🌍 World Pneumonia Day – November 12th 🫁
Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can affect anyone, but it’s especially dangerous for children under 5, older adults, smokers, and people with asthma, COPD, or other chronic conditions.
🚨 Common Symptoms:
Cough (often with phlegm or pus)
Fever, chills, or sweating
Shortness of breath
Chest pain while breathing or coughing
Fatigue or confusion (especially in older adults)
⏰ Seek medical help if you or your loved one:
Have trouble breathing or bluish lips/fingertips
Have a high or persistent fever
Feel unusually weak or confused
Are part of a high-risk group (children, elderly, chronic illness)
💉 Prevention is possible!
Vaccinate against pneumococcal disease and influenza.
Recognize symptoms early for timely treatment with antibiotics and supportive care like oxygen.
📞 Schedule your appointment today:
🌬️ November is COPD Awareness Month! 💛
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that makes it harder to breathe. It includes diseases like chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and it’s often caused by long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke, dust, or chemicals.
🚨 Risk Factors Include:
• Smoking & secondhand smoke 🚬
• Genetic conditions (like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency) 🧬
• Frequent childhood lung infections 🧒
• Indoor smoke from wood or coal 🔥
• Occupational dust & chemicals 🏭
💪 How to Manage COPD:
✔️ Stay physically active
💉 Keep up with immunizations
💊 Take prescribed medications
🚭 Quit smoking
🌿 Avoid triggers
🌬️ November is COPD Awareness Month 💛
Let’s raise awareness, support those living with COPD, and take steps toward better lung health.
🧬 Risk Factors for COPD
COPD develops gradually over time, often due to long-term lung irritation and damage. Main risk factors include:
1️⃣ Smoking
• Leading cause of COPD (85–90% of cases).
• Includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and secondhand smoke.
• Former smokers remain at increased risk.
2️⃣ Environmental & Occupational Exposures
• Long-term exposure to air pollution, chemical fumes, dust, and vapors (mining, construction, farming).
3️⃣ Genetic Factors
• Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) — a rare inherited cause.
4️⃣ Age & Lung Development
• Diagnosed usually after 40, but damage can start earlier.
• Poor lung growth in childhood increases risk.
5️⃣ Respiratory Infections
• Frequent childhood infections can reduce lung function later.
6️⃣ Asthma or Chronic Airway Inflammation
• Long-term asthma may cause COPD-like airway obstruction.
7️⃣ Socioeconomic & Environmental Factors
• Poverty, limited healthcare access, and use of biomass fuels indoors.
💨 Know the symptoms:
• 🤧 Chronic cough
• 🥱 Fatigue
• 🎶 Wheezing
• 😮💨 Shortness of breath
• 💛 Chest tightness
• 🫁 Excess mucus or phlegm
• 🤒 Frequent respiratory infections
• 💙 Bluish lips or fingernails (cyanosis)
• ⚖️ Unintended weight loss
🔗 Helpful Resources:
COPD Foundation: www.copdfoundation.org
American Lung Association – COPD: www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/copd
🎗️ Red Ribbon Week: Oct 23–31 🎗️
🌟 Things to Do Instead of Drugs
1. 🎨 Create art – draw, paint, or make crafts.
2. 🏃♀️ Play sports – join a team, run, or try a new physical activity.
3. 🎶 Listen to or make music – sing, play an instrument, or write songs.
4. 📚 Read books – explore new stories or learn something new.
5. 🧘♂️ Practice mindfulness – try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
6. 🤝 Volunteer – help at a food bank, animal shelter, or community event.
7. 🎬 Watch movies or start a movie night with friends or family.
8. 🍳 Learn to cook or bake something new.
9. 🌳 Go outside – hike, bike, garden, or just enjoy nature.
10. 🗣️ Talk to friends or family when you’re stressed — don’t bottle things up.
11. 🧩 Do puzzles or play games that challenge your mind.
12. ✍️ Keep a journal or write stories and poems.
13. 🐾 Spend time with pets – they can help reduce stress.
14. 💡 Set goals for school, hobbies, or your future.
15. 💬 Join a club or group at school or in your community.
125 Things to Do Instead of Drugs or Alcohol
https://transcendibogaine.com/things-to-do-instead-drugs-alcohol/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Red Ribbon Week Activities:�https://www.redribbon.org/activities?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Red Ribbon Toolkit - DEA:�https://www.dea.gov/red-ribbon/red-ribbon-toolkit?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Get Involved – DEA Museum:�https://museum.dea.gov/exhibits/online-exhibits/red-ribbon-week/get-involved?
🎀 October 17th is Mammography Day!
👩⚕️ At Average Risk:
- Start at age 40
- Every 2 years
- Continue through at least age 74
🚨 At Higher Risk? (Examples: strong family history, BRCA1/2 gene, past chest radiation)
- May need to start as early as age 30
- More frequent screenings
- May include MRI in addition to mammograms
🔗 Helpful Links:
✔️ Mammogram Basics (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/mammograms.htm
✔️ Breast Cancer Risk Factors (Susan G. Komen): https://www.komen.org/breast-cancer/risk-factor/
✔️ How to Do a Breast Self-Exam (BreastCancer.org): https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam
✔️ Screening Guidelines (American Cancer Society): https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html
🎗️ National Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day 💚💗💙
Metastatic breast cancer — also known as Stage IV or advanced breast cancer — occurs when cancer has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body such as the lungs, liver, bones, or brain.
💡 Know the Symptoms
🧠 Persistent headache
🗣️ Speech or vision problems
💨 Shortness of breath
🤢 Nausea or vomiting
💔 Chest pain
🟡 Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
🦴 Bone pain or frequent fractures
😴 Fatigue
⚖️ Unexplained weight loss
🌡️ Abdominal or belly pain
🌿 Itchy skin or rash
💕 Take Action
Continue to support breast cancer research, raise awareness, and get regular checkups.
Early detection and consistent care make a difference.
📞 Schedule your appointment today
📱 Call: 940-383-3444
🔁 Share to spread awareness
💬 Tag someone who should see this
🔗 Learn More:
🌐 Metastatic Breast Cancer Guide – Everyday Health
🎀 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! 🩷
A powerful reminder of the importance of early detection through regular screenings and self-exams.
Get your mammogram today — it could save your life.
👩⚕️ If You’re at Average Risk
- Begin screenings at age 40
- Every 2 years thereafter
- Continue through at least age 74
🚨 If You’re at Higher Risk
(Examples: strong family history, BRCA1/2 gene, past chest radiation)
- May need to start as early as age 30
- More frequent screenings may be recommended
- May include MRI in addition to mammograms
🩺 Don’t Forget Self-Exams!
Know what’s normal for YOU — early awareness makes all the difference.
📞 Schedule your mammogram today!
🔗 Helpful Links
✔️ Mammogram Basics (CDC): cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/mammograms.htm
✔️ Breast Cancer Risk Factors (Susan G. Komen): komen.org/breast-cancer/risk-factor
✔️ How to Do a Breast Self-Exam (BreastCancer.org): breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/self_exam
✔️ Screening Guidelines (American Cancer Society): cancer.org/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection
💙October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month! 🧠
Practical Ways to Care for Your Mental Health
🗣 Talk about your feelings
🥦 Eat well and stay nourished
📞 Stay connected with friends and family
⏸ Take breaks and rest when needed
🚴♂️ Stay active — movement boosts mood
🍷 Drink sensibly
🤝 Ask for help — you don’t have to do it alone
🎨 Do things you enjoy and are good at
❤️ Crisis Support (Available 24/7)
📞 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
🌐 988lifeline.org
➡️ Call or text 988 any time for free, confidential support.
💬 Crisis Text Line
🌐 crisistextline.org
➡️ Text HELLO to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
📚 General Mental Health Education & Tools
🧠 National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH):
🌐 nimh.nih.gov
Evidence-based information on mental health conditions, treatment, and research.
💙 SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration):
🌐 samhsa.gov/find-help
🌍 October 10th is World Mental Health Day!
A powerful reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health. 💚 Your mind matters. Your health matters. You matter.
This day, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), encourages everyone to raise awareness, foster understanding, and take action to support mental well-being worldwide.
💭 Why It Matters
🧠 1 in 8 people live with a mental health condition
💬 Many still face stigma, silence, or lack of access to care
🤝 Open conversations can save lives and create connection
Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It influences our relationships, productivity, and overall quality of life. Yet, too often, it’s overlooked or misunderstood.
💚 How You Can Support Mental Wellness
✅ Talk about it — start conversations and listen without judgment
✅ Check in on friends, family, and coworkers
✅ Take breaks for self-care and mindfulness
✅ Seek professional help if you’re struggling — it’s a sign of strength
✅ Advocate for accessible mental health resources in your community
📚 Learn More:
🌐 World Health Organization — World Mental Health Day
🌐 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
🌐 Mental Health America
October is the first Month of Flu Season
Common Flu Symptoms
🤒 Fever or chills
😷 Cough and sore throat
🤧 Runny or stuffy nose
💪 Muscle or body aches
😫 Headaches and fatigue
🤢 Sometimes vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)
Take Action This Flu Season
✅ Get your annual flu vaccine — it’s your best protection
✅ Wash your hands frequently
✅ Stay home if you’re sick
✅ Cover your coughs and sneezes
✅ Know when to call your doctor — especially if symptoms worsen or last more than a few days
📚 Learn More:
🌐 CDC — About the Flu
🌐 CDC — Flu Symptoms & Diagnosis
🌐 CDC — What To Do If You Get the Flu
❤️September 29th is World Heart Day❤️
Here’s why regular checkups matter more than ever:
Your heart beats over 100,000 times a day isn’t it time you gave it some love?
🔹Family History
If heart disease runs in your family, regular screenings help you stay ahead of genetic risks.
🔸Heart Attacks Are Happening Earlier
More people under 40 are having heart attacks due to stress and lifestyle—checkups can catch early warning signs.
🔹Monitor Key Heart Indicators
Routine visits track blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and EKG to detect issues early.
🔸Detect Silent Killers Early
High blood pressure and cholesterol often have no symptoms—regular checkups can catch them before serious damage occurs.
🔹Prevent Heart Disease
Prevention is easier and more affordable than treatment—your doctor can guide you with early interventions.
⚠️ Risk Factors for High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Here are the most common contributors:
* 🧂 High-salt diet
* 🍺 Frequent alcohol consumption
* 🚭 Smoking
* 🏃 Lack of physical activity
* ⚖️ Being overweight or obese
* 👵 Older age or family history/genetics
Even if you feel fine, these risk factors could be affecting your heart silently.
🚨 Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
While some heart problems come with no warning, others do have symptoms. Seek medical attention if you notice:
* 👁️ Blurry or double vision
* 🌪️ Lightheadedness or dizziness
* 🧠 Fainting or frequent fatigue
* 🤕 Headaches
* ❤️ Heart palpitations (irregular heartbeat)
* 👃 Nosebleeds
* 😮💨 Shortness of breath
* 🤢 Nausea or vomiting
These symptoms could be a sign of high blood pressure or other serious heart conditions.
🫁 September 25th is World Lung Day 🌍
Every day, we take about 20,000 breaths without a second thought… until breathing becomes difficult. Today, we raise awareness about the “Big Five” lung diseases:
Asthma, COPD, Acute Lower Respiratory Infections, Lung Cancer, and Tuberculosis.
🔴 Lung diseases cause 1 in 6 deaths worldwide.
⚠️ 1.76 million people die from lung cancer each year (the most deadly cancer)
🚭 Quitting smoking at any age significantly lowers your risk.
🌬️ COPD is the 3rd leading cause of death globally.
Let’s protect our lungs and our future by taking action:
✅ Breathe clean air
✅ Get regular checkups
✅ Quit smoking
✅ Raise your voice for lung health
🫁 Your lungs matter. You matter.
📚 Learn more:
🌐 https://firsnet.org/world-lung-day-2025/ (Forum of International Respiratory Societies)
🌐 https://www.lung.org/ (American Lung Association)
🍁🍂 September 22nd is the First Day of Fall! 🍂🍁
Why You Should Get Your Flu Shot Before the Peak
As the weather cools down, flu season starts to heat up — and that means it’s time to think seriously about your annual flu shot. At Veritas Family Medicine, we want to help you stay healthy, protect your loved ones, and avoid the worst of flu season by getting vaccinated early.
Let’s break down what you need to know and why timing really matters.
💉 Why You Should Get Your Flu Shot Early
It takes about two weeks after getting your flu shot for your body to develop full protection. So, if you wait until flu activity is already high in your area, you may not be protected in time.
Getting your flu shot early (in September or October) offers the best chance to:
- ✅ Build immunity before flu viruses become widespread
- ✅ Protect those around you , especially infants, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses
- ✅ Avoid missing work, school, or holiday gatherings due to illness
- ✅ Reduce your chances of serious complications like pneumonia or hospitalization
📚 Learn more:
🌐 CDC – Flu Season Resources (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
🌐 WHO – Influenza Facts & Prevention (World Health Organization)
🌐 American Lung Association – Flu Prevention Tips (American Lung Association)
🌐 CDC – Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccines (CDC Vaccination Info)
September 21st 🧠World Alzheimer’s Day 🧠
Every year on September 21, we come together globally to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
This day is a powerful reminder of the 55+ million people worldwide affected by this devastating disease and the families, caregivers, and communities who stand beside them.
You can make a difference.
- Share facts and stories
- Support a fundraiser
- Talk to a loved one about dementia
- Be part of the conversation
Together, we honor memories, even as they fade.
If you would like to make a donation or learn more about Alzheimer’s disease click the link below.
https://www.alz.org/about/awareness-initiatives/world-alzheimers-day
🌿 Ways to Engage in Self‑Care This September🌿
💪Physical: Move your body, eat nourishing food, get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and limit harmful substances.
🧠 Mental/Emotional: Practice mindfulness or meditation, journal thoughts or feelings, talk to someone you trust, take breaks and rest.
🤝 Social: Connect with supportive people, set boundaries, and spend quality time with others.
🌱 Spiritual/Reflective: Practice gratitude, spend time in nature, and reflect on values or purpose.
⏰ Routine & Boundaries: Create a daily routine, say “no” when needed, and limit screen time.
🎨 Creative/Exploratory: Try a new hobby, do something fun or relaxing, and allow space for spontaneity.
Helpful Resources!!!
https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2025/06/24/default-calendar/self-care-month-2025?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Self-Care Month 2025"
https://www.teladoc.com/health-talk/5-self-care-strategies/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Self-Care Strategies - 5 Tips for Self-Care | Teladoc"
https://bewell.stanford.edu/self-care-strategies-and-challenges/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Self-care strategies and challenges - Stanford BeWell"
https://www.mountcarmelhealth.com/blog-articles/self-care?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Self-Care | Mount Carmel Health System"
https://www.arizonacollege.edu/blog/self-care-month-how-to-avoid-two-sneaky-stress-starters/
🧡 World Patient Safety Day - September 17th 🧡
At the heart of quality healthcare is patient safety, and today, we stand together to promote safer care for everyone. World Patient Safety Day is a global initiative that highlights the importance of preventing harm in healthcare settings, by ensuring good hygiene, proper medication use, and open communication between patients and providers.
Together, let’s reduce preventable harm and create a safer, more transparent healthcare environment for all.
🔸 We follow strict hand hygiene and infection control protocols.
🔸 Our staff is trained in emergency response and patient communication.
🔸 Prescriptions and dosages are double-checked to prevent errors.
🔸 All patient records are kept secure through protected digital systems.
💬 What can YOU do?
✔️ Speak up if something doesn’t feel right (you know your body best.)
✔️ Wash your hands — and encourage others to do the same.
✔️ Ask questions — because informed patients are safer patients.
🌿 Celebrating National Assisted Living Week! 🌿
Sept 7–13, This year’s theme is "Ageless Adventure," a reminder that no matter our age, life is still full of joy, growth, and new experiences. 🧡 Join us as we honor our residents, caregivers, and the vibrant community that makes aging a beautiful journey.
Let’s also recognize the importance of independence and the simple steps we can all take to stay strong, safe, and supported as we age.
Helpful Links:
- National Assisted Living Week – NCAL / AHCA — Planning guides, graphics, toolkits, and official resources AHCA/NCAL
- “Get Ready for National Assisted Living Week 2025” — Blog post with ideas and resources for 2025 celebrations AHCA/NCAL
- “’Ageless Adventure’ Revealed as Theme for National Assisted Living Week 2025” — Official announcement of the 2025 theme AHCA/NCAL
September is HEALTHY AGING MONTH
