WEDNESDAY
OCTOBER 27, 2010
Maintaining a positive relationship
pg 4
...When bedbugs bite!!
A NEW HEALTHY LIVING GUIDE FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS
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Houston we have a problem:
I am stressed out SEEMA D. SAIGAL, M.A. | COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES If you are like most UH students, you have to juggle classes, jobs, family, friends, finances, your significant other, extracurricular activities, and more. At the end of the day, you may be left wondering, “If only my body didn’t need sleep!” When you do finally get to bed, you may find yourself going through lists in your head, rehearsing all the things you have to do tomorrow. And just when you are crossing things off that to-do list and starting to feel a sense of accomplishment, it seems like new things get piled onto your plate and you are right back to feeling stressed and overwhelmed. If this sounds all too familiar, you may be experiencing chronic stress. There are many kinds of stress: situational, interpersonal, and intrapersonal. Situational stressors arise from concrete external factors, PHOTOS.COM
STRESS MGMT continues on page 7
Academics over alcohol GAYLYN GADDY MAURER, MA | UH WELLNESS
We’ve got good news about the choices of University of Houston Students – they continue to make healthy ones! Every year on our campus-wide survey we ask our students about the self-protective behaviors they engage in related to alcohol. The self-protective behavior identified by them most often is related to their goal to achieve: they intentionally make academics a priority over alcohol. Among those that choose to make academics a priority, ninety-one percent (91%) report a semester Grade Point Average of 3.0 or higher! Now that is definitely a healthy choice that pays off. Here’s more good news that shows what good decisions the majority of UH students are making about alcohol use:
of UH students drink 2 or fewer alcoholic drinks per 79% week in a typical week. of UH students drink 3 or fewer times a month – 77% that’s less than once a week! Although most students are making healthy choices, sometimes the pressure of college life can get overwhelming. Here are some “red flags” that someone you know might be struggling with alcohol use: • Attending class less and less • Lack of concern about class assignments and tests • Seeming more withdrawn and isolated • A change in friends • Unexplained shifts in mood • Reduction in favorite activities or student organization involvement If reading this list causes you to think about someone you are close to, we suggest contacting Counseling and Psychological Services (7130743-5454) to discuss ways to get your friends some help. You can also contact UH Wellness (713-743-5430) for additional information about alcohol use and abuse. Keep making healthy choices!
PHOTOS.COM
Negotiating condom use The heart of the matter: self-protection is self-respect BEVERLY A. MCPHAIL | WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER Not everyone decides to be sexually active during their college years, and there are good reasons to delay sexual activity. However, the Guttmacher Institute reports that men experience first intercourse at age 16.9, on average, and women at age 17.4. By their late teenage years, at least three-fourths of all men and women have had intercourse. The MTV Get Yourself Tested (GYT) campaign reveals that one in two sexually active young adults will get a STI by the time they are 25, and many will not even know it. Nearly half of all pregnancies to American women are unintended. Women of color are disproportionately affected by both STIs and unplanned pregnancies. Men having sex with other men account for more than half of all new HIV infections in the U.S. each year. Also, many lesbian women are unaware of their risks and fail to use dental dams. In spite of the risks, according to the National College Health Assessment Survey, only about half of male college students (47.6%) and female college students (55.2%) used a method of contraception the last
time they had vaginal intercourse. So why do young college students engage in sexually risky behavior? Many times young people graduate from high schools that teach abstinence-only sex education, where condom failure rates are often inflated as a scare tactic. (According to Guttmacher, first-year condom failure rates as a percentage of women experiencing an unintended pregnancy is 2% with perfect use and 17.4% in typical use). Sometimes when a man wants to show a woman they care about her, he will wear a condom, and yet when the woman wants to show they care about him, she will insist on not using a condom. Another irony is that many young people find it more intimate to talk about sex and contraceptive use than to actually engage in sexual activity. Also, many women are not taught to be assertive and ask for what they want or need and are more focused on pleasing their partner. Also, in a sexual relationship one person usually has more power than the other and the other person doesn’t have the power within the relationship to either ask, or insist, on condom use. Additionally, if women are prepared and have a condom in their purse, they can be
termed “a slut” instead of the more appropriate, “sexually responsible.” Some women think condom use shows they don’t trust their partner. Some ideas to combat these obstacles include: Everyone must begin to feel entitled to ask for condom use. It is your body and you have the right to say no to unprotected sex. If someone does not care enough to respect your wishes, then they don’t really care about you. Be brave and talk about contraception before you become sexually active with your partner. Make it fun. Shop together and buy condoms in fun colors and flavors. If you care about your partner, insist on condom use for his or her safety as well as your own. STIs go both ways. Some guys might say that condoms make sex less fun, but you can tell them condom use makes sex more fun if neither of you are worried about potential pregnancy or STIs. And condom use is not about trust, it is about respect. So as Aretha Franklin sings, spell out R-E-S-P-E-C-T and demand it. You deserve it! Beverly A. McPhail is Director of the Women’s Resource Center. For more information about WRC, please visit www.uh.edu/wrc.
HEALTH 4•1•1
2 ■ Wednesday, October 27, 2010
The Daily Cougar
love your body The University UEI
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The physical health of young women is critically important to our nation’s future. One fact research shows is that health issues are preventing young adults from performing as well as they should in school. There are several different sectors of good health. One that is often overlooked is women’s health. A well-woman exam represents an essential part of women’s health. An annual exam is given once a year by an obstetrician /gynecologist or primary care provider for a general health check. A well-woman exam includes basic history and physical, a pap smear and pelvic exam, breast exam and contraceptive counseling. During the pelvic exam, your health care provider will examine your reproductive organs, including your ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, and vulva. The cervix is the portion of your uterus that protrudes into your vagina. Cancer can develop in your cervix. A pap smear is a sample of cells from your cervix to screen for cancer. Most cervical cancers grow very slowly and can be treated successfully if they are found early, it is important that you have yearly pap smears. Your health care provider will
also examine the mucus around your cervix so that it can be tested for vaginal infections and sexually transmitted disease (STDs). Some of these STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and human papilloma virus (HPV). It is important that you ask your healthcare provider for these tests if your health care provider does not routinely take a specimen for these tests. This becomes especially important if you exhibit symptoms such as a rash or vaginal discharge, or concerns about your sexual partners. The recommendation is that your first well woman exam takes place at age 18 or after your first sexual encounter, whichever is earliest. A sexual encounter may include but is not limited to vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Participating in any of these acts may put you at risk for contracting a STD. Having a well- woman exam may be utilized as a means to identify any of the aforementioned. Most importantly, a well- woman exam is used as an early detection tool for breast cancer as well as cervical cancer. Participating in these screenings may increases the possibility of detecting abnormalities in the early stages. Well woman exams are vital to a woman’s overall health. Having this important information assists a woman in being proactive in making lifestyle choices. If you do not have insurance or have a low income you could qualify for the women’s health program. + More information about the Women’s Health Program may be found at www. hhsc.state.tx.us. If you have questions or concerns contact your family physician. If you do not have a family physician, you may contact the Houston Department of Health and Human Services at www.houstontx.gov/health.
Get well*. *with help from UH Wellness.
Programs & services include: ALCOHOL 101
WELLNESS WORKSHOPS
Alcohol 101 is a computer based, interactive program that will teach you about alcohol, its effects, the impact of BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) and what affects it, outcomes of drinking, etc. Contact us for details.
Workshops are held in Room 1038 Campus Recreation & Wellness Center.
Upcoming workshops: 11/1: Financial Wellness: The College Economy, 12-1pm 11/11: Meditation: Slowing Down to Increase Focus, 10-11 am 11/16: Thinking About Stopping Smoking?, 12-1 pm
RELAXATION LAB * Every Monday is Blue Monday, so come by any time that day and receive stress management information and listen to a relaxation tape. * A Yoga group is held at noon on Tuesdays and Fridays in Garrison Gym, room 206. * Come by the Wellness Office any time to relax, and listen to a relaxation tape
11/22: Nutrition: Eating Well During the Holidays, 11am-12pm 11/29: Stress Management: Relax, It’s Only Finals, 3-4pm
UH Wellness is a unit of Learning and Assessment Services, under the Division of Student Affairs.
NOON WALKERS The distance around the interior of the University Center is approximately 1/8 mile. On Tuesdays & Thursdays, we are encouraging groups to walk together. We will begin at the front door of the UC Administration office. Join us and walk to your health!
www.las.uh.edu/uhw
Campus Recreation & Wellness Center, Room 1038 • (713) 743-5455
HEALTH 4•1•1
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Finding BED BUGS: time for Are you being nutrition bitten? GAYLYN G. MAURER, M.A. | UH WELLNESS
Monday – Wednesday – Friday: Anthropology from 9:00 to11:00 a.m.; then an annoying and unnecessary break for an hour; English Lit from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. and finish classes for the day with US History from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday – Thursday: Biology 10:00 to 11:45 a.m.; then rush across campus to Introduction to Sociology from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.; then an hour-and-a-half break waiting for Political Science to start at 3:30 and I finally get out of class at 5:00 p.m. Add a part-time job, time to study, hanging out with friends, working out at the Rec center — and don’t forget about the random meetings with professors or all nighters that seem to occur at least once a week — and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a stressed-out and overworked college student. Where and how exactly does nutrition fit in during college life? For a portion of students, nutrition gets the backseat and understandably so — appropriate calorie in-take was not high on my list of priorities when it was 2:00 a.m. and I was only halfway through studying for my mid-term at 9:00 the next morning. Unfortunately, with poor nutrition habits came the freshman 15 — or maybe 20, but who’s counting? Poor nutritional habits such as skipping meals, inappropriate food choices, increased portion sizes, consuming large amounts of food late at night and increased alcohol consumption puts us at risk for developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity. Luckily, there are many options to help keep college students fit and healthy. With a little knowledge and planning, we can keep the freshman 15 at bay and also help prevent many chronic disease diseases. Remember to eat breakfast — it truly is the most important meal of the day. Keep healthy snacks around at all times — this will prevent overdoing it at the next meal. Fill up on fiber — it aids in weight loss and helps control blood sugar. Remember to drink a lot of water — sometimes we misinterpret thirst for hunger and this can lead to increase of excess calories. For more information make an appointment with a nutritionist on campus. +
Production Stan Le Copy Editors Jack Wehman Mary Baak Health 4•1•1 is an adverising supplement to The Daily Cougar.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010 ■ 3
was recently published in Skin & Aging magazine and can be found nd at www.skinandaging.com/content/diagnosis-bedbug-bites. Portions of this article were originally published by Cohen PR: “Getting the bite on bed bugs”. Universityy of Houston Health Center Cougar g Health Connection 2009;1(2):2. (uh.edu/admin/hc/News/ ( Fall2009Newsletter.pdf).Republished f with permission.
PHILIP R. COHEN, M.D. Cimex lectularius, also know as the common bed bug, ug, have been found in homes, apartment complexes, some of the finestt hotels and even on college campuses. They range in size from 1/8 too 1/4 of an inch and are flat, oval, brown or red-orange insects that prefer fer to remain hidden within the seams of mattresses. However, they can also reside in the nside luggage or bed frame or headboard, behind loose wallpaper, inside furniture, in the floor cracks and along the baseboards rds of the room. The female bug lays between 200 to more thann 300 eggs in her er without a meal. lifetime. The adult bug can live up to a year or longer Temperatures either below freezing (for at least twoo weeks) or above 120 degrees Fahrenheit (for several days) are necessary sary to kill them. Bed bugs are blood-sucking arthropods. They painlessly ainlessly feed in the early hours just before dawn. Skin reactions at the bite sites may appear as a linear arrangement of papules — often three hree in a row, which nner” pattern. has been referred to as the “breakfast, lunch and dinner” Are you sharing your bed with bed bugs? Look for telltale signs on the bed sheets: either dark black spots (fecal material rial from the bugs) umber of bed bugs, or red spots (your blood). When there are a large number the room may have a pungent odor from an oily secretion cretion released by the bed bugs. re room — not just What can you do if you find bed bugs? The entire the mattress — must be treated. A professional exterminator terminator is often necessary to treat the infestation. formative article If you want to read more about bed bugs, an informative
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HEALTH 4•1•1
4 ■ Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Sorting out depression KENNETH ARFA, MD, DFAPA Patients often ask me if they should take medicine for their depression. We figure this out together by first deciding whether depression is the correct diagnosis. Clinical depression, also called Major Depressive Disorder, means at least two weeks of depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure. Weight loss or gain, thoughts of suicide and appetite loss may occur. Patients may sleep poorly or too much. They often feel fatigue, guilt or worthlessness. Trouble with concentration or loss of libido may also occur. Should you take medicine for depression? You should probably get a physical exam and blood tests for disorders that mimic depression and stop abusing alcohol or using illicit drugs. Exercise regularly and try to add spirituality or religion to your life — these all help a great deal. Consider psychotherapy. Some patients aren’t making it to class, feel suicidal, find that their depressive symptoms make the people around them miserable or just want to feel better faster. These patients should think seriously about taking medicine for depression. Most depression medicines are very inexpensive and tolerated well. They are not addictive, but may take two or three weeks to work. If you’d like to talk about depression with a psychiatrist, please contact the Psychiatry Clinic at UH Student Health at (713) 743-5149. +
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Love 101:
problem-solving ability will not be at its best. Tell your partner you need a break and take at least 20 minutes to do something relaxing before re-engaging in the discussion.
Key to a healthy relati nship is to stay p sitive
Q: Okay, I have taken a time-out and am feeling relaxed. Now what?
A:
MARK TRAHAN & LISA HUGHES | COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES All relationships have ups and downs. The key to sustaining a relationship is maintaining positivity between you and your partner. Research shows that couples who maintain at least a five-to-one ratio of positive to negative interactions have happier, longer-lasting relationships. Many couples, however, maintain a one-to-one ratio of positive to negative interactions. The following are several frequently asked questions pertaining to improving the quality of one’s relationship and enhancing communication within the relationship.
PHOTOS.COM
your partner. Some people even create a ritual where they share an appreciation for their partner each day, perhaps before going to bed. Couples who know each other intimately on a day to day basis report more satisfaction in the relationship. Ask questions about your partner’s past experiences, current joys and concerns, and dreams for the future. You may also want to schedule “love days”, where you engage in positive and loving behaviors toward your partner without telling them that this is “their” day!
Q:What are some ways Q: I love my partner to maintain positivity in my relationship?
A:
Nurturing fondness and admiration for your partner is a great way to maintain positivity in your relationship. Notice the little things that your partner does for you or the personal qualities that you value in partner - and tell
and we’re maintaining positivity, but we seem to have the same disagreements over and over again. How do we work through them?
A:
Did you know that 69% of all couple’s problems are perpetual, meaning that they
last the length of the relationship? All couples have problems. Problems are an inevitable part of a relationship and choosing a partner is, in essence, choosing a particular set of problems. You may want to ask yourself, “Can I be with this person even with these problems?” If the answer is yes, then try to maintain positivity in the relationship, even when problems arise.
Q: So how do we talk about problems that come up? Sometimes I get so worked up I can’t think straight.
A:
There is a name for what you are experiencing: flooding. You may feel your heart racing and have difficulty concentrating. You may shut down or feel like you want to leave the room. In fact, in may be a good idea for you to leave the room when this is happening because your
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La Nueva Casa De Amigos Health Center, 1809 North Main, 713-547-8000 (Zip Code 77009)
information about these and other strategies?
A:
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide by the Country’s Foremost Relationship Expert by Dr. John Gottman is an excellent resource for couples. The information above (and much more!) is included in this book. + For more CAPS info, visit: caps.uh.edu
Lyons Avenue Health Center, 5602 Lyons Avenue, 713-671-3000 (Zip Code 77020)
6
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Q: Where can I get more
Northside Health Center, 8504 Schuller, 713-696-5900 (Zip Code 77093)
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Now, you will want to begin the discussion in a gentle manner, avoiding criticism and a harsh tone of voice. Try using “I” statements that focus on how you feel. Pay attention to any signs of tension between you and your partner and learn to repair the positivity if things become negative. This may include apologizing to your partner or identifying something that you can relate to in what your partner said. Some of these strategies may feel unnatural at first – they are supposed to. New behaviors often take some getting used to. Keep practicing. With time, they will get easier and you will begin to notice some beautiful changes in your relationship.
Magnolia Health Center, 7037 Capitol, 713-928-9800 (Zip Code 77011)
5 4
Riverside Health Center, 3315 Delano, 713-831-9663 (Zip Code 77004)
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1 Adult Immunization Clinic, Riverside Health, 3315 Delano, 713-831-9632 (Zip Code 77004) Sharpstown Health Services (HIV/STD, Dental and WIC only), 6201 Bonhomme, 713-780-5600 (Zip Code 77036)
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2 Sunnyside Health Center, 9314 Cullen, 713-732-5000 (Zip Code 77051)
Health care is right around the corner! Health Centers provide prenatal care/maternity care, family planning, immunizations, well child examinations, Tuberculosis diagnosis, dental care, nutrition information and care for sexually transmitted diseases. Note: not all services are provided at all centers. Call each center for specific information.
HEALTH 4•1•1
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Men in your twenties:
C alls! B heck your
If found early, testicular cancer is almost always curable. The prognosis for men with testicular cancer is very good, even with late stage disease. The chances of recovery are excellent with surgery and radiotherapy for early stage disease. A testicular self-examination (TSE) is an easy way for guys to check their own testicles to make sure there aren’t any unusual lumps or bumps — which can be the first sign of testicular cancer. It’s most effective when conducted at least once a month.
H
ere’s how: It’s best to do a TTSE during or
right after a hot shower or bath. The scrotum is most relaxed then, which makes it easier to examine the testicles.
1) Examine one testicle at a time. Use both hands to gently roll each testicle (with slight pressure) between your fingers. 2) Place your thumbs over the top of your testicle, with the index and middle fingers of each hand behind the testicle, and then roll it between your fingers. You should be able to feel the epididymis (the sperm-carrying tube), which feels soft, rope-like, and slightly tender to pressure, and is located at the top of the back part of each testicle. This is a normal lump. Remember that one testicle (usually the right one) is slightly larger than the other for most guys — this is also normal. 3) When examining each testicle, feel for any lumps or bumps along the front or sides. Lumps may be as small as a piece of rice or a pea. 4) If you notice any swelling, lumps, or changes in the size or color of a testicle, or if you have any pain or achy areas in your groin, let your doctor know right away. Lumps or swelling may not be cancer, but they should be checked by your doctor as soon as possible. Testicular cancer is almost always curable if it is caught and treated early. See a doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms: • A painless lump or swelling in a testicle • Pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum • Any enlargement of a testicle or change in the way it feels • A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum • A dull ache in the lower abdomen, back, or groin • A sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum These symptoms can be caused by cancer or by other conditions. It is important to see a doctor to determine the cause of any of these symptoms. + Source: National Cancer Institute, U.S National Institutes of Health
Wednesday, October 27, 2010 ■ 5
TITAN PROJECT: a man-cave with a health focus
GREG BARNES | TITAN PROJECT An innovative approach to delivering much-needed health services to males, the Titan Project (TP) is a preventive well-man clinic, educational center and an activity hub — all in one — for men ages 14 to 55. The male-focused services offered at TP are designed to address the whole man: male reproductive health and well-man clinical exams; family planning and risk reduction counseling; social support services; personal development classes; positive recreation and positive support networks. All TP services are offered at discounted or no cost to clients. The most innovative and unique features of the project are the Internet café and business center, media/video game room and an onsite barbershop — all geared toward engaging males in a positive
way. These extras offer guys a different look and feel from the traditional clinic setting. Striving to meet the diverse needs of urban men, TP also provides free Strapped Condoms, a preferred brand of premium largersized condoms. Through an extensive network of community partners, TP clients can access an array of male-centered health promotion and social support services. Specialized services are also available to assist ex-offenders with re-entry into their communities and, in general, men struggling with barriers to employment and housing. TP is centrally located in the heart of Third Ward at Riverside Health Center, 3315 Delano (off
Elgin). Male clinic visits are available only on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Riverside is convenient to downtown, on the bus line, and within walking distance of both UH and Texas Southern University campuses. One of the primary objectives of the project is to connect men to long-term health care and treatment, which is commonly known as a “medical home.” TP partners closely with Central Care Community Health Center (CCCHC), a non-profit Federally Qualified Health Center located right next door, to provide an easy link to affordable, comprehensive primary care services. Additional services provided by
“One of
the primary objectives of the project is to connect men to longterm health care and treatment”
CCCHC include full-service adult dental, HIV testing and an onsite pharmacy at its MLK site. In short, the Titan Project is a safe, affordable place for adolescent and adult men to socialize, learn and access confidential and professional health services in a male-friendly setting. “Strong Men are Healthy Men” is the project’s motto, encouraging men to place as much emphasis on their “inside” wellness as is typically given their outside swagger. + For more information on scheduling an eligibility screening for clinic services, contact Wilfredo Martinez at 713-8319614 or email HLT.MHI@houstontx.gov. Walk-ins are welcome and only a current photo ID is required to access male clinic services. Visit MHI’s website, www. houstontx.org/health/malehealth for more resources and information.
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PHOTOS.COM
The facts about food allergies Kizzy Steward, Pharm. D., RPh | UH Health Center Looking back at my childhood, I think it had to be one of my favorite snacks. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner — no matter what time of day it was — I wanted to have it as a meal. I’m talking about the classic, timeless peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Even to this day, I occasionally enjoy the sweet yet salty, gooey but smooth taste of a good old peanut butter and jelly
sandwich. Unfortunately, though, not very many can indulge in this tasty snack due to food allergies. Food allergies have become increasingly more common in recent years. According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN), there are eight foods that account for 90 percent of all food-related allergic reactions. They are milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat. In many cases, these allergies will eventually be outgrown; however, peanut and shellfish sensitivities are considered to be lifelong allergies. FAAN defines a food allergy as an occurrence when a food protein is mistakenly attacked by the immune system. Once the food is consumed, a chemical called histamine is released, which may result in symptoms like itching, getting a rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, wheezing and loss of consciousness. Food allergies can create several challenges — like not having the convenience of fast food meals; the inability to consume foods at social events/gatherings; and the necessity of shopping at specialty grocers and nutrition centers; and ultimately, if you are caregiver to someone with food allergies — the very difficult task of cooking nutritious and palatable
The Daily Cougar
meals. In contrast to these disadvantages, it can also be noted that the one consistently positive end result to all of these challenges is the opportunity to establish a healthier diet and lifestyle. By becoming more aware of the foods and ingredients we consume, we are also raising the level of consciousness of the not-so-healthy things we often find ourselves consuming. Avoidance of food allergens can even help to reduce or eliminate skin conditions like eczema. Perhaps there’s a silver lining to the problem of food allergies after all — healthier eating overall. Bon Appetite! + Article was originally published in University of Houston Health Center Cougar Health Connection. For additional information on food allergies visit www.foodallergy.org.
PHOTOS.COM
on an exam or project, receiving a lower grade in a course, receiving an incomplete or dropping a course or experiencing a significant disruption in thesis, dissertation, research or practicum work.
ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE MARY RAE, MD What are the most common factors that impact on academic performance? And why do students get lower grades than they want or expect? This was one of many questions posed to over 34,000 students in a survey by the National College Health Assessment. This survey was organized by the American College Health Association in order to create a current profile of health trends within the campus community. The survey included students from all over the country, attending college in public, private, rural and urban settings. The question that was posed was this: Within the last 12 months, what has impacted your academic performance? This is defined as receiving a lower grade
Biomedical Informatics... Advance your career in healthcare
The top four impacts and their percentages are as follows: Stress:
27.8%
Cold/flu/sore throat (19.0%) and sinus/ear infection & bronchitis (5.0%): Sleep difficulties: Anxiety:
23.6% 20.0% 18.6%
Chronic health problems, injuries, depression, concern for a friend or family member all featured prominently as well. It has been shown in the past that students who do access health and counseling services on their campuses obtain and maintain higher GPAs than the students who do not. The UH Health Center and CAPS are ready to help students address physical and emotional health issues to maximize their performance and achieve success. + For more info on the ACHA/NCHA survey go to www.achancha.org
UT HEALTH INTRODUCES APPLIED MASTER’S PROGRAM IN BIOINFORMATICS LAUREN CARRIER | UT HEALTH SCHOOL OF BIOMEDICAL INFORMATICS
Certificates 0DVWHUҋV 3K' NEW! Applied Master’s Program Online classes available First school in the country devoted exclusively to graduate programs in health/biomedical informatics Combines information science, engineering, computer science, medical science, cognitive and social science 7000 Fannin, Suite 800 Houston, TX 77030 713.500.3591 www.uthouston.edu/sbmi
Beginning in Spring 2011, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Biomedical Informatics will offer a master of science in applied health informatics, offering the skills to assess, implement, maintain and evaluate electronic health records and computerized health information systems. The 12-course program is offered entirely online and requires 36 semester credit hours. “This is convenient for students with busy work schedules. The faculty will be available to communicate to students through the use of Web 2.0 technologies,” said Juliana J. Brixey, Ph.D., M.P.H, R.N., who will be teaching courses for the new program. Courses investigate a broad selection of areas such as the modern American healthcare system, healthcare legislation, primary care facilities, health information security protocols and project management. The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) will fund up to 29 full-time students for the one-year Master of Science in Applied Health Informatics program. For selected full-time (9 hours/semester) students, the ONC grant will subsidize 60 percent of tuition and fees, a $15,000 stipend and free student health insurance for the duration of the program. + For information, visit: www.uthouston. edu/sbmi/education/applied or contact the Office of Academic Affairs at (713) 500-3591.
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STRESS continued from page 7
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Is it a cold or the flu? Get ready: These viruses play dirty MARICRUZ MEDINA-MARQUIS, M.D. With arrival of fall comes the dreaded concern of catching a cold or the flu. The cold and flu season begins in early October and usually ends in April. Arming yourself with some knowledge about the common cold and the flu (influenza) may prevent infection and assist with treatment and recovery. The common cold is the most frequent acute illness in the US and accounts for more visits to the doctor than any other condition. More than 200 viruses can cause the common cold, but the rhinovirus is the most common. People contract a cold by touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with their hands after coming in contact with the virus. Between one and three days after a cold virus enters the body, symptoms develop, lasting about one to two weeks. Like a cold, the flu is a viral infection that infects the upper respiratory tract. However, it is caused the influenza A or B virus. Most adults will have symptoms for about one to two weeks and recover with no problems. However, the flu can cause more severe illness. Consulting with a doctor may help determine whether you have developed the flu or a complication of the flu. Rest and over the counter medication may help alleviate the symptoms of a cold, but antibiotics are not effective for the common cold because antibiotics do not kill viruses — antibiotics kill bacteria. Treatment for the flu consists of zanamivir (Relenza) or oseltamivir (Tamiflu). These medicines are antiviral medications that fight against influenza A, B and H1N1. When initiated within 48 hours after the onset of symptoms, antiviral medication may shorten the duration of the flu by one to three days. As with the common cold, rest and symptomatic treatment are also recommended for the flu. According to the CDC, the single most important thing to do to keep from getting sick and spreading illness to others is to wash your hands. Some viruses can survive up to 2 hours or more on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, desks and gym equipment. Washing hands routinely with soap and clean water for one minute is a recommended strategy for hand hygiene. If soap and clean water are not available, an alcohol-based hand hygiene COLD or FLU? continues on page 8
things that happen to a person. Interpersonal or relational stress occurs in the context of relationships with others. Intrapersonal stress, on the other hand, results from a conflict within a person, such as illness, difficulties with time management, or sorting out conflicting values. Recognizing the signs of stress is the first step in stress management. Stress can manifest itself physically, through muscle tension, fatigue, stomach pains, susceptibility to illness, changes in eating patterns, or even high blood pressure. Stress can also manifest itself emotionally with anxiety, sadness, and anger. Stress may be reflected in your cognitive processes, such as when you have thoughts like “I can’t do anything right”, “I am going to flunk out of school”, or “I should be able to do this all on my own”. Stress can also affect your behavior, increasing the chance you might turn to unhealthy coping through drugs or alcohol, blame others, withdraw from friends, and work harder and longer hours but be less productive. So now that you can pinpoint the sources of stress and determine how that stress is manifesting itself, it’s time to take action and implement a coping plan. Take care of yourself physically, by getting enough sleep, exercise, and eating healthy. Try taking 5 minutes to do some deep breathing,
relax your muscle tension, or close your eyes and imagine yourself in a peaceful place. Even if you don’t have time to go to the gym, try climbing a few flights of stairs, or going for a short walk. To manage interpersonal stress, it is important to be assertive. Learning to say no is an important step in managing your time and not taking on more than you can handle. Remind yourself that you have the right to change your mind, to ask for help, to do less than what others expect of you, to express yourself, and to not feel guilty. Time management is another big part of coping with stress. You might try getting a planner, and prioritizing your most important short term goals. As for some of those long term goals, perhaps they can wait. And feel free to pencil in some down time or some rewards for yourself! Lastly, try to reframe your thinking and think positive! For example, try telling yourself that you don’t need to be perfect, that it’s okay to make mistakes, and that you are doing the best you can. More importantly, instead of focusing on your mistakes or on all the things you should be doing differently, trying giving yourself credit for the things you are doing right! Also remember: Not all stress is bad, and in moderation, stress may even help motivate us and increase our performance. + For more information on CAPS, visit: www.caps.uh.edu/
Read. Then recycle.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010 ■ 7
HEALTH 4•1•1
8 ■ Wednesday, October 27, 2010
The Daily Cougar
Contact lenses: Do’s & Don’ts The University Eye Institute offers a complete range of daily and extended wear contact lenses for patients who wish to experience the many advantages this type of correction has to offer. Here are some tips for keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable while wearing contact lenses:
What to do:
What NOT to do:
• Wash and rinse your hands before handling your lenses. • Use contact lens solutions and eye drops that your Optometrist recommends.
• Never use tap water, bottled water, or home made saline solution to store, clean or rinse your contact lenses. It can cause infection.
• Change the solution in your case each and every day.
• Never mix different contact lens solutions or eye drops.
• Take care of your contact lens case. Rinse your case with contact lens disinfecting solution, and let it air dry it each time you take out the lenses. Replace your case every 1 to 3 months.
• Never sleep in your daily wear contact lenses.
• Remove your contact lenses and call your Optometrist right away if:
If you have a problem relating to your contact lenses, contact your local Optometrist or the University Eye Institute at: 713.743.2015. We’re located at 4901 Calhoun on the University of Houston Main Campus.
- Your vision changes
• Never wear your lenses longer than your Optometrist advises you to.
- Your eyes become red - Your eyes hurt or feel itchy
PHOTOS.COM
The HEALTH CENTER is offering the Seasonal Flu Vaccine to students, faculty, and staff.
1305&$5 :0634&-' 50%":
COST: $21 Given: Mon-Fri from 8-4:30pm Free Diabetes Screening Nov. 12 from 9-3pm and Free HIV Testing Dec. 1 from 9-5pm.
8&µ3& )&3& 50 )&-1 :06 FALL AND SPRING HOURS M, T, Th, F 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Wed. 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. SUMMER HOURS M, T, Th, F 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Wed. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Hours are Subject to Change For After Hours Emergency, Call UH Police - 713/743-3333
COLD or FLU? continued from page 7
product may be used. Healthy bodies help the immune system fight off infection. Getting plenty of rest, eating a well balanced diet, exercising regularly, decreasing stress and cutting back on smoking and drinking alcohol are sensible strategies to stay healthy and boost the immune system. Stay home if you become ill so you do not infect other people. If you do go out and need to sneeze or cough, use a tissue or sneeze into your sleeve or upper arm. Do not cough in your hand, since you can spread the virus to others by touching people or handling objects that others may use. The best way to prevent the flu is to get the flu vaccine. Currently, the UH Student Health Center is offering flu vaccines to all students, staff and faculty. The 2010-2011 flu vaccine protects against three flu viruses — an H3N2 virus, influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus. The cost of the flu vaccine is $21. The UH Student Health Center also offers free hand sanitizers. +
Orthopedic Clinic: Treatment of sports injuries and Walk-in Clinic: Visits for general diagnosis, musculo-skeletal problems. By appointment only. treatment, emergencies, laboratory, and specialist Contact 713-743-5142. referral. 713-743-5151 Pharmacy: Provides prescription and over the Nursing Care: Allergy injections, immunizations,cuts and counter items at very low cost. For more information abrasions, health information, blood pressure monitoring. Contact contact 713-743-5125. the nurse’s station at 713-743-5156 UH Student Health Insurance: Information, Women’s Clinic: Diagnosis, treatment, counseling and referral waivers and rates. Contact 713-743-5137. for women’s health issues. By appointment only. Contact 713-743-5156 for appointments. Psychiatric Clinic: Evaluation, diagnosis, medication Men’s Clinic: Diagnosis, treatment, counseling and management and treatment for psychiatric disorders. By referral for men’s health issues. By appointment only. appointment only. For appointments contact 713-743-5149. Contact 713-743-5155 for appointments. The Dermatology Clinic: is staffed by a board certified dermatologist available to diagnose and treat disorders of the skin, hair and nails. By appointment only. 713-743-5154.
Attendant Care Services: A personal care and lifestyle assistance program for the specific needs of disabled students living on campus. For more information, contact 713-748-8603.
Entrance # 6, off Wheeler, Bldg # 525 on Campus Map 713-743-5151 - www.uh.edu/admin/hc
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