We are seeing more rashes this spring from exposure to poison ivy. “Leaves of three, let them be” is important to remember. You can find many pictures of poison ivy, sumac, and oak on the internet. The rash usually develops in 1-2 days but can last up to 4 weeks. The allergic reaction comes from the oil on the leaves, roots, and vines. You can prevent exposure by wearing long pants, sleeves, and boots. There are also commercial products to block your skin from the oil. If you are exposed, wash with cold water immediately and then clean off with rubbing alcohol. Remove all the clothing that was exposed and wash it as well. You can apply cold compresses and use some common over the counter medications like steroid creams, calamine, Aveeno or baking soda bathes, and oral antihistamines (diphenhydramine, loratadine, cetirizine). If the reaction is severe, contact your doctor for evaluation and treatment with steroid pills and stronger creams that are available. Remember that the more you are exposed, the more severe the reaction.

There are several websites to help those of you trying to quit smoking.  Smokefree.gov is a government sponsored site and the American Cancer Society site is Cancer.org.  They give ideas and information that is worth reading.  There are medications, prescription and over the counter, that are helpful in quitting smoking as well.  Talk to your doctor to see which one is the best option for you.

For those of you trying to get more active, it is recommended that you exercise 30 minutes most days of the week.  The American Heart Association has some useful information on their website.  There are many ways to be active other than just going to the gym.  Try walking on your lunch break, parking farther from the building, or taking the stairs.  You can even exercise in short 10-20 minute intervals to build up to the 30 minutes a day.  The idea is to start slow and work your way up to a 30 minute work out if you are not able to start there.  It is great if you have an “active” job but most of us do not get our heart rate enough to count for exercise at work.

Lastly, most of us need to eat healthier.  We all need 5-9 servings of fruits or vegetables daily.  Try to eat more whole grains.  Limit the amount of fast foods and fried foods.  Most of those foods have too many calories and cholesterol.  Consumption of sugary soft drinks has been linked to increased risk of developing diabetes so you should watch how many sodas you drink.  Most of us overeat during the holidays and January is a great time to get back on track.

Good Luck and Happy New Year!