Dr. Rachel Rozelle, ND

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the US for both men and women. Smoking is the most common cause of lung cancer in the US, but it’s not the only cause. In fact, 15-20% of lung cancer cases occur in nonsmokers, with a greater percentage of women affected over men.

Unfortunately lung cancer doesn’t always show symptoms early on, but knowing the signs and your individual risk factors can help with earlier detection.

Common Symptoms of Lung Cancer:
•new, persistent, or worsening cough
•coughing up blood
•chest pain that is worse with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing
•hoarseness
•shortness of breath
•recurrent episodes of bronchitis or pneumonia
•unexplained weight loss
•fatigue or weakness

Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy this day with friends and family and remember to have gratitude and give thanks. This day can also be hard for some, and kindness and support can go a long way.

Summer is ending and the new school year is approaching. This transition can be difficult for children. To help ease this transition you can start making small changes now to help get them back into school year routine.

Sleep Schedule Maintenance:
Start to gradually push up bedtime by small increments to ease the transition to an earlier time.

Consistent Bed/Wake Times:
Maintaining consistent sleep and wake times is vital for regulating healthy circadian rhythms and sleep patterns. This even includes consistency over weekends, and establishing bedtime routines.

Decrease Screen Time:
Due to travel and more free time, children often increase their electronic screen time over the summer. This electronic use should be limited again now that school is starting. Prolonged screen time can lead to attention problems, learning difficulties, mood issues, and sleep dysregulation in children.

Nutrition is Key!
Start your child’s day off right with a good solid breakfast. A healthy breakfast consists of high protein foods, healthy fats, whole foods full of vitamins and minerals, and foods low in sugar. These foods will give your child’s brain the nutrients and fuel it needs to focus, learn new information, regulate mood and behavior, and stay on task.

Manage Stress and Anxiety:
If school is a big stress for your child, start working on stress coping skills now. It is important to work with a health care provider for more serious mental health concerns, as well as working with your child’s school for supportive services.