Indiana has been trying to dig out of the snow and ice for days now, but we are also trying to find our way through a particularly rough flu season. The Indiana State Department of Health reports 25 influenza-associated deaths already. We're dealing with a predominant strain that is generally more severe than others, so GCGH, like a lot of other hospitals, has put a visitor restriction in place to help keep infections under control. If you're not feeling well, and wondering, "do I have the … [Read more...] about C is for…Clean, Cover, Contain that Flu Bug!
Elder Care in Extreme Weather
Extreme weather conditions can make anyone miserable, but our elderly friends and loved ones are especially vulnerable when the temperatures drop and the world is covered in ice. The "wintery mix" we are experiencing now can be dangerous for seniors. If you know or care for an older person, it's important to help them stay safe and warm. Some things we know make it harder for them - like the older body's reduced ability to regulate body temperature. But cold weather is even harder when there … [Read more...] about Elder Care in Extreme Weather
Free Smoking Cessation Program
If you have ever tried to quit smoking cold turkey, or gone it alone with a patch or another plan, you know just how hard it can be to kick your tobacco habit. Tobacco products of all kinds are highly addictive. They send a thrill to our pleasure receptors that keeps us coming back for more, meanwhile the rest of the body is left to suffer the side effects of cigarettes, chew, and more. Let us help you break your tobacco habit. If you are ready to be free from tobacco please join us … [Read more...] about Free Smoking Cessation Program
Therapy – Physical vs. Occupational
Every wonder what the difference is between physical and occupational therapy? It’s been said that physical therapy will get you up and walking, while occupational therapy will make sure you aren’t walking without your shoes and coat. That’s right, a big part of occupational therapy is helping people recover the basic movement of life. Just think about all the movement required to put on a coat, button or zip it up, slip into shoes or tie them. So many joints and muscles make it … [Read more...] about Therapy – Physical vs. Occupational
When Your Knee Needs Help
What happens after a knee injury? Whether it’s an athletic tear or some kind of trauma, the best chance anyone has for complete recovery after injury is quick medical care. Thankfully, there are many therapeutic treatments that can restore the knee to health. (And, you guessed it, we have the best right here at Greene County General!) The key is usually getting treatment as soon as possible. For minor injuries that don’t require surgery, a good word to remember is RICE: rest, ice, … [Read more...] about When Your Knee Needs Help
Fight SAD with Sun
Not everyone is excited about the change in seasons. We may be happy to celebrate the holidays, but many of our friends and family struggle with a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or the winter blues. In Indiana, when the sky turns gray and the ground turns brown, the lack of sunlight makes our brains work overtime producing melatonin, the hormone that regulates our sleep patterns. To ease those SAD feelings, be sure to get as much sunlight as possible. Even if it’s … [Read more...] about Fight SAD with Sun