<b>Tips</b> to Prepare for Deer Tick Season

The mild winter coupled with the warmer than usual spring has brought an early start to deer tick season in the area.

With all the outdoor space in Dover and Sherborn, it is important to know a little bit about ticks and Lyme disease.

According to a report issued in April 2011 by the House Committee on Post Audit and Oversight and titled, "Lyme Disease in Massachusetts: A Public Health Crisis," Suffolk and Middlesex counties reported a combined 702 cases of Lyme disease in 2009, the last year from which official numbers are available. In total, 4,045 cases were reported in Massachusetts that year.

5 Things You Need to Know About Deer Ticks and Lyme Disease

What are deer ticks?

Deer ticks are tiny – about the size of a sesame seed, according to a University of Rhode Island fact sheet. Males are black; females have a brick-red abdomen and a black shield near the head. Females swell to 1/4 mm when fully engorged after feeding. They can carry and spread Lyme disease through a tiny bite. Lyme disease can cause serious joint, heart or central nervous system problems if it is not recognized early in the disease process and treated appropriately. They can be found in grassy areas, open fields, and especially the margin where fields meet wooded areas. They feed mainly on deer but humans can be accidental hosts.

What can you do to prevent tick bites?

Apply repellents that contain DEET or permethrin.Keep your grass cut short and clear brush.Avoid areas of low-lying bushes and plants.Wear clothing that covers skin, i.e. long-sleeved shirts and long pants. For added protection, tuck your pants into your socks

How to remove a tick? 

If you find a tick on your body, remove it as soon as possible. Use a pair of fine point tweezers to remove a tick from your skin. Grip the tick by its head as close to your skin as possible, applying steady pressure as you pull straight out (slowly and firmly). Disinfect the bitten area with antiseptic after tick is removed.

Call your doctor if …

You were bitten and experience a fever, headache, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, sore/aching muscles or if you develop a “bull’s-eye” rash in the area of the bite.

Understanding the life cycle of ticks

According to the Center for Disease Control, blacklegged ticks, which carry the disease, live for two years and have three feeding stages: larvae, nymph, and adult. Tick eggs are laid in the spring and hatch as larvae in the summer. Larvae feed on mice, birds, and other small animals in the summer and early fall. When a young tick feeds on an infected animal, the tick takes bacteria into its body along with the blood meal, and it remains infected for the rest of its life. After this initial feeding, the larvae become inactive as they grow into nymphs. The following spring, nymphs seek blood meals in order to fuel their growth into adults. When the tick feeds again, it can transmit the bacterium to its new host. Usually the new host is another small rodent, but sometimes the new host is a human. Most cases of human illness occur in the late spring and summer when the tiny nymphs are most active and human outdoor activity is greatest. Adult ticks feed on large animals, and sometimes on humans. In the spring, adult female ticks lay their eggs on the ground, completing the life cycle. Although adult ticks often feed on deer, these animals do not become infected. Deer are nevertheless important in transporting ticks and maintaining tick populations.

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<b>Tips</b> for a successful calving season

Many factors can play a role in whether or not a producer has a successful calving season, but management is the key. According to Steve Paisley, extension beef cattle specialist with the University of Wyoming, making sure a newborn calf gets up and nurses within six hours of birth is critical to its future health. “It is very important to make sure the calf gets adequate colostrum,” he explained. “Old data indicates the calf needs colostrum within 12 hours of age, but new data says it may be closer to six hours. As the calf get older, in hours and minutes, the small intestine starts to mature and develop, limiting its ability to absorb those IGG antibodies.”

Rick Rasby, beef specialist with the University of Nebraska, added, “Colostrum is the defense mechanism for the calf early on. It is full of immunoglobins. If the calf doesn't get up and nurse quickly after birth, I tell producers to be prepared to give the calf colostrum. It is that important.”

Nutrition prior to calving can play a role in how soon the cow and calf both get up after birth. “There is data from clear back in the 70s that indicates a cow with proper nutrition will calve easier and get up quicker,” Paisley explained. “It also indicates the calf will be born with more vigor, and get to its feet sooner and nurse, which is 90 percent of the battle.”

Cows should be in a body condition score of five prior to calving. Rasby said he likes to see first calf heifers in a body condition score of six. “They are calving and lactating for the first time,” he explained. “They are also trying to repair their reproductive tract so they can breed back for the second time, and in addition to all of that, they are still trying to grow. Nutrition is very important for them,” he said.

“Having a cow in good body condition depends on how well you met the requirements of protein, energy, vitamins and minerals,” Rasby continued. “It is a stressful time for the cow. She needs to be able to get up after calving, lick that calf off, and provide colostrum to support that calf. The amount of immunoglobins available at calving is a function of body condition and nutrition at calving,” he added.

The cow's diet prior to calving is critical. They need a balanced ration to meet not only their protein and energy needs, but also their vitamin and mineral requirements. “It's a total package,” Rasby said. “Nutrition is particularly important the last trimester because that is when most of the fetal growth is occurring. Their nutritional needs at that time are extremely high.”

Paisley said producers need to have a good nutritional program in place prior to calving. “They don't need to gain weight or be excessively fat, but it is critical that they are healthy,” he explained. During the last 60-90 days prior to calving, protein and energy requirements for the cow increase 30 percent, Paisley said. “We have seen cows that will wean a calf off and look good through November and early December because there is plenty of forage available. However, as we move closer to calving, the ability to find forage can decrease in winter pasture, in addition to enduring colder weather, and occasional storms.”

Paisley said he encourages producers to provide an adequate supplement of protein to cows prior to calving. “It helps the cow make better utilization out of the existing forage,” he said. “Because she can process and digest the forage better, she will consume more forage. She will pick up that energy deficiency on her own. It is also important to make sure there is adequate mineral available to the animal, especially if a low quality forage is being fed.”

Paisley said producers should feed a mineral that is high in phosphorus, which is important for calf health. “Many times, a protein supplement will carry a lot of phosphorus with it,” he said. “Meeting the cow's mineral requirements and making sure mineral is available is not only important to the calf's health, but will also improve the cow's ability to repair her reproductive tract so she will cycle,” he added. “Her breed back and fertility is enhanced by having adequate mineral available.”

It is also important to continue on a good nutritional management program after the calf is born. A cow will reach her peak energy requirements approximately 60 days after calving, when she reaches her peak milk production. “Her energy requirements increased at calving, and then increased another 30 percent at her peak lactation,” Paisley said. For at least three to four weeks after birth, the calf gets 100 percent of its nutrition from the cow.

Producers also need to pay particular attention to the weather to determine if the cows or pairs may need a little more supplement. “On colder days, they will need more energy and nutrient intake to compensate for that colder temperature,” Paisley said. “It is also a good idea to feed them some extra hay in an area protected from the wind so they have some bedding and a place to lay down. Anything that will keep live calves from getting sick, will show some benefits in weaning weight and decreased health costs. Producers do benefit from some of the preventive measures they take,” he added.

Rasby said if calves are cold, producers should have indoor facilities set up well ahead of time to bring the cow and calf in. “I recommend they make sure their calf warming box is functioning, and has been tested ahead of time,” he explained. “I also encourage producers to clean out and rebed stalls with clean material after each pair has passed through to cut down on disease problems,” he said.

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<b>Tips</b> to get rid of mold

Mold exposure can lead to several health-related problems. With its natural ability to travel through the air, the inhalation of mold spores can create a variety of respiratory ailments. Common side effects include asthma, allergies, respiratory infections, sinus infections and skin rashes. In some cases, mold exposure can even be fatal.

In additional, mold can damage your home leading to wood rot and structural damage.
Angie’s List, the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews, asked highly rated mold testing and remediation companies about mold.

•    Common areas: Mold is most commonly the result of water damage found in crawl spaces, basements and attics and is usually identifiable by a musty odor.
•    Testing for mold: Testing for mold can include surface and air tests to determine the type of mold and its levels, which can cost several hundred dollars depending on the home’s size and other variables, like the number of tests conducted. There are several home mold testing kits on the market. However, these kits should only be the first step. Remediators typically will set up containment walls around the area being treated to prevent cross contamination to unaffected areas of the home. If you have visible mold, save your money for testing until after the cleanup is done. Air testing can cost hundreds of dollars and it’s more important to make sure the cleanup was done properly.
•    Where is the source? Before you try to remove the mold, first figure out the source of the mold to prevent it from coming back because you likely have a moisture problem. Eliminating moisture as a food source is key to controlling mold.
•    Small areas: Homeowners who have a small area of mold – generally less than 10 square feet – can follow the latest guidelines established by the Environmental Protection Agency to treat small areas themselves. After you’ve cleaned the area, be sure to revisit the site of the mold often to check for signs of additional damage or more mold growth.
•    Large areas: If it’s a larger area that’s affected, find a professional who is trained to deal properly with mold. Reputable remediators and inspectors have the tools to check the moisture content of the walls and can advise you on the best approach for your particular issue.

Angie’s List tips for hiring a mold professional:

•    Check credentials: When hiring, ask for a Certificate of Insurance. Look for a remediator with certification from a reputable organization like The Cleaning Trust (formerly the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) or the Indoor Environmental Standards Organization (IESO).
•    Involve a third-party: To ensure objectivity, if you hire someone to test for mold, be sure it’s not the same person who remediates it. Hiring the same company that does mold testing to do the remediation can pose a big conflict of interest. After all, a company that offers both services has a vested financial interest in finding mold. Once the cleanup is complete, bring in an independent third-party inspection company to perform a clearance inspection and certify that the mold has been removed.
•    Don’t make a decision under pressure: Unfortunately, some companies aren’t as open about what many perceive to be a conflict of interest. Some do their best to scare homeowners into needlessly spending thousands of dollars in the process. Often, these companies will reveal results of their air quality tests that show the presence of mold in the home and will offer a discount on remediation service in an attempt to pressure the homeowner to act immediately.
•    What does the project entail? Mold can be hazardous to remove, so discuss the details of the project before work begins. Remediators typically will set up containment walls around the area being treated to prevent cross contamination to unaffected areas of the home. If necessary, air movers can be used to bring in fresh air or force air out of the area.
•    Get a written estimate: Costs are generally determined by the significance of the mold, the difficulty of the access to get to the mold, the labor and the product the company uses.
•    Is work warranted? Ask the company what type of warranty it offers. You should expect a minimum three-month warranty with any work done.  

Angie’s List tips for preventing mold growth:

•    Ventilate: Basements especially should have a ventilation system in place. This can help to bring fresh air in and push water vapor out. Homes that are not equipped with windows should use a dehumidifier or circulation fan.  
•    Fix foundation cracks: The smallest crack or leak can provide a perfect habitat for mold growth. Window frames, doors and corner locations of the foundation can be sealed using a water proof chalk. This is a service that should be performed at the beginning of rainy seasons.
•    Keep stored items organized: When storing personal belongings or furniture, it is best not to pile items on top of each other.

This can cause moisture to get trapped, and it prevents air circulation.
•    Keep HVAC systems clean: Air ducts, heating systems, air conditioning systems and filters should all be cleaned and changed regularly. This will prevent mold from growing and spreading throughout the home.

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Family and <b>health</b>: <b>Tips</b> for allergy sufferers - Dallas household tips <b>...</b>

Family and health: Tips for allergy sufferers - Dallas household tips | Examiner.com Skip to main content We think you're near Dallas Currently in Dallas Location: Dallas Current temperature: 56°F: Current condition: ClearSee Extended Forecast Examiner.com Log inSign up InterestsCreativeHobbiesCollectingHome ImprovementCreative WritingPhotographyGamesCard GamesPC GamesConsolesMMOGsHandheld GamesOther GamesAutomotiveAuto ReviewsMotorcycle ReviewsDIY MechanicGadgets & TechInternetSocial MediaTech GearTravelBudget TravelLocal GetawaysMore Become an examiner Holistic Health | March 29, 2012 Family and health: Tips for allergy sufferers Add a comment Cindi HintonDallas Household Tips Examiner+ Subscribe FacebookTweet RedditPrintEmailFacebookTweet RedditPrintEmail

Life in our north Texas area is so busy; life is hectic all over and there’s no way around it.  Living in the big city of Dallas, living in one of the surrounding suburbs or even way out in the country, we all love tips to make our life just a little bit more manageable. As your Dallas Household Tips ExaminerI search for tips for myself and pass them along to my readers.

Spring is one of the most beautiful times of year, around north Texas, but the arrival of spring can be a nightmare, if you suffer from allergies. There are numerous things that can cause allergies; mold, pets, blooming trees and flowers are only a few, but the most common culprits. The best way to find out for sure what your specific allergens are is talk to your doctor about testing. There are many successful treatments available now that were not available even a few years ago.

Here are a few things that might relieve your allergy symptoms until you can make an appointment to see your doctor.

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WebMD suggests:

Wash bedding every week in hot water.Shower and wash hair before going to bed.Vacuum twice a week; try wearing a mask when cleaning.Wash area rugs; do not keep any rugs that are not washable.Change air filters more frequently this time of year; may need to keep windows closed even though temperature if pleasant.

ABC News also suggests:

Grooming pets oftenWashing your clothes oftenPlus, staying inside as much as possible

These are only suggestions and tips to help relieve some of your symptoms; these are not meant to replace a visit to your doctor.

Find other tips from Dallas Household Tips Examinerby going to her homepageto view most recent articles or view tips by category by clicking on one below.

Categories: Cleaning tips, Recipes, Household, Kitchen, Stains, Organizing, Laundry, Saving money, Crafts, Farmer's Almanac best days, Homemade cleaners , Family and Health, Outdoors, and Beauty

Cindi is also the Dallas Small Farms Examiner. Categories include sheep, goats, rabbits, cattle, pigs, chickens, news, history, showing, agriculture, misc farm, weather, dogs, college, fire, and Guardians.

Family & Health Credits:  Microsoft clip art Related topics:Holistic HealthallergiesFamily and Health ReportPrintEmail Cindi Hinton, Dallas Household Tips Examiner

Between farm and family life, Cindi is very busy. She seeks ways to make her life easier and passes her findings on to you. Look for time- and money-saving tips plus quick and easy recipes from Cindi.

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BETTER ME: <b>Tips</b> for <b>healthy</b> living

SAN ANGELO, Texas — FITNESS TIP

More than 80 percent of women forgo strength-training, says a survey by the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association.

If you're one of them, it may be the No. 1 your scale is stuck. You've probably heard that strength-training can boost metabolism, but here's something you may not know: People who pair aerobic and resistance training eat less — 517 fewer calories a day — than those who do only cardio, reports a study in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine.

REDUCE LIQUID CALORIES

A recent study from Johns Hopkins University found that people who cut liquid calories from their diets lose more weight, and keep it off longer, than people who cut food calories. Liquid calories are the easiest kind to cut. Take, for instance, the Rockstar Original Energy drink (16-ounce can). It has 280 calories and 62 grams sugar (equal to 15.5 teaspoons of sugar). If you add one of those to your diet every day, you'll add about 28 pounds of flab to your body in a year. A better option would be the Monster Lo-Carb Energy drink (16-ounce can). It has 20 calories and 6 grams sugar.

WEIGHT LOSS TIP

Do the math. A realistic goal is losing 1 to 2 pounds a week to stay healthy. That means being realistic about your time frame. If you need to lose 25 pounds, figure you are embarking on at least a three-month program. Fifty pounds? Assume a time frame of at least six months. Aim to burn 500 to 1,000 calories a day, either by eating less, exercising more, or both.

ADOPTING HEALTHY HABITS

In a recent study, people who received personalized weekly emails about nutritious snack ideas or making time for workouts adopted significantly healthier habits than those who didn't. Reap similar benefits by setting your own daily calendar messages. Examples: 11 a.m. — Take a walk for 10 minutes; 3:30 p.m. — Eat an apple.

CALORIE FACT

The Chili Cheese Fries (medium) at Sonic Drive-In has 491 calories and 26.1 grams fat.

KEEPING YOUR MIND SHARP

Simply adding about seven to nine whole nuts to your daily diet may improve balance, coordination, and memory, finds new research in the British Journal of Nutrition. Scientists believe the polyphenols and other antioxidants in walnuts help strengthen neural connections and improve cognitive skills.

FITNESS TIP

Sports drinks may not be necessary for the average person who works out less than one hour a day. Most people can refuel with water, which will save you $156 annually if you exercise three times a week.

A+ FOR AVOCADOS

A good way to reduce high blood pressure is to get enough potassium, and half an avocado has more potassium than a medium-sized banana. In addition, guacamole offers a nutritious alternative when stress has you craving a high-fat treat.

TOBACCO - FREE TIP

One reason people smoke is that nicotine helps them relax. Once you quit, you'll want to find other ways to cope with stress. Try getting regular exercise, schedule a massage, listen to relaxing music, or learn yoga or tai chi.

HEALTHY RECIPE

Creamy Guacamole

INGREDIENTS

1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and pitted

7 tablespoons fat-free sour cream

2 tablespoons chopped green chilies

¹/8 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning

DIRECTIONS

Cut the avocado into chunks and place in blender; add the remaining ingredients. Cover and process until smooth. Refrigerate leftovers. Yield: 1 cup. Makes eight servings (2 tablespoonseach). Each serving has 54 calories, 4 gramsfat and 1 gram fiber.

Janet Charlesworth is operations manager of the San Angelo Community Medical Center Health Club. Contact her at Janet.Charlesworth@sacmc.com.

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