HFCSD Health & Wellness Newsletter
May 2019
The April showers have certainly brought on the May Flowers
Ultraviolet Awareness Month: Know The Dangers Of UV Radiation
While it feels good being outdoors, we have to acknowledge the fact that it is not all glitter and gold. Too much sun has its own disadvantages – its ultraviolet light can destroy us faster than we know. That is why the month of May was set as Ultraviolet Awareness month.
Ultraviolet Awareness Month
In light of the dangers associated with UV, the month of May was set as Ultraviolet Awareness month. Studies have showed that 20% of cataracts cases are a result of UV rays. Sadly, this number has been rising in the recent years, which makes sense for anyone to be involved in fighting this problem.
What is Ultraviolet Light?
Ultraviolet radiation refers to the invisible high energy rays that come from the sun. Since they are invisible, our naked eyes cannot see them. Most notably, these rays are UVA, UVB and UVC. Ultraviolet light is measured in a unit known as nanometers (nm) and those three are classified depending on how strong they are.
- UVC: These rays are below 280nm. Fortunately, the upper atmosphere absorbs these so they do not to get to us. Because of this, it is not necessary to get protection from these rays.
- UVB: These are between 315 – 380 nm. Sadly, these manage to make it to the earth’s surface and are notorious for damaging sight. Specifically, they can cause snow blindness. But they are also bad for the skin as they are famous for causing sunburn and other types of skin cancer. Research has shown that these rays are strongest during the summer and at higher attitudes.
- UVA: These are the most dangerous being 315 – 380 nm. They are known for causing chronic eye damage. Studies have indicated that these rays get absorbed by the lenses of our eyes leading to damage of the retina. This contributes to the occurrence of cataracts. Not only that, but they are also a major cause of aging. What makes them even worse is that they can pass through clouds, glass, water and clothing.
But we should not be looking at the glass as being half empty. As a matter of fact, some Ultraviolet light is good for us. UV stimulates the production of vitamin D. Just 5 to 15 minutes of exposure to the sun is enough to achieve this.
Dangers of Ultraviolet Light
Ultraviolet light affects the skin and eyes like stated above. From studies conducted, we now know that prolonged exposure can cause blindness and loss of vision. Not only this, but it can also cause several types of skin and eye cancers.
Treatment and Prevention
Since there are different conditions that can result from excessive sun exposure, some are treatable and others are not. Sunburn, for example, will disappear in days. As for cancers, you can have a surgery- the cancer just needs to be identified early. Other conditions, however, are difficult to treat*. One of these is blindness.
Preventing the effects of ultraviolet light is simple. First and foremost, you must limit your exposure to the sun. In addition to that, you should never head out without any form of protection. You must invest in sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. To make it even better, try to wear a broad-brimmed hat to protect your skin
It is known that the sun’s rays are strongest from 10 am to 2 pm. So avoid being out at this time. And lastly, remember to get an eye exam at least once a year.
Purpose of Ultraviolet Awareness Month
The main purpose in setting this month was to raise awareness on the problems associated with Ultraviolet rays. It seeks to promote eye health and reduce* the occurrence of eye diseases. Since this is a problem that can affect anyone, we are all urged to follow all the advice given during this month.
What to do during Ultraviolet Awareness Month?
Since no one is immune from this, always have UV protection at all times. Like said above, choose the right sunglasses and wear a hat when outside. Additionally, you should never forget children since they are the ones who spend most of the time playing outdoors. So get them appropriate sunglasses too and teach them on the dangers of UV.
And lastly, you should spread the word to all those you know – you might just save them from the effects of UV.
Fruity Fun in the Sun
- 1 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup frozen berries of choice
- 1/2 cup almond milk
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup banana, sliced
- fresh berries of choice
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp pecans
- 1 tbsp coconut flakes
- Dark Chocolate Chips
Instructions:
- Blend frozen banana, berries, and almond milk until smooth.
- Pour into bowl and top with items listed above, or whatever you like!
FOOD ALLERGY MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS
From FARE Food Allergy Research & Education:
FARE is dedicated to speaking up for the 15 million Americans with food allergies, including all those at risk for life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Whether you live with food allergies or care for someone who does, brushing up on the facts is a great place to start. You can show your support for the food allergy community by helping to dispel these popular myths and misconceptions.
Myth: Food allergies aren’t serious.
Fact: This is more than just an itch or a stomachache.
Food allergies can cause symptoms from hives and a stuffy nose, to vomiting, difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness. If an allergic reaction is severe or involves several parts of the body, it becomes anaphylaxis and can be life-threatening.
Food allergies are not only potentially life-threatening, they’re life-altering. People with food allergies must always be vigilant to ensure they avoid reactions.
Food allergies—and the people who live with them—should always be taken seriously.
Myth: Eating a little bit won’t hurt.
Fact: For someone with a food allergy, even a trace of a food allergen can trigger a severe reaction. You must remove the allergen completely from your diet to stay safe and live well.
Avoiding cross-contact between a safe food and your food allergen is just as important as avoiding the allergen itself. Cross-contact occurs when an allergen is accidentally transferred from one food to another. The food that was safe before is now dangerous for people with that food allergy.
Myth: Each allergic reaction will get worse and worse.
Fact: Food allergy reactions are unpredictable. The way your body reacts to a food allergen one time cannot predict how it will react the next time. You don’t know if a reaction is going to be mild, moderate or severe. You should always be prepared with emergency medication, just in case.
Myth: A food allergy that has only caused mild reactions is a mild food allergy.
Fact: There are no mild or severe food allergies—only mild to severe reactions. What caused a mild reaction in the past may lead to a severe reaction in the future, and vice versa. Never let your guard down. Always take precautions to prevent allergic reactions before they happen.
From the moment you know or suspect you or a loved one has ingested an allergen, take action. Even mild symptoms can quickly progress to a severe reaction, or anaphylaxis. You should be watchful and prepared to give medication—seconds count!
It is important for every person with life-threatening food allergies to have an individualized food allergy action plan. This document explains the symptoms of an allergic reaction and what medication(s) you should take for each symptom(s).
Myth: Food allergies are the same as food intolerances.
Fact: Unlike food intolerances, food allergies are “IgE mediated.” This means that your immune system produces an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE for short) when it detects a food allergen. IgE antibodies fight the “enemy” food by releasing histamine and other chemicals. These chemicals then trigger the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Food intolerances do not involve the immune system. And while they can cause great discomfort, they are not life-threatening. A food allergy, on the other hand, can be fatal. Learn more about food intolerances.
Myth: Peanut is the most common food allergy in kids.
Fact: Milk and eggs are actually the most common food allergies in children—although peanuts do get a lot of attention for causing severe reactions.
All food allergies, no matter how common or rare, are serious.
Myth: Peanut is the most “dangerous” food allergy.
Fact: No single food allergy poses a greater threat than another. While only eight foods (milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish and shellfish) account for the vast majority of all food allergies, virtually any food can cause an allergic reaction. And even a very small amount of the problem food is enough to cause a reaction.
Myth: All allergy-inducing ingredients must be listed on food labels.
Fact: According to the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA), the eight most common allergens must be labeled on packaged foods sold in the U.S. These allergens are milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish and shellfish.
This federal law, which took effect January 1, 2006, states that these ingredients must be listed if they are present in any amount. They should be featured clearly and in plain language, even if they appear in colors, flavors or spice blends. FARE supports adding sesame to this list of major allergens, as prevalence and awareness of sesame allergy is growing.
However, people can be allergic to foods other than the eight most common. These allergens can appear in surprising places, and they may not be listed on food labels.
Always read food packaging labels and ask questions about ingredients before eating a food that you have not prepared yourself. Pay attention to the “may contain” warnings on food labels as well. This is especially important if you have a history of severe reactions.
Misconception: If a food doesn’t traditionally contain an allergen or you don’t see the allergen listed in a dish’s menu description, that food is safe to eat.
Fact: Allergens can appear in unexpected places. For example, fish or shellfish are sometimes dipped in milk to reduce their fishy odor, posing a problem for people with milk allergy.
Never assume anything about how a food has been made or served. Always read food labels and ask questions about ingredients before eating a food that you have not prepared yourself.
Misconception: I have a food allergy because my skin or blood tests were positive.
Fact: Positive skin prick and blood tests are not always accurate. About 50 to 60 percent of these tests can give “false positive” results. This means that the test is positive even though you are not allergic to the food being tested.
It is important to discuss test results with your primary care doctor or an allergist. He or she will interpret them based on your history. If it is unclear whether you have a food allergy, an oral food challenge can help. For this procedure, a healthcare professional will closely supervise as you consume the food in question.
Learn more about diagnostic tests for food allergies.
Myth: A food allergy always develops in childhood. Then you’re stuck with it for life.
Fact: You can develop a food allergy at any age, even to a food that you’ve safely eaten before.
Children especially may outgrow a food allergy over time. This is common with allergies to milk, egg, soy and wheat. Allergies that are harder to outgrow include peanut, tree nuts, fish and shellfish.
Sports, Sports and Sports - What to do if my athlete is injured
Sports, Sports and Sports - What to do if my athlete is injured
The Winter season of sports is well under way. By now the athletes have been cleared, gone through try-outs and are in the middle of competition. However, if your athlete becomes injured during the season, here is what you need to know...
1. Your athlete needs to report any injuries to their coach as soon as they happen.
Sometimes athletes do not want to miss part of a game or practice, but continuing to participate when hurt can prolong the healing process and force them to miss more games.
2. If your athlete is evaluated by a medical professional, they will NEED a note to return to sports without restrictions. This note should be given to their coach or the nurse in their Health Office at School.
3. Concussion/Head Injury
If your athlete had a head injury or concussion, they will need to be evaluated by a medical professional. Once they are cleared by their primary care physician, they are still not allowed to practice or compete. By federal guidelines, the athlete must follow a "Return to Play" protocol after receiving medical clearance which involves progressive increase in activity and monitoring. Once this protocol is successfully completed, then the athlete may return to competition and practice.
4. Questions?
Call your athlete's Health Office, talk with the coach, or use Remind 101
High School Health Office 518-681- 4201
Middle School Health Office 518-681-4301
Remind 101 for HS Health Office Code 81010 message @hshealtho
Remind 101 for MS Health Office Code 81010 message @mshealtho
Resources
211 (One easy phone number to call for free, confidential information and referrals 24 hours/7 days a week. Food assistance, housing assistance, employment help, heating/utilities help, abuse prevention, elder care, mental health services, substance use help, transportation, tax assistance, etc.) www.211neny.org
Alcoholics Anonymous www.aa.org 518-793-1113
Austim Awareness Society www.autism-society.org
Diabetes Association http://www.diabetes.org 800-342-2383
Epilepsy Foundation http://www.epilepsy.com/northeastern-new-york 518-456-7501
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ 800-273-8255
NY Smoke Free https://www.nysmokefree.com 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487)
Salvation Army http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/
Saratoga Bridges (Provides professional services to people with developmental disabilities and their families) http://www.saratogabridges.org/ 518-587-0723
Snack Safely (Guide to current ingredients in many common snack items. Beneficial to all who have a food allergy/intolerance/sensitivity. Updated regularly.) SnackSafely.com
WAIT House (helps homeless youth in New York's Warren and Washington Counties. The co-ed emergency shelter has eight beds for youth ages 16 up to 21, and is a certified New York State Office Of Children and Family Services facility.) http://www.hycwaithouse.org/ 518-798-4384