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Poison Ivy rash is a North American climbing plant that secretes an irritant oil from its leaves that can cause dermatitis. Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin directly interacts with an irritating or allergy-causing chemical. Poison ivy rash, poison oak, and poison sumac produce more cases of allergic contact dermatitis than all of the other plant families combined. Poison ivy dermatitis can affect people of all ethnic backgrounds and skin types. With age, the severity of the reaction lessens, especially in people who have previously had mild reactions. People in vocations such as firefighters, forestry, and farming are at a greater risk of poison ivy dermatitis caused by repeated exposure to hazardous plants.

How common is a poison ivy rash?

Essential oils for poison ivy cause an itching rash in up to 90% of people who come into contact with it. You don’t need much because 50 micrograms of urushiol, around the size of a grain of salt, is enough to produce a reaction. Poison ivy rash, poison sumac, and poison oak allergies affect approximately 85% of the community, with 10 to 15% of those who are severely allergic. Poison ivy is the most frequent allergic reaction in the United States, affecting up to 50 million people annually.

The appearance of poisonous plants:

You can find Poisonous plants spread throughout the United States. Each variety has its distinctive appearance.
Poison ivy: The leaves of poison ivy are the most prominent part of the plant. There are three leaflets on each leaf. “Leaves of three, let them be,” as the saying goes. Ivy can be found as a plant or a vine. Its green leaves turn red in the springtime and yellow, orange, or red in the autumn. Ivy bushes are commonly found near white berries.
Poison oak: The leaves, like ivy, have three leaves with rounded tips. The undersides of the leaves are fluffy and lighter colored than the tops. Poison oak is a shrub that grows in the wild. It’s particularly widespread in the United States western states. The plant bears white or yellow berries on occasion.
Poison sumac: Green berries droop from the branches of this tall shrub or small tree. (Sumacs with nonpoisonous fruit have crimson, white berries.) Nonpoisonous sumacs will not create an allergic reaction. Either leaf has seven to thirteen smooth leaflets grouped in pairs on each side. Poison sumac grows well in moist, swampy areas.

Who is susceptible to poison ivy rash?

When exposed to urushiol, almost everyone develops a poison ivy rash. If you have one of these jobs or interests, you’re more likely to come into contact with these deadly plants:

• Camper or hiker.
• Farmer or gardener.
• Groundskeeper or landscaper.
• Forestry worker.
• Forest firefighter.
• House painter.

Poison Ivy signs and symptoms:

Approximately half of those who come into contact with urushiol develop poison ivy dermatitis symptoms. The symptoms and severity differ from person to person. The following are some of the most prevalent signs and symptoms of poison ivy dermatitis:

• Skin swelling and blisters.
• Skin redness.
• Intense itching.
• Itchy skin rash.
• Redness and swelling.

These symptoms typically appear four hours to four days following urushiol exposure. After early symptoms, people with allergies get liquid lesions in a line or streak-like pattern. If you have never been exposed to Urushiol before, the symptoms will become worse between 1 to 14 days of touching the plant, but they can take up to 21 days to appear if you have never been exposed to it. Blisters can appear at various times for different people; for example, arm blisters may appear several days after hand blisters.
This does not imply that the reaction spreads from one body part to the next. The rash is not spread by the fluid that spills from blisters. Dermatitis caused by poison ivy is not contagious and cannot be spread from one person to another. On the other hand, Urushiol can be carried under fingernails and on clothing, causing poison ivy dermatitis in anyone who comes into contact with it.

Poison Ivy diagnoses:

The appearance of the rash caused by poison ivy is frequently used to diagnose it. In most cases, additional testing isn’t required. According to a study, going to the emergency room for poison ivy dermatitis costs three times as much as an urgent care facility or a doctor’s office. Your doctor will examine the rash, analyze your symptoms, and ask questions to determine if you’ve come into contact with a dangerous plant.
Aside from poisonous plants, other allergens and irritants can cause contact dermatitis or an itchy rash. Your healthcare physician will want to rule out other skin disorders or reasons if you haven’t been outside or in contact with plants.

Poison Ivy Treatment:

Without therapy, poison ivy dermatitis usually goes away in one to three weeks. The following therapies can help relieve the itching, soreness, and discomfort produced by poison ivy dermatitis:

• Skin Treatment: Adding oatmeal to a bath, applying cool, wet compresses, and applying calamine lotion to the skin may help ease itching for some people. Astringents including aluminum acetate (Burrow’s solution) and Domeboro may help reduce the rash once the blisters start weeping fluid.
• Antihistamines: Antihistamines are ineffective in treating poison ivy dermatitis. Some antihistamines cause sleepiness, whereas others don’t. The antihistamines that make you sleepy (e.g., diphenhydramine [example brand name Benadryl]) can help you ignore the itch while you sleep, but the quality of sleep is poor, and patients scratch just as much during the night as they would if they weren’t taking one.
• Steroid creams: If administered within the first few days after the onset of symptoms, steroid creams may be beneficial. Low-potency steroid creams, such as 1% hydrocortisone (available without a prescription in the US), are frequently ineffective. Stronger prescription steroid creams may be beneficial, but they are more expensive and less effective than taking steroid pills or getting an injection.
• Steroid pills or injections: You may need steroid pills (e.g., prednisone) or injections (e.g., triamcinolone acetonide, budesonide) to alleviate itching and swelling if you have severe symptoms or the rash covers a significant area (particularly on the face or genitals). Typically, pills are taken for 14 to 21 days, with the dosage gradually decreasing over time. The rash and itching are likely to return when taking tablets for less than 14 days.
• Antibiotics: Poison ivy can cause skin diseases, especially if you scratch it. If ivy dermatitis causes skin infection, antibiotics may be required to treat the illness. Many bacteria are resistant to over-the-counter topical antibiotic treatments, which are one of the leading causes of allergic contact dermatitis that plants do not cause.
• Other treatments: Antihistamine creams and lotions, as well as anesthetic creams containing benzocaine and antibiotic creams containing neomycin or bacitracin, should not be applied to the skin. These lotions or ointments may aggravate the rash.

Tips for Prevention:

Garden equipment and gloves should be washed regularly. Wear long sleeves, long pants tucked into boots, and impermeable gloves if you suspect you’ll be working with ivy. It should be washed if your pet has come into contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac. Wear rubber gloves, such as dishwashing gloves, and use pet shampoo and water.
Ivy does not affect most pets, but the oil can attach to their fur and induce an allergic reaction in people who pet them. If you come into contact with a poisonous plant, wash your skin with soap and cool water as quickly as possible. The sooner you scrub your skin, the better your chances of removing the plant oil or preventing its spread.

Gardner is a small city in Johnson County, Kansas, in the United States. According to the 2020 census, the city has a population of about 23,287. It is situated southwest of the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Weather:
The average temperature for the year is 22°F–90°F, with temperatures rarely falling below 5°F or rising above 99°F. The summer season starts on June 1 and lasts till September 16, and the average high temperature remains above 80°F. July is measured as the hottest month of the year and the average temperature remains at 89°F as an average high and 69°F as an average low.
The period of the winter season is 3 months, which starts on the 27th of November and lasts till the 26th of February with an average temperature below 49°F. January is considered the coldest month of the year, with the highest average temperature of 40°F and the lowest average temperature of 22°F.

Summer Activities in Scorching hot weather of Kansas

The summers in Kansas are rainy, muggy, and hot. Too many people are not fond of such hot and humid weather. Nearly two weeks will be too hot to work outside safely in the upcoming few decades due to climate change every summer. A new study suggests that rapid actions are needed to stop that number of treacherously hot days from doubling. Due to this climate change, the summer season is gradually getting wetter and hotter in Kansas because of rising global temperatures. People working outdoors are at increased risk of sicknesses like heat stroke and heat exhaustion due to the increasing temperature.
So, during such drastic weather conditions, people try to find some relief by adapting to the weather. They tend to find something different to do to help them combat such harsh weather conditions. There are too many activities to do that will keep them occupied enough to feel the weather less. Many activities are categorized separately for children, young people, and elderly citizens.

Activities for Kids:

Throw a backyard water party:
It’s OK If you cannot afford a swimming pool for your children, Using water hoses, the backyard of your home can be turned into a fun yard. You can play with your children by sprinkling water on each other with the help of hoses. It will keep children’s minds occupied and their bodies cool, and the intensity of the weather will not affect them too much.
Test out some frozen treats:
Keeping your children hydrated is extremely important during the year’s hottest months. Going to the store and buying children’s refreshments is no fun. It will be exciting and a treat for children to let them go to the kitchen to make something according to their understanding. Plus, you can govern the health aspects of the delicacies by determining what children can put in them.
Squash or blend the fruits of your desire by adding some honey, juice, fruit pulp, or sweetener of your preference as a choice, and place the mixture in ice-pop molds and put them in the refrigerator for a few hours. You can make it more exciting by adding cut grapes or some other fruit to the mixture as you fill the molds. Your children will love these, mainly because they made them themselves. Another excellent delicacy to make is “greater-Ade,” a healthier form of the widespread sports drink Gatorade.
Explore Water Beads:
Very soft and made up of polymer, water beads are fun for not only children but also for adults. Water beads are so tiny, but when you put them in water, they absorb and gradually grow in size (after many hours) and turn into soft, round, elastic balls. Water beads can increase in size as they absorb the water. Keep them in a plastic vessel and let your children play with them; you will see how happy they are.
Host a Water-Balloon Fight:
It’s incredible to see how hundreds of water balloons and a group of children can keep everyone calm and active, and at the end of the day, everyone is tired but amused. Children are such beautiful creatures that they never let you get bored and delight you with their innocent acts.
Have a picnic at a local or a state park:
Take your kids to a local or state park along with refreshments. Make sure that you find a shady spot. Children will like this group activity. Make sure that kids stay hydrated as they play their games. These exercises keep you and your children’s minds occupied, which will help release any stress, and it is also helpful if someone has anxiety due to bad weather.
Visit a swimming pool:
Many community centers and parks have swimming pools. Search for areas that have swimming pools and take your kids to swim. Your kids will enjoy it like they are at some party, and if you take something to drink and eat, then it will be icing on the cake. Swimming is a very healthy activity, especially for children. You will kill two birds with one stone.
Summer Activities for adults:
Visit a casino:
Casinos can be found everywhere nowadays. They are always kept cool during the summer to make you feel comfortable. Casinos have many facilities like shopping stores, movie theatres if you want to watch a movie, restaurants where you can eat your favorite foods, bars, and musical groups. You don’t need to follow any dressing code, so you are allowed in casual dress. You can carry your laptop with you, some magazine or book, or spend your day trying your luck at card games, slots or tables, or shopping to acquire your favorite items from a shopping mall.
The Museums:
You can go to museums to study history. The museum is a fascinating place to improve your knowledge. Many people don’t show interest in visiting museums, which, in my opinion, is feeble thinking. Visiting museums increases your understanding of history and, being an exciting activity, keeps your nerves calm, which helps in decreasing the stress caused by extreme weather.
The Movies:
High-budget or A-class movies are often released during the summer, and this season is famous for blockbuster movies. You can choose any day of the week whenever you get the opportunity. Take a friend or gather a group of friends and watch your favorite movie or the box office’s top-grossing movie. Watch some movies that are in the top 20 at the box office. It doesn’t matter which film you prefer to watch; go to the cinema or theatre and refresh your mind by watching some interesting movie.
Libraries:
Hundreds of books are being published worldwide. The flow of information has increased tremendously, and this data is being processed and printed daily. This century has given humanity breakthroughs in every field. New books are being added weekly to libraries, and there is always something going on at a library. So, visit their website and check when new books or journals are being added, and also see the monthly schedule of activities. You can attend a library workshop or a book club, and you can also read a journal of your choosing or write in a journal.
Bowling and Billiards:
Bowling or billiards are indoor and exciting games. These games keep your mind occupied with a single-play plan with reasonable skill. Being indoor games, you can play these games as long as you have leisure time without worrying about hot and humid weather. Bowling and playing pool with your friends is a good idea, so call out your friends and take them to the pool halls. You can make it a monthly or weekly activity outing. Some bowling halls also have restaurants in the vicinity.
Summer Activities for Senior Citizens:
Visit an Ice Cream or Coffee Shop:
Ice cream and coffee shops are famous for spending some time. These restaurants allow laptop users, book readers, and newspaper readers to buy a cup of coffee, ice cream sundae, soup, or salad and let them stay for hours. These places are also very famous amongst business people for setting up meetings. These places are informal, the environment is very relaxing and calm, and an essential factor is that these places are cheap. Such sites are very favorable for senior citizens to spend time without being affected by heat.
Gardening:
The best time for gardening is early in the morning. It is suitable for seniors and keeps them fit. Soil absorbs water, and plants get light all day for their nourishment.
Golfing:
The best time for golfing is early morning or evening when the golf stadium is not crowded and the temperature is favorable. The administration may also offer shaded golf carts and a calm and clean environment in the clubhouse to rest.
Walking:
A short walk early in the morning or late evening keeps you healthy and active and helps you avoid the summer heat. It is necessary to take a bottle of water with you so that you can keep yourself hydrated.
Indoor Swimming:
Swimming is an excellent activity for seniors. It is a healthy activity that does not involve the risk of falling or being injured; it is also an indoor activity that keeps them cool and healthy.
Take a Class:
Take classes in local community centers or senior centers of your own choice. Assess your nature to determine the field you are interested in, like investing, acting, or any other activity.
Playing Board Games:
Board games are necessary to maintain mental health and keep you indoors, which is very helpful in avoiding the sun’s scorching heat, and you can spend your afternoon indoors.
Summer fun activities are not limited to the tasks mentioned above but also include cooking, reading, dancing, and watching movies. These activities are also indoor, which helps you cope with the summer weather and its deadly hotness. The main objective of these activities is to keep senior citizens safe from heat and boredom because senior citizens are most affected by such weather conditions.
Summer activities are necessary for all age groups because climate change affects global weather, and the average temperature is rising gradually. This climate change can affect your physical and mental health and make you grumpy. That’s why these summer activities should be regarded as must-to-do tasks every summer so that you can fight against the effects of climate change and keep your physical and mental health in check and stay healthy.

How to Calm Your Climate Anxiety

Anxiety over climate change | How to cope with constantly changing weather

Environmentally responsible people are a unique bunch. We’re consistently on the lookout for signs of climate change and we freak out about plastic in the ocean. But it’s not all bad — our eco-anxiety can be a positive force.
Eco-anxiety is what happens when you get so caught up in the guilt-inducing spray of mainstream media that you start to worry about everything, says Robert Boice, co-author of “The Handbook of Nature Study” and a naturalist with the Philadelphia Zoo.
Boice and other environmental psychologists say eco-anxiety is an extension of our natural empathy, which is why many environmentally conscious people are also activists who want to make changes to save the world.
“People who are high on eco-anxiety feel a personal responsibility for nature,” says Meredith Goren, author of “What’s Up with Our Weather?”
These feelings often go hand in hand with the belief that there are simple fixes for climate change if only the world would use less plastic, drive less fuel or turn down their thermostats — or at least understand their impact on the planet.
We’re not just talking about the weather in terms of how to dress when it’s hot, cold, wet, or snowy, but more about how this current climate shift is impacting our overall well-being.
The fact that we are also experiencing increasing eco-anxiety is something that can’t be ignored as we consider what we buy and how we consume on a daily basis.
There are a number of factors making us nervous about the future, including wildfires, heat waves, and hurricanes. However, stewing or ignoring the problem will not make anything better.
After the Woolsey Fire on November 8, 2018, 53-year-old Greg Kochanowski drove past his own street in the Santa Monica Mountains without recognizing it.
His Seminole Springs neighborhood had been ravaged by the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles County’s history, with more than half the homes being destroyed. A moonscape remained, he said – ash and char, black and gray.
He was traumatized by the loss of his home. However, his sense of orientation was shaken by the loss of his own neighborhood, Kochanowski recalled, and he began having existential concerns about climate change. His 14-year-old daughter’s future now fills him with anxiety.
He said. “What kind of world will Ava grow up in? What about when she reaches my age? Is Southern California uninhabitable then?
Kochanowski’s anxiety is a sentiment called climate anxiety, which includes anger, worry, and insecurity associated with a warming world.
According to a recent report from the Institute of Global Health Innovation at Imperial College London, climate change threatens mental health. High temperatures are related to depressive language and higher suicide rates. Fires, hurricanes, and heatwaves can cause psychological trauma and depression.
According to Trevor Riggen, who runs the Red Cross’ domestic disaster programs, climate-driven disasters have forced volunteers to stay in the field for months rather than weeks. As a result of climate change, he noted that the Red Cross has been shifting from immediate trauma to more chronic conditions that require additional mental health interventions.
Climate anxiety is particularly crippling for young people, who are frustrated by those older than them. Despite their attempts, people do not understand how we are changing the planet, said Adah Crandall, a 16-year-old activist in Portland, Oregon. “The inaction of adults in the past has left me fearful for my future.”
Kochanowski now sees his neighbors’ faces as they become anxious as the humidity drops. Summer days last longer than other times of the year, and dewy, cool mornings are rare. A lot of the time, he wonders if they should move on.
“You realize there are forces greater than yourself that are beyond your control,” he said. “It leaves you feeling helpless after that.”
As for Andi Poland, 49, a technical recruiter who lives near Denver, she also feels anxious, sad, and dreaded about living on a hotter planet. She said, “I am glad I am short for this planet.”. “I believe I have one-third of my life left. That is all the time I have, and I am not upset about it.”
According to a recent article in The Lancet, climate anxiety may be the crucible through which humanity must pass in order to harness the energy and conviction required for the lifesaving changes we need right now.

You have every right to be concerned about climate change.

Merritt Juliano, a therapist in Westport, Conn., and the co-president of the Climate Psychology Alliance North America, says that anxiety is a rational response to climate change. It shouldn’t be a source of concealment or a source of neglect.
Ms. Juliano stressed that emotions are not something that can be fixed. Rather than ignore climate concerns, people need to identify them and understand why they exist. It makes us stronger to embrace them.”

It is crucial to stay connected to others.

Over half of 1,000 respondents to a survey by the American Psychiatric Association expressed concern about the impact of climate change on mental health. Britt Wray, a Stanford University postdoctoral fellow studying climate change and mental health, says you don’t need to endure a hurricane to experience climate anxiety. Reading about catastrophic flooding in Germany, facing a longer mosquito season in Pennsylvania, or seeing orcas disappear from Puget Sound can all trigger a deeper emotional response to climate change.
“No matter what our status or experience is, we can all reach out at arm’s length and touch it,” said Dr. Wray.
People who don’t talk about anxiety can suffer depression, as the pandemic has shown, Dr. Lertzman said.
People from across the country and throughout the world are gathering in informal gatherings called climate cafes to discuss the climate crisis. Some groups combine their community work with action.
Through a 10-step process outlined at weekly meetings, the nonprofit Good Grief Network offers support for climate distress. Participants commit to “reinvest in meaningful efforts” at the conclusion of the process.
After attending Good Grief meetings, Bradley Pitts, a 43-year-old artist, says he and his wife have shifted personal choices toward mitigating the effects of climate change in response to their emotions. The couple bought an old farm in upstate New York and are regenerating it into meadows and forests.
When facing climate anxiety, Pitts remarked, “Sitting on the sidelines is not an option.”

In times of anxiety, action is the antidote.

Sarah Jornsay-Silverberg, executive director of Good Grief Network, said the organization doesn’t see any single strategy as a silver bullet against climate anxiety. To be successful, you need to do things that mean something to you, and that reflect your internal shift in perspective.
When it comes to energy efficiency, people often think of turning off the lights. However, using a clothes dryer consumes as much electricity as running a standard LED bulb for 13 days.
Ms. Sacha, 17, is a senior at Manhasset High School; she had her first anxiety attack in 2018 after reading that greenhouse pollution must be reduced by 45 percent by 2030 to prevent dangerous 2.7 degrees of warming.
“It is not in my power to make things happen on a global scale, she said. “But you can make a difference in your own backyard.”
ISeeChange, a community platform for observing climate change, encourages volunteers to record observations online. The participants in New Orleans used storm-water data to show flooding effects outside of expected models. Local officials redirected nearly $5 million in federal funding towards building a larger storm-water detention tank for one low-income community.
Be persistent in whatever you do.
In fact, what fuels your anxiety – your imagination – is also your most powerful weapon against it, according to Dr. Wray.
The Woolsey Fire and the anxiety that followed changed Kochanowski’s perspective. Known as a landscape architect, he is creating a laboratory that will promote more radical climate-adaptive building and design.
Over the past 20 years, fire has forced Kochanowski’s family to evacuate three times from the oak woodlands and chaparral that surround his home. Their neighborhood is their home, and they hope they can help adapt it to the new climate reality.
They rebuilt using non-combustible materials and defensible spaces. In front of their new home, they planted a flowering tipu tree, which can produce a canopy of shade within just a few years. In his words, “we won’t be defeated by this thing”.
This is the reason why Urgent Care of Kansas exists; to help people overcome their anxiety and be happier in general with their health and the environment. Often when people experience seasonal anxiety, it can lead to other illnesses like autoimmune disorders, depression, and allergies so it’s best to address the root cause of the problem. The issue of climate anxiety is something that’s never been talked about. I’ve noticed more and more people have been coming into the clinic and complaining about it, especially in the last couple of years. The truth is, people are worried about their health and the environment, and confiding in us helps them understand that there is something to be done about it.
Choosing a natural approach to better health and improved environmental conditions is a direct positive effect we can all make as individuals. We can start taking proactive steps to live healthier lives.

Seasonal Allergies

Hay fever is the more common name for allergies that occur in specific seasons. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, approximately 8% of Americans suffer from these conditions.
Pollen, such as hay or grass pollen, can trigger overreacting immune systems, leading to hay fever. Allergic reactions occur when the immune system reacts to an allergen. Trees, grasses, and weeds often have pollen released in the wind, which causes allergies. Unlike pollen from wind-pollinated plants, pollen from insect-pollinated plants is too heavy to remain in the air for long, making them less likely to trigger allergies.
The term “hay fever” refers to the hay-cutting season. The activity was historically associated with the summer when many people experienced symptoms.
It’s less common for seasonal allergies to occur during the winter, but allergic rhinitis can occur yearly. Each type of plant releases its pollen at a different time. It is possible to experience hay fever during different seasons, depending on your allergies and where you live. A reaction can also occur to indoor allergens, such as mold or pet dander.

Symptoms of seasonal allergies

Mild to severe seasonal allergies are common.
Here are some of the most common:

• Eyes that are watery and itchy
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Sneezing
• Itchy sinuses, throat, or ear canals
• Postnasal drainage
• Ear congestion

Symptoms that are less common include:

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Headache
• Coughing

A large number of people with hay fever have asthma as well. In people with both asthma and hay fever, seasonal allergens can cause asthma attacks.

Causes of seasonal allergies

The ordinarily harmless airborne particles that cause hay fever are interpreted as dangerous by your immune system. A substance, or allergen, triggers the body to release histamines and other chemicals into the bloodstream. In response to those chemicals, allergic reactions occur.

Spring

The most common cause of springtime allergies is trees. Several people who suffer from hay fever react to the pollen of birch trees, which is common in northern latitudes. Among the other allergenic trees in North America are cedar, alder, horse chestnut, willow, and poplar.

Summer

Hay fever is an illness associated with the cutting of hay, which falls during the summer months. However, certain grasses, such as ryegrass and timothy grass, and certain weeds are the main culprits of summertime seasonal allergies.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, people with hay fever are most likely to be affected by grass.

Fall

Autumn is the time for ragweed to bloom. Ambrosia is the genus name for ragweed, and there are more than 40 species worldwide. Generally, they grow in temperate climates of North and South America. It’s challenging to control these invasive plants. Ragweed allergies can have particularly severe symptoms because their pollen is prevalent.
Plantains, nettles, mugworts, sorrels, and fat hens also drop pollen during the fall.

Winter

The majority of outdoor allergens lie dormant during winter. Many people with hay fever find relief due to the cold weather. As a result, people are spending more time indoors. You may react to indoor allergens such as mold, pet dander, dust mites, or cockroaches if you have seasonal allergies.
It is often easier to get rid of indoor allergens than outdoor pollens. Below are a few tips that will help get rid of common allergens in your home:

• Make sure your bedding is washed once a week in boiling water.
• Use allergen-proof covers for your bedding and pillows.
• Rugs and upholstered furniture should be removed.
• Do not let your children keep stuffed toys in their rooms.
• Ensure that water leaks are repaired and that any water damage is cleaned up. Mold and pests grow in humid environments.
• Make sure to clean moldy surfaces and places where mold may form, such as humidifiers, swamp coolers, air conditioners, and refrigerators.
• Reduce excess moisture by using a dehumidifier.

Some common triggers of hay fever vary from season to season.

Diagnosing seasonal allergies

The hay fever symptoms are usually easier to diagnose than those of other allergies. Seasonal allergic rhinitis describes seasonal allergy symptoms that appear only during certain times of the year. As part of your diagnosis, your doctor might also perform a physical examination of your ears, nose, and throat.
In most cases, allergy testing isn’t required. It doesn’t matter which allergen you react to when you have allergic rhinitis; you will likely receive the same treatment.
Treating seasonal allergies
Avoiding allergens that trigger your symptoms is the best way to treat hay fever and year-round allergic rhinitis. Medications may also treat hay fever symptoms. Other treatments may also be used.
Avoidance
You can avoid seasonal allergens by taking the necessary steps. When the weather gets hot in the summer, use an air conditioner with a HEPA filter rather than a ceiling fan. Stay indoors when pollen counts are high, and check your local weather network for pollen forecasts. In seasons when you are prone to hay fever:

• Do not leave your windows open
• Avoid spending too much time outside
• Dust masks are a good idea when you’re out, especially on windy days

Smoking can exacerbate hay fever symptoms, so it’s essential to avoid it.
Medication
Alternative treatments are available if you can’t avoid your allergens, such as:

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and combination medications containing acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine are available over-the-counter for sinus congestion and allergies.
• A steroid nasal spray is an example of prescription medication.

Your doctor may prescribe allergy shots if your condition is severe.
Immunotherapy helps your immune system become desensitized to allergens.
Drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion are some of the side effects of allergy medication.

Alternative treatments

• There have been very few studies on alternative treatments for hay fever. The following are alternative treatments that may be helpful for some people:
  • quercetin, a flavonoid that gives fruits and vegetables color
  • Yogurt contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, a “friendly” bacteria
  • Blue-green algae called spirulina
  • A vitamin with antihistamine properties is vitamin C

  The effectiveness of these alternative treatments needs to be investigated further.
  The takeaway
  Allergic reactions to seasonal pollen can be uncomfortable. Speak to your doctor if you think you may have seasonal allergies. You can ask them to help diagnose the cause of your symptoms and prescribe a treatment plan. Your doctor will likely encourage you to avoid your allergy triggers if you have allergies. Additionally, they may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Contact Us

Why Mental Health is crucial to well-being

At Urgent Care of Kansas, we believe in the importance of mental well-being and overcoming difficult barriers to a happier life. Our providers have collaborated with a licensed counselor to provide you with the best possible care. Patients need sustained support, especially in these current times, so we are prepared to help you in any way we can. We accept patients of all ages and specialize in many varying behavioral health issues.

Why is Mental well-being important?

Mental health affects everyone’s day-to-day life in a number of ways. This includes your emotional, psychological as well as social well-being. It’s part of what aids us in our decision-making, how we think, feel, and act. It can also relate to increased feelings of stress and our handling of it.
This increased amount of stress can then cause the following:

• Changes in appetite, energy, and interests
• Difficulty concentrating as well as decision making
• Difficulty sleeping, restlessness, and having nightmares
• Feelings of fear, sadness, frustration, anger, or numbness
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness
• Headaches or aches and pains that won’t go away.

Suicidal thoughts or attempts Learning to cope and find better healthy ways to work around the daily tasks of life, will better equip you in dealing with your health.
It’s a very natural thing to go through periods of stress, anxiety, grief, or worry, especially with the pandemic.

Here are some healthy ways to help you cope:

Reach out to a mental health counselor when things can be too much. It’s okay to seek advice and guidance from a health professional.

• Taking care of your body; deep breaths, stretching or meditating
• Eating well-balanced meals
• Exercising regularly
• Getting plenty of sleep
• Take breaks; whether it’s personal, work, or even technology breaks
• Get help when you feel you can’t handle it alone

These feelings and emotions are no easy thing to deal with, which is why you can always reach out to make an appointment with us. Helping others to feel less lonely or isolated with their problems is what our professionals are here for, and why we have a mental health counselor available for your care!
We have expert level behavioral health, specialists working hand in hand with our physicians and medical professionals to deliver optimal psychological care. We offer many different therapies as well as treatment options.
You deserve the right care, right now, here at the Urgent Care of Kansas.

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What is the Coronavirus disease 2019?

A: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China. It has spread from infected animals to humans which is very unusual. It has escalated and continues to infect people around the world.  The CDC has been monitoring it since it’s the origin and continues to update information for the public.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

A: COVID-19 has similar symptoms like the flu and common colds, but patients mainly report having mild to severe respiratory illness that may lead to severe illness or death. The symptoms of this Coronavirus may typically appear 2-14 days after exposure. Symptoms of COVID-19 can be:

• Fever
• Cough
• Congestion
• Shortness of breath

Call your healthcare professional if you develop symptoms, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you have recently traveled from an area widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19.

Is COVID-19 contagious?

A: Yes it is very contagious.
Person-to-person spread:

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
• Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Spread from contact with infected surfaces or objects:
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading from person to person and the CDC has taken drastic measures to contain and limit those who are infected.

What is the best way to avoid contracting Coronavirus

The best way to prevent contracting Coronavirus is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. There are simple everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.

These include:

• • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
 If you are sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

How do you treat the Coronavirus?

There is no specific treatment for the Coronavirus.  People with COVID-19 should receive supportive care to help relieve symptoms. They should also limit movement and contact with people and animals to avoid spreading the disease.

Is there a test for Coronavirus at Urgent Care of Kansas?

According to the CDC there is a diagnostic test that can identify the Coronavirus disease, but at this point Urgent Care of Kansas is waiting for approval to run diagnostic testing for the coronavirus.
State and health departments who have identified a person under investigation (PUI) should immediately notify CDC’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to report the PUI and determine whether testing for COVID-19 is required.
At urgent care of Kansas we have established a protocol to identify a PUI and report immediately to State of Kansas and local health departments along with closely working with CDC to expedite the testing process.

Is there a vaccine for Coronavirus?

There is currently no vaccine to prevent Coronavirus disease 2019. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19.

Should I wear a face mask?

The following is the CDC’s recommendations for using a face mask:

• Face masks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others.

Will the Coronavirus reach Gardner, KS?

This is an evolving situation and the CDC will continue to provide updated information as it becomes available. The first COVID-19 case in the United states was reported on January 21, 2020 and the number has grown since. Dr. Rashid has seen patients tested positive in Overland Park region. We are keeping an eye on the update of positive coronavirus cases and will update here if there begins to be reported positive cases in Gardner.
We will keep the community updated according to the recommendation by the CDC. Please do your part by staying home and taking measures to avoid the spread of this virus. Feel free to call us is you have any concerns or suspect you’ve been infected.

Urgent Care of Kansas
(913)938-4726
314 E Main St., Gardner KS 66030

Urgent Care Of Ks always been here to promote a healthy life therefore, we always come up with some really helpful blogs.

There is a tendency in people these days to self diagnose their illness via online research. Mostly the answers online are dramatic and leads to further anxiety and confusion. It’s hard to say why that’s the case but I think the most serious thing is given prominence, even though it may be a much less likely reality. Most people carrying the search are not aware of the logarithms that drive most search engines and they may believe that the traumatic results on the first page is exactly what they are suffering with.
Study shows that only half of the people who self diagnose actually talk to their doctors about what they have found. Thus, you may make things worse by worrying more.
As someone who is not apart of the medical field, this could be a traumatic experience not knowing whether your illness is life-threatening or not. Something as simple as leg pain or rash could cause severe discomfort. Sometimes people start attempting to cure their problems by changing their diet or over-the-counter medications. Many a times none of these steps show any improvements in symptoms if working with a flawed diagnosis.

Why Urgent Care of Ks?

Here at Urgent Care of ks, we are equipped to solve all your non life- threatening issues while giving you a peace of mind. As an emergency medicine doctor I have worked in emergency departments for many years and have often seen people spend a lot of time and energy to diagnose themselves, which is not the right approach. I feel like there’s too much information and not a way to filter it.
I have seen too many parents frantically running to the emergency department in the middle of the night with their child who has a fever. The vast majority of fevers in children are not life-threatening. As a parent myself, I have tremendous sympathy for these parents who don’t have the answers to there concerning medical issues. The Internet can be a powerful tool for people who want to learn more about staying healthy, but perhaps not the best source to diagnose illness. It’s also important to use authentic websites and get your information from the right websites. If you are guilty of self diagnosis, do talk to your doctor to confirm your diagnosis.
At Urgent Care of Kansas, we are here to help you answer all those questions. Contact us and we will assist you and will be able to help you at a fraction of the cost of an emergency department. We are conveniently located on Main St. in Gardner KS and open 7 days a week.

It’s be a hot summer here in Kansas. Long summer days can cause heavy sweating, weakness, pale and clammy skin, rapid heartbeat, cramps, nausea, or fainting. Here our team urgent care of gardner, ks are busy to write up some tips to protect oneself in the summer heat.

1. Lather yourself with sunscreen. Sunscreen is essential and should be applied at least 30 minutes before stepping outdoors and reapplied every 2 hours while you’re out. While outdoor activity is good for you, it’s important to listen to your body and not overdo it!
2. Drink a lot! If you’re exercising, drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. Even if you’re not doing much, drink more fluids when it’s hot to make up for the fluids lost due to sweating. This doesn’t include liquids with alcohol, caffeine, or sugar – those can cause more fluid loss.
3. If possible, stay indoors and in air conditioning. If not, spend time in the shade. Electric fans are helpful until the temperature is in the high 90s. If your location doesn’t have air conditioning, find a place that does, like a library or cafe.

Come in to Urgent Care of Kansas located conveniently on Main St in Gardner, KS if you are experiencing any symptoms listed above.

Trip to Urgent Care of Kansas

Meanwhile, There is a tendency in people these days to self diagnose their illness via online research. Mostly the answers online are dramatic and leads to further anxiety and confusion.
As someone who is not apart of the medical field, this could be a traumatic experience not knowing whether your illness is life-threatening or not. Something as simple as leg pain or rash could cause severe discomfort.
Here at Urgent Care of Kansas, we are equipped to solve all your non life- threatening issues while giving you a peace of mind. I (Dr. Saboor Rashid) have worked in an emergency department for many years and have often seen people spend a lot of time and energy to diagnose themselves, which is not the right approach. I feel like there’s too much information and not a way to filter it.
In addition, I have seen too many parents frantically running to the emergency department in the middle of the night with their child who has a fever. The vast majority of fevers in children are not life-threatening.
To sum up, As a parent myself, I have tremendous sympathy for these parents who don’t have the answers to there concerning medical issues. We are here to help you answer all those questions. Contact us and we will assist you and will be able to help you at a fraction of the cost of an emergency department. We are conveniently located on Main St. in Gardner KS and open 7 days a week.

How to be safe this summer

Urgent Care Of Kansas brings you another blog that would help you to protect from this summer, Have a look at:
It’s be a hot summer here in Kansas. Long summer days can cause heavy sweating, weakness, pale and clammy skin, rapid heartbeat, cramps, nausea, or fainting. For instance, the tips to protect oneself in the summer heat are:

1. Lather yourself with sunscreen. Sunscreen is essential and should be applied at least 30 minutes before stepping outdoors and reapplied every 2 hours while you’re out. While outdoor activity is good for you, it’s important to listen to your body and not overdo it!
2. Drink a lot! If you’re exercising, drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. Even if you’re not doing much, drink more fluids when it’s hot to make up for the fluids lost due to sweating. This doesn’t include liquids with alcohol, caffeine, or sugar – those can cause more fluid loss.
3.  If possible, stay indoors and in air conditioning. If not, spend time in the shade. Electric fans are helpful until the temperature is in the high 90s. If your location doesn’t have air conditioning, find a place that does, like a library or cafe.
4. Kansas City offer a variety of indoor activities to do in the summer.

Some of the key attractions are:

1. Science City
2. Kaleidoscope
3. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
4. Union Station
5. Legoland Discovery Center

5- Pool time is an important part of summer fun. Be sure to take safety precautions when in the pool. Young children must be supervised by an adult at all times. Take advantage of swim lessons where they are taught the right techniques. For those with a pool at home, installing a pool fence with a self- latching door or pool cover will help reduce the risk of young children falling into the pool. Make sure all gates have a locking feature so children cannot climb out and into dangerous areas. Pool fences and pool covers can also protect other members of the family, such as the elderly and pets.
6-Gardner and surrounding areas in Kansas have a lot of farm land which brings its due share of mosquitoes and insects along. It’s important to always have insect repellent readily available when you plan on being outside for extended period of times. If the kids are going outdoors to play, be sure to apply insect repellent.
Long sleeve shirts and pants also help protect against insect bites. If you or a family member do get bitten, treat the area immediately. If the area becomes infected, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your family doctor or urgent care center. Mosquitos could carry serious diseases such as West Nile virus. At Urgent Care of Kansas, we are able to treat all insect bites and other rashes.
Come in to Urgent Care of Kansas located conveniently on Main St in Gardner,
KS for all your medical needs. Stay safe this summer!