The biggest problem with health-related New Year’s resolutions? Most of us go “too big.” And that usually sets us up for failure. Everything in moderation — that’s the ticket. If you are serious about losing weight, lowering your cholesterol, stopping smoking, exercising more, eating better, preventing diabetes II — then make that effort in this frame of mind: small gradual changes in lifestyle. In this manner, you set realistic, reachable goals for yourself. And once those are reached — you go on to the next set of slightly bigger goals. And all the while you incorporate those changes into how you live. It’s not about dieting, complete denial or starting out with a daily 5-mile run. It’s about increments of change that you can live with so you can live better and healthier.
Here’s an excellent article that serves as a great example.
Every year I treat experienced outdoorsmen and women, skiers, snowmobilers and hunters in the ER for hypothermia. Most of them are not strangers to the hazards of Wisconsin winters, yet they consistently make one critical mistake - overestimating their body’s ability to fend off exposure to cold and wind.
To avoid hypothermia you have to protect yourself from wind, fatigue, dehydration and getting wet - be it falling in a stream or excessive sweating. One of the best preventative measures is simply dressing smart - with breathable, wicking layers. Wet or damp clothing increases heat loss - so it’s important to pace yourself to avoid excessive sweating. Also be sure to unzip or remove outer shells as you heat up, but be certain to put them back on as soon as you rest.
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Death from an insect sting is rare - about 40 people die each year, in the U.S., because of a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting. However, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, five percent of Americans can suffer from a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction to an insect sting. During the summer, I see several people each week in the emergency department because of an allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting.
Most of us have little or no reaction to an insect sting. The site of the sting may become red, itch or swell. In contrast, a severe reaction to a sting can affect one’s entire body - leading to hives, lightheadedness, even a drop in blood pressure.
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