused by a diet deficient in Iodine, or an auto-immune disease like Hashimoto's Thyroidytis. Other causes that may lead to Hypothyroidism include pregnancy, a medical history of type 1 diabetes, other autoimmune diseases, or radiotherapy.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroids):
Neck mass (goiter)
Tiredness
Sensitivity to cold
Constipation
Dry skin
Weight gain
Sluggishness
Menstrual irregularities
Sleep Disorders
Memory problems.

If you have these symptoms, see a doctor to get tested . This is commonly referred to as a Thyroid Function Test.
If you are Hypothyroid, you may be prescribed Levothyroxine (LT4) (Synthroid), and a regular daily dose is sufficient to treat your symptoms.

You can also manage your Hypothyroid symptoms by changing your lifestyle and nutrition. There are key nutrients you can supplement to maintain a healthy thyroid function so you can prevent bothersome symptoms such as low energy, sleep problems, and weight gain.

To know more click,

Navigating Hypothyroidism: What You Need to Know - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Inadequate production of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland results in Hypothyroidism. Another name for this condition is Underactive Thyroid. At first, hypothyroidism might not show any symptoms at all. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can eventually cause heart disease and high cholesterol, amo...

According to Alzheimer Society of Canada, researchers project that nearly 1 million Canadians will be living with dementia by 2030. Furthermore, they predict that by 2050, more than 1.7 million Canadians would suffer from dementia. But if we take action together, we may succeed on changing what lies ahead.

Basic facts on dementia
More than 25 different conditions and illnesses can cause dementia.
Dementia is most commonly caused by Alzheimer's disease.
Other prevalent types include Lewy body dementia, fronto-temporal dementia, and vascular dementia, which is seen in stroke patients.
Different ailments can affect brain function at the same time, resulting in mixed dementia. This type is also common.
There remains no cure for most forms of dementia globally and in Canada.

Lowering the Risk of Dementia
Keeping yourself socially active, being physically fit, challenging your thinking, and developing a sense of purpose — all of these and more can help boost brain health in virtually any stage of life.

In comparison to individuals who lived alone without a pet, pet owners in the United Kingdom experienced less decline in verbal fluency and verbal memory, according to a study conducted on adults 50 years of age and above.

According to the study, having a pet in old age helps lower stress, loneliness, and isolation, all of which can lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

To learn more, click http://nshealthadvocate.ca/pets-as-lifelong-companions-a-key-to-cognitive-well-being-in-older-adults/

Home - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving....

The Holiday season often evokes feelings of nostalgia because it is a time associated with cherished memories with family, friends, and loved ones from previous years.

Nostalgia can be considered healthy and productive. Thinking back on enjoyable experiences from the past can lift your spirits and inspire and motivate you.

According to experts, nostalgia can bring you a deeper sense of purpose in life. Through encouraging empathy, compassion, and goodwill, as well as making you feel more connected to others, it can improve your relationships and promote social growth.

Recent studies have shown that when people feel nostalgic, they may also focus on painful memories. It's possible to leave out the good parts of the same recollections. Thinking that things were better in the past than they are now might also cause emotional distress.

This may then lead to signs of depression.

What are the warning signs of Nostalgic Depression?

Nostalgic depression shares many of the same symptoms as other types of depression.

In addition to nostalgic despair, there may be:

• Regret, hopelessness, or sadness
• Sentiments of loss, being alone or social isolation
• Loss of enthusiasm for things you used to enjoy
• Feelings of negativity or lack of hope

To know more about nostalgia, the risks of nostalgic depression, and strategies to help you cope with distressing thoughts and emotions, read:

Nostalgia and Depression: An Emotional Tug-of-War - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Feelings of nostalgia are frequently positive. Scientists have discovered that it can also result in negative feelings, which have been termed to as nostalgic depression. Nostalgia includes feelings of sentimental yearning or attachment to the past. When people think back on and recollect important....

What Do Stiff Joints Mean?

Stiff joints are precisely what the name implies. The degree of the discomfort varies. Certain cases may be mild and only affect mobility for brief periods after lying or sitting down for an extended length of time.

Some might be more severe, resulting in increased discomfort and restricted movement. Sometimes clicking and stiffness may be accompanied by inflammation and pain, which makes standing or walking uncomfortable.

Numerous factors can either cause or exacerbate stiff joints. Aging is not the sole cause of tight joints. Other underlying conditions may cause the stiffness.

Degenerative joint disease, lupus, bursitis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and malignant conditions are among the illnesses that can cause joint stiffness. It can also be impacted by diet, weight, and other lifestyle factors.

When to See a Physician
1. You've suffered an injury or are in excruciating pain.
2. In the event that the stiffness develops suddenly or persists for more than five to seven days.
3. If you have redness, rapid swelling, joint deformity, or trouble moving the joint.

To learn more about effective ways to manage stiff and clicking joints, read http://nshealthadvocate.ca/effectively-managing-joint-stiffness-expert-tips-and-strategies/

Home - The Nova Scotian Health Advocate The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving....

Around the age of 30, our bone mass peaks, and it stays there for the following twenty years. But after menopause (in females) or andropause (in males), we lose skeletal mass more rapidly than our bodies are able to restore.

One reason is that estrogen and testosterone levels are going down and these important hormones maintain our bone density. Our bodies begin to lose calcium from our bones as we age, making us prone to fragility fractures.

Our food choices can have an impact on bone health. Choosing nutritious foods every day, particularly those high in calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients, can significantly improve our bones and health in general.

Foods high in calcium and vitamin D can help keep our bones strong. In addition, exercise, especially activities that require one to move the body weight against gravity (resistance training), makes bones stronger and keeps them that way.

It is common knowledge that dairy foods like milk, yogurt, and cheese, as well as dark leafy greens like collards, spinach, and broccoli, serve as valuable sources of calcium. Fruit juices and breakfast cereals are frequently enriched with this mineral as well to help reach daily requirements.

However, you may not be aware of other foods that are a substantial source of calcium and minerals that support bone health. Below is an illustration of these bone-fortifying superfoods.

To know more about nutrition and how it plays a dynamic part in preventing and managing osteoporosis, read: http://nshealthadvocate.ca/building-strong-bones-how-your-diet-plays-a-vital-role/

The Nova Scotian Health Advocate – Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritime A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving o...

Do you spend way too long rehashing the same old situations and conversations in your mind?

It's not healthy.

Here's the thing: we sometimes just can't help ourselves. We have that negative thought, and then the next one, and then the next one after that.

Rumination is thinking about negative emotions and problems over and over again, as well as their causes and effects.

Ruminating or dwelling on the past is a recipe for unhappiness. Especially when it causes you distress, like being stuck in a loop, you repeat it despite knowing it is fruitless.

When rumination becomes problematic, certain techniques may help such as

1. Diverting your attention. An example is enjoying music and focusing intently on the words or tune, or listening to an interesting topic on your favourite podcast.

2. Setting aside a "worry time". 10 to 30 minutes of dedicated “worry or rumination time” periodically can help relieve the pressure of intrusive thoughts.

3. Avoiding triggers. If scrolling through social media leads to an unhealthy fixation on your past relationship, avoid it.

For more strategies to break the cycle of rumination, click:
http://nshealthadvocate.ca/break-the-cycle-of-rumination-how-to-stop-obsessive-negative-thoughts/

The Nova Scotian Health Advocate – Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritime A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving o...

How are we caring for our older population?

The Public Health Agency of Canada states that 4–10% of older individuals are victims of abuse. Only 1 in 5 cases of elder abuse, is reported to the appropriate authorities.

Is this only the tip of the iceberg?

Probably, especially in light of the extra challenges posed by an aging population that is expanding significantly.

The World Health Organization projects that by 2050, there will be over 2 billion individuals in the world who are 60 years of age or older, more than doubling from 900 million in 2015.
It is anticipated that as the population of many countries ages quickly, abuse of the older population would rise.

Any behaviour that jeopardizes an older person's health, safety, or well-being is considered abuse of older individuals. Elder abuse or senior abuse are other names for it. Abuse may manifest as words, deeds, or neglect. It might occur once or often over time.

Unfortunately, family members, friends, or caregivers are typically responsible for elder abuse.

Reports of abuse or neglect can be made to the Adult Protection Services or the local police by any individual.

Adult Protection Services in Nova Scotia may be reached at 1-800-225-7225, toll-free. If you feel the person’s life is in danger, please call 911 immediately.

Keep in mind:
You do not have to be 100% certain that abuse or neglect is taking place if you want to submit a report. But you must have a valid reason for believing that the senior needs to be protected.

For more information on how to look after our older adults, visit
http://nshealthadvocate.ca/taking-care-of-our-older-adults/

The Nova Scotian Health Advocate – Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritime A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving o...

Violent outbursts and unforeseen tantrums in which the person loses control are hallmarks of Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED), a frequently overlooked mental condition.

What causes Intermittent Explosive Disorder?
-Family history
-Childhood experiences of verbal or physical abuse;
-Imbalances in brain chemistry and function
-Prolonged or ongoing trauma
-Related mental disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety or substance abuse
-Diagnosis of Borderline or Anti-social Personality disorder

What makes Intermittent Explosive Disorder so different?
An episode of intermittent explosive disorder can occur at any moment.
Some people experience it every day, others never get violent for weeks or months at a time.
Impulsivity drives the actions of those suffering from Intermittent Explosive Disorder.
An IED event usually lasts no more than 30 minutes and majority of these individuals subsequently regret what they did.

How is the diagnosis of intermittent explosive disorder made?
The symptoms below are typical signs of IED. To identify this condition more accurately, doctors refer to The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5.

If you or someone you know have had the above symptoms, consult a physician to confirm the diagnosis.

How Is Intermittent Explosive Disorder Treated?
Psychotherapy is the most effective treatment for IED. Some medical professionals might advise using medication in addition to treatment such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to help manage your mood.

For the complete article on Intermittent Explosive Disorder including self-help pointers to manage the condition and hot lines for local supportive services, visit http://nshealthadvocate.ca/going-volcanic-the-volatile-nature-of-intermittent-explosive-disorder/

The Nova Scotian Health Advocate – Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritime A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving o...

Seeking Musical Artists and Performers!

Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Building is seeking volunteers to help with their music programs.

VMB is looking for performers and artists who can provide musical entertainment to patients and their families for their listening pleasure.

Volunteers can play any instrument or sing songs to the residents.

TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
Days: any day of the week, afternoons
Shifts: between 2:00-3:30
Hours per day: 45mins – 60mins
Commitment (months): 6 months
Volunteers required: unlimited

Interested parties can apply to us through this link: MyImpactPage - Central Zone - QEII Camp Hill Veterans Memorial (betterimpact.com)

Or can reach out and call Esraa Mahmoud (Volunteer Coordinator) at 902-221-1879.

In Canada, about 35,000 cardiac arrests occur every year, with less than 10% of patients surviving an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

A cardiac arrest requires an emergency care response system that lowers obstacles so bystanders can react swiftly because every second matters due to its sudden and unexpected nature.

If onlookers are unwilling to intervene, are unaware of providing CPR, are unable to locate AEDs, or are scared to use one, lives cannot be saved.

What is Cardiac Arrest?
The heart is no longer beating.
Blood cannot be pumped from the heart to the rest of the body.
This is an urgent medical situation.
Death happens in minutes if nothing is done right away.

How does Cardiac Arrest look like?
Abrupt collapse of the person
Absence of breathing
Inability to respond to voice or touch

How should you respond?
Make a shout for a defibrillator and call 9-1-1.
Start CPR.
As soon as a defibrillator is available, use it.
Take action without delay. This is a medical emergency that needs urgent response.

Remember:
The person's best opportunity is with you. Show courage by moving swiftly.
It can take several minutes for EMS to arrive, so don't wait for them.
Don't hold off till someone else intervenes. Seconds count. Get started right away.
Even if CPR is not perfect, it still provides the person the best chance.

Reference: Heart and Stroke Canada
Image: Pixel_away

The Nova Scotian Health Advocate – Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritime A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving o...

These symptoms are commonly known as upset stomach or indigestion. But if you're experiencing these on a regular basis, it is medically termed, "Dyspepsia".

Common causes are:
• Alcoholic drinks or caffeinated beverages
• Spicy foods and fatty meals
• Stomach-irritating medications
• Medical conditions like ulcers, Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), or gallbladder stones
• Constant Stress, fatigue, or anxiety
• Skipping meals or binge eating
• Smoking

What you can do:
• Eat small frequent meals.
• Pace yourself when eating.
• Steer clear of highly acidic foods, like citrus fruits.
• Refrain from eating hot and spicy dishes.
• Limit caffeine-containing foods and beverages - dark chocolate, soda, and coffee.
• If stress is what causes your indigestion, try stress-reduction strategies like yoga and meditation
• Cut back on smoking.
• Limit alcohol consumption.

Best way is to consult your doctor so you can be properly tested and get the right medications.

For the complete low-down on how to manage Dyspepsia including medically prescribed and natural treatments, read the full article and click, http://nshealthadvocate.ca/upset-stomach-or-something-else/

The Nova Scotian Health Advocate – Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritimes The Nova Scotian Health Advocate Advocating for Health and Wellness in the Maritime A remarkable capacity for healing comes from the most basic choices, and the ordinary actions we take every day. -Michelle Gabata-Thibault, M.D. We need to reshape our own perception of health and wellness. Serving o...

Taking care of your health and mental well-being can significantly impact your quality of life. Here are my go-to activities to keep me in a positive space this Fall...