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  • High Blood Pressure: Why It’s Called the “Silent Condition”

    High Blood Pressure: Why It’s Called the “Silent Condition”

    High blood pressure is called a “silent condition” because it usually causes no symptoms, even when your numbers are high. It’s also one of the most common long-term health conditions in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of American adults have it, and many don’t know it. Most people with high blood pressure feel completely fine. They go to work, run errands and spend time with family without a single warning sign. Meanwhile, the extra pressure can quietly damage the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. That’s why regular checkups matter.

    This guide explains why it’s so easy to miss, what your numbers mean and simple steps to protect your health.

     

    What Does “Silent Condition” Mean?

    Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. When that force stays elevated over time, it’s called hypertension. Unlike a cold or the flu, you usually can’t feel high blood pressure, even at very high levels.

    That’s why it’s called a silent condition. While you feel normal, the extra pressure can slowly strain your blood vessels and organs like your heart, kidneys and eyes. Some people believe headaches, dizziness and a flushed face are signs of high blood pressure. Those symptoms can happen, but they aren’t reliable signs. They may have other causes, and many people with high readings never experience them. The only way to know if you have hypertension is to check your blood pressure.

     

    How Is High Blood Pressure Measured?

    A blood pressure reading has two numbers, such as 120/80. The top number, called systolic pressure, measures the force in your arteries when your heart beats. The bottom number, called diastolic pressure, measures the force when your heart rests between beats. Here’s what the numbers mean for adults, based on the American Heart Association’s 2025 guidelines:

    • Normal: Less than 120 on top and less than 80 on the bottom
    • Elevated: 120 to 129 on top and less than 80 on the bottom
    • Stage 1 hypertension: 130 to 139 on top or 80 to 89 on the bottom
    • Stage 2 hypertension: 140 or higher on top or 90 or higher on the bottom
    • Severe hypertension (sometimes called a hypertensive crisis): Higher than 180 on top or higher than 120 on the bottom. If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, vision changes or trouble speaking, call 911.

    One high reading doesn’t always mean you have hypertension. Your provider will usually check your blood pressure during several visits before making a diagnosis.

     

    Can You Have High Blood Pressure Without Symptoms?

    Yes, and most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms at all. That’s because your body is good at adapting. When blood pressure stays high, your heart and blood vessels adjust to handle the extra force. Over time, artery walls can stiffen and narrow, and your heart muscle may thicken from working harder. None of those changes cause pain, so there’s often nothing to tip you off. Without regular checks, you may not catch high blood pressure until it causes a bigger problem, like heart disease or stroke.

     

    What Causes High Blood Pressure and Who Is at Risk?

    High blood pressure usually develops over time from a mix of factors. Some you can change, like diet and activity, and some you can’t, like age and family history.

    Common risk factors include:

    • Age: Blood vessels naturally stiffen with age, so your risk goes up over time.
    • Family history: If a parent or sibling has high blood pressure, you’re more likely to develop it, too.
    • Weight: Carrying extra weight makes your heart work harder to move blood through your body.
    • Diet: Eating a lot of salt and processed foods can raise your blood pressure.
    • Inactivity: Not getting enough exercise can lead to weight gain and a weaker heart.
    • Alcohol and tobacco: Heavy drinking and tobacco use both raise blood pressure.
    • Stress: Ongoing stress can lead to poor sleep and unhealthy habits that affect your heart.
    • Other health conditions: Diabetes, kidney disease and sleep apnea are all linked to high blood pressure.

    Hypertension is more common in older adults, but it can affect people in their 20s and 30s, too. Feeling good is a great sign, but it doesn’t rule out high blood pressure.

     

    What Happens if High Blood Pressure Goes Untreated?

    Left untreated, high blood pressure raises your risk of serious health problems, including heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, vision loss and memory problems. It also tends to show up alongside other conditions, like diabetes and high cholesterol. Together, they put more strain on your heart and blood vessels.

    Over time, that strain can affect your whole body. Damaged arteries can narrow or get blocked, cutting off blood flow to your heart or brain. After years of pumping against high pressure, your heart muscle can thicken and weaken. The tiny blood vessels in your kidneys and eyes can also be damaged, which can lead to kidney disease and vision loss. Narrowed arteries in the legs can cause pain or cramping when you walk.

    The good news is that high blood pressure is easy to check and treat. If your numbers are higher than expected, try not to worry. Talk with your provider about lifestyle changes, home monitoring and medication.

     

    Practical Steps to Manage Your Blood Pressure

    Small, consistent changes can make a big difference. Here are a few places to start:

    • Eat a heart-healthy diet: Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Cut back on salt by limiting processed foods, canned soups and fast food.
    • Get moving: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, like brisk walking or biking.
    • Manage stress: Try deep breathing, stretching or quiet time outdoors. Getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night also helps your body recover.
    • Limit alcohol: Drinking less can lower your blood pressure. If you drink, ask your provider how much is right for you.
    • Quit tobacco: Nicotine spikes your blood pressure, and smoking harms your arteries over time. Your provider can connect you with resources to help you quit.
    • Use an at-home monitor: Checking at home helps you spot changes early. Choose a monitor with a cuff that wraps around your upper arm, sit quietly for five minutes before measuring and keep a log of your readings to bring to appointments.
    • Follow your treatment plan: If your provider prescribes medicine, take it every day as directed, even when you feel fine.

     

    Don’t Wait to Seek Medical Help for High Blood Pressure

    Even when you feel your best, it’s worth knowing your numbers. A quick blood pressure check gives peace of mind. Make it part of your routine care, like your yearly physical or dental cleaning.

    At Fisher-Titus, our primary care providers can take your readings, review your risk factors and help you build a plan that fits your life. If you need more specialized care, our Heart & Vascular Care team offers advanced testing, treatment and ongoing support close to home. Schedule an appointment today to take the first step toward a healthier heart.

     

    Frequently Asked Questions About High Blood Pressure

    How often should I check my blood pressure?

    Most adults 40 and older should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year. The same goes for younger adults with risk factors like a family history or extra weight. Healthy adults ages 18 to 39 with normal readings can usually get checked every three to five years, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Your provider may suggest more frequent checks if your numbers are high.

    What are the signs of high blood pressure?

    Most of the time, there are no signs. Very high blood pressure can sometimes cause a severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath or vision changes. If you have these symptoms with a high reading, call 911.

    Can high blood pressure go away?

    High blood pressure can be controlled, and for some people, healthy habits are enough to bring numbers back to normal. You may also need medication to stay on track. Even when your readings improve, keep up with regular checks and follow your provider’s advice.

    Are smartwatch blood pressure readings accurate?

    Not yet. The American Heart Association’s 2025 guidelines advise against relying on cuffless devices like smartwatches until they prove more reliable. For the most accurate results at home, use a monitor with a cuff that wraps around your upper arm. Look for one that has been tested and approved for accuracy. Bring it to your next appointment so your care team can make sure it reads correctly.

  • Early Signs of COPD: When Shortness of Breath Shouldn’t Be Ignored

    Early Signs of COPD: When Shortness of Breath Shouldn’t Be Ignored

    COPD tends to build slowly, and the earliest signs are the kind most of us wave off. Getting winded on the stairs feels like age catching up. A cough that lingers gets chalked up to a cold that will not quit or years of smoking. Because the changes come on gradually, it is easy to adjust your routine without noticing how much your breathing has changed.

    That slow build is exactly why paying attention early matters. COPD cannot be reversed, but catching it sooner gives you more room to slow its progression and protect the things you enjoy doing. At Fisher-Titus, our primary care team is here to help you make sense of these subtle breathing changes and get answers close to home.

     

    What Is COPD?

    COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a long-term lung condition that makes it harder to breathe as the airways become inflamed and narrowed. It is an umbrella term that covers chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and many people live with a combination of both.

    “COPD is the most common lung disease we see, especially with the aging population,” said Robert Pecl, PA at Fisher-Titus. It is a progressive condition, which means it tends to worsen over time, but it is also manageable with the right care. One of the trickier parts is that lung damage is often already underway before symptoms feel obvious, so the disease can be further along than a person realizes by the time they notice a problem. That is where our lung and respiratory care services can help.

     

    Why Early COPD Symptoms Are So Easy to Miss

    Early COPD symptoms are usually mild, they come and go, and they look a lot like other everyday things. Shortness of breath gets blamed on age or extra weight. A cough gets blamed on allergies. Low energy gets blamed on a busy schedule or simply being out of shape.

    People also tend to adapt without realizing it. They take the elevator instead of the stairs, skip the longer walk or pace themselves through chores, which quietly hides how much their breathing has shifted. “They may feel totally fine at rest, then start walking up the stairs and feel more winded than they used to,” Pecl said. Recognizing that pattern, rather than working around it, is what makes early evaluation possible.

     

    Early Warning Signs of COPD to Watch For

    COPD can look different from person to person, but a handful of early signs show up again and again. Here is what to pay attention to:

    • Shortness of breath during everyday activities: Feeling winded on the stairs, during light chores or on a walk you used to handle with ease can be one of the first clues.
    • A chronic cough that lingers: A cough that sticks around for weeks, sometimes called a smoker’s cough, is worth noting even when it feels routine.
    • Increased mucus or phlegm: Coughing up more than usual is common. Pecl noted that a portion of COPD patients produce noticeably more phlegm than the average person.
    • Frequent respiratory infections: Colds that settle into the chest, or repeated bouts of bronchitis or pneumonia, can point to underlying lung trouble.
    • Wheezing or chest tightness: A whistling sound when you breathe or a tight feeling in the chest can come and go in the early stages.
    • Unusual fatigue or reduced stamina: When the lungs work harder to move air, everyday activities can leave you more tired than they should.

    Any one of these signs can have another explanation. Several of them together, or symptoms that keep returning, are a good reason to check in with a provider.

     

    What Causes COPD and Who’s Most at Risk?

    The leading cause of COPD is long-term exposure to things that irritate the lungs. Cigarette smoke is the most common by far, but secondhand smoke, air pollution and workplace dust, fumes or chemicals can all play a part. There is also a genetic cause called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, an inherited condition that can lead to COPD even in people who have never smoked.

    Some factors raise the risk more than others. You may be more likely to develop COPD if you have:

    • A history of smoking, whether current or past
    • Reached age 40 or older
    • Long-term exposure to lung irritants at work or at home
    • A history of respiratory infections in childhood
    • A family history of COPD or alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

     

    When to See a Provider About COPD Symptoms

    Symptoms Worth Getting Checked

    There is no need to wait for symptoms to become severe before getting answers. Breathing changes are easier to evaluate and manage when they are caught early, and an appointment can bring peace of mind either way. Consider reaching out to a provider if you notice:

    • Shortness of breath that is new or getting worse
    • A cough that lasts more than a few weeks
    • Repeated chest infections
    • Breathlessness that limits your normal activities

    Getting checked early does more than ease worry. It can open the door to treatment sooner. As Pecl put it, “What we look for as providers isn’t necessarily quantity of life, it’s quality of life.” Identifying COPD early gives you and your care team more options to protect that.

     

    When Symptoms Become an Emergency

    Some breathing symptoms need urgent attention. Call 911 or seek emergency care right away if you experience:

    • Severe breathlessness or the feeling that you cannot catch your breath
    • Lips or fingernails that look blue or gray
    • Sudden confusion or trouble staying alert
    • A racing or pounding heartbeat

    Those can be signs that your body is not getting enough oxygen. Do not try to wait them out.

     

    Don’t Ignore the Signs. Talk to Fisher-Titus.

    Unexplained breathlessness or a nagging cough is worth a conversation. Finding COPD early will not undo it, but it opens the door to treatments that can slow its progression and help you keep doing what you love. “Your quality of life can be improved with proper treatment,” Pecl said, offering a reassuring word for anyone nervous about coming in.

    A primary care relationship is a dependable way to stay ahead of changes in your health. If you have noticed a difference in your breathing, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment to talk through your concerns with a Fisher-Titus provider.

  • Pediatrics vs. Family Medicine: Which is Right for Your Child?

    Pediatrics vs. Family Medicine: Which is Right for Your Child?

    When you become a parent, you are faced with countless choices regarding your new child. One of those choices is who your child’s doctor is going to be: a pediatrician or a family medicine doctor.

    Both are skilled and caring physicians, but there are some differences between the two that are worth knowing. Here is a closer look at what makes them different and some insight as to why you might choose a pediatrician for your child’s care.

     

    What Is the Difference Between the Two?

    Both a pediatrician and a family medicine doctor go to medical school and complete a residency. The difference is in what they train to do after that.

    After medical school, a pediatrician spends three years of residency training focused entirely on infants, children, and teenagers. Once they begin practicing, their whole career is focused on caring for young patients.

    A family medicine doctor trains to care for patients of all ages, from children to seniors. They have broad knowledge across many areas of medicine and follow current guidelines for both pediatric and adult patients, making sure children are on track with appropriate milestones just like a pediatrician would.

    Neither choice is wrong. But that difference matters when your child is the patient.

     

    Why Many Families Choose a Pediatrician

    They Know Child Development Inside and Out

    Pediatricians are trained to track how children grow and develop at every stage. They know what milestones to expect and when to take a closer look if something seems off. Whether your child is a newborn or a teenager, a pediatrician understands what to look for in those ages. That knowledge helps them spot concerns early, when they are easiest to address.

    They See Childhood Conditions Every Day

    Pediatricians treat ear infections, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), growth concerns, childhood asthma, developmental disabilities, and other common conditions in kids every single day. That experience adds up. In pediatric medicine, the entire patient base is children, they can more easily recognize patterns, catch things early, and know exactly what treatment works best.

    Their Office Is Built for Kids

    Going to the doctor can be a stressful event for many children. Pediatric offices are equipped to handle that, as the staff knows how to talk to kids, keep them calm, and make them feel comfortable in these situations.

    They Can Follow Your Child for Years

    A pediatrician can care for a child from birth through age 18, or even 21 in some cases. In that time, they build a full picture of their patient’s health, from knowing a child’s growth history, past illnesses, which vaccines they have received, and family health background. That history makes it easier to notice changes and provide care that is specific to the child.

    They Stay Current on Pediatric Guidelines

    The American Academy of Pediatrics regularly updates recommendations for childhood health. A pediatrician will make sure children are on track with appropriate milestones in accordance with current guidelines.

    They Understand Kids’ Behavioral and Mental Health

    Pediatricians are trained to recognize signs of autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other behavioral health concerns. They know how to talk with children, teens, and young adults in ways that feel comfortable and age appropriate and can connect a family with the proper resources or specialists.

     

    When a Family Medicine Doctor May Be a Good Fit

    Family medicine doctors provide excellent care for children. In some situations, they may be the better fit for your family.

    Families might prefer having one doctor care for everyone in the household. Other families may not have easy or convenient access to a pediatrician in their area. And for older teens nearing adulthood, a family medicine doctor can make the transition to adult care more seamless.

    Families in Huron County and surrounding areas have access to both. At Fisher-Titus, we offer both pediatric care and family medicine, so you can choose what works best for your family.

     

    Pediatric Care Close to Home

    As the largest pediatric group in the area, Fisher-Titus Pediatrics has five convenient locations in Norwalk, Bellevue, Sandusky, Wakeman, and Willard. Same-day and next-day appointments are available, so you can get your child the care they need without a long wait.

    Schedule an appointment for your child with a Fisher-Titus pediatrician today.

  • Fatty Liver Disease: What It Is and Why It’s Becoming More Common

    Fatty Liver Disease: What It Is and Why It’s Becoming More Common

    Fatty liver disease affects roughly one in three adults in the United States, making it the most common chronic liver condition in the Western world. Yet most people who have it are completely unaware. The condition develops silently, without pain or obvious warning signs, and a diagnosis often occurs by accident, when a routine blood test or scan flags something unexpected. When caught early, it can be reversed. Left unaddressed, it can progress into life-threatening liver damage. Understanding the disease, who’s at risk and what can be done about it can help you protect your health.

     

    What Is Fatty Liver Disease?

    The liver filters blood, metabolizes nutrients, stores energy and neutralizes toxins. A small amount of fat in the liver is normal, but when accumulation exceeds roughly five percent of the liver’s weight, it begins to impair function. In most cases, excess fat in the liver isn’t caused by alcohol consumption but the way the body processes food and manages energy, particularly in people with metabolic syndrome.

    “Fatty liver disease is how metabolic syndrome shows up in the liver. When the body can no longer manage blood sugar and fat the way it should, the liver takes the hit,” said Dr. Muhammad Talal Sarmini, MD, gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Fisher-Titus.

    Types of Fatty Liver Disease

    There are two primary types:

    • Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD / MASLD): This is the most common form, occurring independently of alcohol use. It’s closely associated with obesity, Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and other components of metabolic syndrome. The updated medical term is MASLD, which stands for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.
    • Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (ALD): This condition is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, which disrupts the liver’s ability to break down fats. Liver damage can accelerate significantly when metabolic risk factors and heavy alcohol use are present.

    Both types can progress through four stages:

    • Simple steatosis: Fat is present in the liver cells, but inflammation and cellular damage are minimal. This stage may be reversible with lifestyle changes.
    • Steatohepatitis (MASH/NASH): The liver becomes inflamed and its cells begin to sustain damage. This stage carries a higher risk of progression.
    • Fibrosis: As the liver attempts to repair itself, scar tissue begins to form and accumulate.
    • Cirrhosis: Extensive, irreversible scarring has replaced healthy liver tissue. This is the most advanced and serious stage, and can lead to liver failure, liver cancer or a transplant.

     

    What Are the Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease?

    Fatty liver disease is frequently described as a “silent condition,” and for good reason.

    “Routine bloodwork and standard imaging often won’t show us how much damage has already occurred,” Dr. Sarmini explained. “Unless a patient has reached cirrhosis, the liver can look relatively normal on a scan while the disease is quietly progressing.”

    That diagnostic gap means patients remain unaware of the condition until it has advanced to a more serious stage.

    When symptoms do emerge, they tend to appear in later stages of fatty liver disease and may include:

    • Persistent fatigue or unexplained weakness
    • Dull aching or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
    • Abdominal swelling or fluid retention in the legs
    • Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes
    • Cognitive difficulties, such as confusion or difficulty concentrating
    • Tendency to bruise or bleed more easily

     

    Causes of Fatty Liver Disease

    Fatty liver disease rarely has a single cause. In most cases, it develops from multiple overlapping risk factors, such as:

    • Excess sugar consumption: Diets high in added sugars, particularly from sweetened beverages, refined carbohydrates, and processed snacks, overwhelm the liver’s capacity to metabolize fructose. The surplus is converted into fat and deposited in liver cells.
    • Alcohol use: Excessive alcohol consumption disrupts normal fat metabolism in the liver and causes cellular damage. Even alongside non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcohol can accelerate progression.
    • Obesity: Excess body weight, particularly visceral fat stored around the abdomen, is one of the strongest predictors of fatty liver disease. It increases the volume of fatty acids circulating in the blood and delivered to the liver.
    • Insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes: When cells lose sensitivity to insulin, blood glucose remains elevated. The liver responds by converting excess glucose into fat, resulting in accumulation.
    • Genetics: Certain genetic variants influence how the body regulates fat storage and liver function. A family history of fatty liver disease or cirrhosis can increase your risk.
    • Metabolic dysfunction: High blood pressure, elevated triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol frequently co-occur with fatty liver disease.
    • Sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea causes repeated drops in blood oxygen during sleep, which can impair metabolic function and promote fat accumulation in the liver.
    • Certain medications: Corticosteroids, some cardiovascular medications and certain chemotherapy drugs can cause fat to accumulate in the liver.
    • Rapid weight loss: Losing weight too quickly through crash dieting or other extreme measures can flood the bloodstream with fatty acids.

     

     Why Is Fatty Liver Disease Becoming More Common?

    Shifts in diet and lifestyle have increased rates of obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Fatty liver disease is also developing in younger populations more frequently. Dr. Sarmini has observed this shift firsthand.

    “Since the 1990s, we have seen a significant increase in fatty liver disease across all age groups, including children. More calories, more sweeteners, less movement — it all accumulates, and the liver reflects that,” he said.

    When the disease begins in childhood, it has more time to progress and cause lasting damage, raising the stakes for early intervention.

     

    How Is It Diagnosed?

    According to Dr. Sarmini, “If you have Type 2 diabetes, PCOS, obesity or a family history of liver disease, we want to know what’s happening in your liver now, not after damage has already been done.”

    Diagnosis begins with liver enzyme blood tests, followed by imaging if your levels are elevated. Because standard imaging cannot measure fibrosis, Fisher-Titus offers FibroScan, a non-invasive test that assesses liver stiffness using ultrasound waves, as well as the ELF blood test for fibrosis risk. A liver biopsy remains the most definitive staging method when additional clarity is needed.

     

    Can You Reverse Fatty Liver Disease?

    In the early stages, yes. Weight loss, reduced sugar and refined carbohydrate intake, regular exercise and limiting alcohol can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Research also suggests that regular coffee consumption may have a modest effect on liver health. This organ can self-repair when underlying causes are addressed to produce lasting improvement.

    The FDA has recently approved two targeted medications for advanced cases:

    • A medication that acts directly on liver receptors to reduce fat and reverse fibrosis
    • Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) is approved for fatty liver disease that’s been diagnosed within the past year.

    Dr. Sarmini has seen strong results with the first medication in clinical practice.

    “The results we are seeing in our clinic are genuinely exciting. We now have tools that can stop the progression of this disease and, in many cases, reverse the damage.” he said.

    Additional therapies are currently in clinical trials, and further advances are expected. Without treatment, fatty liver disease can progress silently to cirrhosis and raise the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, hypertension and Type 2 diabetes.

     

    What to Do If You Suspect You Have Fatty Liver Disease

    Because fatty liver disease is often asymptomatic until it has reached an advanced stage, acting before the disease makes itself known is essential.

    Here are meaningful steps you can take right now:

    • Reduce or eliminate sugary beverages, including soda, juice and energy drinks.
    • Limit processed and fast foods in favor of minimally refined alternatives.
    • Get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity several times week.
    • Moderate or eliminate alcohol consumption.
    • Speak with your doctor if you experience chronic fatigue, snoring or sleep apnea.

     

    Manage Your Wellness With Support From Fisher-Titus

    At Fisher-Titus, our gastroenterology and hepatology team offers advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options to help patients understand and protect their liver health.

    “The goal is never to catch this disease after it has already caused serious harm,” Dr Sarmini said. “Gastroenterology gives us the ability to get ahead of it, to identify the problem early, monitor it closely and protect patients from complications before they happen.”

    Whether you have an incidental finding on a recent scan or simply want to know your risk, our team is here to help. Schedule an appointment with the Fisher-Titus gastroenterology team today.

     

  • Sun Safety

    With the summer well underway, the time to enjoy the outdoors is upon us. Whether you’re planning to have a picnic or enjoying your own backyard, you will likely be spending a lot of time under the summer sun. While soaking up the sun is a favorite summer pastime for many, that “healthy glow” can quickly become skin damage.

    What is Sun Damage?

    The ultraviolet radiation found in sunlight is absorbed by the skin and can damage the genetic material in skin cells whether you get a sunburn or not. Over time, this damage accumulates and increases your risk of developing skin cancer.

    While sunlight exposure can cause damage at any age, exposure earlier in life is particularly dangerous. According to a study published by the American Association for Cancer Research, there is a direct link between sunburns earlier in life and higher risk of melanoma skin cancer. The women in the study who experienced a minimum of five sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 years old were 80 percent more likely to later develop melanoma skin cancer than others.

    Early exposure means cells have more time to become damaged and ultimately result in skin cancer. That is why it is important to not only take precautionary steps to protect yourself, but your children as well. Skin damage can start at a young age, but so can safe sun exposure habits.

    Preventing Sun Damage

    On warm summer days it is natural to want to get outside and enjoy the sun. So, taking necessary steps to protect your skin from sun exposure should also be second nature.

    Try to avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 10a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are the strongest. Plan any outdoor activities either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Seek or create shade using umbrellas, shelters, or even a tree. Remember, there is no such thing as a “safe tan” so avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, which can also result in serious long-term skin damage and contribute to skin cancer.

    While it is best to stay out of the sun altogether, protecting yourself from the sun does not have to mean becoming a hermit during the summer months. By keeping these tips in mind, you can reduce the damage done to your skin without having to miss out on any of the outdoor fun and holiday festivities.

    This slip-slop-slap method of sun protection is based off an Australian sun safety campaign and is an easy way to remember how to protect yourself and your skin.

    • Slip: Slip on a shirt and other clothing to protect as much skin as possible.
    • Slop: Slop on sunscreen wherever your skin may be exposed. Make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF. Reapply at least every two hours and always after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
    • Slap: Slap on a hat and sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of UV light.

    In the United States, skin cancer is currently the most commonly diagnosed cancer. Pay attention to any new growths, sores, spots, and patches on your body that aren’t healing within a few weeks and consider scheduling a visit to your doctor. And remember, before you head outside, slip-slop-slap!

  • Have a Safe and Healthy Summer

    Have a Safe and Healthy Summer

    Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer. Warm weather usually rolls in for good around this time, school is winding down, and everyone is feeling stir‑crazy after a long winter and a rainy spring.

    Now that the weather looks like it will finally cooperate, everyone is eager to get outside. Here are some tips so you can enjoy your summer while staying safe and healthy.

    Bike safety

    Biking is a great way to spend time with your family. Before you pedal off this, make sure you keep bike safety in mind.

    • Wear a properly fitted helmet.
    • Wear proper clothing including good footwear. Avoid loose clothes and flip flops that could interfere with the bicycle.
    • Make sure bikes are the appropriate size. There should be 1 to 3 inches between you and the top of your bike when you stand straddling it with both feet flat on the ground.
    • Check your brakes and check and oil the chain.
    • Check tire pressure.

    Water safety

    Water can be fun but it can also be dangerous. To stay safe while playing in or near water, follow these tips:

    • Avoid swimming past your ability or in rough water.
    • Never leave children unattended even if they are experience swimmers.
    • Never swim alone.
    • Make sure water is deep enough before diving.
    • Teach children to avoid playing around open bodies of water.
    • Discourage children from jumping in to help another swimmer. Teach them to throw the victim a flotation device or something long to grab and to call an adult for help.
    • Make sure young children wear properly fitting, coast guard approved life jackets when swimming or playing near water.

    Bugs

    Unfortunately bug bites and stings are part of the territory when it comes to summer. Take these precautions to avoid bites and stings:

    • Check under decks and eaves for bee and wasp nests.
    • Use insect repellent on the outside of clothing as well as exposed skin.
    • Use repellent containing no more than 30% DEET.
    • Avoid bright colored or floral clothing and scented soaps, perfumes, and hair products.
    • To avoid ticks, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and tuck your shirt into your pants and your pants into your socks.
    • Check one another for ticks at the end of the day.

    Sun and heat safety

    Those most at risk for heat-related illness are young children and the elderly. Remember the following to protect yourself and family members from heatstroke and sunburn:

    • The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Take extra precautions during those times.
    • Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out and every two hours while outside. If you are swimming or sweating you will need to use waterproof sunscreen and reapply more often.
    • Sunscreen should have SPF of 15 to 30 and should protect against UVA and UVB rays.
    • The sun’s rays can be damaging even on cloudy days.
    • Watch for signs of heat-related illness such as fainting, dizziness, headache, nausea, flushed appearance, increased heart rate, and body temperature of 103 or higher.
    • Drink lots of fluids and avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine.
    • Wear light colored, loose fitting clothing, a hat, and sunglasses with 100% UV protection.
    • Keep children under one out of the sun as much as possible.

    Remember, should you get sick or injured, Fisher-Titus is here for you. Convenient Care is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. We also offer scheduled and on-demand virtual visits and our Emergency Room is here for you 24/7.

  • Keeping Kids Active at Home

    Do your kids have energy to spend without their usual outlets like gym class and recess or organized sports? Keeping kids active in the same ways they are accustomed to while participating in school activities is difficult but also important. Whether you’re looking for fun ways to keep your younger kids active or trying to help older kids stay in shape for athletics, here are some ideas for staying active at home.

     

    For Younger Kids

    Simon Says Fitness – Simon says “do 5 jumping jacks!” Simon says “run in place!” Turn a game your kids already love into a fun way to be active. Get creative with your prompts and don’t forget to try and trick them with some “Simon didn’t say so!”

    Treasure Hunts – This is a game you can play inside or outside to get the kids up and moving. Either hide items around the house or come up with a list of items you know they will be able to find. See who can find the most items or who can find them the quickest.

    Bike Rides – With everyone getting stir-crazy, a bike ride is a great way for the family to get out of the house together. In addition to riding around the neighborhood, we are also lucky to have the reservoir and North Coast Inland Trail here in Norwalk as great places to go for a ride.

    Obstacle Course – Set up some obstacles around the yard and take turns going through the course. Time yourselves to see who can complete the challenge the fastest and then rearrange the obstacles and try again!

     

    For High School and Junior High School Kids

    Yoga – There are lots of online resources for yoga and it’s a great exercise for core strength, balance, and flexibility. Find a video on YouTube you like and you’re ready to go!

    Body Weight Exercises – There are many exercises that use your own body weight and require no equipment and you’re probably already familiar with them. Pushups, lunges, reverse lunges, squats, and planks can all easily be done at home.

    Jump Rope – Jumping rope is great exercise and the only piece of equipment required—rope—is easy to find. Be sure to jump on a flat surface and remove any obstacle like rocks or sticks. Challenge yourself to see how many jumps you can get in a set amount of time and have fun with the exercise.

    Line Jumps – Draw a line with chalk on the driveway or mark it with tape. Make sure wherever you are doing your drills is an even surface to prevent injury. Using the line as your guide, jump in-place or down-the-line jump alternating using both feet or one foot at a time moving forward and backward and side to side. Use the balls of your feet to jump and keep your body weight on the instep and big toe.

  • How to Manage Seasonal Affective Disorder

    Seasonal Affective Disorder is a clinical depression where problematic symptoms occur for longer than two weeks during a season change reoccurring for two years in a row. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 10 million Americans are affected yearly. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is different from the “winter blues” which can be described as a minor period of time where one has less energy, wants to sleep more, and can feel more down than usual.

    Have you noticed your mood being impacted by the weather, especially in the Fall and Winter months? Do you notice others around you saying, “Get over it because you should be used to this Ohio weather?” It may actually not be so easy to “get over it” as it  you could be suffering from a medical condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder or commonly known as SAD.

     

    Seasonal Affective Disorder Symptoms

    Symptoms of SAD can include being less physically active and engaging in social isolation. When the weather gets colder out and it’s dark outside when people wake up and get off of school or work, it impacts their mindset. People can even demonstrate a weight gain due to finding comfort in foods and not getting out of the house as often as they would in the Spring and Summer months. Some even suffer from physical aches and pains due to the cold weather and “heaviness” of depression. Many people complain of fatigue even though they are sleeping more either by taking more naps or sleeping longer periods of time at night. SAD can cause feelings of hopelessness, guilt, indecisiveness, and criticism towards themselves and others.

    The exact reason why Seasonal Affect Disorder impacts some people and not others is not known. However, it is believed that those who have family history of depressive disorders are more likely to be effected by SAD. It is also thought that chemicals in the brain are a huge influencer as the darker days can lead to more melatonin being produced causing fatigue. Additionally, the lack of sunlight causes dysregulation in serotonin levels as well as vitamin D, according to National Institute of Mental Health. Due to these chemical contributors, treatment for SAD can range from supplements or medication to therapy.

     

    How to Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder

    There are many things you can do to combat these feelings including becoming more physically and socially active, eating vitamin D enriched foods and taking supplements, or a referral to a mental health specialist for talk therapy and medication management. Light therapy can also be a benefit for many individuals. Being outside for at least 30 minutes can help boost your morale and serotonin levels. If you cannot go outside, then be mindful of where you sit, choosing to sit near windows where you can enjoy the sunlight. You can also invest in a light lamp you can sit under for 30 to 60 minutes a day in intervals. The bright artificial light mimics outdoor light for a period of time to regulate your brain and mood. This technique is so common that even some libraries in bigger cities allow their patrons to check out light lamps along with their books.

    If you are concerned that you or a loved one is affected by SAD then you should speak to your doctor to find the best option for you. And keep in mind, Spring is right around the corner!

  • The 5 Best Healthy Summer Foods

    The five best healthy summer foods include watermelons, leafy greens, corn on the cob, tomatoes and berries. Summer has many great benefits including a bountiful supply of fresh fruits and vegetables. The great part is that during the summer you can stock up on fruits and veggies in your own garden or at a local farmer’s market. Learn more about those five healthy food tips for summer below.

    Top Healthy Summer Foods

    • Watermelons
    • Leafy Greens
    • Corn on the Cob
    • Tomatoes
    • Berries

    Watermelon

    Watermelon is at the top of the list. Besides being very refreshing on a hot’s summer day, it also is a fruit that can provide you some added hydration. Did you know that watermelon is 92 percent water and packed with vitamins and minerals? In addition, it contains lycopene which provides anti-inflammatory properties.

    Leafy Greens

    Leafy greens, such as swiss chard, contain abundant amounts of phytonutrients providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Swiss chard also is a good source of fiber with more than 3.5 grams for 1 cup cooked. High fiber foods can help with blood sugar management. Swiss chard is a low calorie vegetable with-one cup having only 35 calories and 7 grams of carbohydrates.

    Corn on the Cob

    Fresh sweet corn is a popular summer side dish. Many people love the taste, yet another plus is that it contains two antioxidants that can be beneficial for eye health—lutein and zeaxanthin. It also is a good source of vitamins including folate, an essential nutrient and very important in pregnancy to avoid neuro-tube defects. Do you have high blood pressure? Corn on the cob also has potassium, which is important for controlling blood pressure.

    Tomatoes

    Tomatoes are another essential food to add to your summer menu. While tomatoes are available year-round, they are most flavorful and more plentiful from July through September. The tomato provides lycopene which may help protect you from sunburns. In addition, this fruit, generally categorized as a vegetable, contains several important micronutrients including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, B6, folate, niacin, and vitamin E—all of which work together to keep us healthy.

    Berries

    Summer is a perfect time for fresh raspberries, blueberries and strawberries. You can eat them alone. add them to your favorite salad or create a healthy dessert with them. Any way you serve them, berries are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. They also contain fiber, which can be beneficial for weight management. Berries provide a source of phytochemicals including anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which may help defend against heart disease and cancer.

    Summer is a wonderful time to start incorporating new foods to put you on a healthier path.