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What is a “DOULA”?

Are you pregnant or planning a pregnancy?  Did you know that you have options? Have you thought about those first few weeks at home; sleep deprived and needing assistance and guidance? A DOULA might be helpful to you, especially if your family lives far away!

The word “doula” comes from the Greek, meaning “woman who serves”. There are birth doulas, which assist the mother, father and medical staff during birth. There are postpartum doulas that assist the entire family to heal and adjust following birth. The doula is not a medical position and does not give any medical advice, but a layperson that is there to assist mom and dad emotionally and physically.

The birth doula is present as a coach for the entire labor/birthing process.  This includes 2 pre-natal visits to learn the history, needs and desires of the couple. Also included are 2 postpartum visits immediately following the birth.

The postpartum doula may arrange a meeting prior to birth to discuss expectations and goals. Immediately following birth, the PPD may come to the hospital and/or home to begin her work. She may then come to the home on a daily basis or as needed for a period of time ranging from birth – 2 weeks – 3 or 4 months, depending on the circumstances, i.e. multiples, siblings, etc.

Studies have proven that the assistance of a doula makes the period of time after a birth less traumatic, more relaxing and joyful with the presence and assistance of a doula.

Marcy D. Tracy, MS Ed., CD(DONA) PCD(DONA) VAIL VALLEY DOULA  (970) 688-4868 or (760) 846-0419
www.vailvalleydoula.com
marcy@vailvalleydoula.com

Am I Suffering from Allergies?

Allergic rhinitis is the most common cause of inflammation of the nasal membranes, affecting approximately 20% of the population.  Unlike the common cold and its symptoms due to viral-mediated inflammation, allergic rhinitis is inflammation due to exposure to certain allergens such as pollens, pet dander, and molds.  Allergen exposure leads to the following symptoms:  itching and tearing of the eyes, congestion and sneezing, headaches, earaches, facial swelling, fatigue and drowsiness.

What Can be Causing My Allergies?

A detailed history can often lead to the identification of the cause of one’s allergies.  Perennial rhinitis consists of allergic symptoms that are consistent throughout the year due to the daily exposure to allergens like dust mites and pet dander.   Intermittent seasonal rhinitis is due to the exposure to outdoor allergens like pollens and molds.  Unless associated with skin and stomach symptoms, food allergies are not typically associated with allergic rhinitis.  Allergy testing may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis and determining the specific allergen.

What Can I do to Treat My Allergies?

Allergen avoidance is important but not always practical.  Indoor allergens can be reduced by utilizing impermeable covers for all mattresses and pillows and by frequently cleaning all linens and carpets. Limiting outdoor activities during dry windy days and showering after allergen exposures can reduce one’s contact with outdoor allergens.   Unfortunately, medications are often needed to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Nonsedating antihistamines in combination with a decongestant are preferred for first-line therapy.  Other medications such as nasal steroids require a prescription.  Immunotherapy or desensitization with allergy shots is reserved for those with severe or poorly responsive allergies.

Where Can I Get Additional Information About Allergic Rhinitis?

Detailed additional information can be found at the eMedicine’s website:  www.emedicine.com

Michael Brooks, MD
Resort Medicine of Colorado

(970)390-7878

High Altitude Health

By Dr. Charles Tuft
As emergency and house call physicians in the mountains, we see many family outings compromised by situations that could be prevented by knowledge of our mountain environment.

Here in the Vail Valley, it is high, dry, and can change in an instant.

By high, we mean the altitude.  Its effects are manageable by taking it easy on the first day. It is also important to be aware to seek help if headaches develop, nausea or poor appetite persists and general well-being is not as expected. Watch for your child becoming overly fussy.

High altitude also affects skin and eyes. Skin–because sun block is much more important here where there is not as much atmosphere to filter the sun’s damaging rays.  Children’s eyes need the protection of dark glasses for the same reason.

Our dry climate demands that your body needs much more water to keep the same hydration. If you are on an outing, it is not okay to get that water by drinking from the streams. Our mountain wildlife may have been upstream and left behind transmissible diseases. Be sure to bring along enough water for everyone.
And by changeable in an instant, we mean that what starts out to be a warm short–sleeve day can quickly become cold and lead to hypothermia.   A storm may be hiding just over the next mountain or is often brewed suddenly by the micro climates that only mountains can produce.  Always be prepared by bringing along an extra layer for every member of the family.

Luckily if you have questions regarding these mountain concerns or any health care consideration, you can always contact Alpine Mobile Physicians for advice and a doctor is available to come to you with treatment 

Call (970) 376 8376.

Make Brushing FUN!

The Importance of Starting 
Good Dental Hygiene Habits Early
By Katie Kukar

Does your child have a tooth?  Then it’s time for brushing evening if it’s just one.
The earlier you show your children the importance of caring for their teeth is for their health, the easier it will be for them to develop good brushing habits for life.

One of the best ways to get a child excited to brush is to brush your teeth with them.  Kids love to mimic so show them one of your good habits.

Let them pick out a fun, colorful tooth brush and toothpaste.  Be mindful of the toothpaste you choose, read the label to check the sugar content and other ingredients.  Tom’s of Maine makes great natural toothpaste, without the added sweeteners.

If your child has a “buddy” like Dennis the Buffalo, bring him along to the dentist or bathroom for brushing to join in the fun and keep his teeth clean as well. A good time to brush is right after dinner before everyone gets settled into their evening activities. We tend to relax after dinner so make sure the work gets done first. Pick a song or rhyme that can be sung for about 2 minutes.  That is a good length of time to spend brushing your teeth.

General health is linked to dental health and any dental decay or pain can also affect growth and development of your child.  So keep up the good oral hygiene!

Choosing the right dentist for your child’s first visit can be scary.  Try Vail Valley Dental Care for all your families’ dental needs.  Their mission is “to create trusting friendships with our patients and inspire a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.”

For more information, please visit www.vailvalleydentalcare.com 
or call (970) 949-3331.  

Vail Valley Dental Care

Vail Valley Dental Care is a relationship oriented dental practice that focuses on families through their entire life cycle.  Our mission is “to create trusting friendships with our patients and inspire them to a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.”  

www.vailvalleydentist.com
100 W Beaver Creek Blvd, Suite 232, Avon
(970) 949-3331

Terry’s Hair Studio

24 years of experience styling hair. Trained at the world renowned “Horst Education Center” in Minneapolis, Terry returned to her home in Milwaukee to master her skills at the prestigious “Erik of Norway.” Her love for skiing brought her to Vail in 1989. Specializing in haircuts, coloring, perms and facial waxing.
Call or text for an appointment.

Hwy 6 Eagle-Vail
(970) 390-3843

 

see our coupon

 

Resort Med Mobile Physicians

Since the year 2000, Resort Med has been delivering cost-effective emergent medical services to the resort communities of the Roaring Fork and Vail Valleys. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, our emergency medicine physicians bring the emergency room to you in the form of a house call.

Aspen Valley and the Vail Valley
(970) 390-7878

Gypsum Urgent Care

Open 7 days a week. 9am to 9pm
• Every day, including holidays.
• No appointments needed.

Gypsum Urgent-Emergent Care, located near the Eagle County Airport, is staffed by Emergency physicians and nurses to care for walk in and ambulance patients of all ages. This includes abrasions, bruises, scrapes and lacerations, coughs, colds, fever and flu symptoms respiratory or urinary track infections ear, eye, nose and skin infections, minor burns, minor fractures, sprains and strains, intestinal illness, and rehydration.

410 McGregor Drive, Gypsum, CO
Clocktower Building in Gypsum
(970) 777-2800

Avon Urgent Care

7 days a week 8AM-8PM
• Open every day including holidays.
• No Appointments are necessary.

We are equipped to manage most emergency medical situations. The clinic is staffed by board-certified physicians and critical care trained nurses. On-site x-ray, lab services, wound, orthopedic, respiratory care and Occupational Health Services.

230 Chapel Place, Avon
(across the parking lot from Sports Authority and Pier One).
(970) 949-6100

Avon Chiropractic

Save Thousands of Dollars by joining our Pre-Paid Club!
• Free Chiropractic consultations
• Unlimited chiropractic adjustments
• Discounts on Acupuncture and Rolfing
• Discounted Massages
• Free nutritional consultations

20% discount on nutritional supplements
Multiple package options available at substantially discounted rates.
150 E Beaver Creek Blvd, Avon
(970) 949-0444

Alpine Mobile Physicians

Alpine Mobile Physicians is a house call service that functions in cooperation with Vail Valley Medical Center to create a system of Medical Care. These doctors that have provided exceptional care in Vail’s ER and Clinics can treat you in your home or Hotel. These comforting physicians bring Oxygen, IV’s, a wide variety of diagnostic adjuncts and even a complete array of therapeutic drugs.

www.alpinemobilephysicians.com
27 Main St Unit C301, Edwards
(970) 376 8376

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Vail Valley (Eagle County)
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