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Head Trauma Can Lead To Uncertain Risks

Head trauma is a severe condition and affects over 2.6 million people in the US every year. There are significant risks to head trauma patients after discharge from the hospital, such as falling at home or impaired memory. A short-term care facility can reduce the risk of these complications and help patients heal in a supportive environment.

Serious head trauma injuries come in many forms

Head trauma occurs when there is an injury to the brain, scalp, or skull. There are different types of head injuries, which all have varying degrees of limitations for patients. Some types of head traumas include:

  • Concussion
  • Contusion
  • Intracranial hematoma
  • Skull fracture

Planning for the care of head trauma patients

For many head trauma patients, care is required around the clock. Head traumas are serious medical conditions that can result in permanent disability and mental impairment. Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, feeding, and walking may be necessary.

When will a head trauma patient be fully recovered?

Head trauma recovery is not an exact science. Every patient and injury is different and may require an extra level of support and care. The brain heals slowly, and a patient may need extended care for months or years afterward. A short-term care facility can aid in the healing process.

Rehabilitation programs help head trauma patients heal

Once a head-injured patient is discharged from the hospital, a rehabilitation program can be essential to recovery. Transfer to a short-term care facility for rehabilitation may expedite further improvement. During rehabilitation, a short-term care facility can also help family members to understand a patient’s limitations and set realistic expectations for improvement.

Difficulties of at-home caregiving

Many family members want to help head trauma patients immediately after discharge from the hospital. However, head trauma can require months to years of continuous support and therapy to aid recovery. Many caregivers may find difficulty providing the necessary level of care that a loved one requires to aid healing. A short-term care facility has resources an at-home setting cannot offer a head trauma patient.

A short-term care facility can provide continuous care

To ensure the best recovery from head trauma, rehabilitation must begin promptly. Patients may have to relearn basic skills and adapt to restrictions in functioning. A short-term care facility can provide exceptional support for rehabilitation. Care includes help with daily activities, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.

Making the right choice for your loved one

Many complications can occur after head trauma. A licensed healthcare facility can help prevent these complications and risks. When selecting the right place for a head trauma patient to recover, choose a short-term care facility that offers a supportive environment to promote the healing process.

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What Does COPD Do To The Body?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects the lung’s airways, making breathing difficult. COPD leads to two other conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis restricts the airways and causes excess mucus buildup. Emphysema is a disease that destroys the lung’s air sacs. People with COPD often have to deal with complications from either one of these diseases.

The importance of exercise

Activity is vital for people with COPD because a lack of physical activity can affect a person’s health and overall quality of life. COPD symptoms can even become worse. To start, COPD patients should enroll in pulmonary rehabilitation. This is a program with a team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, physical therapists, and exercise specialists. These professionals help people with COPD learn special breathing techniques and exercises, and develop treatment plans to make life with COPD easier. Pulmonary rehabilitation begins with an assessment from a therapist to determine different things about the patient, like blood oxygen levels. Programs are conducted at hospitals, outpatient clinics, or the patient’s home.

Stretching for people with COPD

People with COPD will benefit from lots of stretching. Stretching helps with breath control and body flexibility. Patients should start stretching for at least 10-15 minutes every day. Experts also believe that stretching before and after exercise is good for the body. Stretching is something that can be done anywhere at any time of day. Try some stretching exercises to prepare for more intense activities.

Aerobic exercises

Aerobic exercises are great for people with COPD because these activities increase the amount of oxygen in the blood. Cardiovascular exercise also strengthens the heart muscle. Walking is an excellent form of aerobic exercise. Patients can do this for 15-20 minutes a day to get the blood flowing. Another great exercise is cycling. Patients can use a stationary bike or a regular bike. Swimming can also be beneficial. If an outdoor pool isn’t an option, patients can go to a local sports club and use those pool facilities. A good fitness regimen for those with COPD will incorporate aerobic exercises a few times a week.

Try some resistance training

Essentially, resistance training is weight lifting. However, people do not need to start with a heavy load. Lightweight dumbbells or exercise bands work just as well. Resistance training can be done multiple times throughout the week.

Taking the next step

Anyone interested in pulmonary rehabilitation, exercises, or more information about COPD should consult a doctor, physical therapist, or a respiratory therapist. These healthcare professionals are a wealth of knowledge and resources for leading a healthy life with COPD.