TAKE CARE OF the Skin You’re In

BE ALERT to Signs of Skin CancerSkin cancer is the most common form of cancer. Basal or squamous cell cancers, when caught early, are generally cured easily. Melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer, spreads quickly and can be deadly. See a health care provider immediately if you have moles that change shape or color, or if you notice any unusual skin lesions, particularly those that bleed, do not heal, or are irregularly shaped and multi-colored. You should also have a skin cancer screening by a doctor each year.

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Skin – the body’s largest organ – protects your insides from the outside, forming

a barrier against infection, heat, cold, water and impact. As a result, skin gets a lot

of abuse. Age, sun exposure, injury, stress, diet, illness and gravity can all affect the

health and appearance of your skin.

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Changes from Birth to Old AgeInfants and children generally have smooth, plump skin with fine pores. Young skin has ample amounts of components that keep skin firm, elastic and hydrated, such as collagen and elastin.

By puberty, hormones and oil glands may wreak havoc. Almost everyone experiences some outbreaks of pimples and blackheads in their teen years, and many adolescents (and even adults) suffer from full-fledged acne (see sidebar).

When we reach our 20s, the natural aging process slowly begins. Production of collagen starts to slow at a rate of about 1% a year.* In our 30s and 40s, uneven skin tone, dark spots and fine lines – generally the result of sun exposure – may appear.

As we age, the skin becomes thinner and more transparent. New skin is generated less often, leaving behind dead cells and dryer surfaces. Fine lines become deeper wrinkles. The force of gravity and loss of underlying fat can make chins, eyelids and necks sag. Age spots (sometimes called liver spots) may develop.

Take Steps to Minimize the DamageYou can’t avoid natural aging, but you can keep your skin looking more youthful by avoiding external factors that can accelerate the process:

Don’t smoke (or quit if you do smoke). Smoking narrows the blood vessels, causing a decrease of nutrient-providing blood flowing to the skin.

Minimize sun exposure. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause serious damage, ranging from merely cosmetic (skin discoloration and wrinkles) to life-threatening (skin cancer – see sidebar on page 2). Protect your skin by limiting exposure to sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. You should also apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 before going out in the sun. A broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses provide additional protection.

Eat well and exercise. A well-balanced diet can provide the nutrients your skin needs. Vitamins C (found in citrus fruits, bell peppers and leafy greens) and E (abundant in nuts, seeds and

GET RELIEF from EczemaEczema, or dermatitis, is an inflammation that results in itchy, rashy and/or scaly skin. It may be triggered by an allergy or have no apparent cause, but it tends to come and go. Eczema is not contagious or dangerous, but can be very uncomfortable. To help prevent eczema outbreaks, avoid: » Allergens that have triggered it in the past. » Long, hot baths or showers that dry out the skin. » Harsh soaps and household cleansers. » Excessive heat or sweating. » Scratching the affected skin. » Stress.

Over-the-counter topical creams or lotions can alleviate symptoms. If your symptoms are affecting your quality of life or if the skin becomes infected, be sure to consult a health professional.

TAKE ACTION against Acne

Acne can have a psychological as well as physical impact, so it’s important to keep it under control. If you suffer from acne, here are some tips from the American Academy of Dermatology that may help:* » Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser and

avoid scrubbing. » Wash your hair regularly and keep it and your

hands away from your face. » Use oil-free skin care products. » Don’t pick or squeeze blemishes. » Use a topical, over-the-counter acne treatment

for minor breakouts.

Layers of SkinYour skin is composed of three layers, each with connective tissue that provides support, flexibility and strength.

» Epidermis: This is the part of your skin that shows. It contains skin cells, pigment and proteins.

» Dermis: The middle layer contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles and oil glands.

» Subcutaneous: The inner layer contains sweat glands, blood vessels and fat.

of fine lines. If over-the-counter lotions don’t produce the desired results, a dermatologist may recommend a light chemical peel or dermabrasion. These minimally invasive techniques can stimulate new cell growth and make the skin appear smoother and younger. There are also many cosmetic surgery techniques that can tighten skin and take years off your appearance. Talk with your doctor to learn more about skin protection and enhancement options that may be right for you. ❚

* Source: Scientific American. ** Source: WebMD.com. *** Source: American Academy of Dermatology, www.aad.org.

» If the acne doesn’t respond or gets worse, see a dermatologist. He or she may recommend prescription acne treatment.

* Source: American Academy of Dermatology, www.aad.org.

Dermis

Subcutaneous

Epidermis

spinach) may be especially important to healthy skin.** Exercise helps promote blood circulation, which carries nutrients to the top layer of the skin.

Avoid repetitive facial expressions. Your mom wasn’t kidding when she said your face could freeze like that! Deep furrows may result from repetitive frowning or squinting. Sleeping on your back may also help, since it keeps your face from being creased by the pillow night after night.

Manage stress. Stress increases the body’s production of cortisol, which can step up oil gland production and cause pimples or rashes. Stress can exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema and may even inhibit the skin’s ability to heal itself after an injury.***

Need More Skin Help?Let’s face it – we want to look and feel our best as long as possible. For many individuals, an oil-free moisturizer used daily may help keep skin hydrated and feeling smoother. Alpha-hydroxy or retinoid creams may help reduce the appearance

A Conversation with the DCMH CEO

hHer passion for healthcare started early. In fact, “I was making nurses’ hats out of newspaper when I was 5 years old,” comments Linda Simmons, the new President and CEO of Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH).

Simmons is not just the first female CEO of DCMH, she’s also the first CEO with a clinical background, providing unique insights into the operations of the local Hospital. However, it’s not a new position in her career, having faced similar “firsts” prior to moving to Indiana from Wyoming in late March. In fact, she sees her new role as having the “ability to open doors” and finds people “willing to listen.”

One can easily see that her passion for healthcare has not waned. With words like “excited” and “enthused,” Simmons talks about her new job with positive and contagious energy, showing a respect for the past but an eye on the future.

Impressed with DCMHOne of the biggest “eye openers” for her has been that DCMH is “so far along on the continuum. We’re already looking at prevention and wellness issues. We are in the process of addressing things like the diabetes clinics and where healthcare reform is headed,” Simmons says.

“There are certainly things we can work on, like improving efficiencies by sharing resources with surrounding hospitals,” Simmons says. “In our industry and with facilities of our size we can’t do competition anymore – it’s about collaboration and sharing.”

In discussing her vision for the future, Simmons notes three main points of reference:

> Building on what the Hospital has started and accomplished.

> Recognizing the treasure in the staff and empowering them to provide exceptional experiences.

> Pursuing the IT path toward meaningful use.

A Warm Welcome to IndianaSimmons admits there is a learning curve when moving to a new state and becoming familiar with the statutes and regulations. However, she finds the Indiana statutes to be refreshingly definitive, and her move has proven to provide a welcoming experience overall.

“I’ve been amazed at the kindness, welcoming spirit and friendly nature of everyone in the community,” Simmons says. “I feel right at home.”

Simmons and her husband, Charlie, are working toward making Decatur County their new home. They savor the community lifestyle, plan to become part of its fabric and find comfort in the smaller community where a strong Hospital is central to its core.

“This is such a great community and the success of our Hospital depends on community support,” Simmons says. “Our community has to buy in, as do the providers, in promoting and supporting our facility. We all have a role to play.”

Beyond the hospitality extended, the Simmonses also find the Midwest to be a bit more central to their family. They have children located in Columbus, Ohio; Clarksville, Tenn.; Ft. Campbell, Ky.; and Texas. As a result, the Simmonses are certain to be making rounds for family visits.

Rounds are a common theme with Simmons and a style of her leadership. “I like to round the departments. I understand many of the clinical processes and can better appreciate their needs, while at the same time learning and helping the staff grow and feel appreciated.”

While her leadership began with a passion at age 5 and the creation of nurses’ hats, it’s obvious during this conversation that the healthcare passion still exists for Simmons, now that she wears a little larger hat! ❚Linda Simmons, President and CEO of

Decatur County Memorial Hospital.

2012 Hospital Foundation Gala

The date has been established for the 2012 Hospital Foundation Gala so mark your calendar!

Friday, April 13, 2012 “A Magical Masquerade”

For more information or to be involved, contact the Hospital Foundation at (812) 663-1220.

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Hospital Foundation’s Golf Event “Event ‘fore’ Caring” To Benefit Decatur County Memorial Hospital

» Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011 » North Branch Golf Course »» www.dcmh.net/golf» » (812) 663-1220

First Aid for Bruises

Your family may be more active in the summer, and that can mean more bumps and bruises. Bruises are caused by broken blood vessels leaking blood that becomes trapped under the skin. As a bruise heals, it changes color until it disappears. This is because white blood cells are removing the decayed blood products little by little.

You can help bruises heal with a few simple techniques at home: » Apply an ice pack for no more than 15 minutes at

a time for a day or two after the injury. » After two days, apply heat. » Elevate the bruised area. » Rest the bruised area, if possible.

If a bruise isn’t healing properly or becomes infected, contact your doctor.

Be Smart When Mixing Kids, Sports and Heat

Nearly half of all people treated in emergency rooms for heat-related injuries caused by exertion are children and teenagers younger than 19, a recent study shows.* The injuries include dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat cramps. Most cases were related to participating in sports or exercising in warm or hot weather.

When you’re active, heat-related injuries can occur even when it’s not really hot. But a few simple steps can help prevent injury for people of all ages: » Drink plenty of water. » Take breaks and rest in

the shade. » Schedule physical

activities during the cooler parts of the day.

* Source: American»Journal»»of»Preventive»Medicine, January 2011.

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In today’s world you need to be able to access the information you want without delay, and it’s certainly no different with healthcare information. As a result, the Decatur County Memorial Hospital website has been redesigned to allow quick access to the information you need. Take an electronic walk into www.dcmh.net and you’ll be surprised at what you can find just a click or two away.

One of the top uses of the Internet is to conduct health research, whether it is to research a medication, an illness, or a healthcare facility or provider. The Decatur County Memorial Hospital website will help you do all of that and more just by clicking on the “resources” link in the upper right-hand corner. Best of all, it can be accessed from anywhere and it’s from a trusted source.

With just one click from a link on our homepage, you can do all of the following and more:

> Find a Physician – Find physicians practicing at DCMH in a variety of areas.

> Search the Site – Enter a topic in the convenient search box and quickly find what you need.

NEW WEBSITE Provides Even More Features

> Make a Payment – Use a debit or credit card to make payment on your hospital bill.

> Events Information – Find more information about upcoming events, classes and support groups.

> Make a Donation – Support the Hospital with a donation or make a memorial daffodil gift.

> Register – Have an upcoming procedure or surgery scheduled? Preregister online.

> Volunteer – Are you interested in volunteering at DCMH – print out the application!

> Social Service Resources – Access the latest social service directory for our community.

> Hospital Services – Review Hospital services and contact information.

> Visiting Specialists – Find a list of specialists visiting DCMH.

Certain areas can also be linked with direct pages by entering the following address in your browser’s address bar:

> www.dcmh.net/spirit – Spirit of Women > www.dcmh.net/foundation – Hospital Foundation > www.dcmh.net/speakers – Our Speakers Bureau Information

> www.dcmh.net/safetystore – Our Riley Safety Store

> www.dcmh.net/wound – Center for Wound Healing at DCMH

> www.dcmh.net/workwell – Workwell Occupational Health – A DCMH Division

> www.dcmh.net/oncology – Oncology and Cancer information

There is so much more to the DCMH website that it’s just too much to mention. You can even find the latest weather conditions, just in case you’re visiting our facility – or information about our community, if you know of someone looking to relocate. Remember, www.dcmh.net is just one more way that Decatur County Memorial Hospital is bringing the quality care you want – even closer by! ❚

DANGER ZonesAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 10% of Lyme disease cases are reported, so the number of occurrences is likely much higher than shown here.

Lyme Disease Cases Reported by the CDC 1990-2008*

States ranked by reported cases

t

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GU RD AGAINST LYME DISEASE: Enjoy the Outdoors Safely

6 Ways to Stop Ticks in Their Tracks

If you live in an area with a high tick population – or plan to travel where ticks may be abundant – you can decrease your risk of getting Lyme disease with some simple precautions:

1. Wear long pants tucked into your socks, a long-sleeved shirt and a hat. Light-colored clothing is best.

2. Apply an insect repellent with DEET to your skin and clothing. Oil of lemon eucalyptus, a more natural product, also offers protection. Always read product directions before applying on children.

3. Stay on the trails. Avoid walking through thick woods and long grass.

4. Keep your dog on a leash. Check pets for ticks when they come indoors.

5. Check for ticks after being outdoors. Ticks can be very small (about the size of a poppy seed) so it’s important to search carefully. Showering after being outdoors can help, because unattached ticks may wash off with a washcloth.

6. Remove a tick with tweezers. Gently grasp the tick near its head or mouth and pull steadily. Dispose of the tick and use antiseptic on the bite area.

Some people don’t get a telltale rash, so it’s important to see your doctor if you’re feeling sick or believe you have been bitten. A simple course of antibiotics is usually all it takes to treat Lyme disease in the early stages. ❚

* Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov.

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The number of confirmed cases of Lyme disease has nearly doubled in the past decade.* Fortunately, the disease is easy to treat with antibiotics when caught early, and there are steps you can take to prevent exposure to tick bites when hiking or spending time outdoors.

From the Woods to Your BackyardTick season starts in spring (as early as April) and lasts until the first freeze in many areas. Ticks commonly thrive in tall grass and heavily wooded areas, especially where leaf debris covers the ground. Although ticks love the deep woods, it’s possible to find them in your backyard or nearby parks, particularly in places surrounded by woods.

Ticks bite deer, mice, dogs – and people. A bite from an infected tick can cause someone to develop Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that includes a skin rash, swollen joints and flu-like symptoms.

Detection and TreatmentNot all ticks carry Lyme disease, and the risk of getting the disease is low if the tick is removed promptly. The bacteria gets into your bloodstream only if the tick stays attached to the skin for 48 hours or longer.

Symptoms of Lyme disease include: > Bull’s-eye rash. > Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills and body aches.

> Joint pain and swelling. > Neurological problems such as numbness or weakness of limbs.

■ 20,000 or more cases■ 5,000 to 19,999 cases

■ 1,000 to 4,999 cases ■ 999 or fewer cases

* Data compiled by the Lyme Disease Association using the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Reports 1990-2008.

TYPES OF TICKS THAT MAY CARRY

Lyme disease: » Deer ticks in the Northwest

and Midwest. » Western black-legged ticks in

Northern California and Oregon. » Lone Star ticks in the south-

eastern states and Texas.

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DIP DIP HOORAY!Healthy Dips for Summer Snacks

sSummer holidays, birthday parties and cookouts wouldn’t be complete without family, friends and great food. And with so many fresh fruits and vegetables avail-able during the season, it’s an ideal time to whip up some nutritious and tasty dips to share. Try the recipes at the right from the Produce for Better Health Foundation’s Fruits & Veggies – More Matters® initiative to add healthy vegetable and fruit serv-ings to your next gathering.

Ranched-Up Hummus

This is a quick and easy dip for a healthy snack. The ranch dressing makes a great substitute for tahini, used in traditional hummus.

Preparation time: 10 minutes Serves: 4Cups of fruits and vegetables per serving: 2

Ingredients: 16 oz can of garbanzo beans, rinsed

and drained¼ cup light ranch dressing3 tablespoons warm water1 tablespoon lemon juice1 clove garlic1 cup red bell pepper, cut into strips1 ½ cups baby carrots4 4-inch pitas, cut into wedges

Nutritional Information per Serving Calories: 275 Carbohydrates: 40.5g Total Fat: 9.4g Cholesterol: 8.4mg Saturated Fat: 0.7g

Dietary Fiber: 8.1g % of Calories from Fat:

30% Sodium: 597mg Protein: 9.1g

Combine garbanzo beans, salad dressing, water, lemon juice and garlic into food processor. Process until smooth. Serve with pepper strips, carrots and pita wedges.

Dipping Etiquette

To discourage double-dipping – when someone dips, takes a bite and dips again – as well as other dip concerns that could spread germs:

» Position serving spoons and plates with dips so guests take their own portions.

» Teach children to use a plate and not the dip bowl. » Serve dips with sturdy dippers such as baby

carrots and other crisp vegetables, pita bread, melba toast or round chips that are less likely to break – this will make dipping from a plate easier.

» Include small serving tongs with vegetables, pita wedges and chips so guests don’t use their hands.

» Keep cool dips cold by placing gel ice packs under or around dip bowls.

» Toss leftover dips if they have been sitting out for a while, or if you suspect double-dipping.

Papaya and Black Bean Salsa

This salsa incorporates both fruit and veggies and is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C and fiber.

Preparation time: less than 30 minutes Serves: 8Cups of fruits and vegetables per serving: ½

Ingredients: 1 medium, ripe papaya, diced1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained2 small red peppers, diced1 red onion, diced2 jalapenos, minced3 tablespoons chopped cilantro2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano3 tablespoons minced fresh ginger1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons olive oil2 limes, juiced

1 teaspoon ground black pepper1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt2 tablespoons orange juice

Combine all ingredients and adjust seasoning. Cover and refrigerate if not serving immediately.

Serving suggestion: Enjoy as a dip with taco chips. Papaya salsa is also an excellent accompaniment for grilled fish, shrimp or chicken.

Nutritional Information per Serving Calories: 76 Carbohydrates: 12g Total Fat: 3.0g Cholesterol: 0mg Saturated Fat: 0.4g Dietary Fiber: 3g

% of Calories from Fat: 32%

Sodium: 428mg Protein: 2g

This publication does not constitute professional medical advice. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither the publisher nor any other party assumes liability for loss or dam-age due to reliance on this material. If you have a medical ques-tion, consult your medical professional. Images may be from one or more of these sources: ©Thinkstock, ©iStock, ©Fotolia. ©2011 Priority Integrated Marketing | priorityresults.com

Everyone can benefit from attending the 2011 version of the popular “Healthy Fair” event sponsored by Decatur County Memorial Hospital.

Mark your calendar because this year’s fantastic opportunity is just around the corner!

Wednesday, June 29 12 - 3 p.m. Greensburg Elementary School 900 N. Big Blue Avenue Greensburg, Ind.

Stop by and visit while seeking to improve your health awareness at Decatur County’s LARGEST health fair.

This year’s attractions include a Healthy Farmer’s Market, a free healthy lunch for the first 500 attendees, a bounce house for the kids, blood drive, free health screenings, car seat safety checks and so much more!

Join Us for the 2011 Healthy Fair

720 N. Lincoln Street Greensburg, IN 47240

www.dcmh.net

Free screenings and activities include: > Oral cancer screening > Blood testing > Cholesterol screening > Glucose screening > BMI assessment > Blood pressure checks > Chair massages > Bounce house for kids > Oxygen saturation screening > Pulse checks > Tooth decay screening > Safety Store > And many more!

For more information, call (812) 663-1167 or visit www.dcmh.net/healthyfair.

Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DCMHgreensburg for up-to-date information.

This is the health event of the year and you won’t want to miss it! ❚

» Hospital Foundation: www.facebook.com/dcmhfoundation

» Decatur County Memorial Hospital: www.facebook.com/dcmhgreensburg

» Spirit of Women: www.facebook.com/spiritofwomen