All we have for certain, is today. Even today is iffy. Since today is all we really have then it’s best to not mess it up by constantly looking over our shoulders.
by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator
Glenn Mollette
Peace and happiness have many variables.
We aren’t happy when we feel we do not have enough and then burdened if we have too much. We fret over not enough money or worry about what we will do if we have too much money. Most of us don’t have the latter problem.
We fret over not enough space or how we care for too much space. We accumulate and store up in our barns and build bigger barns to store up more stuff. We then don’t know what we will do with all the stuff.
How much does it take to bring you peace and make you happy? Can you be happy in a one room dwelling place? Does it take a 25-room house to make you feel good? How many cars do you need to make you feel satisfied? Or, is satisfaction only a remotely impossible concept? Many years ago, one popular song lamented, “I can’t get no satisfaction.”
Satisfaction and happiness may be claimed for a season. Possibly you are satisfied with your vocation, athletic accomplishments, family life, parenting success, fulfillment of life goals and ambitions? Often, we are but then those seasons pass. Careers end, athletic contests become history, retirement comes with memories that fade further and further into the past.
Too often most of us can look back and wonder, “what if?” we may say. The problem with “what if?” is that it doesn’t change anything. If it is in the past, you can’t relive it or change it regardless of how great you were or how bad you were.
All we have for certain, is today. Even today is iffy. Since today is all we really have then it’s best to not mess it up by constantly looking over our shoulders. You can’t go forward always looking back. In the Bible there was a man named Lot. He and his wife were told not to look back at Sodom and Gomera. She did and turned into a pillar of salt. Looking back has a way of doing that to all us as we become immobilized in time.
What does it take to make you happy? Someone to love and someone who loves you? A few family members to care for who also care for you? Enough money to pay the light bill and keep food on the table? Something to do during the day that you enjoy? The only person who can answer these questions are you because only you know what it really takes to make you happy.
Happiness is very much happenstance. Things change every day. Health, sickness, the stock market, families, jobs and hobbies. Friends and loved ones move away or die. Lie is always changing.
God never changes. Happiness may vary throughout the day or week, but your joy and peace that comes with faith in God and focusing on Him is something the world cannot give or take away.
Keep this verse in mind this day regardless of whether you feel happy or if you are down and blue. “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3.
About the author ~
Glen Mollett is the author of 13 books including Uncommom Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.
The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.
Burnout doesn’t have a written-in-stone clinical diagnosis. In most cases, it is usually physical, mental or emotional exhaustion that makes it difficult to navigate life.
Photo: Paola Chaaya/Unsplash
Burnout is caused by prolonged or excessive stress. It can leave many feeling detached, cynical, and indifferent towards work or other activities.
by Tim Ditman OSF Healthcare
ALTON - Burnout.
It means different things to different people. But one thing’s for sure: you should know the skills to cope with burnout to avoid a mental health crisis.
“Things are really expensive right now. People are looking for jobs. There’s a political climate with a lot of changes. It’s all created a lot of upset,” says Sara Bennett, an OSF HealthCare psychotherapist, commenting on the prevalence of burnout today. “And social media has a big role in how we feel. We see everybody’s problems. Or the opposite: Everybody’s life is so great and rosy. It leaves us wondering what we’re doing wrong.”
Causes and symptoms
Bennett says burnout doesn’t have a written-in-stone clinical diagnosis like, for example, the flu does. But generally, she describes it as physical, mental or emotional exhaustion that makes it difficult to navigate life. Issues with your job, school, finances, health and relationships can all lead to burnout.
Photo provided
Sara Bennett
“You’re probably going to feel a lack of concern. We call that apathy. You might not care if something’s going on. You might have a lack of interest in things you usually enjoy,” Bennett explains. “You might not be sleeping well. You might get stomachaches or headaches. You may be irritable.”
A sense of hopelessness can also occur. You might feel like things will never get better, or you can never get ahead of your problems, Bennett says.
Treatment
From your home to the doctor’s office, there are ways to navigate burnout.
First, Bennett says you should take stock of the situation you’re in. Is it one that will resolve itself soon? Or do you need a bigger plan? For example, Bennett says accountants can be stressed during tax season. But after all the filings are done and the chaos dies down, their mental health will likely get a boost.
Take care of the basics. Get good sleep. Eat a healthy diet. Exercise regularly.
Ask someone for help. For example, if caring for an elderly family member causes stress, ask a neighbor to man the house for an hour so you can get some fresh air or take a nap.
Learn to say no. You can’t be all things to all people. So, recognize when you don’t have the bandwidth to take on a task.
“Learn to prioritize,” Bennett suggests. “Figure out the things you can’t say no to. The things that are really important. Or maybe there’s some suffering involved, and you’re the person that can help.”
See a health care provider.
“Doctors can prescribe something that might help you through a short-term experience,” Bennett says. “Therapists can engage you unlike others in your life. They can process stressors with you. They can give you good coping skills and relaxation techniques.”
For example, Bennett says she may work with someone to identify what they can and can’t control in their life and encourage them not to get hung up on the latter. Journaling can also help avoid bottled up emotions. And, Bennett implores people to be grateful for the good things in life.
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Jun 03, 2025 02:40 pm .::. Challenges to Illinois gun laws could go before the Supreme Court
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May 27, 2025 07:11 pm .::. Officials find first instance of West Nile virus in IllinoisCHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health said the first positive test for West Nile virus in 2025 has been detected in Winnebago County near Rockford.
Health officials warned people in the infected area and elsewhere to take precautions to avoid the mosquito-borne disease, which is expected to spread across the state. Last year, Illinois reported 69 cases of West Nile, with 13 reported human deaths.
Illinois' "trigger law" could also lead to over 700,000 adults losing Medicaid coverage if federal reimbursement rates drop below 90%.
by Judith Ruiz-Branch Illinois News Connection
CHICAGO - As Congress considers federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP food assistance, groups advocating for Illinois schools are speaking out on how it would affect students across the state and the education system at large.
They said budget cuts would have both direct and indirect effects, from student eligibility to school reimbursements for things like meals and health screenings, and straining the state budget as well.
Jessica Handy, executive director of Stand for Children Illinois, highlighted the importance of students having access to health care and food, linking it to issues like chronic absenteeism, which has recently spiked in Illinois.
"These things really are all interconnected," Handy explained. "It's not that kids can show up to school hungry, show up to school with some severe chronic health issues and not have treatment and then be able to sit there and learn as if those things didn't happen."
She stressed implementing stricter qualifying requirements for Medicaid would reduce the number of students with health coverage and school funding from Medicaid reimbursements.
Handy pointed out changes in school-based Medicaid reimbursements like expanding coverage to include therapy services and vision screenings are now a significant funding source for schools. Illinois' "trigger law" could also lead to over 700,000 adults losing Medicaid coverage if federal reimbursement rates drop below 90%, potentially affecting school staff.
"If the Legislature comes back into session and wants to change that trigger law, then we have another really expensive budget pressure that leaves fewer flexible dollars to fund our schools," Handy observed.
Handy noted potentially shifting SNAP benefit costs to states could also jeopardize school funding. Although Illinois' 2025 legislative session has adjourned, she emphasized lawmakers would have to come back this year if federal budget cuts are implemented to rework the state budget, with the uncertainty further compounding matters.
"Schools can't budget and plan effectively for programs throughout the school year when they're not sure what the impact's going to be," Handy added. "It leaves everybody in a kind of gray area that's not good for stability and not good for really being able to focus on programs, instead of on logistics and keeping the doors open."
Some things to watch for that might prompt you to see a health care provider about sleep apnea.
Photo: Kampus Production/PEXELS
by Tim Ditman OSF Healthcare
URBANA - Here’s another reason to pay attention when your partner complains that you’re snoring or gasping for air at night: sleep apnea – repeated episodes of stopped or slowed breathing during sleep – and stroke go together in more ways than you think.
Leslie Ingold, RN, MSN, a regional stroke navigator at OSF HealthCare, says sleep apnea decreases blood flow to the brain, which can cause a stroke. Conversely, she says people who have suffered a stroke can experience sleep apnea, typically in the first day or two.
Ingold also says people with obstructive sleep apnea (collapse of the upper airway) are twice as likely to have a hole in their heart known as a patent foramen ovale (PFO). PFOs can increase your stroke risk.
“One of the tests we do when [stroke] patients come to the hospital is an echocardiogram of the heart. A PFO is what we’re looking for. It’s that hole in your heart that doesn’t close properly when you’re a child,” Ingold says. “It’s actually what they look for in sports physicals when kids are in school. Listening for that extra ‘lub-dub’ in the heartbeat. Sometimes it’s not caught. We’re finding people in their 60s and 70s that have the hole. We can go in and get that closed.”
What to watch for
Some things to watch for that might prompt you to see a health care provider about sleep apnea:
Snoring. Ingold says watch for loud snoring or a pattern of snoring when you didn’t used to.
“When you can hear it through the wall,” she quips.
Waking up and gasping for air
Morning headaches
Excessive sleepiness, difficulty concentrating and irritability throughout the day. For kids, watch for hyperactivity.
Increased blood pressure
For stroke signs, experts want you to remember the acronym BEFAST. If there are irregularities in balance, eyes, face, arms or speech, it’s time to call 9-1-1.
Nighttime strokes
Ingold says one in four strokes happens in the early morning when you’re likely asleep. Those so-called “wake up strokes” can make things tricky.
Medicine like tenecteplase (TNK) must be given at the hospital within 4.5 hours of the onset of symptoms. If you suffer a stroke while you’re sleeping, there’s not a good way to know when symptoms started. So, health care providers must go by the last time you were well, which would be when you went to sleep.
“There are some other things that can be done,” Ingold says, if TNK is not an option. “If there’s a clot, we can take care of those up to 24 hours [since symptom onset.] We can see if there are early signs of brain damage and get you on the road to those kinds of procedures if you qualify.”
But a big takeaway message: if you have stroke symptoms like a severe or unexpected headache, don’t sleep it off. See a health care provider.
Sleep
Healthy sleep
You may need treatment like a continuous positive airway pressure machine (CPAP) for sleep apnea. But healthy sleep habits will go a long way, too. Ingold says you can try a four-week plan.
Week one: Commit to physical activity, especially if you work at a desk all day. Get up and take a short walk.
“Do some things that will make you ready for bed,” Ingold says.
Week two: Phone tactics. Move it away from your bed to charge overnight. Use an old-fashioned alarm clock instead of your phone’s alarm. Turn your phone over. All of these make you less tempted to look at the device and take in blue light that inhibits sleep.
Week three: Create a morning routine.
“It doesn’t have to be anything fancy,” Ingold says. “Your alarm goes off. You walk over to check the phone you’ve placed on the other side of the room. Maybe grab a cup of coffee and give yourself five to 10 minutes. Read a devotion. Do some meditation.”
Week four: Not just the phone. Ditch all devices as bedtime approaches. Read a book or listen to a podcast instead of clearing the Netflix queue.
Other tips for healthy sleep:
Avoid long naps during the day. If you must nap, experts say to keep it under three hours.
Make your home’s lighting natural: bright during the day, darker as night approaches and dark at night.
Avoid large meals, caffeine and alcohol before bed.
If you are a light sleeper, things like earplugs and an artificial noise machine can help.
Public health officials are highlighting the importance of taking action to "Fight the Bite" during National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, which runs from June 18-24.
Photo: Mohamed Nuzrath/Pixabay
by Mark Richardson Illinois News Connection
CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health said the first positive test for West Nile virus in 2025 has been detected in Winnebago County near Rockford.
Health officials warned people in the infected area and elsewhere to take precautions to avoid the mosquito-borne disease, which is expected to spread across the state. Last year, Illinois reported 69 cases of West Nile, with 13 reported human deaths.
Sameer Vohra, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, said evidence of the disease usually emerges this time of year.
Most people who are bitten by infected mosquitoes do not contract the disease.
"In Illinois, we typically see the first environmental positive test for West Nile in mid- to late May," Vohra explained. "Mosquitoes typically emerge in the spring and are active until the first hard frost of the year."
Vohra noted West Nile virus is an endemic disease in Illinois, meaning it is commonly found in the state. Public health officials are highlighting the importance of taking action to "Fight the Bite" during National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, which runs from June 18-24.
Vohra pointed out most people who are bitten by infected mosquitoes do not contract the disease but one in five will show symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to a serious and possibly fatal illness.
"Right now, there's no treatment for West Nile virus," Vohra emphasized. "But supportive care is really important, especially if you're developing symptoms or you're that one of 150 people that can develop severe illness."
Public health officials have advised Illinoisians to wear long sleeves and pants outdoors, use Environmental Protection Agency-approved insect repellent and stay indoors during peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk. They also recommend trying to keep mosquitoes from breeding.
"One way to do that is to dump any standing water," Vohra advised. "Examples of that include flowerpots, children's toys, pet bowls, bird baths, buckets, used tires, abandoned swimming pools, any place where you can get standing water."
Numerous scientific studies from the American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate the correlation between exposure to PFAS found in turnout or bunker gear and the increased number of firefighters developing various forms of cancer.
Photo: Matt C/Unsplash
Suits designed to keep firemen safe may actually be killing them. Illinois lawmakers are working to make a law against local departments from using PFAS-ladened gear.
by Reilly Cook & Grace Friedman Medill Illinois News Bureau
SPRINGFIELD - A bill to ban the sale of firefighter protective gear containing “forever chemicals” is gaining momentum in the Illinois General Assembly, as lawmakers, union leaders and firefighters themselves warn that the very equipment designed to save lives may be silently endangering them.
House Bill 2409, co-sponsored by Rep. Mike Kelly, D-Chicago, and Sen. Ram Villivalam, D-Chicago, seeks to expand on the state’s existing PFAS Reduction Act by targeting a lesser-addressed but critical source of firefighter exposure to these harmful substances: their turnout gear.
Turnout gear, also known as bunker gear, is the specialized protective clothing worn by firefighters to protect them when they respond to fires or other hazardous situations.
“We know the damage that PFAs can do to our bodies,” Kelly said in an interview. “While this is supposed to protect us, it’s doing us serious harm.”
PFAS have long been used to make products -resistant to water, heat and staining, but research has increasingly linked them to serious health issues, including multiple forms of cancer. According to the Environmental Working Group, an advocacy organization trying to protect environmental health through better industry standards, PFAS were first added to firefighters’ personal protective equipment in 1976.
The bill is backed by the Associated Firefighters of Illinois, a statewide union representing more than 17,000 firefighters and paramedics in 237 communities. Advocates argue that the legislation is crucial in addressing the leading cause of death among firefighters today—chronic illnesses such as cancer.
“Little did we know that the bunker gear, the very gear that is supposed to protect us, to keep us safe, is actually killing us,” AFFI President and retired firefighter Chuck Sullivan said. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they can stay in the human body a long time.
Numerous scientific studies from the American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate the correlation between exposure to PFAS and the increased number of firefighters developing various forms of cancer. Kelly and Villavalam cited this research as the impetus driving the legislation.
Sullivan said the Illinois bill closely follows similar legislation passed in Massachusetts, Minnesota and Connecticut. Under HB 2409, manufacturers would be banned from selling gear containing PFAS in Illinois after Jan. 1, 2027. In the interim, labeling requirements would take effect beginning in 2026. Fire departments would be mandated to phase out affected equipment, such as self-contained breathing apparatuses or certain rescue harnesses, by 2030.
“When we put our gear on, it's not on the forefront of our mind that that is also dangerous and also giving us additional exposures,” Steve Shetsky, a member of AFFI’s executive board, said. “So this bill would absolutely limit those exposures, which would make this profession safer.”
Retired Chicago Fire Department Lieutenant Jim Tracy knows the risk firsthand. Diagnosed with colon cancer six years ago, he endured chemotherapy, radiation and surgery to eradicate the cancer he blames on the uniform.
“I was 22 years in the field when I got diagnosed,” Tracy said. “It is unfortunately one of those cancers you get from PFAS.”
Tracy, who spent 28 years working as a firefighter, said it was only recently that they received one set of gear that is “99% PFAS free.” The new equipment was delayed in production, he said, because manufacturers had to remove PFAS-laced materials from collars and cuffs and replace them with 100% cotton. Many firefighters, however, still wear older gear that is laden with forever chemicals.
“Personal protective equipment,” Tracy said. “It’s not very protective if it is giving us cancer.”
In addition to his own health battle, Tracy said he has many colleagues in the department who have gotten sick but do not report their illnesses out of fear of losing their jobs.
“They don’t want to get kicked off the job, so they go through it on their own and don’t tell the department,” he said.
‘Financial unknowns, replacements under testing’
HB 2409 passed the House 114-0 on April 10. It passed a Senate committee unanimously and is awaiting final action on the Senate floor before it can head to Gov. JB Pritzker for a signature.
Despite bipartisan support in both legislative chambers, the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association has been vocal in its opposition to the bill, citing concerns about the availability and cost of compliant gear.
Photo: Ken Steele II/Unsplash
Illinois Fire Chiefs Association opposes the bill, citing concerns about the availability and cost of safer equipment for firefighters.
John Buckley, executive director of the IFCA, testified before the Senate Labor Committee on May 6, urging lawmakers to amend the bill to delay the enforcement date.
“Our ask and our solution to the problem was to move the date from Jan. 1, 2027, to Jan. 1, 2029 — to give two years to determine if gear would be available and meet the needs of the firefighters in Illinois,” Buckley said.
While Buckley emphasized that the IFCA supports eradicating PFAS from firefighter gear, he warned that the current timeline does not allow enough time for departments to identify, test and purchase safe alternatives, which he said are not affordable or readily accessible.
“Currently, nothing’s been tested and vetted that meets that requirement,” he said. “The gear that’s out there that is PFAS-free is in very limited use, and some of it does not meet national standards,” Buckley said.
Buckley also pointed out that the proposed legislation lacks a funding mechanism to help departments cover the cost of new gear, which he said could “range from $4,000 to $5,000 per set.”
According to the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, the state has 39,564 firefighters. Outfitting each with PFAS-free equipment could cost between $158 million and $198 million—a significant expense as Illinois faces a tightening budget picture for fiscal year 2026.
Still, sponsors said protecting firefighters from potentially deadly chemical exposure should take precedence over its price tag and logistical concerns.
“Our first responders deserve to work with equipment and clothing that does not pose a risk to their health,” Villivalam said. “This measure ensures they are able to continue to be protected while doing their work effectively.”
Even if HB 2409 becomes law, Buckley said he plans to continue pushing for a 2029 effective date when the 104th General Assembly reconvenes in January 2026.
Reilly Cook and Grace Friedman are graduate students in journalism with Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications, and fellows in its Medill Illinois News Bureau working in partnership with Capitol News Illinois.
Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service that distributes state government coverage to hundreds of news outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
Tagged: PFAS found in firefighter gear, Health risks for firefighters, Illinois firefighters exposed to deadly chemical exposure, Making firefighting safer, Manufacturers would be banned from selling gear containing PFAS in Illinois
There are many factors when it comes to bone loss including age, body weight, diet and physical activity. The key to minimizing bone density loss is the inclusion of weight bearing exercises such as lifting weights.
Photo: Robert Anasch/Unsplash
by Matt Sheehan OSF Healthcare
ROCKFORD - There’s always plenty of discussion when it comes to the benefits of diets.
In one recent study in the JAMA Network Open, researchers found the lower-calorie Mediterranean diet combined with exercise, helped older women lose weight with beneficial effects on bone mass density.
The study was completed in hospitals and medical centers across Spain and included more than 900 women who ranged in age from 55 to 75. Half the group was instructed to eat a Mediterranean diet with no calorie restrictions and were not required to exercise. The other half was encouraged to walk for at least 45 minutes a day for six days a week and do strength exercises three days a week. This group saw significant improvement in stronger bones.
A lack of calcium and vitamin D are also major factors in bone density loss.
There are many factors when it comes to bone loss including age, body weight, diet and physical activity. Nicole O’Neill, a dietitian with OSF HealthCare, says the Mediterranean diet and exercise can prevent bone loss, if weight bearing exercise, such as lifting weights, is part of the program.
“This was not studied specifically for the Mediterranean diet and bone loss,” she explains. “It was something they found incidentally and then studied it closer. It's not that it's wrong, it's just that it's inconclusive.”
Nicole O’Neill, Dietitian
A lack of calcium and vitamin D are also major factors in bone density loss. “The Mediterranean diet overall limits the amount of dairy, so most people get the majority of their calcium and vitamin D from dairy products,” says O’Neill. “So, say you were doing three glasses of milk a day. If you switched to a Mediterranean diet and dropped down to one glass of milk, you could cause bone loss because you're getting less calcium and vitamin D if you're not careful.”
The typical American standard diet includes plenty of processed foods and lacks in fruits and vegetables.
Key Takeaways:
A study found the Mediterranean diet combined with exercise may have some positive effect on bone mass density in older women.
The key is the inclusion of weight bearing exercises such as lifting weights.
The Mediterranean diet is popular because it promotes fruits and vegetables and fewer processed foods.
Always consult with your provider before starting any diet.
The Mediterranean diet is popular because it features simple, plant-based cooking, with each meal featuring fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and seeds and an emphasis on extra-virgin olive oil. The diet is rich in nutrients that help bone health. Vitamin C from fruits and vegetables can help support bone cells and vitamin K found in spinach can help with bone formation.
“I really do like the Mediterranean diet,” O’Neill says. “There are a lot of pros. The cons are it’s a little fussy. You have to push and pull things around, and you have to be careful to fill in the gaps with foods that are appropriate. If you're not used to having that bigger load of fruits and vegetables and whole grains, that's a lot of fiber that maybe your guts are not used to. So, a slow, incremental approach might be the best way to start.”
Regarding any study, O’Neill says it’s important to read and do your research before coming to any conclusions. Don’t rely on information from the Internet, she adds. You’re likely to get misleading information. Instead, talk to your provider or a dietitian who can interpret the numbers found in the study.
“There are really a lot of moving parts,” O’Neill says. “When you start a new diet, we don't want a crash course. We want it to be sustainable. We want it to be long term, and we want it to be something that fits for you and that makes sense.”
Urticaria is a rash causing round, swollen areas on the skin. It can be tender, itchy and/or painful. People with light skin may see red, raised bumps or welts.
BPT - If you've had hives, you know how challenging they can be. But you may not know that there is more than one type of hives, or urticaria, and that treatments are available. A brief episode of hives is a nuisance, but when symptoms persist for weeks, months or years, it can take a physical and psychological toll.
What is urticaria?
Urticaria is a rash causing round, swollen areas on the skin. It can be tender, itchy and/or painful. People with light skin may see red, raised bumps or welts. In people of color, hives may match the color of surrounding skin or appear slightly lighter or darker. They may appear all over your body or in one area.
Urticaria occurs when chemical compounds involved in the body's inflammatory and immune responses are released. One of these chemicals is histamine, which is released by mast cells and basophils. When this release happens in the skin's outer layers, it results in hives.
Most hives resolve quickly, but they can become chronic. Acute urticaria refers to hives lasting one day to six weeks. Chronic urticaria means the hives have lasted for six weeks or longer. For many people, the cause is unknown.
Chronic urticaria eventually goes away by itself.
Chronic urticaria is a rare condition that occurs in only 23 out of 10,000 people, though the actual number may be higher, since many people do not report or recognize the symptoms. Chronic urticaria is most common in adults aged 40-59. More women than men are affected, and more Black Americans and other ethnic groups are affected. There are two types:
Chronic idiopathic urticaria (also called chronic spontaneous urticaria) is not triggered by external factors. In many cases, the cause could be an autoimmune condition, another systemic disease like cancer, or unknown.
Chronic inducible urticaria is caused by certain environmental and physical factors.
Identifying urticaria triggers
Common triggers include:
Allergens, including certain foods
Exposure to heat/cold
Tight clothing
Insect stings and bites
Infections and viruses
Medications such as antibiotics and NSAIDs
Diseases including asthma, celiac disease, diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, vasculitis and vitiligo
Stress
Diagnosis and treatment
The cause of your chronic urticaria may be hard to identify. It's best to see a specialist such as a board-certified allergist or dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Your doctor may perform allergy tests, lab tests or a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions that involve or resemble hives. You can help by keeping a diary that tracks your symptoms.
Chronic urticaria eventually goes away by itself. Management focuses on the most appropriate treatment to control symptoms, usually starting with the first line of treatment: a long-lasting antihistamine.
Antihistamines block production of histamine to reduce or eliminate hives and ease itch and swelling. Ask your doctor for a non-sedating antihistamine.
Topical itch creams may provide mild relief for hives that do not cover the entire body.
Corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroids reduce inflammation, irritation and itching. By reducing inflammation, they also promote healing. For a severe hives flare-up, a short course of oral corticosteroids (prednisone) can help reduce inflammation and itching. These medications can cause serious side effects, especially if taken long-term. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking oral corticosteroids.
Advanced treatments
It's important to work closely with your doctor if your hives don't respond to treatment. If antihistamines alone do not help, your doctor may recommend combining them with other medications, including leukotriene modifiers or H2 blockers. New advanced treatments are available, and more are in clinical trials or undergoing FDA review.
Biologics: Omalizumab is a biologic medication used to treat chronic urticaria when antihistamines haven't worked. Two more biologics are in development as chronic urticaria treatments: dupilumab is in FDA review and briquilimab is in clinical trials. Biologics work by targeting cells and interrupting the inflammatory process. This stops or reduces symptoms. Biologics are injectable medications typically given once per month.
Cyclosporine: This is an oral medication that calms the immune system to prevent hives from occurring. It can be taken along with antihistamines. Since cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive, it can decrease the body's ability to fight infections. Talk with your doctor about side effects and the benefits vs. risks of taking this medication.
Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor: Remibrutinib is an oral medication in clinical trials. It works by blocking the activation of mast cells and basophils. These cells release histamine and other inflammatory mediators that cause hives, swelling and itching. By blocking this process, remibrutinib can reduce or eliminate symptoms.
Hives and mental health
It's important not to blame yourself for your hives. If you're feeling anxiety, depression or embarrassment about your skin condition, talk with your healthcare provider or a mental health specialist. Support groups for people with urticaria also let you share experiences and know you are not alone.
Don't let chronic urticaria impact your quality of life. Talk to your doctor. Check out the Chronic Urticaria Toolkit at ChronicHives.info.
StatePoint Media - Statistics show if that if you’re not filtering your water the right way, your family is likely consuming microplastics.
An overwhelming 94% of U.S. tap water is contaminated with fragments of plastic pollution called microplastics, and bottled water does not fare much better —microplastics are found in 93% of 11 popular water bottle brands around the world.
Microplastics found in drinking water are not just an environmental hazard — mounting evidence indicates that they are also a potential human health hazard.
When it comes to your family’s health and well-being, don’t take chances.
So what can you do to help make your drinking water safer? Investing in the right water filter is a great start. Be sure to choose one that meets internationally-recognized testing standards and is backed by independent testing. For example, all of LifeStraw’s water filters feature a membrane technology capable of filtering out microplastics and a host of other contaminants, such as bacteria and parasites.
To ensure your family has higher-quality water wherever you go, tackle the problem with this two-pronged approach:
At home: Supply your household with safer water using the LifeStraw Home High-Capacity Dispenser. In addition to microplastics, this sleek, 35-cup dispenser also removes bacteria and parasites, and reduces lead, mercury and chemicals, including PFAS, as well as chlorine, herbicides, pesticides, dirt, sand and cloudiness, while retaining essential minerals.
On the go: Access healthier water when you are at school, work or out and about using the LifeStraw Go Series Water Filter Tumbler. This insulated, travel-sized stainless steel water filter improves taste and protects against contaminants, including microplastics.
To learn more about safe drinking water, as well as efforts being made to improve drinking water around the world, visit lifestraw.com/blogs.
When it comes to your family’s health and well-being, don’t take chances. Simple steps can vastly improve your water supply and reduce your consumption of harmful pollutants.
Rough-and-tumble play, offers numerous benefits for children's development, including physical, emotional, and social skills. It helps them explore strength, manage emotions, build confidence, and develop crucial problem-solving skills.
by Colleen Reynolds OSF Healthcare
PEORIA - First-time moms can be a little leery of dad wrestling with a little one, but research shows rough housing, or better put, active play actually helps with physical development, social skills and emotional regulation.
Kyle Boerke, PsyD, a clinical child psychologist and the director of Outpatient Behavioral Health services at OSF HealthCare, says it might be surprising but aggressive physical play between parents and their children results in less aggressive kids.
Kyle Boerke
“During physical play, fathers especially who exert some levels of dominance actually have more well-adjusted kiddos; more socially adjusted and more confident kiddos whereas with more passive fathers, we actually get children who engage in more physical aggression. So, it’s kind of opposite of what some people who are hesitant might think.”
Active play also helps children learn to regulate their emotions Dr. Boerke says.
“I might be starting to get frustrated but I’m learning how to deal with that frustration. I’m learning how to be assertive and say, ‘I would like to stop or please stop.’ And if it’s high-quality interaction the parent is going to stop and now I’m learning that if I advocate for myself, then things are going to turn out the right way.”
What does active play look like? It can be playing tag, wrestling, flying a kid like an airplane on your raised legs and feet, even spinning a child around. During a walk, it could be mom and dad swinging them with each holding a hand.
Dr. Boerke says rough-and-tumble play has so many benefits. For example, he says it provides opportunities for children to learn about social cues and helps build confidence as they test their limits. It positively impacts the brain, improving cognition, attention and academic achievement.
For parents it has positive side effects because the interactions activate pleasure hormones.
There is no age limit for rough-and-tumble play.
“One of the most fascinating parts of research on this rough-and-tumble play is we actually get equal, if not higher, levels of this hormone oxytocin at the end of a rough- and-tumble play session than we do when we simply sit on the couch and cuddle with our kiddos. So it actually strengthens the bond with my child.”
Active play also promotes development of gross motor skills, balance, coordination and spatial awareness. But parents need to make sure it doesn’t cause harm or that the parent always has dominance. Dr. Boerke suggests letting the child win as much as you do and setting limits when it goes on too long.
He emphasizes that when it comes to tickling, don’t hold a child down and make sure to stop when a child says they’ve had enough or seem worn out by it.
There is no age limit for rough-and-tumble play. Dr. Boerke explains the type of active play just morphs a bit as a child ages.
“What was wrestling or chase and flee, what was tickling and throwing them in the air when they were little turned into, we're going to play a one-on-one game of basketball, you know, at a park. Or if I have a hoop at my house, there's rough-and-tumble play in that too, right?”
For more introverted parents, Dr. Boerke suggests easing into active play and it will eventually come naturally. Enthusiasm is important. He stresses that a child needs to feel a parent is really engaged and interested, not just going through the motions. He says if parents are too passive about play, their children tend to be more aggressive in the long run.
Findings highlight wide-ranging health impacts and alarming cost implications
by Patty Starr President and CEO, Health Action Council
Newly released claims data from more than 220,000 people reveal the latest evidence on the role obesity plays in health and health care costs, underpinning the need for supportive measures and interventions.
The new study, which analyzed Health Action Council (HAC) members with health plans administered by UnitedHealthcare, found that people with obesity cost their employers 2.3 times more than those without the condition and paid 66% more out-of-pocket ($662) per year than their peers without obesity. Notably, Millennials with obesity incurred over 8% higher per member per month (PMPM) costs than Baby Boomers without obesity who were 27 years older, due to the increased likelihood of chronic condition diagnoses.
Multifaceted health consequences
Comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and musculoskeletal issues were major cost drivers. The more comorbidities a person with obesity experienced, the higher their costs became. Obesity significantly increased the risk of various cancers, including breast, colon, rectum, and upper stomach cancers, and increased the risks for anxiety, substance use disorders, and depression.
Obesity among women of childbearing age
The report highlighted a 19-percentage-point rise in obesity rates between Gen Z women (9%) and Millennial women (28%), the largest generation in today’s workforce. This was particularly concerning due to the heightened maternal mortality risks and mental health issues associated with obesity.
The ripple effect on children
Children of parents with obesity are generally twice as likely to develop the condition themselves, but this risk tripled for children of HAC members if at least one parent had obesity. These children were also 44% more likely to experience depression, 39% more likely to have ADHD, and had higher rates of developmental disorders, asthma and diabetes.
Whole person weight management solutions
Effective strategies will require more than GLP-1s, which are unlikely to meaningfully impact obesity rates due to their high costs and low compliance rates. Consistent with the Food and Drug Administration’s label, these medications should be used in tandem with a life-style modification program for the treatment of obesity.
Strategies for employers
Following are a few steps employers can take to build a healthier workplace culture.
Understand your population. Analyze claims to determine the percentage of your workforce and dependents impacted by obesity. Identify prevalence, most impacted groups, as well as other health risks and social drivers of health.
Foster a healthy environment. Encourage a positive relationship with food, activity, and stress management by offering classes on exercise, nutrition, and mindfulness and providing non-processed foods at meetings, events, and in common areas. Encourage daily physical activity, less screen time, and quality sleep.
Offer comprehensive health solutions. Implement wellness solutions that integrate whole-person health by providing access to virtual providers such as network dietitians, digital health tools like mental health apps, and wearable technologies such as continuous glucose monitors.
About the author ~
Patty Starr is President and CEO of Health Action Council and is responsible for driving the strategic direction of the organization--build stronger, healthier communities where business can thrive.
Unity's Damian Knoll is tagged out on a play at second base by a Hoopeston Area player during the Rockets' first game of the season. Later, the junior smacked a 3-RBI triple in the bottom of the 5th innning to make the score 11-1 and secured his team's first victory of the season.
Delicious veggies and more, FFA plant sale starts on Monday
Looking flowers or vegetables for your garden this spring?
Tomorrow at 9am the next round of the St. Joseph-Ogden FFA Chapter will be open for business. Orders for available plants must be done online after it goes live tomorrow at https://my.cheddarup.com/c/st-joseph-ogden-ffa-chapter-greenhouse. Buyers can set a pick-up time to collect their purchase.
You don’t have to stay in the nursing home if you don’t want to. If you can manage to get out and have a place to go then it’s your life. Even if you want to spend your remaining days crawling in the floor to the kitchen or the bathroom then it’s your God given right to live out your days in such a way.
Over the past 13 months unemployment rates nearly doubled their pre-pandemic levels reported in February 2020, the prospect of starting a new career after age 50 may seem unrealistic. However, industry experts say that it’s actually a great time for those in this age bracket to consider making the leap.
More Americans suffered extended power outages in 2020 than any year since Superstorm Sandy struck the New York area in 2012, according to Generac, owners of Power Outage Central, a real-time outage tracking service that monitors outages throughout the United States.
Back in November of last year, power was out for about three hours in the south part of Champaign and another area covering Campustown.
Baker sets hurdles PR, SJO girls snag 9 first at home meet
The St. Joseph-Ogden girls track team took first place in nine events in a home dual meet against Eureka last Thursday.
Haleigh Maddock turned in a 31.10 in the 200m Dash. She was followed over the finish line by teammates Yamilka Casanova (32.32) and Jayci Hayes (32.48) to secure the top three spots on the podium.
Joining the tech workforce is easier than you might think
More than 12 million people are currently employed in tech-related occupations in the U.S., either as information technology (IT) professionals or employees of technology companies. Yet employer demand for tech workers is still strong in many markets and industries, including technology, financial services, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, government and education.
Tech jobs in Champaign County are plentiful at the moment. Technology Services at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is currently accepting applications for three positions on their Managed IT Services teams. Four days ago, Revature was seeking software developers and Niemann Foods advertised an opening for a Network Administrator with a starting pay at $40K annually.
Before you start looking for a summer camp, consider what activities your child enjoys, whether it's sports, arts and crafts, science or outdoor adventures.
Photo: Ron Lach/Pexels
Family Features - Selecting the perfect summer camp for your child can be a pivotal experience, shaping memories for years to come. Offering unique opportunities for kids to experience independence, build lasting friendships and develop new skills in a fun and safe environment, camps can encourage them to step out of their comfort zones, try new activities and overcome challenges away from the comforts of home.
Because campers are immersed in a variety of programs, such as outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, sports, team-building exercises and more, they often return home more resilient, confident and with a sense of achievement.
Consider these tips to choose the right summer excursion for your child.
Understand Your Child's Interests and Needs
Before you start looking for a summer camp, consider what activities your child enjoys, whether it's sports, arts and crafts, science or outdoor adventures. Knowing his or her preferences can help narrow down the options.
Additionally, think about your child's personality and social needs to ensure the camp experience is tailored to his or her unique disposition. If your child is more introverted, a smaller, more intimate camp setting may be beneficial. A larger camp environment may better suit outgoing children who are eager to make new friends.
Research Camp Options and Reputations
Look for camps that offer the activities your child enjoys and have a good reputation. Read reviews from other parents and, if possible, visit the camps to get a feel for the environment. Each camp provides unique strengths, ensuring there is one for every child to enjoy and benefit from.
Check if the camps have been in operation for a significant amount of time and whether they have experienced and qualified staff. A camp with a long-standing reputation and a history of positive feedback can provide added assurance of a quality experience for your child.
Evaluate Camp Safety and Accreditation
Safety should be a top priority when choosing a summer camp. Ensure the camp is accredited by a reputable organization, such as the American Camp Association, which sets high standards for health, safety and program quality.
Inquire about safety protocols, including staff-to-camper ratios, emergency procedures and staff training in first aid and CPR. It's also important to ask about the camp's policies on bullying and how they handle behavioral issues that may arise.
Consider Camp Location and Duration
Decide whether you prefer a camp close to home or if you're comfortable with your child traveling to a different region. Proximity can be beneficial in case of emergencies or if your child experiences homesickness.
Additionally, think about the length of the camp session. Some camps offer one-week sessions while others might last for several weeks or just overnight. Consider your child's readiness for being away from home for extended periods and choose a duration that aligns with your family's schedule and his or her comfort level.
To find more parenting advice, visit eLivingtoday.com.
Six ways Trump's budget will damage rural Americans' way of life
Right now, Congress is working on a giant, fast-track bill that would make historic cuts to basic needs programs to finance another round of tax breaks for the wealthy and big corporations.
PONTIAC - People everywhere are conquering their cabin fever and are enjoying the great outdoors after a long, bitter winter. But before you head out for that hike, health care experts remind you to take precautions to avoid tick bites. Read more . . .
Unity's Damian Knoll is tagged out on a play at second base by a Hoopeston Area player during the Rockets' first game of the season. Later, the junior smacked a 3-RBI triple in the bottom of the 5th innning to make the score 11-1 and secured his team's first victory of the season.
