When you think of Medicare, you probably think of medical coverage for seniors. And while that is a critical aspect of Medicare, there are several different parts to the program. Each part covers different services, and some parts have gaps in coverage that you may not be aware of. Below, we look at what isn’t covered by Medicare and dispel some common myths about the program: 1. Routine dental exams and treatment Medicare coverage doesn’t include routine dental exams, cleanings, fillings, or extractions. There are a few exceptions, however. If you need dental care to have surgery that Medicare covers, then Medicare will also cover the necessary dental care. For example, Medicare will cover the extraction if you need a tooth extraction before heart surgery. Medicare will also cover dental care related to an injury, such as a jaw fracture. But for routine dental care, you’ll have to pay out of pocket or purchase an individual dental insurance plan. 2. Long term care Medicare coverage does not include long-term care, such as nursing home care. Also, Medicare will not pay for custodial care, which is the kind of care you need when you can no longer take care of yourself.

AFIB, short for atrial fibrillation, is a prevalent heart rhythm disorder that demands attention due to its potential impact on cardiovascular health. If you’re grappling with AFIB symptoms or seeking insights into its causes, this article is your comprehensive guide. We begin with heart diseases, a critical factor in AFIB, and include a deeper look into other contributing factors. Additionally, we’ll highlight the significance of AED machines in emergencies and provide insights into symptom recognition and advanced treatment options. 1. Heart Diseases Heart conditions, notably valvular heart diseases, play a central role in the onset of AFIB. Issues such as mitral valve prolapse, rheumatic heart disease, or aortic stenosis disrupt blood flow and electrical impulses that regulate the heartbeat. These structural and functional changes in the heart predispose individuals to AFIB. For managing such diseases, treatments range from medications to manage symptoms to surgical interventions like valve repair or replacement when necessary. Valve replacement surgery, in particular, involves replacing a damaged valve with a prosthetic one to restore normal heart function and rhythm. 2. Age and Aging Aging is a natural contributor to AFIB as the heart’s electrical system experiences wear and tear over time. As we age, changes in cardiac tissue and a decline in the efficiency of the heart’s electrical pathways increase the likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation.

Allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can all contribute to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and strained breathing. Whether these symptoms are severe and chronic or simply annoying, they commonly involve the immune system reacting to a certain substance in the wrong way. With 70% of the body’s immune system tied to the gut, diet may be a path to relief for children and adults suffering from breathing issues. Common treatments like Spariva, Flovent and Advair are often prescribed to help with airflow. Below are five common foods that might trigger breathing problems: 1. Eggs Egg allergies may trigger breathing problems at any age, though this cause is most commonly seen in young children under five years old. These patients’ immune systems may react to ovalbumin, ovotransferrin, ovomucoid, or any other protein found in egg whites or yolks. Avoiding any food made with egg products could be a solution to your child’s breathing problems. The good news about egg allergies is that they are often outgrown with time. Studies have shown that two thirds of kids with an egg allergy will be able to enjoy eggs without symptoms by the age of five, though patients with a severe allergy may need to wait longer.

Respiratory illnesses can be a real nuisance, especially during the flu season. With the ongoing pandemic and increasing instances of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), adenovirus, and parainfluenza, taking precautions to avoid catching or developing a respiratory illness is more crucial than ever. This article not only compiles a list of the top five traditional hot spots for respiratory illnesses at your office and home but also provides valuable tips on how to prevent them. Moreover, we explore advanced treatment options for severe respiratory conditions, including lung valve replacement for cases like severe emphysema, alongside preventive measures to help you stay safe and healthy. 1. Doorknobs, and appliance and drawer handles Doorknobs and drawer handles are some of the most touched surfaces in any home or office. Unfortunately, they can also be hot spots for respiratory illnesses, as they can easily spread germs from one person to another. To avoid getting sick, make sure to wash your hands regularly, and consider wiping down these surfaces with a disinfectant wipe every few hours. 2. Keyboards and electronics keypads Keyboards and electronics keypads can also harbor germs and bacteria. They are frequently touched and seldom cleaned, making them a perfect breeding ground for respiratory viruses.