When a person has a mental disorder like major depressive disorder, and you are on the sidelines watching your loved one suffer, it can be difficult. People have a natural inclination to distract those suffering from feeling the symptoms of their disorder. This is not necessarily the best course of action. Though it may provide… Continue reading How to Help Someone With Depression
Category: Conditions
Living with a health condition? On the PatientsLikeMe blog, find helpful health information and patient stories about being diagnosed, trying different treatments, and living day-to-day with a chronic condition.
New Heart Health Tool: Assess Your Heart Health Today
When was the last time you thought about what your heart health will be like in the future? In January, the American Heart Association introduced HeartCheck, an online calculator aimed at predicting an individual’s likelihood of developing heart disease at the age of 30 – ten years younger than previous calculators! What is this tool,… Continue reading New Heart Health Tool: Assess Your Heart Health Today
A Focus on Potassium: Curbing the Rise of CKD
What is Potassium? Potassium is an electrolyte, meaning it carries an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids like blood. It is primarily found inside cells and is vital for maintaining proper cell function, nerve signaling, muscle contraction (including the heart muscle), and fluid balance within the body. Additionally, it helps regulate blood pressure, supports… Continue reading A Focus on Potassium: Curbing the Rise of CKD
What is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can be caused by having diabetes. High blood sugar or glucose levels can cause nerve damage throughout the body, specifically in the legs and feet. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Depending on the affected nerves, diabetic neuropathy… Continue reading What is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Insulin and Glucose: Understanding Key Players in Type 1 Diabetes
Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA According to the American Diabetes Association, Diabetes is “a problem with your body that causes blood glucose levels to rise higher than normal. This is also called hyperglycemia.” When we eat, our bodies break down foods into glucose (sugars) which get sent into the bloodstream. Insulin… Continue reading Insulin and Glucose: Understanding Key Players in Type 1 Diabetes
Treating Type 1 Diabetes: A Patient Guide
Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA So – you or a loved one has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D). There are several life changes that come with the condition! Understanding these will help you manage your health more effectively and keep your spirits high. Knowing is half the battle, and… Continue reading Treating Type 1 Diabetes: A Patient Guide
Understanding Type 1 Diabetes Risk Factors: Who is at Risk?
Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA Diabetes is the 8th leading cause of death in the United States. About 38 million people have the condition, and experts estimate 1 in 5 do not know they have it. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90-95% of all cases, but type 1 diabetes (T1D) is… Continue reading Understanding Type 1 Diabetes Risk Factors: Who is at Risk?
Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Medication Guide
Your heart is a vital organ that works tirelessly to keep you alive and healthy. But sometimes, it needs a little help to function at its best! That is where heart medications come into play. Keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check is essential for maintaining good heart health. When lifestyle changes alone… Continue reading Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Medication Guide
Managing Hypertension in Chronic Kidney Disease
Living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) comes with a number of challenges! One of the most significant concerns is managing hypertension, or high blood pressure. In the United States alone, more than 122 million people have high blood pressure. That is roughly half of all Americans ages 20 and up. For those who are 65… Continue reading Managing Hypertension in Chronic Kidney Disease
What Are the Best Tortillas to Enjoy with Chronic Kidney Disease
Corn, flour, cauliflower—when it comes to tortillas, there are so many options out there! How do you know which tortillas are kidney-friendly and suitable for those with chronic kidney disease? Let’s dive in deeper to find out! Tortillas with Chronic Kidney Disease Tortillas are considered a carbohydrate food, similar to bread or rice. They will… Continue reading What Are the Best Tortillas to Enjoy with Chronic Kidney Disease