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El humo de los incendios forestales es más peligroso que cualquier otro tipo de contaminación atmosférica para las personas con asma
El Índice de calidad del aire de fase 2 y los alarmantes estudios de investigación del DRI, Renown Health y el Distrito de Salud del Condado de Washoe conducen a un aviso de salud pública; se debe buscar atención médica si es necesario. Para las personas que padecen asma, el humo de los incendios forestales es más peligroso que cualquier otro tipo de contaminación atmosférica, según un estudio del Desert Research Institute (DRI), el Renown Institute for Health Innovation (Renown IHI) y el Distrito de Salud del Condado de Washoe (WCHD). El estudio publicado en la revista Environmental Health examinó las asociaciones entre las partículas en el aire (particulate matter, PM) procedentes de fuentes como los incendios forestales, el transporte y la industria, y las visitas médicas por asma en los departamentos de emergencia y centros de Urgent Care de Renown Health en Reno, Nevada, durante el período de seis años comprendido entre 2013 y 2018. In places like Reno, where wildfire events occur regularly during parts of the year and are expected to become more frequent in the future, an accurate understanding of the impacts of wildfire smoke on population health is critical. We have an exceptional process in place through our urgent care sites, Renown Medical Group offices and hospital emergency departments to screen, diagnose and treat members of our community who come to us for care related to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other upper respiratory diseases that may be exacerbated by wildfire smoke. At the same time, we continue to develop and refine, in real-time, the data that supports our predictive analytic models. We are using every tool and resource-including scientific data and clinical reporting, to ensure that we are meeting both the health and healthcare needs of the people we serve. En el estudio, los investigadores descubrieron que la calidad del aire en el área de Reno se vio afectada por el humo de los incendios forestales en un total de 188 días durante el periodo del estudio. En total, se produjeron 18,836 visitas a la sala de emergencias y atención de urgencia relacionadas con el asma durante el mismo período de cinco años, lo que indica que es importante comprender la influencia del humo de un incendio forestal y otros tipos de contaminación atmosférica en esta afección médica. La Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) del Distrito de Salud del condado de Washoe ha emitido una advertencia de contaminación del aire de fase 2 debido al humo de los incendios en el área. La calidad del aire en el área de Reno-Sparks ahora es “muy poco saludable” y tiene un Índice de calidad del aire de 247. La advertencia de fase 2 significa que todos los residentes deben permanecer en sus residencias y reducir los niveles de actividad debido a la susceptibilidad de mayores riesgos para la salud. To see current air quality in Reno-Sparks, click here. Brion Hill, MD who practices at the Renown Urgent Care - Los Altos location warns, “This is an important health advisory, exposure to elevated PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in smoke) concentrations can result in eye and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, coughing, impaired lung function and chest pain. Everyone should take precautions when the air quality is unhealthy. Air pollution can aggravate heart and cardiovascular disease as well as lung diseases like asthma and COPD. When the air quality is unhealthy, people with these conditions may experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or fatigue. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, use your inhalers as directed and contact your health care provider,” says Dr. Hill. “Si no tiene un proveedor de atención médica, tenemos 11 consultorios de Renown Urgent Care convenientemente ubicados con proveedores listos para atenderlo los 7 días de la semana”. Dr. Joseph Grzymski, a research professor at Desert Research Institute, a corresponding author on the study and Chief Scientific Officer, Renown Health, says, “This air is very bad for your health. Given today’s Air Quality Index in Reno, being outside and breathing this air for a day equals about smoking half a package of cigarettes.” Información adicional: The full text of the article “Particulate matter and emergency visits for asthma: a time-series study of their association in the presence and absence of wildfire smoke in Reno, Nevada, 2013–2018” (Partículas en el aire y visitas de emergencia por asma: un estudio de series temporales de su asociación en presencia y ausencia de humo de incendios forestales en Reno, Nevada, entre y ) está disponible en Environmental Health: https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-020-00646-2 Para obtener más información sobre el Renown Institute for Health Innovation, visite: https://www.dri.edu/renown-ihi/ Renown Urgent Care brinda tratamiento para una amplia gama de lesiones leves, enfermedades e inquietudes médicas que son urgentes, pero no suponen un riesgo para la vida y que requieren atención médica en el mismo día. También le evita los tiempos de espera prolongados y los altos precios de la sala de emergencias en los 13 centros convenientes, incluidas Reno, Sparks, Carson City, USA Parkway, Fallon y Fernley. You can walk-in or book ahead online. The Washoe County Health District offers online health information on its Be Smoke Smart website, including fire information, daily air quality information, fire and smoke maps and how to protect yourself. About the Desert Research Institute The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is a recognized world leader in basic and applied interdisciplinary research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe. Desde 1959, la investigación del DRI ha profundizado el conocimiento científico, ha apoyado la diversificación de la economía de Nevada, ha proporcionado oportunidades educativas científicas y ha informado a legisladores, líderes empresariales y miembros de la comunidad. With campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Para obtener más información, visite www.dri.edu. Acerca de Renown Health Renown Health es una red de atención médica integrada de administración local y sin fines de lucro que brinda servicios al norte de Nevada, Lake Tahoe y el noreste de California. Renown es uno de los mayores empleadores privados de la región y cuenta con una fuerza laboral de más de 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown tiene una larga trayectoria y un compromiso de larga data con la mejora de la atención y la salud de nuestra comunidad. Visite renown.org para obtener más información.
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Donde hay humo, puede haber más dolores de cabeza, náuseas y tos
El equipo de Renown Urgent Care lo prepara para mantenerse a salvo esta temporada y está disponible los siete días de la semana en 11 ubicaciones del norte de Nevada. Millones de personas en todo el oeste viven en zonas donde la contaminación atmosférica puede causar graves problemas de salud. Local air quality can affect our daily lives. Like the weather, it can change from day to day. The Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for Plumas County, to notify the public of the possibility of poor air quality conditions resulting from the Beckwourth Complex Fire in addition to other wildfires in northern California. In addition, there is the potential for wind shifts to carry smoke to other parts of Plumas County from the Beckwourth and several other regional wildfires. Air quality is expected to vary greatly depending on fire behavior and weather conditions, with smoke settling in low areas at night and in the early mornings as long as these fires are active. The advisory mentions, “Exposure to elevated PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in smoke) concentrations can result in eye and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, coughing, impaired lung function and chest pain, especially among sensitive individuals such as the elderly, children, people with asthma, people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women and anyone who is exercising or working hard outdoors.” Kouros Farro, MD, a physician with Renown Urgent Care advises that there are people who are more likely to be affected when fine particle pollution reaches an unhealthy level. People who have asthma or other breathing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People who have heart disease or high blood pressure. Children and older adults. People of all ages who are doing extended or heavy, physical activity like playing sports or working outdoors. “Everyone should take precautions when the air quality is unhealthy. Air pollution can aggravate heart and cardiovascular disease as well as lung diseases like asthma and COPD. When the air quality is unhealthy, people with these conditions may experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or fatigue. Si experimenta alguno de estos síntomas, use sus inhaladores según las indicaciones y comuníquese con su proveedor de atención médica”, recomienda el Dr. Farro, que está certificado por el consejo en medicina familiar y ejerce en Renown Urgent Care en 975 Ryland St, Reno. “If you do not have a health care provider, know we have a Renown Urgent Care office on almost every corner, with providers ready to see you.” Dr. Farro advises the following: Take it easy and listen to your body. Limit, change, or postpone your physical activity level. If possible, stay away from local sources of air pollution like busy roads and wood fires. If you have asthma or other breathing conditions like COPD make sure you have your relief/rescue inhaler with you. People with asthma should review and follow guidance in their written asthma action plan. Make an appointment to see your health provider to be sure you have an asthma action plan. “Even just one hour of smoke exposure can affect our lungs and hearts, and these consequences can reach people far beyond the direct area endangered by the fire. Children, older adults, pregnant women, people with preexisting cardiopulmonary disease, communities of color, economically disadvantaged communities, and people with preexisting chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, and obesity are all especially vulnerable to the air pollution that wildfires cause," says Dr. David Lemak, Division Chief of Urgent Care at Renown. Renown Urgent Care brinda tratamiento para una amplia gama de lesiones, enfermedades e inquietudes médicas leves que son urgentes, pero no suponen un riesgo para la vida y que requieren atención médica en el mismo día. También le evita los tiempos de espera prolongados y los altos precios de la sala de emergencias en los 11 centros convenientes, incluidos Reno, Sparks, Carson City, USA Parkway, Fallon y Fernley. You can walk-in or book ahead online. You can get the latest fire and smoke information at the Washoe County Health District’s Be Smoke Smart webpage. It includes information about air pollution levels and how to protect yourself from the smoke. An on-line subscription page allows you to sign up for EnviroFlash, notifying you about air quality. Acerca de Renown Health Renown Health es una red de atención médica integrada de administración local y sin fines de lucro que brinda servicios al norte de Nevada, Lake Tahoe y el noreste de California. Renown es uno de los mayores empleadores privados de la región y cuenta con una fuerza laboral de más de 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. Visite renown.org para obtener más información.
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Renown Patients Encouraged to Have One Supporter Accompany Them to Medical Visit or Hospital Stay
Embraces patient and family-centered care, enhanced safety measures and new visiting hours. Today, Renown Health announced the Patient Supporter program, recognizing the important role that family and friends play in the healing, recovery and care of patients and serve as integral members of the health care team. Con la reducción constante de casos de pacientes con la COVID-19 y la transición a la fase 2 del programa Silver State Stabilization del gobernador Sisolak, y de acuerdo con Nevada Hospital Association, los hospitales y consultorios médicos de Renown ahora permiten la presencia limitada de visitantes para los pacientes sin la COVID-19 e implementaron medidas adicionales de seguridad para proteger a los pacientes, visitantes y empleados de la atención médica. One healthy adult Patient Supporter may now accompany a patient to their Renown medical visit or hospital stay. Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown said, “We live by our values of caring, integrity, collaboration and excellence. We believe in ‘person-centered care,’ an approach that embraces the perspective of the patient and their loved ones, while promoting a healthy, encouraging environment for caregivers and addressing the health needs of our community.” At Renown, "family" is defined by the patient. The patient may designate anyone they choose as their Patient Supporter. The Patient Supporter may be asked to assist the health care team with communications to other family members and friends, participate in training and education activities and assist the patient with complying with care and medication instructions. Jen Richards, PhD, RN, Chief Nursing Officer for Acute Services explained, “The partnership between patients, families and healthcare providers is based on the understanding that everyone's role is important. What we do together is greater than what any of us can do alone. Involving families in the patient's care supports the healing process and can improve the outcome. This belief shapes our work, our services and the care we provide.” Beginning today, each patient may be accompanied by one healthy adult Patient Supporter. Enhanced safety measures in place include across all Renown sites to safeguard health include: • Wearing a mask at all times; • Observing hand hygiene practices; • Conducting health screenings upon each entry; • Implementing strict social distancing protocols; • Extra cleaning and disinfection of high-touch, public surface areas. In alignment with the state-wide guidelines, visitors will be limited to one Patient Supporter per patient and be able to access hospitals as noted: • Renown Children’s Hospital: Open access. (Two parents and/or guardians may be designated as Patient Supporters, however, due to current space constraints, we ask that you visit one at a time). • Renown Regional Medical Center y Renown South Meadows Medical Center: de 3 p. m. a 8 p. m. • Renown Rehabilitation Hospital: de 9 a. m. a 4 p. m. Asociaciones para la sanación: la importancia de incluir a personas de confianza que apoyen su atención. Nutrición: el aspecto nutritivo de los alimentos; https://www.renown.org/find/renown-regional-medical- center/shops-at-renown/. Espiritualidad: recursos de bienestar y el Spiritual Center & Estelle J. Kelsey Interfaith Sanctuary https://www.renown.org/explore/spiritual-care/interfaith-spiritual-center/ El arte de curar: entre otras, arte, música, Fianna’s Healing Garden y The John & Sue Dermody Children’s Healing Garden, entornos apacibles diseñados para fomentar la sanación del paciente y entornos propicios para la salud. Protección física y emocional y confidencialidad del paciente. There are multiple ways to support patients at Renown Regional Medical Center, South Meadows Medical Center, Renown Children’s Hospital or Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. Puede enviar un mensaje personalizado a un ser querido y será entregado personalmente a los pacientes que pasen la noche en el hospital. https://www.uat.renown.org/interact/contact-a-patient/. Staff are pleased to arrange video calls with loved ones. Para hablar con un paciente, llame al 775-982-4100. Renown Care Providers Are Fighting the Good Fight For You. Puede enviar una nota de agradecimiento o hacer una donación para respaldar sus esfuerzos a través de https://www.renown.org/donations-covid-19/. Para obtener información más detallada sobre el Programa de persona de apoyo para el paciente, visite https://www.renown.org/interact/. Consulte el material complementario de esta historia aquí. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed and locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown es uno de los mayores empleadores privados de la región y cuenta con una fuerza laboral de más de 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. Visite renown.org para obtener más información.
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El Programa de rehabilitación pulmonar Thomas S. Dolan recibe una certificación respetada del líder de la industria
The program becomes first of its kind to be accredited in Nevada. Renown Health is pleased to announce the certification of the Thomas S. Dolan Pulmonary Rehabilitation program at Renown South Meadows Medical Center by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). AACVPR certification demonstrates that an organization's Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is aligned with current guidelines set by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation for appropriate and effective early outpatient care of patients with cardiac or pulmonary issues. Certification offers peace of mind, so that patients can feel confident in knowing that staff has the experience and skills necessary to coordinate the many issues faced by people receiving a life-changing cardiac or pulmonary diagnosis. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs help people with health issues such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary fibrosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) recover faster and live healthier. “Having access to quality pulmonary rehabilitation services so close to home, staffed by a highly-skilled group of compassionate care providers, truly is a gift to our community,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, president and CEO of Renown. “Estamos muy orgullosos del trabajo que se realiza en nuestro programa de rehabilitación pulmonar, y también estamos eternamente agradecidos por la donación de Tom Dolan al programa en 2019, que permite a los residentes de Nevada mejorar su salud y su calidad de vida”. “El Programa de rehabilitación pulmonar Thomas S. Dolan es el único programa de rehabilitación pulmonar acreditado en el estado de Nevada”, señaló Chris Nicholas, vicepresidente de Renown South Meadows Medical Center and Rehabilitation Hospital. “We take pride in this distinguished honor from the AACVPR as it acknowledges and amplifies the life-changing work happening here. Our dedicated caregivers provide support to our patients every step of the way, helping them lead vibrant and fulfilling lives despite their health conditions.” The comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program at Renown South Meadows Medical Center offers treadmills, stationary bicycles, strength training and an education classroom to help patients achieve health goals. To earn accreditation, Renown’s pulmonary rehabilitation program participated in an application process requiring extensive documentation of the program’s practices. La certificación de programas de la AACVPR es el único proceso de acreditación de revisión por pares diseñado para revisar los programas individuales conforme al cumplimiento de las normas y las pautas desarrolladas y publicadas por la AACVPR y otras asociaciones profesionales relacionadas. En noviembre de 2019, Tom Dolan propietario y fundador de Dolan Auto Group, realizó una donación al Programa de rehabilitación pulmonar de Renown South Meadows Medical Center después de que su experiencia personal en la rehabilitación pulmonar le hiciera percatarse sobre las capacidades y necesidades que había en el norte de Nevada. His generous donation has allowed Renown to double the number of patients who receive treatment and increase the access to pulmonary rehab in our community. “As a former patient myself, I found so much benefit in my pulmonary rehab,” said Dolan. “I have always wanted to support this program and increase the number of people it serves. It’s great to see that we now have the only certified pulmonary rehab in Nevada.” “The most essential component of lung health is breaking the cycle of inactivity associated with lung disease,” said Lung Critical Care Physician Dr. Farah Madhani-Lovely. “Our community is fortunate to have an accredited program like this to empower our patients.” About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Con una fuerza laboral diversa de más de 7,000 empleados, Renown ha fomentado una cultura de excelencia, determinación e innovación de larga data. La organización se compone de un centro de urgencias, dos hospitales de cuidados agudos, un hospital infantil, un hospital de rehabilitación, un grupo médico y una red de atención de urgencias y Hometown Health, la compañía de seguros sin fines de lucro más grande de la región y de propiedad local, Hometown Health. Renown’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath, Neurosciences and Robotic Surgery. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project® . Para obtener más información, visite renown.org. Acerca de la AACVPR Fundada en 1985, la American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation es una organización multidisciplinaria dedicada a la misión de reducir la morbilidad, la mortalidad y la discapacidad causadas por las enfermedades cardiovasculares y pulmonares a través de la educación, la prevención, la rehabilitación, la investigación y el control de las enfermedades. Central to the core mission is improving the quality of life for patients and their families. Obtenga más información sobre la AACVPR en www.aacvpr.org.
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Renown Health Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Certified by American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Renown Health is proud to announce the certification of its pulmonary rehabilitation program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). This certification is recognition of Renown Health’s commitment to improving the quality of life of patients by enhancing standards of care. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with pulmonary problems (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], respiratory symptoms, long COVID-19) recover faster and live healthier. Both programs include exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, COPD impacts 16 million people across the United States, and 1 in 13 adults (7.5%) have “long COVID” symptoms, defined as symptoms lasting three or more months after first contracting the virus, and that they didn’t have prior to their COVID-19 infection. "We are thrilled to receive this certification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation for our pulmonary rehabilitation program at Renown South Meadows Medical Center. This recognition underscores Renown Health's unwavering dedication to providing the highest standards of care and improving the lives of our patients, no matter what life throws at them,” said Sam Weller, MHPA CEO of Renown South Meadows Medical Center and Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. “Our commitment to excellence shines through in every aspect of our programs, and this certification reinforces our ongoing mission to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of the people of northern Nevada." To earn this accreditation, Renown Health’s pulmonary rehabilitation program participated in an application process that requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices. AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by AACVPR and other related professional societies. Each program’s application is reviewed by the AACVPR Program Certification Committee, and certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors. "At Renown Health, our pulmonary rehabilitation program is designed with our patients in mind. Our focus includes physical exercise, extending to education, counseling and support for both patients and their families,” said John Lynn, Manager of Respiratory Services at Renown Health. “This AACVPR certification is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication in ensuring that individuals with pulmonary conditions receive the best possible care to enhance their quality of life." In 2018, AACVPR moved to an outcomes-based process with performance measurements that represent more meaningful outcomes. Therefore, AACVPR-certified programs are leaders in the cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation field because they offer the most advanced practices available and have proven track records of high-quality patient care. AACVPR Program Certification is valid for three years. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. About AACVPR Founded in 1985, the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to the mission of reducing morbidity, mortality and disability from cardiovascular and pulmonary disease through education, prevention, rehabilitation, research and disease management. Central to the core mission is improvement in quality of life for patients and their families.
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Medicina pulmonar y del sueño
Pulmonary Medicine Our expert pulmonary medicine team diagnoses and cares for patients with lung and breathing challenges. Serious breathing problems and long-term conditions, such as COPD and emphysema, are treated by our extensively trained providers. Our board-certified care team has the experience and clinical judgment to ensure the strongest possible patient outcomes. If you have a chronic lung condition diagnosis, you may also benefit from Renown Pulmonary Rehab. Conditions We Treat Asthma Bronchitis (acute and chronic) Chest infections Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Cystic fibrosis Emphysema Lung cancer Lung transplant Pulmonary fibrosis Pulmonary hypertension Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) Other chronic lung diseases Pulmonary Services
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Family-Friendly Bike Trails in Our Region
Bicycling is a great way to get the whole family moving. We’ve reviewed some family-friendly bike trails that’ll get everyone outdoors for some good, old-fashioned fun on two wheels. During the ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, it is important to practice physical distancing and wear a mask when it’s impossible to stay six feet away from others. 1. Damonte Ranch Wetland Loop in Reno Duration: 3.1 mile loop. Skill Level: Easy. This paved loop trail is easy to access and has ample wildlife viewing opportunities with plenty of birds and wildflowers in the wetland. Parking and Trail Access: Start at Damonte Ranch Park and follow the paved trail around the wetland loop. 2. Tahoe East Shore Trail Duration: 5.2 miles out and back. Skill Level: Easy. The Tahoe East Shore Trail closely hugs the shore of Lake Tahoe. The paved trail has mild inclines that make it the perfect adventure for all ages and skill levels. Parking and Trail Access: Park along State Route 28 in Incline Village near Ponderosa Ranch Road for direct access to the trail. 3. Caughlin Ranch Trails in Reno Duration: 3.5 miles out and back Skill Level: Easy. This paved trail wanders through the Caughlin Ranch neighborhood and features creeks, wildlife and shade. Parking and Trail Access: Park along Caughlin Ranch Parkway for easy trail access. 4. Sagehen Creek Trail in Truckee Duration: 6 miles out and back. Skill Level: Intermediate. This dirt loop trail is a short drive from Reno and ends at Stampede Reservoir. Parking and Trail Access: Park at the marked trailhead off of North Highway 89. 5. Truckee River Trail in West Tahoe Duration: 7.5 miles one way. Skill Level: Intermediate. Looking for a longer trail? This point-to-point trail meanders along the Truckee River through the scenic Olympic Valley. Parking and Trail Access: Park at the Squaw Valley Village or in Tahoe City. Coordinate with two cars to make the trip one way. What family-friendly bike routes does your family enjoy? We’d love to know!
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Stay Inside When Skies Are Smoky
Even when fires burn outside our area, the air quality in the region can reach dangerous levels. Our expert explains how to maintain your lung health when fire season strikes. It’s a sight we know all too well as northern Nevadans — a hazy or thick layer on the horizon when smoke rolls in from nearby fires. Sometimes the smoke is more evident than others, but it’s important to remember, even when the smoke may not be as visible across the valley, it still impacts our air quality. The last week or so, our air quality has been in the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” range, which can be dangerous for people who are sensitive to air pollution. Air Quality Changes: Who’s at Risk? Renown Pediatric Pulmonologist Sonia Budhecha, M.D., explains certain people are especially at risk when smoke moves in: Older people, whose lungs are not as healthy as they used to be Young children, whose lungs are still developing People with heart and lung disease including asthma, COPD and emphysema “Smoke and haze from fires carry particulates that can get into your respiratory system and eyes, which can be a danger for all ages,” Dr. Budhecha says. How You Can Protect Yourself Until the smoke clears and the air returns to the “good” range, it is best to follow these tips to protect yourself and your family: Stay indoors and keep windows closed Turn on the air conditioning to recirculate clean air Drink plenty of fluids to help your body flush out any toxins you inhale Additionally, all community members should reduce their physical activity and try to prevent heavy exertion outside. If you or a loved one has a heart or lung disease, avoid physical exertion altogether because smoke can aggravate these conditions. “People with heart disease may experience shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations or fatigue,” Dr. Budhecha says. “People with lung disease may also have shortness of breath, chest discomfort, wheezing, phlegm or a cough.” Smoky Signs and Symptoms Smoke can also impact healthy people — irritating your eyes, nose or throat. And in some cases, inhaling smoke can lead to bronchitis. When haze moves into our area, keep an eye out for these symptoms: Burning or stinging eyes Runny nose Cough or scratchy throat Headaches Wheezing Shortness of breath Difficult taking a full breath Chest heaviness Lightheadedness Dizziness If experiencing any of the above symptoms, seek medical attention or call your doctor for advice. Sometimes, these symptoms do not appear for as long as 24 to 48 hours after smoke inhalation. For those that have pre-existing lung or heart conditions, consult with a health care provider on action or management plans. To schedule an appointment Visit Renown Pulmonary Medicine, or call 775-982-5000. Understanding Our Air Quality The Air Quality Index (AQI) is broken down by large (PM10) and small (PM2.5) particulates. According to Dr. Budhecha, large particulates are usually ones that can be seen and smelled. They can damage your eyes and nose but don’t often get deep in the lungs or blood vessels. “The more dangerous ones are PM2.5, which can’t always be seen or smelled,” Dr. Budhecha says. “Any time the AQI is above 51, children with lung or heart disease should not be outdoors.” For the latest air quality update in your area, visit AirNow.gov or call (775) 785-4110.
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My Inspiration to Keep Fighting Becoming a Grandparent
As a clinician and a cancer survivor, I know that hope is an essential force that drives people to work through difficult situations. I also believe there’s a strong correlation between hope and wellness. Hope inspires us to make healthy choices today with the understanding that these behaviors will benefit us in the future. In addition, an optimistic outlook helps patients face illness and injury with strength and confidence. While it’s easy for some people to maintain a positive outlook, it’s common to feel hopeless on a bad day. An important part of our job as healthcare providers is to help patients cultivate hope and build a strong foundation that carries them through their medical journey. The Importance of Family A common source of hope, for me and many others, is family. My family has recently welcomed our newest member, my first granddaughter, Emory. Becoming a grandparent has inspired me to reflect on the many blessings in my life. It’s not only been a opportunity to reflect, but also look ahead to the future. I often dream about the things Emory will accomplish one day, the kind of person she will become, and the world I want her to live in. These aspirations have renewed my determination to work hard and lead by example. At Renown Health, we know that hope and resilience are just as important in the recovery process as excellent medical care. That’s why we work with our patients to find sources of strength and inspiration in their own lives. We’re committed to helping our patients keep fighting the good fight for a healthier tomorrow.
Read More About My Inspiration to Keep Fighting Becoming a Grandparent
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¿Es la cirugía bariátrica adecuada para usted?
You’ve likely heard about bariatric surgery — and perhaps even have friends who’ve done it. But is it a potential solution for you? Here, Dawn Remme, RN, Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Program Manager, provides insight. You may have been struggling with excess weight for years. You’ve tried high-protein diets, low-carb diets and more. Most patients considering weight loss surgery have tried numerous dieting methods. The truth is, some patients who suffer with obesity are successful dieters. Unfortunately though, excess weigh often returns. This impacts their health and the quality of their life. It can be a disheartening battle. Weight loss surgery is a big decision. In making this decision, keep in mind that surgery is only one step toward your goal of achieving better health. It is neither magic, nor is it the “easy way out.” Weight loss surgery can offer you a TOOL to help you become more successful in controlling the disease of morbid obesity. By combining this tool with a lifelong commitment to important lifestyle changes, medical follow-up and nutritional modifications, you have the potential to become a healthier you. Bariatric Surgery By the Numbers Exploring the facts about obesity, how it impacts your health, and how surgery can resolve or significantly improve your chronic medical conditions is the first step to making a decision. Obesity is medically defined as “excess body fat” and is measured by a mathematical ratio known as the Body Mass Index (BMI). To calculate your BMI, we consider your height, weight, age, gender and body build. Here are the standards: “Normal” BMI: less than 25 Overweight: 25 – 29.9 Obese: BMI of 30 – 39.9 Morbid obesity: BMI of 40 or more Morbid obesity (BMI over 40) is a lifelong, progressive disease, and the prevalence of morbidly obese Americans (100 or more pounds over a healthy weight) is increasing rapidly. According to the CDC, the disease of obesity affects 78 million Americans. Further estimates indicate about 24 million have morbid obesity. Serious medical problems known as co-morbidities often occur when someone is morbidly obese. Studies tell us conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and degenerative arthritis increase in severity as the BMI is increasing in patients. When may weight loss surgery be an option? When someone has a BMI greater then 40. If a person’s BMI is 35 – 39.9 and they have significant health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, or other diagnosed health conditions related to obesity. Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass Explained To resolve or significantly reduce these health conditions, bariatric surgery can be done when diet and exercise haven’t worked. Weight loss surgery makes changes to your digestive system to help you lose weight. The gastric sleeve limits how much you can eat, whereas gastric bypass limits how much you can eat and reduces the absorption of certain nutrients. Other Benefits of Surgery You can greatly increase life expectancy by resolving or significantly improving conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and obesity itself. Infertility can also be positively affected. A significant weight loss and relief from serious health conditions and diseases will greatly improve your quality of life. Studies tell us that type 2 diabetes is resolved or significantly improved in 84 percent of patients following bariatric surgery. Cholesterol levels dropped in 95 percent of patients. And hypertension and sleep apnea showed improvement in 68 and 80 percent of patients, respectively, following bariatric surgery. Bariatric Surgery at Renown In making the decision to move forward to better health, it is important to remember: Obesity is a disease, and the desire to have a healthier, longer, more fulfilling life is possible. If you are interested in learning more, please visit the Bariatric Surgery Program page to view more information about Renown Regional Medical Center’s MBSAQIP accredited bariatric program, as well as information about upcoming educational seminars. Or call 775-982-RSVP (7787) to reserve your seat. Learn More
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Making a New Year's Resolution: It's Not Just for Grownups
The New Year is just around the corner, and many of us are making resolutions to better ourselves and improve our lives. But who says it's just for grownups? This January have some fun, and set a New Year's resolution with your child. Your children are bound to love ringing in the New Year with their very own resolutions. And there are lots of benefits to your child coming up with their own resolutions: Self-discipline, self-improvement, commitment and the value of making goals and following through. 1. Get the family involved Sit down together and reflect on the past year and discuss accomplishments and goals. 2. Make them specific Just resolving to “do better in school” probably won’t work. Set a specific goal. 3. Write them down Have each family member write down their resolution and post the list somewhere where it can be seen often. 4. Be a role model Come up with a resolution of your own. If your child sees you stick to your resolution; odds are they will too. 5. Pick a reward Having something fun to work towards can always be a good incentive. Just be sure you both agree on the reward ahead of time.
Read More About Making a New Year's Resolution: It's Not Just for Grownups
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Take a Stand Against Domestic Violence
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the United States. We spoke with Renown Health experts and local domestic violence prevention organizations who gave us a deeper look into understanding the warning signs of abuse and the many proactive and reactive resources in our community that you can reach out to today. Domestic violence, also referred to as domestic abuse, is an everyone issue. Whether you identify as male or female, an adult or a child, single or partnered – domestic violence can affect anyone. In fact, it may be closer to home than you might think. According to the Nevada Quality Parenting Initiative, in Nevada, 43.8% of women and 32.8% of men experience domestic violence in their lifetime, and the risk of that figure rising is imminent. This year alone, the Domestic Violence Resource Center (DVRC) in Reno experienced a 55% increase in overnight emergency stays, according to the Reno Gazette-Journal. This problem also, unfortunately, extends to children. More than 5,000 children in Nevada were reportedly primary or secondary victims of domestic abuse in 2021, as stated by the Nevada Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence. “Domestic violence can manifest in many different ways,” said Kami Price, Supervisor of Social Services for Renown Health. “Abuse isn’t always strictly physical. It can also be emotional, verbal, sexual and even digital. Understanding those differences can help you prepare accordingly and respond safely if you or a loved one are experiencing domestic violence.” Knowing what to look out for is crucial in protecting yourself and others against the effects of domestic abuse and taking action when warning signs appear. The National Domestic Violence Hotline shares the common signs of an abusive partner, no matter how old they are or what gender they identify as: Telling you that you never do anything right. Showing extreme jealousy of your friends or time spent away from them. Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with friends, family members or peers. Insulting, demeaning or shaming you, especially in front of other people. Preventing you from making your own decisions, including about working or attending school. Controlling finances, including taking your money or withholding money for needed expenses. Pressuring you to perform sexual acts you’re not comfortable with. Pressuring you to use drugs or alcohol. Intimidating you through threatening looks or actions. Threatening to harm or take away your children or pets. Intimidating you with weapons. Destroying your belongings or your home. "People experiencing domestic violence may feel as though they are trapped,” said Kami Price. “The reality is – this often couldn’t be further from the truth, especially with the resources we have at our disposal in northern Nevada.” Respected Resources Ending the Silence on Domestic Violence While these facts and figures might be staggering, those experiencing domestic violence at any age are not alone. There is hope at the end of the tunnel, especially here locally. Devoted to meeting the growing needs of the communities we serve, Renown Health proudly supports and sponsors several organizations in our community that are committed to educating children and adults on the signs and symptoms of domestic violence, along with what each child and family member can do today to prevent abuse in the household. These essential organizations are on the frontlines of shifting attitudes from “I don’t want to get involved” to “How can I help?” Serving children across northern Nevada, the Child Assault Prevention (CAP) Project offers “education and prevention programs designed to increase children’s safety from bullying, abuse and assault” and break the cycle of domestic abuse. During 2021 and the first half of 2022, CAP led about 500 different workshops, teaching 10,000 second-grade and fourth-grade children in Washoe, Storey, Lyon and Churchill Counties how to keep themselves safe from domestic violence. “As domestic violence is on the rise, open communication, early intervention and education are key to protecting children from the effects of domestic violence," said Rebecca LeBeau, Executive Director of the CAP Project. “That’s why I begin speaking about child assault prevention and stranger danger to kids as young as six years old. It's important to explain the true reality of domestic violence to both children and adults, tailoring language specifically to whatever age they are, and allowing them to process it. Kids of all ages will learn how to deal with extremely dangerous situations this way.” According to Rebecca, common symptoms of abuse to be on the lookout for at school include grades dropping, a lack of focus and feelings of not wanting to return home after the school day ends. If someone in a child’s home is being hurt or abused, children are always encouraged to speak with a trusted adult or school counselor. From there, organizations like the CAP Project develop a safety plan moving forward. Adults and family units aren’t alone either. The DVRC provides a wide variety of services to Washoe County residents experiencing domestic abuse. To date, the DVRC has helped more than 100,000 victims of domestic violence, and with the recent launch of their crisis text line, they are poised to serve many more. Like the CAP Project, the DVRC also believes that education is one of the first lines of defense against domestic violence. “Education on what domestic violence looks like is so much more than talking about physical violence,” said Aria Overli, Volunteer Coordinator at the DVRC. “Educating the community, and particularly youth, about what healthy relationships look like is a major factor in preventing abuse. Understanding the intersection of how other issues – such as race, mental illness and immigration status – affect domestic violence risk factors is key to addressing those issues.” The list doesn’t stop there. Renown Health Foundation has provided financial support for many more organizations that are dedicated to ending the silence on domestic violence, sexual violence and family abuse, including: The Children’s Cabinet – A child-focused organization offering many support services for youths and families, including Safe Place, a program that partners with local businesses to offer safe locations for children to seek help if they feel threatened at school or at home. The organization also provides free family counseling, providing a pathway to better communication for families experiencing a myriad of issues ranging from domestic violence to substance abuse. Awaken – A nonprofit committed to increasing awareness and education regarding sex trafficking and providing housing and healing to all survivors. Safe Embrace – The largest and most inclusive safe house in Reno-Sparks for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, offering a wide range of resources including counseling, emergency transportation, court support and more. Eddy House – A safe space for at-risk individuals aged 18-24 recovering from the effects of domestic abuse, unsafe housing conditions, homelessness and more. Being an advocate starts with us – if you see something, say something. Keeping a transparent line of communication is key to preventing, noticing and combating domestic violence. “The more you reach out and talk about the issues, the better,” closed Kami Price. “No one has to go through their struggles alone.”