Medical Issues to Consider During Hurricane Season

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina has taught the entire country that people will lose their lives if the proper preparation is not taken regarding personal health during hurricane season. Here are a few issues that must be considered at the beginning of the hurricane season if you want to survive the ordeal. Remember that many medical conditions will intensify because of the stress of an impending Hurricane.

1. Talk with your physician about your heath condition and the possible need for emergency medicine.
    

2. If you have diabetes, hypertension, a heart condition or any other medical condition that require daily medications, then you will need extra medicine. Remember you may not be able to get your medicine so an extra month’s supply is necessary. Diabetics may need a source of ice to keep insulin fresh. Most insulin will remain OK for about 28 days when not refrigerated. Check your insulin to make sure it can be out of the refrigerator and remain fresh.
    

3. If you have lung disease that requires Oxygen, remember that you will need a few extra tanks. Remember to follow the necessary precaution to keep you and the oxygen safe.
    

4. If you require dialysis, then discuss your medical plan with the appropriate medical people now before the hurricane comes.
    

5. If you have a disabled family member, discuss each family member’s responsibilities now.
    

6. Make sure that you have an adequate supply of water and food. Diabetics, remember to discuss with your dietician the foods you will need to eat.

Don’t depend on the government to be responsible for your personal needs.

Old Age Spread

Old age spread is real, but “the spread” is often seen in the young and old. Remember when we were taught that being overweight was healthy and being lean was consistent with having Cancer? We had it all wrong. If you want to gain some insight into a person’s general health, just gaze at his or her midsection. It is well known that a protruding abdomen is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. It’s also a risk factor for diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Even young athletes with protruding abdomens have the same risk factor as the rest of us. For African American men the magic number is 40 inches and for women it’s 35 inches. If your waist is well over these numbers, then walking 12 miles a week and eating appropriately will help to decrease your risk. Sorry, there are no easy ways to lose weight. But don’t get upset with me. I just report the information.