(NewsUSA) - More than 86% of people surveyed in the U.S. have never heard the term "aphasia." Aphasia is a language disorder that impairs the ability to communicate. People with aphasia may have trouble retrieving the names of objects or putting words together in a sentence. They may have trouble listening, speaking, reading or writing. This loss of language does not impact a person's intelligence.

One million people in the U.S.are estimated to have aphasia, according to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, and the National Aphasia Association.

Stroke survivors with aphasia face an increased incidence of poststroke depression versus stroke survivors with no aphasia.

It is important to know that aphasia is not an intellectual disability and does not impair intellectual function. Over time, many people with aphasia are able to improve and recover their language skills.

"Stroke and aphasia recovery can feel like the movie, 'Mission Impossible,' when the mission is basically impossible, yet the team does it and wins anyway," says Tom Broussard, a stroke survivor who developed aphasia in 2011 and has since become a stroke and aphasia educator.

"Others often think that it can't be done, but people who have lost their language still have the skills to do the impossible and regain their language again," he emphasizes.

Communication plays an important role in recovery. If someone can't express pain or depression, they can't get help.

The American Stroke Association and the National Aphasia Association are collaborating to help stroke survivors beat aphasia. They offer these strategies:

• Be patient and allow extra time.
• Use different options to communicate, including writing, facial expressions, speaking, pictures and phone/communication apps.
• Confirm what was said.

Broussard offers several tips that have helped him with his recovery, including starting a journal to record progress. He recommends reading aloud and recording yourself; also playing word and letter games such as ScrabbleTM and BoggleTM, and other card games and board games.

"One thing I wish that everyone knew about aphasia is that the brain really can rewire its language with persistent and repetitive language activities," he says.

Visit stroke.org/aphasia for more information.

(NewsUSA) - As the threat of COVID-19 continues, doctors and patients are considering the long-term impact of the pandemic on public health, especially heart health.

The American Heart Association's annual publication on Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics for 2021 emphasizes that heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide.

"COVID-19 has taken a huge toll on human life worldwide and is on track to become one of the top three to five causes of death in 2020. But its influence will directly and indirectly impact rates of cardiovascular disease prevalence and deaths for years to come," says Donald Lloyd-Jones, M.D., ScM, FAHA, president of the American Heart Association and chair of the department of preventive medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago.

Not only does research show that COVID-19 itself can cause heart damage, the indirect effects of the pandemic will likely generate an increase in heart health problems, he says. "Unhealthy eating habits, increased consumption of alcohol, lack of physical activity and the mental toll of quarantine isolation and even fear of contracting the virus all can adversely impact a person's risk for cardiovascular health, he emphasizes. "We'll need to watch and address these trends as the full ramifications will likely be felt for many years to come."

COVID-19 will impact the risk of experiencing or dying from heart disease or stroke for many years for several reasons.

- Unhealthy habits: During extended periods of quarantine or lockdown, many people developed or returned to behaviors related to poor eating, changes in work/sleep habits, lack of regular exercise and the mental stress of social isolation and excessive screen time that could contribute to heart disease and stroke.

- Missed medical visits: Many patients postponed regular doctor visits to manage chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and high cholesterol, resulting in an epidemic of poorly controlled disease that can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

- Fear of hospitals: Data from the American Heart Association show that many individuals experienced a heart attack or stroke during the pandemic and did not seek urgent care out of fear of contracting COVID-19 in a hospital setting. Unfortunately, some people may have experienced medical events with lasting consequences that may have been lessened with prompt treatment.

- Heart-related risks for COVID-19 patients: Although studies of the impact of COVID-19 on pre-existing medical conditions are ongoing, the data show that individuals with cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure are at increased risk for more severe disease - even death - if they become ill with COVID-19. It's important for everyone eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Visit heart.org/statistics to view the complete 2021 Statistical Update and to find fact sheets with information about the impact of COVID-19 on heart health and about cardiovascular disease risk in general.

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(NewsUSA) - High blood pressure occurs in almost half of American adults, and you may not know you have it until you experience complications, such as heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, vision loss or sexual problems. In addition, having high blood pressure could contribute to worst COVID-19 outcomes, according to the American Heart Association.

"The best way to know if you have high blood pressure is to monitor it. Having your blood pressure monitored by a health professional at least once per year and regularly monitoring it yourself at home and discussing your numbers and a healthy lifestyle plan with a doctor is a great way to control your blood pressure," says Willie Lawrence, M.D. cardiologist and American Heart Association volunteer expert.

Know how to measure accurately

Whether you're measuring your blood pressure at home or having it measured in a doctor's office or someplace else, here are important things to know to get the most accurate reading:

- Get ready. Don't smoke, consume caffeine, or exercise within 30 minutes of checking your blood pressure. Empty your bladder, and rest quietly for at least 5 minutes before measuring.

- Get set. Sit up straight on a firm chair with a back. Place your feet flat on the floor and uncross your legs. Your arm should be on a flat surface with your upper arm at the level of your heart. Place the bottom of the monitor cuff just above the bend of the elbow directly on your skin, not over clothing.

- Go. Take your blood pressure measurement at about the same time each day. Take two or three readings one minute apart and record the results on paper. Some blood pressure monitors will save results or let you upload them to a secure website. Share your results with your doctor.

Know the meaning of your numbers

In most cases, a normal blood pressure is 120/80 or less. If you have readings that are consistently higher than 130/80, that's considered high blood pressure. A reading of 180/120 or higher could be a crisis! Wait five minutes and check it again. If it doesn't come down, see a doctor right away. If you experience symptoms such as headache, weakness, trouble seeing, chest pains, back pains or other health problems call 9-1-1, immediately. Don't wait for your pressure to go down. You could be having a serious health problem.

Know how to reduce your risk

You may reduce your risk of high blood pressure by maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating healthfully, reducing alcohol or not drinking and not smoking. However, if you do develop high blood pressure, don't give up. Knowing your blood pressure numbers, monitoring them regularly, taking medication as prescribed and working with a healthcare professional on a plan to improve your blood pressure and keep it under control, may help you to live a long and healthy life.

Many local businesses and organizations, such as churches, barber and beauty shops and community health centers are working with the American Heart Association to control blood pressure in communities and can be good places to get your blood pressure checked and to access resources and information at no cost to help you to live a healthy life.

For more information visit heart.org/hbpcontrol.

(NewsUSA) - Offices around the country are finally opening back up. According to census.gov, more than a third of Americans are still working from home , but the number of people getting back into their daily commutes-and their work clothes -- is growing every day.

In the APA's Stress in America™ poll conducted in February 2021, 42 percent of Americans reported undesired weight gain during COVID-19 quarantines, lockdowns and work-from-home time. Their average weight gain: 29 pounds.

To get back into a healthier routine once you head into the office, Courtney McCormick, registered dietitian and manager of clinical research & nutrition at Nutrisystem, offers these simple tips.

Pile on the Produce: Even the odds and help yourself stay on track when you clock in. Load up on non-starchy vegetables such as cucumbers, peppers, carrots and more each day because they're loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber, but they're low on calories. The fiber helps you feel full without filling out.

Pack Satisfying Snacks: Healthy snacks may be the most important option you can give yourself at the office. When you start to feel that 3 p.m. slump, it can be so easy to grab one of those coworker-brought bagels or hit the vending machine. Being prepared with satisfying options can help you make food decisions to meet your health goals.

Make Meals Ahead: Meal prepping ahead of time can help you stay on track when it's time to eat at the office. Pre-portioned meals such as those from Nutrisystem or power bowl recipes are a great healthy lunch meal prep option because they are easy to grab and go, yet heartier than a salad. You can also whip up several servings of chicken in the slow cooker or on the grill to pair with steamed veggies all week long.

Stay in the Know: Once you've got your healthy meal prep underway, arm yourself with information. When a coworker invites you to lunch or happy hour, you're going to want to be there-it's the first one in more than a year! So give yourself the info to concentrate on the experience without stressing about your order. Look at the menu online before you head out so you can see which options are best for your healthy lifestyle.

To add to your efforts, don't forget to stay hydrated and active during the workday. Pack a water bottle to refill during the day and plan to meet a co-worker for a lunchtime walk. For more great tips, visit Nutrisystem's The Leaf at leaf.nutrisystem.com.

(NewsUSA) - Today's consumers are looking for beverage choices that offer far more than just great taste. Whether for increased energy or hydration, the "functional beverages" category is expanding rapidly as America's middle age and older persons are focusing on nutrition and other positive lifestyle changes to live healthier lives. For those over 45 years, maintaining healthy blood sugar is increasingly important. Many in this age group are pre-diabetic and at future risk for heart disease, stroke and other complications.

Until recently diabetic friendly beverage choices have been limited to dairy shake beverages which, while healthy and nutritious, are not refreshing or thirst quenching. Unlike many other consumer categories, the diabetic friendly beverage category has not been served with a wide selection of beverages such as flavored waters, iced teas, as well as delicious coffees and sodas.

One brand expanding consumer choice for diabetic friendly beverages is GLUCODOWN®, manufactured by Glucose Health, Inc. of Bentonville, Arkansas. What sets GLUCODOWN® apart from other sugar-free powdered beverages is a breakthrough ingredient, a special form of soluble fiber, clinically demonstrated to reduce rising blood sugar after meals. Not only is GLUCODOWN® attracting the attention of diabetic consumers, it's also gaining popularity among persons following KETO diets for weight loss and better health.

The GLUCODOWN® product line-up consists of diabetic friendly iced teas in the four most popular flavored iced teas sold in America -- Lemon, Peach, Raspberry and Super Berry (blackberry & blueberry). Additionally, four new GLUCODOWN® "enhanced water" flavors are now available including Peach-Mango, Watermelon, Strawberry-Banana and Cherry. Like the GLUCODOWN® iced teas, the new "enhanced waters" flavors are dietician recommended to maintain blood sugar in a healthy range - -- especially after meals.

These diabetic friendly beverages are distributed nationally in pharmacies such as Walmart and CVS and are a top-seller seller at Amazon.

The beverage is manufactured by publicly traded Glucose Health, Inc. (Ticker: GLUC). For more information on the Company, visit glucosehealthinc.com or GlucReport.com for investor information.

For product information or to purchase, visit Amazon and type GLUCODOWN in the Amazon search bar, or visit www.shopglucodown.com

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By Maria Sophocles, MD 
For NewsUSA

(NewsUSA) - The pandemic created a major shift in the way people consume - and, more importantly, trust - information, especially as it relates to vaginal health. In fact, a new survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of RepHresh of 2,000 American women age 24-34 reveals that two in five women named Google as their go-to source of information over a physician when experiencing discomfort or vaginal health symptoms.

Many women are also turning to social media for health advice. For example, on TikTok, hashtags relating to the words "sex education" have over 70 million views. A now infamous TikTok video, providing a tutorial on how to relieve constipation through "vaginal splinting" has racked up over 3 million views and the latest popular #icecubechallenge claims to tighten the vagina and curb bacterial overgrowth.

While these trending DIY/at-home medical hacks can be entertaining, many of these practices are not only ineffective at controlling the natural balance of good and bad bacteria, but can be dangerous and cause more harm than good. Melting an ice cube in the vagina can elevate the natural pH balance and trigger a bacterial infection as the pH of water (7.5-8) is higher than the normal vaginal pH (3.5-4.5). And, while vaginal splinting is a scientific method used by medical professionals, experts caution trying it at home as it poses a risk of bacterial spread if not done properly.

The RepHresh survey found that over half (51%) thought a vagina should have a neutral pH, and only 12% correctly identified "moderately acidic" as the ideal pH balance. In addition, the top three most Googled phrases and questions respondents needed answers about included "vaginal discharge" (44%), "do I have a yeast infection?" (39%) and "vaginal odor" (37%).

With an uptick in misinformation, most women frequently misdiagnose their vaginal symptoms. That's why it's more critical than ever that women turn to trusted health care professionals for advice, proper diagnosis and remedies for the actual problem.

Here are a few important things women might not know, but need to know to maintain good vaginal health:

1. Vaginal odor is completely normal and should not be a cause for alarm. Refrain from using unnecessary scented products, including wipes and washes that claim to eliminate odor with fruity or flowery fragrances, as this will not solve the root cause of the issue, which is an unbalanced pH. Do look for clinically-backed and doctor-recommended products for vaginal health, such as over-the-counter RepHresh Gel, which rebalances pH to a healthy range, eliminates odor, and lasts up to three days.

2. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections can present similar symptoms, such as unusual vaginal discharge and discomfort, so when women run to the drug store and buy an OTC yeast medication such as Monistat, they are not addressing the root cause of the problem. Two out of three times it is BV, which must be treated with an antibiotic from their health care provider. But, antibiotics can kill the good and bad bacteria and cause a yeast infection, so make sure to take a vaginal probiotic once a day such as RepHresh Pro-B as it contains 2 strains of vaginal lactobacilli to keep the vaginal flora in balance and eat foods high in probiotics like a healthy no-sugar-added Greek yogurt, kefir, kimchi, or miso.

3. High sugar and alcohol intake can elevate pH imbalances and contribute to an overgrowth of yeast. Maintain a healthy moderation of sugary drinks and junk food as excess amounts not only impact vaginal health, but overall weight gain and wellness.

4. Vaginal discharge is a completely normal function in which the vagina naturally removes old cells to keep the environment healthy and clean. Some women have more discharge, while others might experience very little, and it can change in color and thickness depending on the ovulation cycle. However, discharge accompanied with itching, burning, fishy odor, swelling, unusual color, or pelvic pain should be brought to a doctor's attention as it can be a bacterial infection or STI and must be treated appropriately.

Before trying something new, consult with your healthcare provider especially when things seem off to ensure the safety and efficacy of the method or product you are considering. And, don't miss your annual OB/GYN visit.

Maria Sophocles, MD, OB/GYN is the Medical Director of Women's Healthcare of Princeton in Princeton, NJ.