However, the symptoms of IBS can make it hard to access healthcare. Unpredictable diarrhea and uncomfortable bloating and gas can make it hard to travel to an appointment. Moreover, many Canadians either can’t access timely medical care or don’t have a family doctor at all. This can leave them wrestling with severe IBS symptoms alone, sharply affecting their quality of life.

Going it alone doesn’t have to be your only option — we can help. Maple is a virtual care platform that seamlessly connects you with Canadian-licensed doctors and specialists from your phone, tablet, or computer. With Maple, you can ditch the anxiety of having to use a public washroom, or the hassle of lining up for hours at the walk-in clinic. Instead, we can help you connect with an online doctor from home or wherever else that’s most comfortable for you.

What causes IBS?

IBS is a bit of a mystery in more ways than one. Not only is its underlying cause unclear, but testing for it isn’t possible either. This can make it difficult to figure out if you have IBS or something else. As a result, IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning your provider will only diagnose it after they’ve eliminated other possibilities.

While its exact cause is unclear, doctors think IBS is partly due to your brain being overly sensitive to the sensation of food travelling through your digestive tract. Neuroimaging studies have backed this theory up, showing changes in parts of the brain responsible for attention, emotion, and pain modulation. As a result, it’s referred to as a functional gastrointestinal disorder or a disorder of gut-brain interaction.

Likely, IBS also has something to do with your immune system and the permeability of the mucosal lining of your digestive tract. Due to its high prevalence in women, hormones may also play a role.

Signs and symptoms of severe IBS

IBS can be severe and many report a decreased quality of life as a result of their symptoms. These can include:

• Bloating, gas and abdominal pain are common with IBS and can be severe
• Constipation causing straining, which can result in hemorrhoids
• Diarrhea and fecal urgency, which due to their unpredictability, stool volume, and consistency can cause incontinence
• Feeling like you haven’t emptied your bowels completely
• Low energy and fatigue due to both connectivity within a network in the brain and immune activation
• IBS risk factors and triggers

It’s unclear why certain individuals develop IBS and others don’t. You can have the condition without any risk factors, or have many of them and not develop IBS. Still, you’re more likely to be diagnosed with IBS if you:

• Are a current smoker
• Are between your teens and your 40s
• Have someone in your family with IBS
• Are a woman
• Were exposed to trauma, such as childhood abuse
• Had a gastric event such as a parasite infection or food poisoning
• Regularly experience high stress levels
• Have a psychiatric comorbidity — somewhere between 50-90% of patients with IBS also have a mental illness, especially generalized anxiety disorder and depression.

While it’s unclear why some develop IBS and others don’t, symptom flare-ups are better understood. It’s a good idea to keep a journal to note your specific triggers, but the following are some of the most general:

Alcohol

Alcohol is rough on the stomach and contributes to faster digestion. This can exacerbate symptoms significantly, especially diarrhea.

Certain foods

While individuals are likely to have their own unique dietary no-go zones, there are no specific foods that cause IBS. Never-the-less, many individuals report issues with fried foods, certain artificial sweeteners, and caffeine. Regularly skipping meals and eating late at night can also be problematic.

If you’re unsure about your trigger foods, it’s a good idea to keep a food journal and consider working with a dietitian to ensure you’re eating a balanced diet while eliminating triggering foods.

Certain medications

Because they change your intestinal flora, antibiotics are frequent causes of IBS flare-ups. Antidepressants, by contrast, can both cause flare-ups and calm symptoms of IBS. Unfortunately, knowing whether an antidepressant will worsen or help your condition may come down to trial and error.

Stress

The gut-brain axis is the bi-directional communication system between your brain and your digestive system. While this is a crucial pathway of information for your body, it also means that stress often serves as a significant trigger for IBS symptoms.

How do you know if IBS is severe?

Because the inside of your colon appears normal with IBS, your doctor has no way of measuring how severe your symptoms are. Ultimately, it depends on how much it’s interfering with your life. If you’re unable to effectively manage your IBS symptoms so you can work, study, sleep, or socialize, your condition is severe.

How to treat severe IBS

There’s no cure for IBS. As a result, treatment for severe IBS centres around minimizing and managing symptoms. This should include dietary interventions and exercise, as both have been shown to reduce symptom severity.

Since fibre absorbs water and helps to bulk up your stool, adding it to your diet can also be helpful whether you’re experiencing diarrhea, constipation, or mixed symptoms. You can do this by eating more fruits and vegetables or by taking a pill or powder fibre supplement. But be warned, increasing your fibre intake without upping your water intake will have the opposite effect, so make sure to drink more water if you choose to do this.

However, all of these interventions take time to achieve results, making them effective long-term solutions, but not much help during an acute attack. So, what should you do when IBS pain is severe? Research suggests that peppermint oil can successfully reduce pain and bloating.

Many individuals also swear by heat. They report that applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to their stomach helps to soothe discomfort. Over-the-counter diarrheal medications are another alternative to relieve cramping.

Irrespective of your management techniques, if severe IBS symptoms have become the norm, or you’re experiencing symptoms onset after 50, rectal bleeding, nocturnal diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, or progressive abdominal pain, it’s best to speak to an online doctor to rule out the possibility of another medical condition. You should also inform them if you have a family history of inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer.

If needed, they can prescribe medications like Lotronoex (alosetron) or Viberzi (eluxadoline) to minimize cramping and stomach pain. Alternatively, they may suggest antidepressants in smaller doses, which can be effective for blocking pain.

Health Canada has also approved alternative therapies for use in treating IBS, including prescription digital therapeutics like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

Complications of IBS during pregnancy

While IBS complications aren’t life-threatening, they can complicate your pregnancy. For example, data suggests that having IBS increases your risk for preeclampsia and deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in a vein) during pregnancy. It may also increase the risk of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy, along with the possibility of congenital birth defects in the baby.

Beyond that, pregnancy precipitates hormonal changes, which can worsen IBS symptoms. And, pregnancy food cravings can drive you to eat things that can cause severe IBS flare-ups. Moreover, trying to manage your symptoms through diet can deprive you and your baby of needed nutrients. This makes connecting with a dietitian an invaluable resource to ensure you’re eating optimally for your health and your child’s.

What happens if IBS is left untreated?

If you’re wondering if untreated IBS can lead to something serious like a higher risk of colon cancer, the answer’s no. IBS won’t impact your overall life expectancy or turn into another type of digestive disorder.

But, IBS can affect your quality of life. As such, the dangers of untreated IBS include physical health complications as well as mental ones. These are some of the most common.

Hemorrhoids

Caused by increased pressure from straining during a bowel movement, hemorrhoids are often a chronic issue with IBS. While hemorrhoids are treatable, they’re likely to recur unless you resolve the underlying constipation causing them.

Severe cramping and pain

It’s common to experience cramping and severe stomach pain with IBS. In extreme cases, the severity of symptoms can affect your ability to sleep, work, or even leave the house.

Bowel incontinence

Almost one in five IBS patients reports an episode of bowel incontinence at least once a month. This can cause significant distress, impacting your ability to work and your mental health.

Pelvic floor dysfunction

Regular constipation can strain your pelvic muscles, leading to pelvic floor dysfunction. This can further exacerbate existing constipation, cause back pain, and give rise to urinary urgency and incontinence. In women, this can sometimes lead to pelvic floor prolapse, when one or more of the organs inside your pelvis — like your uterus, bladder, or bowel — move down into the vagina.

Inadequate nutrition

Many individuals find relief from their IBS symptoms by managing their diet. However, sticking to a restrictive regimen like the low-FODMAP diet without replacing problem foods with nourishing alternatives may leave you nutritionally deficient.

Mental health issues

The mental health complications of living with severe IBS are well documented. Symptoms can be unpredictable, leaving you reluctant to venture too far from a bathroom and restricting your behaviour. This can make it hard to socialize, study, or work, causing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

When to see a doctor for your IBS and how Maple can help

You should speak to a healthcare provider anytime your IBS symptoms change or get worse. While IBS doesn’t increase your risk of colorectal cancer, both conditions share symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, constipation, gas, and bloating, making it possible to miss the initial signs of colon cancer if you have IBS.

In the same vein, if you have rectal bleeding, blood in your stool, or are experiencing unexplained weight loss, speak to a healthcare provider right away. These aren’t the expected complications from an IBS flare-up and may indicate other health issues.

Even if your symptoms haven’t changed, if they’re causing you to avoid activities or you’re finding it difficult to manage them, you should seek out medical advice.

Seeing an online doctor can provide the help you’re looking for without the disruption or anxiety of leaving the house. What’s more, if you need a prescription, they can issue one during your appointment and send it to the pharmacy you choose for pick up or delivery to your doorstep.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for comprehensive dietary support for your IBS, it’s a good idea to speak to an online dietitian. A dietitian can help you control your symptoms while still ensuring your body gets the vitamins, minerals, and calories it needs to stay healthy. And, you don’t have to take time off work or fight the traffic to do it.

If you feel like you’re not in control of your IBS, it’s time to make a change. With support, symptoms are manageable. Reach out to speak to a doctor today and stop IBS from having power over your life.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post What are the complications of IBS? appeared first on Maple.

What’s whooping cough?

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis (B. pertussis). It gets its name from the whooping cough sound — a telltale inhale of breath at the end of a coughing fit that sounds like a “whoop.”

Whooping cough tends to be long-lasting. It can take six to twelve weeks to clear, leaving you with a cough that can last for weeks or months. And, unlike most other respiratory illnesses, it circulates at relatively stable levels throughout the year, peaking only slightly in the summer and fall.

Although most Canadians are vaccinated against it, there are 1,000-3,000 cases of whooping cough every year. This may not seem like a large number, but many cases occur in infants and small children who are more likely to suffer a serious illness.

Is there a test for whooping cough?

Because its initial symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, and fever are easily mistaken for other illnesses, whooping cough is unlikely to be diagnosed right away. So, how can you tell if you have whooping cough? You’ll likely have to wait until your second week of illness when more telltale symptoms appear.

Since many adults and older children experience atypical symptoms, a nose or throat culture test may be recommended too. This involves nasal swabs or throat swabs taken from the infected person and testing it for B. pertussis bacteria. You may also require a blood test to confirm the diagnosis.

Who’s most at risk for whooping cough?

Anyone can get whooping cough, but thanks to high rates of vaccination, most adults experience relatively mild illness. However, vaccination against whooping cough starts at two months, and immunization isn’t complete until four to six. Without a complete series of vaccines, young children are at risk of more serious illness.

Moreover, children’s small airways are more vulnerable to inflammation, increasing their risk of complications. Consequently, the most severe outcomes are in this age group — about 50% of children under one who contract it require hospitalization.

While whooping cough in babies is severe, young children aren’t the only ones at risk. Unvaccinated and under-vaccinated individuals have a higher chance of experiencing serious bouts of the illness. Additionally, immunocompromised individuals — even if fully vaccinated — are more likely to experience more severe illness and complications.

Since pregnancy produces immunological changes in the body, pregnant women are also vulnerable. As a result, the whooping cough vaccine is one of the immunizations recommended during pregnancy. As an added benefit, it also generates antibodies in the mother that she can pass on to her newborn.

Is whooping cough contagious?

Yes. Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection of B. pertussis that spreads through airborne droplets. During sneezing or coughing, an infected person generates germs that get into the throat and lungs of those nearby. Transmission can also occur by releasing particles when talking or laughing in close proximity.

Whooping cough has a seven-day to three-week incubation period, so you’re unlikely to develop symptoms for a week or more after exposure. However, you’re contagious from the time you start experiencing symptoms until at least two weeks after coughing begins. This means that you can remain contagious for three or more weeks with untreated whooping cough.

Antibiotics shorten this time considerably, leaving you non-contagious five days after starting them.

While vaccinated and previously exposed individuals are protected from severe illness, immunity fades over time, and vaccinated individuals can contract and spread the illness. Consequently, whooping cough in adults and older children often presents asymptomatically or atypically.

This can make caregivers and family members unsuspecting sources of infection for babies. It’s also one of the reasons why whooping cough circulates so steadily despite high vaccination rates. Along with getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, washing your hands, and keeping as much distance as you can from someone who’s infected is crucial.

What are the symptoms of whooping cough?

Whooping cough can precipitate coughing that can last for weeks or months. You may also experience:

• Coughing spasms (though many infants and babies may not cough at all)
• Coughing followed by a sharp intake of breath that sounds like a “whoop”
• Coughing followed by vomiting
• Coughing that worsens at night or after eating
• Seeming well between coughing fits
• Apnea (periods of not breathing)
• Cyanosis (turning blue due to a decrease in blood oxygen levels)

How fast does whooping cough progress?

Although they’ve been reported up to three weeks after exposure, signs and symptoms of whooping cough usually take around seven to 10 days to appear after infection with B. pertussis.

Initially, whooping cough presents with nonspecific mild cold or flu-like symptoms. Only around week two do the telltale signs of the illness appear. This stage can last anywhere from one week to 10, and includes more serious symptoms such as coughing fits.

After this acute phase passes, symptoms tend to lessen gradually. However, they can linger for weeks or even months.

What are the stages of whooping cough?

Whooping cough is divided into three phases. The first, or catarrhal phase, lasts for one week or so. It often involves a slight fever and mild cold symptoms. These may include a runny nose, fatigue, mild cough, low-grade fever, and watery or red eyes.

Gradually, coughing worsens as you enter the second, or paroxysmal, phase. Diagnosis usually happens at this point as the illness’ telltale symptoms appear, including coughing fits and a “whooping” intake of breath. The paroxysmal cough is a series of severe and forceful coughs with a single exhale, leading to a gasp for air, causing the classic “whoop” sound with inhale.

Fits can be so forceful that some people pass out or vomit afterwards. These paroxysms can be triggered by respiratory irritants, mist, or steam, or simply by yawning, laughing, or exercising. If left untreated, this phase can last two to three months.

In the third stage of the illness, the convalescent stage, symptoms lessen until they disappear. However, symptoms can take weeks or even months to resolve completely. Contracting another respiratory infection during this time may cause them to reemerge.

How’s whooping cough treated?

Because it can cause serious outcomes for young children, whooping cough shouldn’t be left untreated. You can be contagious for weeks, even with mild symptoms, so if you suspect whooping cough, it’s important to see a medical professional.

The recommended treatment for whooping cough is antibiotics, which can decrease the duration and severity of the illness. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe them prophylactically if you’ve been in contact with a confirmed case.

Can you treat whooping cough at home?

If symptoms are manageable, you can treat whooping cough at home, provided you’re taking your antibiotics as prescribed. If you’re caring for someone with whooping cough, like a child, remember that while they may seem normal between bouts of coughing, they’re still quite sick.

As with other respiratory illnesses, staying hydrated is paramount. Take frequent, small sips of water or oral rehydration solution and eat small meals throughout the day to keep your strength up. While prioritizing rest is important, chronic coughing can make this difficult, leaving many wondering how to stop whooping cough at night.

For starters, you can help to thin and loosen mucus by staying hydrated and increasing the environmental moisture with a humidifier. If this isn’t enough, physical techniques like controlled coughing or postural drainage can help to clear mucus from the airways.

While taking over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicine might be tempting, studies don’t support their efficacy. Worse, OTC cough medicine can be harmful for children under six. Instead, try a teaspoon of honey or a warm cup of tea to soothe an irritated throat.

Finally, while whooping cough can often be treated safely at home, if you or your child has trouble breathing or lips that turn a bluish colour, it’s a medical emergency.

Can you prevent whooping cough?

The DTaP vaccine is about 90% effective at preventing cases of whooping cough during a child’s first four to six years when they’re most at risk for severe outcomes.

While your child might not appreciate the needle, you can breathe easily knowing that vaccine side effects are mild. They mostly include redness and soreness at the injection site and sometimes mild fever, headache, and muscle aches.

Despite its high efficacy and few side effects, the whooping cough vaccine isn’t perfect. Immunity starts to wane after a few years, making booster shots necessary for adults over the age of 18.

Getting the whooping cough vaccine during pregnancy is also recommended. This protects both the pregnant woman and reduces the likelihood that she’ll infect her newborn child before they can be immunized.

What are the complications of whooping cough?

Whooping cough complications can be either short-term or long-term. The most severe side effects are more likely in children under a year. Prolonged cough is one of the more common ones. Additional complications include:

• Fractured ribs
• Abdominal wall hernia
• Broken blood vessels in the eye
• Urinary incontinence
• Rectal prolapse
• Apnea (periods of not breathing)
• Partially or fully collapsed lung
• Seizures
• Respiratory distress
• Bacterial pneumonia
• Death

Does whooping cough cause long-term effects in adults and kids?

Most cases of whooping cough resolve without complications. However, more severe cases can have lasting repercussions, especially when patients require hospitalization. In these cases, you may see long-term effects like lung scarring or brain damage.

Children who experience a severe case of whooping cough as infants or babies may have additional difficulties. A small minority of severe cases may be left with lasting consequences such as developmental delays and vision and muscle control issues.

When to see a doctor for whooping cough

If you think you or someone you love has whooping cough, it’s important to see a healthcare provider right away. But the reality is, not everyone has access to a family doctor or same-day appointments. And it can take hours just to see a doctor at a walk-in clinic.

If you need care, we can help. Maple’s a telehealth platform that connects you with Canadian-licensed doctors in minutes from your phone, tablet, or computer, so you don’t have to leave home or wait to see a healthcare provider.

With Maple, you can see a doctor online to assess your symptoms. Since antibiotics are advisable in most cases, they can also provide a prescription to treat your whooping cough if necessary. From there, you can pick up your prescription at a pharmacy near you or have it delivered to your door for free. That’ll help you return to normal life more quickly without worrying about infecting vulnerable people around you — especially your loved ones.

Whooping cough isn’t fun in the best of cases and can be downright dangerous at its worst. If you think there’s a case in your home, speak to a doctor today to help stop whooping cough in its tracks.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post How do I know if I have whooping cough? appeared first on Maple.

What’s pneumonia?

Pneumonia can be a serious condition — in 2017/18, it accounted for over 135,000 emergency room visits in the country. And, together with influenza, it consistently ranks in the top 10 causes of death in Canada, claiming just under 6,000 lives in 2020.

Despite these grim statistics, most pneumonia cases end in a full recovery. The caveat is that it can take some time. While some feel better within a week or two, others need a month or more to recover.

Are there different types of pneumonia?

Yes. There are three types of pneumonia, categorized by how you acquire the infection.

1. Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP)

CAP applies to everyone who contracts the illness outside of a hospital or healthcare setting — for example, at school. Aspiration pneumonia’s another form of CAP, which occurs when you breathe food or liquid into the lungs.

2. Nosocomial or hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP)

HAP is the designated name for cases of infection that start while in a hospital or other healthcare setting, like long-term care.

3. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP)

VAP occurs when germs enter a ventilator tube, directing the contaminated air into the patient’s lungs and resulting in pneumonia.

What causes pneumonia?

The causes of pneumonia can be viral, bacterial, or fungal pathogens. Normally, your body has a strong defence system to prevent microorganisms from entering your lungs. However, if your body’s defences are off, or you’re exposed to a large amount of the pathogen (or a very robust one), you’re at risk of infection.

The multiplication of the pathogen inside your lungs sparks a cascade of infection that inflames the air sacs (alveoli) of one or both lungs.

Your body’s immune system responds by directing white blood cells to the area to fight the infection, resulting in swelling in your lung tissue. This causes pus and fluid to build up, making breathing more difficult.

Despite its prevalence, pneumonia isn’t always the cause of a lung infection. Other diseases like bronchiolitis, which is relatively common in small children, or tuberculosis can also be at fault.

What’s the difference between bacterial and viral pneumonia?

The main difference between viral and bacterial pneumonia aren’t in their respective symptoms. Instead, it comes down to how the two are treated. Bacterial pneumonia requires antibiotics, while the viral version is best cured through supportive care and sometimes antivirals. Fungal pneumonia, in turn, is treated with antifungals.

You may also have heard of so-called “walking pneumonia.” This is a common form of bacterial pneumonia caused by mycoplasma bacteria. It’s characterized as “atypical” because it tends to have nonspecific and sometimes misleading symptoms. These can range from mild upper respiratory symptoms to pneumonia.

In severe cases, symptoms of atypical pneumonia can even extend beyond the lungs and include hepatitis or meningitis. In these cases, their causes may be the bacteria legionella or chlamydophila.

Who’s most at risk of getting pneumonia?

Anyone can get pneumonia, but some groups are more likely to contract it and have worse outcomes. These include:

• Children under five
• Adults over 70
• Those with alcohol use disorder (AUD) — these individuals are 10 times more likely to develop pneumonia
• Immunocompromised patients — for example, those with HIV or cancer
• Individuals with health issues — such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes
• Dementia patients and others with swallowing issues who may be at risk of micro-aspiration. This happens when a small amount of liquid or food gets into the lungs, introducing germs.

What are the symptoms of pneumonia?

Bacterial, viral, and fungal pneumonia can present the same symptoms. These include:

• Cough, often with green, yellow, or blood-tinged mucus
• Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing that worsens with exertion
• Chest pain or abdominal pain (in children), especially when coughing
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue or exhaustion
• Chills
• Muscle aches
• Sweating

More severely, you may also see:

• Bluish tinge to fingernails and lips
• Confusion
• Rapid pulse
• Shortness of breath

Symptoms of atypical pneumonia may include:

• Chills
• Cough
• Fever
• Slight shortness of breath
• Fatigue

While symptoms of atypical pneumonia may seem mild, don’t let this fool you. Walking pneumonia can affect multiple organ systems. One study found that almost 90% of patients also experienced issues related to their cardiovascular, digestive, and neurologic systems — to name a few.

Although it can resolve without any treatment for some, timely diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing severe and potentially fatal complications.

How’s pneumonia diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider can diagnose pneumonia based on your symptoms and medical history. They’ll also use a stethoscope to evaluate your breathing and listen for fluid in your lungs. They may also attach a pulse oximeter to your fingertip to measure how well your lungs are oxygenating your blood.

A chest x-ray may be part of your diagnostic workup as well. This can show how much the infection has inflamed the air sacs in your lungs and the extent of fluid buildup. It can also provide clues for what’s causing your infection, as mycoplasma and some viruses often show up on x-rays in telltale patterns.

While x-rays are great diagnostic tools, further evaluations are sometimes needed to help determine the exact cause of infection. In these cases, you may need to undergo a sputum (mucus) test.

To give your provider an idea of how well your organs are functioning, they may order a liver or kidney function test or a blood gas test. Other blood tests can show how well your immune system responds with a complete blood count, or if the pathogen has entered your bloodstream with a blood culture.

If your symptoms are severe, however, they’ll likely recommend further diagnostics or consider admission to a hospital for closer monitoring and further testing. If you’re not responding to treatment, you may be referred for a bronchoscopy or pleural fluid culture.

How does pneumonia spread? Is it contagious?

Pneumonia can be contagious, but it isn’t always. For example, CAP is often caused by viruses or bacteria that spread from person to person via droplets or sometimes by aerosol. As you inhale them, the virus or bacteria colonize the inside of your nasal passages.

Lung infection can occur if your immune defences are down or the amount of pathogen entering your body is substantial enough. As the pathogen replicates in your lungs, your immune system responds. This leads to inflammation and damage to the inside of your lungs, causing pneumonia.

In most cases, however, these pathogens don’t have the opportunity to make it to your lungs. Even mycoplasma pneumonia, the most common cause of CAP, only causes pneumonia in about 5 to 10% of the people it infects. So, while you can easily pass on one of these illnesses, the person you give it to won’t necessarily develop pneumonia.

How to relieve pneumonia symptoms at home

If your symptoms are mild and you’re otherwise healthy, your pneumonia can go away on its own with simple at-home treatment. In this case, you’d treat it like any other respiratory infection.

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can address any aches and pains you’re experiencing. Meanwhile, prioritizing rest and hydration will help your body regain its strength. And, adding a cool mist vaporizer or clean humidifier to your bedroom or sitting in a steamy bathroom can help relieve congestion.

Because it can be severe and carries a risk of complications, it’s best to see a healthcare provider if you suspect you have pneumonia. If you have a bacterial form of the illness, your provider will prescribe an antibiotic, and the sooner you start taking it, the better.

What are the treatment options for pneumonia?

Treatment options for pneumonia differ depending on your infection type and whether you have additional risk factors. For a case of bacterial pneumonia, your provider will give you an antibiotic prescription. This usually means amoxicillin or ampicillin in children, while adults might get azithromycin.

Viral pneumonia can be trickier as it doesn’t respond to antibiotic treatment. In this case, your provider may prescribe an antiviral or recommend you manage your symptoms with at-home treatments.

While antifungals can be prescribed for fungal pneumonia, this type often affects the immunocompromised, who may require hospitalization. This allows doctors to monitor their condition and provide supportive treatments like oxygen and may also be necessary for other forms of severe pneumonia.

Can you die from pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a serious condition, but most people make a full recovery. In some cases, however, it can be fatal. Because it produces fluid buildup in the lungs, pneumonia can impede breathing, causing respiratory distress and sometimes respiratory failure.

Another severe outcome is sepsis, a potentially life-threatening overreaction of the immune system to an infection. Bacterial infections are its most common cause, but viral pneumonia can result in it as well.

Pneumonia reduces your body’s ability to oxygenate your blood, which weighs heavily on the heart. This can increase your chances of heart disease, heart attack, or heart failure long after your infection has resolved.

And that’s not all. Leftover pus from a pneumonia infection can get trapped in part of the lung, causing an abscess and killing part of the lung tissue. Swelling and fluid in the lung tissue (pleuritis and pleural effusion) can also cause lasting damage. All these may permanently reduce your lung capacity even after recovering from the illness.

How to prevent pneumonia from getting worse

There’s not much you can do to shorten the duration of your pneumonia. But, you may be able to prevent it from getting worse.

Since dehydration is associated with worse outcomes in pneumonia patients, staying hydrated is paramount. As a bonus, it’ll thin out the mucus you’re producing, helping to ease congestion.

Getting enough rest is crucial too. Your body needs energy to fight infections, and pushing yourself too soon can extend your illness.

For smokers, quitting smoking, at least for the duration of your illness, is also worth it. Smoking’s associated with worse pneumonia outcomes — including death. Stopping will prevent your illness from dragging on.

Alcohol is another factor that can draw out your recovery period. It impairs your immune system’s ability to send neutrophils — a type of white blood cell — to your lungs. Counteract this possibility by avoiding alcohol until you recover fully.

How can you prevent pneumonia?

It’s not possible to prevent pneumonia entirely. However, you can lessen your chances of contracting it and improve a weakened immune system. You can maintain a healthy immune system through good nutrition, adequate hydration, sufficient rest, and good hand hygiene. Not smoking and limiting the amount of alcohol you drink will also help.

Getting vaccinated against respiratory illnesses should be high on your list as well. Vaccines for COVID-19 and the flu lower your risk of contracting common respiratory illnesses that can turn into pneumonia. Even better, the pneumococcal vaccine protects against multiple bacterial infections, including some that cause pneumonia. And, it may shorten the duration and severity of your illness.

When should I see a doctor for pneumonia?

If you have trouble breathing, severe chest pain, or if your lips or fingertips take on a bluish tinge, get to a hospital right away.

In contrast, if you think your condition is getting worse, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. So, how do you know if your pneumonia is getting worse? If your cough worsens, your pain increases, or your breathing becomes more laboured, those are all good indications. Getting better and starting to feel worse again is another one.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, we can help. Maple’s a telehealth platform that connects you with Canadian-licensed doctors and specialists via your phone, tablet, or computer. In many cases, doctors on Maple can diagnose your respiratory infection online by asking about your symptoms. Depending on the type of infection, they can prescribe antibiotics, as needed.

Even if you don’t show any of the symptoms above, it’s a good idea to speak to a doctor if you believe you have pneumonia. After all, pneumonia is more than a normal respiratory infection. Reach out to speak to a doctor today to help confirm your diagnosis and start the path to healing.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post Pneumonia: types, treatment, symptoms, and prevention appeared first on Maple.

What’s vitamin D and why’s it beneficial?

Vitamin D isn’t just one substance. It’s actually a group of nutrients that are essential for human health. One of its components, vitamin D2, comes from plant sources. This makes it cheaper to produce, making it the form you’re most likely to find in supplements and fortified foods.

Vitamin D3, in contrast, comes from animal sources. Fatty fish like sardines and salmon contain large amounts of it, as do egg yolks and red meat, though it’s also available in supplement form. While both forms are beneficial for humans, vitamin D3 may raise vitamin D blood levels more effectively than D2.

So, what does vitamin D do? Likely a whole bunch of things. A number of organs and tissues in your body have vitamin D receptors, suggesting it may play a part in many of your physiological processes. More research is needed, however, to give scientists a full picture of its role.

What’s clear is that vitamin D helps your body to absorb calcium and phosphorus. These minerals are crucial for maintaining healthy bones and teeth and enabling proper muscle movement. Beyond that, vitamin D contributes to heart and nerve function. As a result, a lack of it can be a factor in everything from heart failure to erectile dysfunction to depression.

If you’re worried that your vitamin D levels are off, Maple can help. Maple is a telehealth platform that connects you with Canadian-licensed doctors and specialists from your phone, tablet, or computer. With Maple, you can speak to a doctor about your vitamin D concerns from the comfort of your home at a time that’s convenient for you.

Does vitamin D help with mood?

Taking a vitamin D supplement may improve mood if you’re experiencing depression and have a vitamin D deficiency. But, not everyone experiencing depression is vitamin D-deficient. If your vitamin D levels are normal to begin with, you’re unlikely to see a boost in mood after taking it as a supplement.

How much vitamin D do I need per day?

The recommendations for Canadian vitamin D values vary depending on your age, pre-existing health conditions, and a variety of other factors. Generally, Osteoporosis Canada recommends that healthy adults between the ages of 19 and 50 supplement their diet with 400 to 1000IU of vitamin D a day.

Adults over 50, or younger individuals with health risks like osteoporosis, multiple fractures, or a condition affecting their ability to absorb vitamin D should aim for more — between 800 to 2000IU a day. The truth is, however, that more research is needed for science to fully understand the exact cause and effect of differing supplement dosing levels.

If you’re testing your blood serum levels, 75nmol/L (nanomoles per litre) is considered a healthy vitamin D level for almost everyone. The medical consensus is that this level of vitamin D is sufficient for preventing diseases like rickets and osteoporosis.

Some individuals may require higher doses — 10,000IU a day or more — due to specific health conditions. In these cases, however, treatment is supervised by an endocrinologist.

Is it normal to have lower levels of vitamin D in the winter?

It’s not only normal to have lower levels of vitamin D in the winter, it’s expected. Your body makes vitamin D in response to sunlight. Since the amount of sun exposure you get decreases in winter, your vitamin D production will naturally fall too.

This effect becomes more pronounced the further away from the equator you live. While individuals close to the equator are unlikely to experience vitamin D deficiency, dark winters in Canada leave vitamin D levels low for about 40% of Canadians.

What happens when vitamin D levels are too low?

Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency can vary widely, from the physical to the mental. They’re also on a spectrum, which means they can vary from mild to quite pronounced depending on the level of deficiency. Symptoms include:

• Low energy and fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle aches
• Hair loss
• More frequent respiratory infections
• Osteopenia (low bone density)
• Osteoporosis
• Weak tooth enamel
• Increased risk of falls and fractures
• Increased risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression
• Erectile dysfunction
• Rickets

What can I do to boost my vitamin D levels during the winter?

It’s one thing to know about the benefits of vitamin D. It’s another to figure out how to get enough of it in your diet naturally. The flesh of fatty fish like salmon and sardines along with fish liver oils are some of the richest food sources of vitamin D — and they’re a great option to eat healthy — but they’re not for everyone. Luckily, you can still reap the immunity-boosting benefits of vitamin D as a vegetarian or vegan.

Vitamin D-rich food for vegetarians

If you’re looking for nutritional forms of vitamin D and eat eggs and dairy products, you’re in luck. Eggs are nutrient-rich with significant levels of vitamin D. After cooking, each egg yolk contains 32IU of vitamin D.

The caveat is that eggs are more likely to be high in nutrients when they come from chickens that receive regular exposure to sunlight. That means you’ll want to opt for farm-raised or free-range eggs if you’re looking for a vitamin D boost this winter.

Nutritional vitamin D sources for vegans

Sources of vitamin D may be fewer on a vegan diet, but you still have some great options. While many vegetables don’t have significant amounts of vitamin D, mushrooms are the exception. When exposed to UV light, mushrooms create vitamin D naturally, just like humans. This makes them a great dietary source for it.

While cow’s milk is off the table for anyone on a vegan diet, alternative milks are often fortified with vitamins. Though you’ll want to double-check the label, this usually makes most soy, oat, nut, and rice milks good sources of vitamin D.

Tofu’s another food that’s often vitamin D-fortified. Just 100g of fortified tofu can contain as much as 13% of your daily dose of the sunshine vitamin.

While orange juice doesn’t naturally contain vitamin D, most brands choose to fortify theirs with both vitamin D and calcium. Since vitamin D improves calcium absorption, this combination is especially beneficial.

How can I prevent vitamin D deficiency during winter?

Beyond looking at your diet, maintaining healthy vitamin D levels means exposing yourself to sunlight this winter. You’ll have to actually go outside for this, however. UVB rays don’t penetrate glass, so you can’t get vitamin D through a window. Instead, incorporate physical activity into your day with a sunny midday walk to keep you feeling healthy all winter long.

Keep in mind, however, that winter calls for layering up, which prevents full sun exposure to much of your skin. This, coupled with a lower UV index, may mean that your body can’t synthesize adequate vitamin D levels.

To help prevent deficiency, it’s a good idea to take a vitamin D supplement. This is especially important for young children who require it for proper growth and bone development.

A word to the wise, though. If you think you’re feeling the effects of its deficiency and are wondering, “How soon will I feel better after taking vitamin D?”, know that it can take a while. Oral supplementation may take a few months to bring your levels up to the recommended range, so it’s best to start even before winter rolls in.

When to take vitamin D

Worrying about when to take your vitamin D — e.g. morning or night — isn’t worth it. More important is what you take with your supplement.

Because it’s fat-soluble, your body absorbs vitamin D best when it’s paired with high-fat foods. If you want to know the exact amount, 11g of fat — the equivalent of about 18 almonds — is the sweet spot. You’re better off taking it with this amount of fat than worrying about timing your dose.

What happens if I take too much vitamin D?

It may seem like more is better, but you can take too much vitamin D. Beyond 4,000IU — the equivalent of 100mcg — vitamin D may be unsafe. Long-term, excessive vitamin D intake can result in a condition known as vitamin D toxicity (VDT). Under medical supervision, however, patients with certain medical conditions may receive more than that for limited periods.

VDT isn’t caused by excessive sunlight, and you’re unlikely to reach this level through diet alone. Taking too much vitamin D in supplement form is almost always the cause of VDT.

What are the symptoms of vitamin D toxicity?

VDT is a relatively rare, but serious condition. The major side-effect of too much vitamin D is hypercalcemia, or too much calcium in your blood. Given how necessary calcium is to bone and teeth health, this may sound like a good thing, but it’s not. Having excessive calcium levels actually weakens your bones.

Beyond that, symptoms of vitamin d overdose can include:

• Confusion
• Apathy
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Excessive urination
• Excessive thirst
• Dehydration
• Heart arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
• Bone pain
• Kidney stones
• Blood vessel damage
• Kidney failure

When should I talk to a doctor about my vitamin D intake?

While sunny outings and a balanced diet go a long way toward achieving optimal winter vitamin D levels, they may not be sufficient. A variety of factors, including lifestyle, age, skin colour, body mass index, and preexisting health conditions, can all play a role in your daily vitamin D needs.

If you’re unsure whether you’re getting enough, seeing a doctor online is a great next step. The doctor can help you determine how much vitamin D is right for you, or if you need a supplement at all.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to get enough of the sunshine vitamin from your diet, speaking to a dietitian online might be in order. Not only can they demystify how to incorporate more vitamin D into your diet, but an online dietitian can also help you develop a customized nutrition plan, taking your unique circumstances into account.

Whatever you decide, however, don’t let the symptoms of too much or too little vitamin D be ignored. Your health is too important to be left up to chance.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post How to boost your vitamin D levels this winter appeared first on Maple.

Winter, however, might just make the diagnostic process easier. That’s because the coldest season can amplify your underactive thyroid symptoms. Here’s how to manage your hypothyroidism during winter.

What’s hypothyroidism, and what causes it?

Hypothyroidism is the medical term for an underactive thyroid gland. Your thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your throat, responsible for regulating your metabolism. It does this mainly by producing two hormones — triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).

Your thyroid, in turn, is regulated by your pituitary gland, which produces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). When your body requires more T3 and T4, your pituitary springs into action by increasing TSH levels, which causes your thyroid to work harder.

If you have hypothyroidism, your thyroid can’t produce enough T3 and T4 to service its needs. This prompts your pituitary gland to pump higher and higher levels of TSH into your blood in a vain attempt to stimulate your thyroid into making more T3 and T4.

In the earliest stages of the disorder, symptoms may be subtle enough to go unnoticed. More severe hypothyroidism, however, can significantly impact everything from your sleep to your weight to your energy levels, and more. Just how much hypothyroidism affects the metabolism of your body depends on how much T3 and T4 your thyroid is able to generate.

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, but that’s not the only cause. Being iodine deficient, having radiation on your head or neck, and sometimes even viral illnesses can also trigger it.

Additionally, certain medications, such as opioids, cancer, bipolar disorder, or cardiac medications, may affect your thyroid’s functioning. Even pregnancy can be a precipitating factor, leaving some women with postpartum thyroiditis in the year following their child’s birth.

Whatever its cause, if you’re dealing with a thyroid problem, your next step should be to see an endocrinologist. These physicians specialize in hormonal conditions, including reproductive matters, diabetes, and thyroid issues.

With Maple, you can connect with a Canadian-licensed doctor or endocrinologist from your phone, tablet, or computer at a time that’s convenient for you. Your endocrinologist can develop a treatment plan, order additional testing as needed, and provide a prescription if necessary. Best of all, with Maple, you don’t need a referral to see an endocrinologist online.

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism can make you feel tired. However, symptoms like fatigue and weight gain are common and don’t always indicate there’s a thyroid problem. If you have hypothyroidism, you’ll likely see additional indications such as:

• An increased urge to sleep
• Depression
• Constipation
• Weight gain
• Slowing of movements and reaction times
• Feeling cold
• Dry skin
• Thinning hair
• Brittle nails
• Irregular periods
• Fertility issues
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• Muscle cramps
• Low libido

Does hypothyroidism get worse in winter?

Yes, hypothyroidism can get worse in winter, whether you’re currently taking medication for it or not. Because temperatures drop in winter, your body has to expend more energy to keep you warm.

This demand for an increase in metabolic rate causes your TSH levels to rise in the winter, as your body prompts your thyroid to work harder to keep your body warm.

If your thyroid is underactive, however, it can’t. This opens up a larger deficit between where you need your thyroid to operate and where it’s actually able to get to. As the weather gets colder and your thyroid can’t keep up, your symptoms become more noticeable.

If you have subclinical hypothyroidism, your TSH levels are elevated despite T3 and T4 levels within the “normal” range. This may be because even though your T3 and T4 levels are within acceptable limits, they’re not fully meeting your needs — everyone’s different, after all. This can result in slight symptoms or none — hence the subclinical part.

Because you’re skating on the edge, however, increasing energy needs in the winter can tip subclinical hypothyroidism over into overt hypothyroidism territory. This can amplify any symptoms you experience. For example, you may go from being more sensitive to cold temperatures to being unable to tolerate cold temperatures.

Do you need more thyroid medication during winter?

Even if you take medication for hypothyroidism, you may find that your dose doesn’t cover your expanded winter needs. In this case, you may need an increase in your thyroid hormone replacement dosage on a seasonal basis.

This won’t apply to everyone, however. If your hypothyroid symptoms don’t get worse during winter, you likely don’t need to up your dosage.

The link between vitamin D and thyroid issues

Winter may affect your thyroid function in another way. Much of your vitamin D intake comes from sunlight, which decreases during the winter. And research shows that vitamin D is critical to thyroid function — as many as 25% of individuals with hypothyroidism are deficient in it. This is especially true for those with Hashimoto’s disease.

Why levels of vitamin D are often lower in individuals with hypothyroidism isn’t clear. Regardless, research shows that vitamin D-deficient individuals with hypothyroidism who took vitamin D supplements were able to lower their TSH blood levels. However, increasing their vitamin D intake didn’t restore their T3 and T4 levels.

In short, while the two are linked, it’s not clear exactly how vitamin D affects thyroid functioning. Nevertheless, taking a daily vitamin D supplement is a good idea — both for your thyroid and overall health.

Tips to manage hypothyroidism symptoms during the cold season

Staying healthy in the winter can be challenging, but worsening hypothyroidism issues can add an additional layer of difficulty. Here’s how to manage those symptoms during the coldest months.

1. Get your hormone levels checked. If you think winter is slowing you down, speak to your healthcare provider or endocrinologist. They’ll likely suggest you have your TSH and T3 and T4 levels checked to ensure they’re within the “normal” range.

2. Consider your diet to help with hypothyroidism. While there’s no single best diet for hypothyroidism, avoid overly processed items in favour of whole foods. High-fibre foods like whole grains and vegetables will provide the energy you need to function throughout your day. As well, they’ll leave you feeling fuller for longer, helping to counteract the weight gain that hypothyroidism can bring.

Moreover, eating a balanced diet helps to provide the nutrients your immune system needs to function at its best. To ensure full absorption of your thyroid medication, however, take it on an empty stomach. That means you’ll want to avoid food for up to an hour after taking your medication.

3. Practice stress reduction strategies. From disrupting your sleep to playing a role in cancer, stress is toxic. Unsurprisingly, stress can also affect hypothyroidism patients. To help thwart its effects on your functioning, make some time for stress-busting activities every day. Try progressive muscle relaxation, guided meditation, or even a half-hour walk in nature to help clear your mind and reduce stress.

4. Get enough sleep. Excessive sleeping can be a symptom of hypothyroidism. So it may sound counterintuitive to hear that an underactive thyroid can cause sleep issues like difficulty falling and staying asleep. But, hypothyroidism and lack of sleep often go together too.

To wake up feeling refreshed, keep yourself on a strict wake and sleep schedule and practice good sleep hygiene. If this doesn’t get you your requisite seven to nine hours a night, it’s probably a good idea to speak to your healthcare provider.

5. Keep your skin hydrated. Dry skin isn’t hypothyroidism’s only dermatological symptom. It can also cause a skin rash-like condition known as eczema craquelé, where the skin becomes so dry that it takes on a red, scaly appearance.

To help relieve dry skin that hypothyroidism (and winter) can bring on, use a thick moisturizer on your face and body twice a day. Lowering the temperature of your bath or shower a little and investing in a humidifier will also help your skin retain more moisture.

6. Bundle up. How do you stay warm with hypothyroidism? To start, you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing enough layers. People with hypothyroidism are sensitive to cold as their bodies can’t keep up with the increased energy needs that warming up brings.

But, while dressing for the weather is a must, having to wear a parka indoors isn’t normal. If you’re layering up and still find yourself shivering, it’s time to talk to your doctor about your thyroid functioning.

How an online endocrinologist can help

Your thyroid works harder to function in winter — essentially, it has to run faster just to stay in the same place. But, if winter is making your hypothyroid symptoms unmanageable, speaking to an endocrinologist online should be your next step. An online endocrinologist can provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan for your thyroid condition.

Moreover, an online endocrinologist can order additional testing, such as a blood test to look at your level of thyroid hormones. If necessary, they can also prescribe medication for your thyroid condition or adjust prescription thyroid hormone medication that’s no longer adequately addressing your needs.

Winter shouldn’t mean dealing with daily discomfort. If your hypothyroid symptoms increase when the temperature drops, reach out to speak to an online endocrinologist today.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post How to manage hypothyroidism during winter appeared first on Maple.

But this year brings additional complications. Doctor shortages are affecting huge swaths of the country, hospitals are under pressure, and ER waiting times have skyrocketed.

This has left many Canadians crowding into germy waiting areas at their local walk-in clinic. Others are spending hours in the ER for minor issues like prescription renewals. Add in COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), hospital staff shortages, and flu season, and higher waiting times look like they’re here to stay.

But, there’s another way — if you get sick this season, Maple can help. Maple is a telehealth platform that connects you with Canadian-licensed doctors and specialists from your phone, tablet, or computer.

Maple gives you access to care from wherever you choose, helping you skip the walk-in clinic and bypass the ER for non-urgent issues. And, talking to a doctor online means you can address your issues in a timely manner. No need to wait for your doctor’s office to reopen after the holidays to get care.

Flu season stats

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus, and according to Infection Prevention and Control Canada (IPAC), there are more than a billion cases of the flu worldwide every year. Because the virus mutates frequently, some strains cause more severe illness or spread more easily in certain years than in others.

This year, the viral load in the population is high. For example, the week of December 4 to 9 saw more than 9,000 laboratory-confirmed cases of flu. And that’s near the beginning of flu season, whose peak traditionally lands between December and February.

The flu might be common, but that doesn’t make it harmless. Besides being a terrible illness to experience, the flu can cause a variety of complications. These include pneumonia, sinus and ear infections, and ongoing fatigue. Children can face additional issues like croup, or more rarely, Reye’s syndrome.

Serious and lasting effects can also involve inflammation of the heart (myocarditis) and its surrounding sac (pericarditis), along with muscle inflammation (myositis). And that’s not all — additional cardiac issues like heart attacks and heart failure are also possible.

Moreover, serious flu complications can result in central nervous system issues like seizures, brain damage, inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, multisystem organ failure, and Guillain-Barré syndrome — and that’s only part of the list.

Clearly, the flu has the potential to cause severe complications, which is why influenza and pneumonia rank in Canada’s top ten causes of death.

Who’s most at risk for the flu?

Anyone can get the flu. An infected person coughing, sneezing, or talking in your direction can infect you with tiny droplets impregnated with the virus. What’s more, surfaces contaminated with the flu virus are also a source of infection. Touching one of these surfaces and then your eyes, nose, or mouth can spread the virus.

While anyone can get the virus, certain groups are at a higher risk for flu complications. This includes seniors over 65, children under five, and anyone with a compromised immune system or lung issues. For example, if you have a preexisting condition like COPD or asthma, your risk of flu complications and exacerbation of your preexisting medical condition is higher.

Pregnant women should be especially aware of the risks of flu during pregnancy. Pregnancy temporarily affects your immune system, making it harder to fight off respiratory illnesses. This makes pregnant women more likely to experience complications from the flu and puts them at higher risk of being hospitalized for the virus.

Can an online doctor help with the flu?

Provider shortages and a slew of recent retirements have made it harder than ever to find a family doctor. This means that long wait times for medical appointments have become the norm.

Unfortunately, this has caused some to scrap their doctor visits altogether and, while not recommended, it’s understandable. Sitting in a walk-in clinic or your doctor’s waiting room while congested, feverish, and in a general state of malaise isn’t the most comfortable activity.

Seeing an online doctor for the flu helps you avoid these issues. Moreover, online doctor appointments are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which means you can access care whenever you need it. And, if you need a prescription, you can have it sent to the pharmacy of your choice or delivered to your home — for free.

What do doctors prescribe for the flu?

If you’re wondering when to see a doctor for the flu, the short answer is as soon as you think you have it. Virtual medical appointments are perfectly suited for the flu, which doctors can usually diagnose online by asking about symptoms.

Although the flu can present differently in each person, classic flu symptoms usually look like:

• A fever above 37.8°C
• Fatigue
• Headache and muscle aches
• Cough and sore throat (sometimes)

If you’re struggling with more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, signs of severe dehydration, confusion, or if you can’t stop vomiting, however, it’s a medical emergency and you should seek help immediately.

How do I prepare for my online appointment?

Before your appointment, make sure you have access to a quiet place. You’ll be discussing your health which means that privacy is an important consideration. Once that’s figured out, the rest is easy. Simply log into Maple from your computer or mobile device, select your symptoms, and get matched with a doctor.

What will my online appointment be like?

Once an online doctor has a chance to review your concern and determines that they can help you, your appointment will begin right away. You’ll have the option of speaking to the provider by text, audio, or video. And, if you have specific areas of concern, your provider can examine them visually, or you can send a photo through Maple.

Just as they would during an in-person consultation, your provider will ask you for more details about your symptoms, such as when they began and how sudden their onset was. These details, together with your symptoms and history, help your provider make a diagnosis. They can also order additional testing, refer you to a specialist, or prescribe medication if necessary.

If you’re dealing with the flu, for example, and you’re within the first 48 hours of symptoms, your provider can order an antiviral prescription to the pharmacy of your choice or for delivery to your home. And that’s it! Your appointment is over, and your prescription is in transit, without you ever having to leave your nice, warm bed.

When’s the best time to get my flu shot?

Ideally, you should get your flu shot before the influenza virus begins circulating in your community. If you haven’t gotten yours yet, however, don’t despair — there’s still time. Flu season tends to peak between December and February, but the virus can circulate until May.

The flu vaccine is recalibrated each year to protect you from whatever variants are currently circulating. Even if it doesn’t match the strain you get exactly, being vaccinated will still reduce your chances of becoming seriously ill or experiencing complications.

That means that everyone over the age of six months should get their flu vaccine, with very few exceptions. If you have anaphylactic allergies to any of the ingredients in the vaccine, or if you’ve had an anaphylactic response to a previous dose, you shouldn’t get it. Otherwise, rolling up your sleeve for an annual shot is a good idea.

Tips to fight the flu

It’s hard to predict exactly how flu season will shake out, when it’ll start, and how long it’ll last. But no matter how the virus mutates, the underlying principles of how to fight it stay the same. These include:

1. Getting a flu shot

Get your flu shot every year, as early as you can in the season. It takes at least two weeks to protect you from the time of injection, so the longer you go without it, the higher your risk of exposure.

2. Practicing good hygiene

Soap and water are some of your best tools for warding off the influenza virus, so wash your hands frequently. As well, if you do have to share space with potentially sick people — here’s looking at you daily transit riders — consider wearing a mask to protect your nose and mouth from virus-laden droplets. Few things are worse than having a stranger sneeze or cough on you.

3. Stopping the spread of germs

Keep your germs to yourself. Cough into your elbow, wash your hands, and disinfect surfaces regularly — the flu virus can live on surfaces for up to two days. Most importantly, stay home if you’re sick.

Rest, hydrate, and get treated

If you do get sick, take care of yourself. Most cases of the flu can be treated at home with rest and fluids. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can help you manage any fever or aches and pains.

Having the flu is terrible, and leaving the house for a doctor’s appointment is the last thing you want to do when you’re sick. But, since prescription antivirals can shorten your illness and lessen your symptoms, seeing a doctor within the first 48 hours is crucial.

Safeguard your health — and your sanity — this winter by prioritizing accessible, convenient, and timely medical help that doesn’t come with the hassle of the clinic. See a doctor online this flu season and skip the wait.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post How to talk to a doctor online, 24/7 for flu symptoms appeared first on Maple.

Maple‘s a convenient way to get help for your migraines. With Canada’s largest online network of doctors and healthcare providers, our migraine specialist is available for appointments at a time that works for you, and from the comfort of your home. During your consultation, the doctor will evaluate your symptoms and provide strategies for relief, which may include prescription medication to treat your migraines.

While stress and even the weather can be migraine triggers, what you eat and drink can also cause them.Here are the most common migraine triggers and food-related triggers of migraines, so you know what’s safe and what to avoid (for most people).

What’s a migraine?

A migraine, when mild or moderate, is characterized by a progressing dull pain on one side that intensifies over an hour or so and slowly dissipates by the end of the attack. When symptoms are moderate to severe, the pain can become pulsatile and throbbing in nature, and have accompanying symptoms like headache with light, sound sensitivity, and nausea.

There are different types of migraines, but the majority are without aura — meaning they don’t have a sensitivity disturbance before the onset, like seeing black dots, flashes of lights, wavy lines, and more.

The pain from a migraine is usually on one side of the head and can last anywhere from four to 72 hours — sometimes even longer. Migraines are more likely to affect women, especially those in their 30s and 40s. Migraine pain can be aggravated by physical activity, rapid head movements, straining, or light while doing small daily tasks, Brushing your hair, for example, can become an unbearable task if you have a migraine. Most people with migraines find themselves lying in a dark and quiet room. They can be debilitating and even account for seven million missed work days in Canada.

There’s also a genetic component to migraines. If you have a close relative who experiences them, there’s a good chance you will too.

Are migraines serious?

If you don’t get migraines, you may think they’re “just” headaches. But migraines can range in both severity and frequency, and are often debilitating. While some people who experience migraines report infrequent headaches, others find themselves afflicted much more frequently, with a subset reporting daily migraines. While many migraines might last for a few hours, some remain for days at a time. People who experience migraines often report that they’re unable to work, drive or participate in their usual activities when an attack comes on. In fact, migraines are the third leading cause of missed workdays in Canada, coming in after back pain and mood disorders — which they often go hand-in-hand with. 

Are migraines caused by poor diet?

The exact cause of migraines isn’t fully understood and can differ from person to person. Many patients report that certain foods, drinks, or food additives are foods that trigger migraines. More research is needed to confirm just how much diet affects the cause of migraines, but it’s thought that certain ingredients and chemicals in foods are common triggers, like tyramine, sulphites, and nitrites and nitrates.

These chemicals can narrow your blood vessels and increase your blood pressure, prompting a migraine. And many patients with migraines have reported eliminating certain foods did help to reduce the frequency of their migraines, so there’s merit to this theory.

How common are food-triggered headaches?

If you experience migraines, you’ve likely tried everything to determine the root cause. And it turns out that many people who get migraines are pretty sure that what they eat is where they start. In a study of over 1,000 patients with the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 26.9% reported that food causes their migraines. With that being said, the most commonly reported reason for migraines was stress (79.7%), hormones in women (65.1%), and skipping meals (57.3%).

How long after eating a trigger food do you get a migraine?

You might notice your migraine begins after eating a particular food or drink in as little as a couple of hours or as many as 24 hours. This window of time is vast since food affects everyone’s migraines differently. If this happens consistently with that same type of food, it may be one of your migraine triggers.

Can certain foods and drinks trigger migraines?

Many foods and drinks are thought to be foods that trigger migraines, but here are the main culprits on the migraine foods-to-avoid list:

• Chocolate — cocoa and caffeine found in chocolate may cause changes to the central nervous system
• Processed meats — nitrites and nitrates found in processed meats have been shown to dilate blood vessels
• Aged cheese — contains tyramine, which can narrow blood vessels
• Monosodium glutamate (MSG) — more research is needed, but many people report that the food additive MSG triggers migraine symptoms. This may be due to the stimulation of nerve cells.
• Alcohol — particularly red wine, contains histamine and tyramine, which can dilate blood vessels.
• Caffeinated beverages — including tea, coffee, and soda, the diuretic effect of caffeine overconsumption leads to increased dehydration, along with its effect on reducing magnesium, which can make it a trigger for some people. Caffeine also blocks adenosine receptors, so when intake is reduced, it may also cause migraines.
• Citrus fruits — oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes release octopamine, which can cause migraines in those with a sensitivity
• Artificial sweeteners — such as aspartame and sucralose lower serotonin and dopamine
• Cold food and beverages — like ice cream or cold water, some people can get migraines due to a cold sensitivity

If you’re looking for food for headaches relief, it’s important to note that not all trigger foods will cause migraines in everyone. So, if you get migraines, you might be able to tolerate common trigger foods like cheese and chocolate.

Additionally, food behaviors can affect how many migraines you get. Skipping meals, caffeine withdrawal, dehydration, and even eating fried food headache triggers can all contribute to migraine onset.

What foods can help with migraines?

On the flip side, some foods may help provide relief when you have a migraine or could prevent one from starting. One study showed that eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, and lower in omega-6 fatty acids — think fried foods like french fries which also contain trans fats — may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

Spinach or seeds like pumpkin and chia are also thought to fight off migraines thanks to high levels of magnesium. While more proof is needed, researchers believe that taking a magnesium supplement may reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.

Caffeine, which has also been labelled a migraine trigger, is actually known to relieve migraine pain thanks to its ability to constrict blood vessels. However, people with migraines should drink no more than 200mg daily.

Finally, water is a really good way to help prevent migraines. Dehydration can be a trigger for many, and drinking water has been shown to reduce pain severity, frequency, and duration of migraines.

Are there any diets that can help with migraines?

Along with incorporating the “good” foods listed above, you can also keep a food journal while eliminating items over a few weeks or months to know which foods and drinks are triggering your headaches. If you’re unsure, a dietitian can help you identify the best food for headaches relief tailored to your needs. This doesn’t mean eliminating entire food categories, like whole grains, for example. If you need to remove many foods from your diet, consider working with a dietitian to make sure your nutritional needs are met during elimination. Keeping track of the foods you eat before a migraine attack, along with other triggers like stress, missed meals, and not getting enough sleep, exercise, or water, is also helpful.

Common foods and drinks to avoid or limit include:

• Caffeine (including coffee, soda, and energy drinks — keep consumption to less than 200mg per day)
• Cheese (specifically aged cheeses)
• Yogurt
• Chocolate (milk or dark)
• Citrus fruits
• Avocado
• Bananas
• Dried fruits
• Red wine
• Ketchup
• Processed foods
• Nuts
• Baked goods less than a day old
• Soy
• Aspartame

Research has also shown that focusing on a diet of low-fat, plant-based foods with plenty of fruits and vegetables followed by an elimination diet can reduce the intensity and pain of headaches, while another study showed that a low-glycemic diet could be an effective method to reduce migraine attacks.

Why do I get migraines when I’m stressed or dreading something?

Migraines occur when you can least afford them. Often before an exam, or a major work deadline. Knowing you’re about to spend the next few hours — or more — in intense pain is awful. It’s even more inconvenient when stress is what brought your migraine on in the first place. Why do migraines and stress go together so often?

About 70% of people who experience migraines report stress as one of their triggers, especially when it comes to those experiencing daily migraine attacks. One theory is that the migraine brain is hypersensitive — potentially one of the reasons why light can make a migraine attack so much worse. 

Migraines and stress can often become a vicious circle; stress precipitates migraine, and the migraine episode itself causes more stress. We know that people who experience migraines are more likely to have depression or anxiety, but much like the connection between stress and migraines, it’s unclear how exactly they’re related. In other words, are the anxiety and depression related to the way the migraine brain works, or does living with migraine cause those disorders? Either way, be sure to tell your doctor if you have both migraines and another condition such as anxiety. It’s often beneficial to treat the two in tandem.

How to prevent a stress migraine

The best way to prevent a stress migraine is to deal with your stress preemptively, whenever possible. Start by making sure you’re getting enough sleep. Next, make a list of any potential stressors and see if you’re able to break them up into smaller, more manageable pieces. Set aside time for stress-busting activities like exercise, meditation, and quality, screen-free time with your nearest and dearest. Dysregulation can be a migraine trigger, so sticking to a sleep schedule and eating regular meals made from whole foods is also crucial.

If you feel an attack coming on, you can try to head it off by lying down in a darkened room, or drinking a caffeinated beverage. Once your migraine is in full effect, however, many report that the only thing that offers relief is medication.

How Maple can help with your migraines

Finding your food and drink triggers can help limit painful migraines. But, with so many choices and more research needed, it’s not always easy to protect yourself from throbbing head pain by avoiding certain foods.

Maple’s migraine specialist is a general practitioner who specializes in treating and preventing migraines and severe headaches. During your consultation, the doctor will evaluate your symptoms and provide strategies for relief. This might include prescription medication like topiramate (Topamax) or sumatriptan (Imitrex).

No referral is needed for your appointment, and it takes place over your phone, tablet, or computer, so you don’t have to leave home. If the doctor prescribes medication, you’ll have the option of getting it sent to the pharmacy of your choice or delivered to your door at no additional cost.

Migraines and severe headaches can seriously affect your quality of life. Talk to a migraine specialist online today so you can tackle your migraines head-on.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post Food and drink triggers for migraine headaches appeared first on Maple.

What’s Colitis?

Colitis isn’t an actual diagnosis. Instead, it’s a general term for colon inflammation or irritation. This means that colitis can be temporary if a virus causes it, or it can refer to a chronic condition caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

There are different causes of colitis, each requiring different treatments. The variety of colitis you’re diagnosed with depends on what’s causing it and what your symptoms are.

What’s Crohn’s disease?

Crohn’s disease is a chronic bowel disease that causes inflammation in your digestive tract, which makes it a form of colitis.

Normal digestive tracts are full of bacteria, most of which are harmless or beneficial to your body. When you have Crohn’s, however, your immune system mistakenly views this bacteria as a threat and mounts an attack on it. This results in chronic inflammation, setting off all the unpleasant symptoms of the disease.

The disease can result in serious infections, and in rare cases, you can die from Crohn’s disease as a result of these. However, managing your condition properly and reporting any unusual symptoms to your doctor will mitigate this risk.

Due to its complications, individuals with Crohn’s disease have a life expectancy of five to eight years less than those without it. Individual longevity depends on a number of factors, however, including diet, lifestyle, and genetics.

What are the symptoms of Crohn’s disease?

Because it affects the digestive tract, the majority of Crohn’s disease symptoms tend to be gastrointestinal. These include:

• Pain in the lower right side of the abdomen
• Chronic diarrhea — with or without blood
• Bloating after eating
• Fecal urgency
• Constipation
• Rectal bleeding
• Feelings of partially completed bowel movements

The condition isn’t restricted to just the digestive tract, however. Due to its wide-reaching effects, it may also cause:

• Vision changes, redness, and pain in the eyes
• Canker sores
• Skin issues
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Fever
• Joint pain
• Menstrual dysfunction

What are the symptoms of colitis?

There are a number of different types of colitis. While many share similar symptoms, they have different underlying causes and require distinct treatments.

Allergic colitis

Allergic colitis or eosinophilic colitis presents most often within the first six months of life, but can occur at any age. Symptoms may include:

• Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
• Abdominal pain
• Issues around eating including refusal to eat, loss of appetite, or not eating enough
• Poor growth, difficulty gaining weight, or weight loss
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Ulcerative colitis

According to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease are both types of IBD. With UC, the symptom you’re most likely to experience is diarrhea, which may be bloody or contain mucous. You may also experience:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Fecal urgency
• Frequent small bowel movements
• Anemia
• Weight loss
• Tiredness and low energy
• Failure to thrive (in children)

Microscopic colitis

There are a few different types of microscopic colitis, but they all manifest with similar symptoms. These often include:

• Chronic, watery diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Fecal urgency
• Inability to control bowel movements

Ischemic colitis

The result of heart failure, atherosclerosis, and other cardiovascular conditions that reduce blood flow to the large intestine, ischemic colitis can develop slowly over time, or arrive suddenly. Due to its correlation with heart disease and other chronic conditions, it typically presents in those over 60 as:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloody stool

Pseudomembranous colitis

This condition is most often the outcome of a bacterial infection with Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) triggered by taking antibiotics. But, it can also be caused by other infections, drugs and medications, and inflammatory conditions. Symptoms may include mucousy diarrhea, though you’re most likely to experience:

• Watery, sometimes bloody diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Fever
• Nausea

What causes colitis?

It’s not always possible to determine the exact cause of colitis. Ulcerative colitis is likely hereditary to a certain degree, as it tends to run in families. But doctors don’t know exactly why one person develops UC, and another doesn’t.

Sometimes, however, the origins of your colitis are clear. In many cases, the condition is brought on by bacterial, viral, or parasite infections. Heart disease and other conditions that constrict blood supply to the intestines may also be the source, while in other cases, autoimmune disease, previous radiation treatment of the bowels, or food allergy may be at its foundation.

With the exception of food allergies (usually seen in young babies), food isn’t the underlying cause of colitis. Diet can, however, play a role in colitis flare-ups. Many people find spicy and fried foods, alcohol, and caffeine make their symptoms flare up, while dairy triggers others.

What causes Crohn’s disease?

Doctors don’t know what exactly causes Crohn’s disease, but it likely includes an interplay between genetic, hereditary, and environmental factors.

If you have a parent or close relative with the disease, you’re also more likely to have it. And, living in an urban instead of a rural environment, and residing in a developed country make a diagnosis more likely too. Additionally, smokers are almost twice as likely to develop it.

So, how is Crohn’s disease diagnosed if doctors don’t even know what causes it? The diagnosis requires input from radiologic, endoscopic, or histological findings along with a compatible clinical history and examination.

In non-medical terms, that means taking images of the digestive tract or examining a piece of its tissue. This may be done by looking at your esophagus, stomach, and upper GI tract via an ultrasound, X-ray, or endoscope. Alternatively, your healthcare provider might recommend you check for Crohn’s disease via a colonoscopy.

Testing for Crohn’s disease can also involve blood testing and taking a stool sample. These function as complementary testing and can help determine disease severity or complications. They don’t make a conclusive diagnosis on their own, however.

How are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease similar?

UC and Crohn’s overlap in several ways. For starters, they’re both forms of IBD. This means that they’re both chronic diseases that give rise to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Additionally, both conditions tend to result in many of the same symptoms. These often present as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. And, while neither condition causes colon cancer, having either can increase your risk.

Differences between ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease

There are a few important differences between the conditions that help distinguish them. Because UC causes continuous ulcers throughout only the large intestine, bloody stool is more likely with this condition.

Crohn’s, on the other hand, can affect any part of the digestive tract with what are sometimes called skip lesions. This means it has a higher tendency for perianal, or rectal, inflammation. Features range from rectal itching to bleeding and, in severe cases, anal fissures or fistulas between organs. Additionally, since Crohn’s affects more of the digestive tract, it can cause oral lesions.

Can you have Crohn’s disease and colitis together?

Unfortunately yes, but it’s pretty rare. While Crohn’s can affect any part of the digestive tract, UC is limited to the large intestine. This makes it possible for both diseases to exist in the same person.

But, while both conditions fall under the heading of IBD, they seem to have distinct processes underlying them. Usually, this means that an individual with one diagnosis won’t end up with the other.

Treatments for Crohn’s

While there’s no cure for Crohn’s disease, it’s treatable. Colitis, however, is both treatable and curable in many cases. This is especially true when its underlying cause is a viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection.

Crohn’s disease treatment typically centres around immunosuppressant medications and steroids, like prednisone. Both aim to reduce the inflammation in the digestive tract to counter the uncomfortable symptoms of the disease.

If you have a more severe case, however, your healthcare provider might prescribe a class of drugs called biologics for your Crohn’s disease. These medications are made from proteins and other naturally-occurring substances that target specific parts of the immune system. Because they can’t go through the digestive system intact, these have to be injected or given through a drip.

The surgical removal of inflamed parts of the intestines is another treatment for both conditions. While this doesn’t cure Crohn’s, if you remove the entire colon, you can cure colitis. After all, you can’t have ulcerative colitis if you no longer have a colon. Surgery does come with risk, however, and isn’t necessary if you’re able to manage your condition with medication.

Many find that modifying their diet for their Crohn’s disease also helps. High-fibre and spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine can trigger flare-ups with Crohn’s. Some find relief with a low-FODMAP diet, although it’s probably a good idea to see a dietitian if you’re planning to majorly overhaul the way you eat.

Colitis treatments are often similar to those of Crohn’s, as medications for colitis also centre around reducing inflammation.

In cases where bacteria or parasites are causing the condition, however, antibiotics are the first line of defence. In these specific cases, antibiotics remove the underlying root of the colitis, which usually leads to remission. Antibiotics are also helpful for certain complications from Crohn’s disease, like abscesses or fistulas.

And, as with Crohn’s, implementing a low-FODMAP diet for your colitis may be helpful in managing the condition. Since elimination diets can increase your risk of malnutrition, however, working with a dietitian or healthcare provider is best if you’re planning to follow this diet.

How online doctors can help with your Crohn’s or colitis

Digestive issues can affect every aspect of your life. Constant trips to the bathroom and chronic discomfort can make work impossible and life unenjoyable.

If you’ve been diagnosed with Crohn’s or colitis and are looking for additional medical support, Maple can help. With Maple, you can speak to a Canadian-licensed doctor via your phone, tablet, or computer in minutes, 24/7.

Seeing an online doctor can help you come to a more in-depth understanding of your condition and they can support you by developing a treatment plan. The doctor can also order additional testing or provide a specialist referral if necessary, and prescribe any medication you require.

If your digestive issues are keeping you from living your life, it’s time for more help. Speak to a doctor online today and take the first step towards controlling your Crohn’s or colitis.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post What’s the difference between Crohn’s and colitis? appeared first on Maple.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is an uncomfortable and often painful condition that affects your joints and tissues. And, it’s not just one disease. Arthritis is an umbrella term for multiple conditions that reduce movement and cause swelling, pain, and inflammation in the joints.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of arthritis, Maple can help. Maple is a telehealth provider that connects you with Canadian-licensed doctors and specialists from your phone, tablet, or computer. With Maple, you can connect with a doctor to discuss your arthritis symptoms and help develop a treatment plan.

There are more than one hundred different conditions that fit under this arthritis umbrella. The most common kind, osteoarthritis, causes the cartilage in your joints to break down. This is sometimes called “wear and tear” arthritis and most commonly affects the hands, hips, and knees.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is another common form of arthritis. It’s an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own tissue, and is characterized by chronic pain and inflammation. RA typically causes inflammation and damage in the joints.

This is most common in the small joints in the hands, feet, and wrists, but it can also impact shoulders and knees. Often, RA affects multiple joints at once, although it can also cause issues in the skin, eyes, blood vessels, and organs.

How do I know if I have arthritis?

The first sign of arthritis is usually joint pain. You may also experience stiffness, swelling, and a reduction in the range of motion of your joints. RA pain is chronic and often causes unsteadiness or feelings of being off-balanced. It may also lead to joint deformities.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Starting treatment early will help you to preserve joint function and prevent further damage and pain.

To confirm the diagnosis, your healthcare provider will likely ask more questions about your symptoms, including whether the pain wakes you from sleep or gets better with movement throughout the day. They’ll also want to examine your joints and can order additional testing, including X-rays, to see if you have joint damage or bone issues.

Your healthcare provider may also recommend an MRI to see if inflammation — a frequent marker of arthritis — is present in the joint. Ultrasound is another tool that can assess the health of your joint ligaments, tissues, tendons, and bones.

Additionally, your healthcare provider may test your blood, urine, and joint fluid. Individuals with certain kinds of arthritis often have elevated levels of proteins and other biomarkers in their blood and urine. If your tests indicate the presence of these biomarkers, and you have a history of chronic pain, there’s a good chance you have the disease.

How does the weather affect arthritis, and is arthritis seasonal?

You may not believe your great-aunt when she says her hip knows if rain’s on the way. But the seasons can affect your arthritis, and many people find that their symptoms change depending on the weather.

Temperature, air pressure, humidity, and activity level can all play a role in your arthritis symptoms. But, not everyone has the same triggers. Some find that exercising in hot and humid weather is much more likely to cause them to swell up, while others swear that the cold has the worst effects on their condition.

Why does cold weather affect arthritis?

Cold air is denser than warm air, which is why people talk about the barometric pressure dropping when it gets cold. You know this intuitively when you’re in a house with more than one floor — the upper floors are always warmer than the lower ones because the warm air rises and the cool air sinks.

A drop in barometric pressure usually kicks off wet weather as well. And, studies show that barometric pressure is a variable in worsening arthritis. One theory is that the lower air pressure that comes with cold weather also means more force against your joints. Since individuals with arthritis have less cartilage to cushion their joints, they’re especially susceptible to these changes in the air pressure.

Whatever the reason, winter brings a double whammy as arthritic pain levels also increase as the temperature dips. This is likely due to the increase in the protein TRPA1— a pain sensor — that cold weather brings on.

Compounding the issue is that you’re less likely to exercise in the colder months. Exercise is a great tool for improving mood and coping with arthritis symptoms, and avoiding it is likely to make your pain feel worse.

What season makes arthritis worse?

While many find that winter is the worst season for their arthritis, summer can also be a doozy. Both seasons see increases in air pressure — summer from the hike in humidity and winter from the cold.

And, while winter’s temperature drop may increase your pain sensitivity, summer may cause more swelling in your joints because of the heat.

These variables make many unsure whether summer or winter is worse for their condition. What does seem to be clear, however, is that warm and dry weather tends to be the best for it. This means that late spring and early fall are generally sweet spots for arthritis.

How do I manage arthritis pain when it’s cold?

Finding the best treatment for your arthritis depends on what type of arthritis you have. Taking over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medication for your arthritis can help you manage your pain symptoms during the colder months, but a number of non-medication options may also help.

Practices including exercise, manual therapies, ultrasound, and stress-reducing mindfulness meditation have shown promise in reducing chronic pain symptoms.

Simple activities like relaxing in a hot bath or shower can also help to keep your joints limber and warm them up. And, using a hot water bottle or an electric blanket are additional ways of providing heat therapy to affected areas. You can even sleep with them to leave you less stiff in the morning.

If you’re struggling to manage your discomfort, work with your healthcare provider. With so many options to choose from, they can help you find a treatment plan that will work for you and your particular type of arthritis.

How can you prevent arthritis when it’s cold?

It’s not always possible to prevent all your arthritis symptoms when it’s cold outside. But there are things you can do to help. Here’s how.

1. Stay warm. Protect your hands, feet, and head by making sure you dress warmly when you venture out. Wear gloves or mittens that actually keep your hands warm, and don’t be afraid of long underwear and extra socks so that your body heat doesn’t escape easily. If you find yourself getting too toasty, you can always peel off a layer.

2. Stay hydrated. It seems simple, but drinking enough water is a powerful tool when it comes to arthritis prevention. Maintaining appropriate water levels in the body helps to ensure your joint — or synovial — fluid stays hydrated, reducing the friction between your bones.

3. Maintain a regular exercise regime. Exercise is crucial for bone and joint health. It increases the strength of the muscles around your joints, helping to take the pressure off these junctions.

Additionally, physical activity reduces pain intensity and improves balance, flexibility, cognition, and mood. It also reduces inflammation, which can go a long way toward preventing painful arthritis flare-ups in the winter.

To reap the most benefit from this, warm up before you start by stretching. Ease yourself into new routines, and aim for joint-friendly activities if you have severe arthritis. This might mean walking, swimming, and hot yoga instead of running a marathon or playing squash.

4. Maintain a healthy weight. The heavier you are, the more pressure you put on your joints — especially your knees and hips. For joints that are already struggling, any extra weight can cause an increase in pain.

Fat tissue isn’t just about weight, however. It releases compounds that contribute to inflammation, making your arthritis symptoms that much worse. Fat matters so much to this disease that it contributes to about one-quarter of all arthritis cases.

5. Help keep inflammation under wraps. Small lifestyle changes can make a difference when it comes to addressing inflammation in the body.

For example, incorporating omega-3 into your diet may help keep swelling under wraps. Not only is fish a great way to eat healthy, but it’s also an excellent source of these healthy fats. However, they do come in supplements if you prefer.

And, in case you’re looking for another reason to quit smoking, know that it doesn’t just cause cancer, but it also contributes to inflammation in the body. Butting out can help to reduce pain and future degeneration of the cartilage.

What’s the best medication and treatment for arthritis?

OTC medications can come in handy for occasional arthritis flare-ups. If you experience the odd bout of pain as the seasons change or after a particularly inactive day, for example, then ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), ASA (Aspirin), or acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help to dull that. Ibuprofen, naproxen, and ASA are all anti-inflammatories too, so they can also help to soothe inflammation.

Additionally, you can try a topical ointment or cream. There are a few different brand names on the market, but their active ingredients are typically capsaicin or salicylate. However, these medications don’t work immediately and may only start to be effective after weeks of use. They may also cause burning, itching, or other skin irritation.

Prescription medications for arthritis offer a few different options. Your healthcare provider may recommend a prescription for an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) like celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Voltaren), or meloxicam (Mobic). NSAIDs come in either tablet or topical forms and are great options as they both counteract inflammation and address pain sensations.

Corticosteroids are another prescription medication commonly used for arthritis. Along with NSAIDs, these are good for short-term use but not recommended over the long term because of side effects.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are most commonly prescribed for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. There are a number of different kinds of DMARDs, all of which slow or stop inflammation that triggers joint pain, prevent joint destruction, and preserve joint space and prevent bone-on-bone pain. As a side-effect, however, they do make you more prone to infections.

A new category of DMARDs is available that provides more targeted treatment. Known as targeted synthetic, or small molecule DMARDs, these treatments don’t pose the same risks regarding infection vulnerability. They’re only approved for specific use cases at the moment, however.

Some individuals also rely on medical cannabis to reduce pain and help them sleep. While anecdotal evidence may support this practice, more research is needed to confirm the full range of effects cannabis has on arthritis.

How Maple can help with seasonal arthritis

While you might be able to manage your condition normally, changes in season might mean an increase in pain and inflammation and a decrease in your range of motion. If you find that the seasonal shift corresponds to an increase in your arthritis symptoms, you could probably benefit from medical support.

Connecting with a doctor on Maple means that you can discuss your arthritis symptoms within minutes, from the comfort of your home. If appropriate, the doctor can provide you with a prescription for your arthritis-related symptoms or refer you for additional testing.

If your arthritis is affecting your quality of life, don’t wait. Get in touch with a doctor today for help soothing your pain and inflammation.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post Does arthritis get worse when the seasons change? appeared first on Maple.

Stay water smart

The joys of a cool dip on a hot day can make you lose sight of how dangerous water can be. But, there are hundreds of unintentional drowning deaths in Canada every year. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, spending the day at the beach, or jumping off the cottage dock, there are a few things to keep in mind. Even the strongest swimmer can have issues from time to time, and you never know when you might need to call your swimming buddy for help. So whether you’re an ironman competitor or a beginner, never swim alone. Just as importantly, never leave children unattended in or around water. Even a kiddie pool can prove dangerous to a little one, and drop-offs, undertows, and strong currents can happen suddenly. 

Boating is another favourite Canadian pastime with the potential for trouble. Luckily, small changes can have big impacts when it comes to water safety. Wearing a life jacket on the water whether you’re in a boat, a kayak, or a seadoo is a must. And similar to drinking and driving, it’s illegal to operate a boat if you’re impaired by drugs or alcohol.

Beat back the mosquitoes

Nothing ruins a great outdoor trip faster than a swarm of bugs — especially if they’re mosquitoes. Mosquitoes often cause extra anxiety these days as they can sometimes carry West Nile virus. The good news is that while some mosquitoes do carry it, the majority don’t, and less than 1% of those who get West Nile virus develop severe symptoms.

Whether you’re worried about West Nile virus or not, however, no one likes to get bitten. You’re not going to be able to stop every mosquito bite, but with a couple of tricks, you can minimize the number you get. Wear loose-fitting clothing with a tight weave like nylon or polyester, and don’t scrimp on the bug repellent. For mosquitoes, you’ll want to choose one with icaridin or DEET — remember to check the label before spraying children though, as not all products are safe for all ages. 

Stay tick-free

While the occasional mosquito bite isn’t usually an issue, many people feel more squeamish about ticks. Ticks are becoming more common in many parts of the country, and can often carry Lyme disease — a potentially serious infection. Ticks like to hang out along the edges of trails or in wooded areas where they can hop off onto an unsuspecting meal. To avoid becoming their dinner, wear long sleeves and tuck your pants into your socks. You’ll likely want to add an insect repellent as well if you’ll be spending time in a known tick area. Once home, you should check yourself and any loved ones thoroughly. Ticks often end up in hidden areas like the scalp or behind the ears. They can also hitch a ride on clothing and bite you once you’re home. To kill any unwanted hitchhikers, you can throw your hiking gear in the dryer for 10 minutes.

If you do find an attached tick, pull it out with tweezers or a specialized tick remover without twisting or crushing it. Any flu-like symptoms, rash, or joint pain following a tick bite should be discussed with a doctor immediately.

Pack smart for food safety

Packing a meal is a must for most excursions, but storing your picnic requires as much thought as planning the menu. Bacteria grow quicker in the heat, making food poisoning a greater risk once the weather warms up. Perishables can go bad pretty quickly in a hot knapsack. If your food changes colour or texture, or develops a new smell, it’s time to throw it out. 

During the summer, Health Canada recommends that you leave food out at room temperature for less than an hour. Between 4℃ and 60℃ is considered the danger zone, and harmful bacteria can colonize your tuna sandwich in as little as two hours. Even if your food seems normal, if it has been out that long in that temperature range, it’s better to toss it than to chance it. You can’t always smell or even taste when food is unsafe. If you’re packing a picnic and know you’ll be out for most of the day, load it into an insulated bag or cooler, and don’t cut back on the ice packs. You’ll also want to prevent cross-contamination by sealing items separately in individual containers – nothing’s worse than a lovely summer salad marinated in raw burger juice. Finally, practice proper hand sanitation before you dig in. If you know you won’t have access to running water and soap for hand washing, be sure to bring along some hand sanitizer.

Getting outside is one of the great joys of summer — plus, it’s good for your health. Make sure it stays that way by planning ahead. With some small modifications, your next outdoor trip can be fun as well as safe.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional.

When using virtual care, all medical treatment is at the sole discretion of the provider. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies, and your provider will determine if your case is appropriate for virtual care. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

The post Four things to look out for on your next outdoor trip appeared first on Maple.