Attack on Asthma Managing the Disorder Will Help You Enjoy Life to the Fullest Asthma affects roughly 20 million people in the United States. The chronic inflammatory lung disease causes attacks of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing. Asthma attacks — when lungs' air passages get narrower and breathing becomes more difficult — occur most commonly in children and adolescents aged 5 to 17, adults older than 65 and people living in urban communities. While the problem has no cure, it can be managed. Taking prescription medicines and avoiding triggers of asthma attacks can help to keep the problem in check. Triggers include upper respiratory infections; allergies to dust mites, pollen and mold/mildew; and certain foods, such as peanuts, eggs, milk and shellfish. There are two basic kinds of medication for treating asthma: controller drugs to prevent attacks and quick-relief drugs during attacks. Inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonist inhalers are the most common controller drugs. Asthma often goes undiagnosed — perhaps manifesting itself as a chronic cough or coughing or wheezing during exercise. Talk to your doctor if you think you may have a symptom and for more information about taking asthma medications.

Fun in the Sun
We Can Still Enjoy the Rays if We Take Proper Precautions

After months of gray, cold days, it's hard to resist the temptation of a bright, hot summer sun. But
if we are not careful, excessive exposure to it can hurt our skin and our health.

To avoid the sun's harmful rays, generously apply sunscreen. Put it on about 20 minutes before heading outside so your skin can absorb it. Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and provide protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating. Our eyes need protection as well, so wear sunglasses.

Another risk of staying in the sun is sunstroke, a result of excessive exposure to the sun's heat. Dehydration and prolonged exposure to the sun contribute to sunstroke. As a result, if you are outside for any length of time, make sure to drink plenty of water. The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to avoid being outside for prolonged periods during this time.


Top-Flight Services
Inova Mount Vernon Takes National Honors for Stroke, Joint Replacement Centers

If you enjoy award-winning care, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital is the place for you.

In May 2010, the hospital was designated a Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission, the national accrediting organization for hospitals. This Gold Seal of Approval recognizes facilities that make exceptional efforts to meet the unique needs of stroke patients and foster better outcomes.

One year earlier, Inova Joint Replacement Center earned a Gold Seal of Approval for outstanding care in joint replacement procedures from The Joint Commission. Inova Mount Vernon Hospital is one of only six programs in Virginia with this distinction.
 
"We're very honored to receive this recognition, which ranks our hospital among some of the nation's best for stroke care and joint replacements," says Barbara Doyle, CEO, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital. "These designations are evidence that our hospital is committed to providing world-class care." Meanwhile, The Inova Breast Care Institute at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital has also received a three-year accreditation for breast care from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).