Thursday, October 18, 2007

Health Tips for October 18

Health Tip: Risk Factors for Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, sometimes called juvenile diabetes, affects the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

Here is a list of potential risk factors for the disease, courtesy of Aurora Health Care:

* A family history of type 1 diabetes.
* Having another autoimmune disease.
* Being born to an older mother.
* Being born to a mother who had preeclampsia.
* Being of Northern European or Mediterranean descent.
* Certain environmental factors, including stress or exposure to certain toxins.

Health Tip: Minimize Scarring After a Burn

Most serious burns will cause scarring. Although some scarring may always be visible, there are steps you can take to help minimize their appearance on your child.

The Lucile Packard Children's Hospital offers these suggestions:

* Wear a pressure garment around the burn.
* Wear a splint to prevent a contracture -- a serious complication of burn scarring that can restrict movement.
* Perform exercises recommended by a physical therapist that promote a wide range of motion.
* Encourage your child to be active and to do things independently. Daily activities will help keep the scar area stretched and prevent complications.

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