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

Narcolepsy is characterized as a type of neurological disorder that impacts the area of the brain responsible for wakefulness and sleep control. Narcolepsy occurs in intermittent, uncontrollable “sleep attacks”, which cause extreme fatigue and even cause the narcoleptic to suddenly fall asleep throughout a day, regardless of time or activity level. For instance, a narcoleptic could suffer a sleep attack during a morning work presentation or when driving home from work. Most narcoleptics remain undiagnosed and untreated. However, diagnosis almost always follows up with a prescription for Sunosi, Xyrem, or Provigil to help manage the production of wake and sleep chemicals (chemical hypocretin deficiency). REM sleep can be greatly disturbed and negatively impacted. To be diagnosed as narcoleptic, one of the following warning signs of narcolepsy, ranging from mild to severe, must be present. Only a small portion (less than a third of patients) of narcoleptics have all of the five following symptoms: 1. Cataplexy Cataplexy is described by medical professionals as muscle weakness experienced during wakeful periods. Cataplexy can strike the entire body or specific muscle areas, causing weakness in the knees, sudden loss of grasping so you drop whatever you’re holding, or even entire loss of muscle control that affects the entire body, causing the patient to fall down.

Have you ever experienced a sore throat that felt like more than just a typical irritation? Perhaps it came with difficulty swallowing or the sensation that food was stuck in your throat? If these symptoms sound familiar and haven’t improved with standard treatments, you might be dealing with something more specific than you think—Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). Eosinophilic Esophagitis Signs can be subtle, but they often point to a chronic issue that requires more than just a quick fix. Eosinophilic Esophagitis Treatment options are available, but understanding the condition is the first step toward relief. 1. Understanding eosinophilic esophagitis Eosinophilic Esophagitis, or EoE, is a chronic immune-mediated condition where a type of white blood cell, the eosinophil, accumulates in the esophagus. This buildup is typically driven by an allergic reaction to certain foods or environmental triggers and leads to inflammation that can damage the esophageal lining. It’s like having an unwanted guest who just won’t leave, causing chaos and discomfort in its wake. 2. Recognizing the symptoms EoE symptoms can vary but often include trouble swallowing, chest pain, persistent sore throat, and reflux that doesn’t respond to medication. These symptoms are frequently mistaken for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but unlike GERD, EoE doesn’t typically respond to antacid treatments.

Breathing is one of those things most people take for granted—until it becomes difficult. For those living with chronic pulmonary conditions, this basic act can be a daily struggle. Breathing techniques can play a crucial role in managing these conditions, helping to ease the strain and improve quality of life. Chronic pulmonary disorders, which include a variety of long-term respiratory conditions, can severely impact lung function and make breathing a challenge. Understanding these disorders is key to early diagnosis and effective management, ensuring that every breath is as easy as possible. 1. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) COPD is a major player in the world of chronic pulmonary disorders, encompassing both emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It is characterized by the obstruction of airflow, which makes normal breathing a Herculean task. Imagine trying to breathe through a straw—that’s what it can feel like for someone with COPD. The key to managing COPD lies in opening up those airways, often with the help of inhalers and bronchodilators, and reducing inflammation with steroids. Pulmonary rehabilitation can also be beneficial, teaching patients how to breathe more efficiently and conserve energy. 2. Asthma Asthma is another common respiratory condition that involves the inflammation and narrowing of airways.

Are you facing a medical condition that’s affecting your ability to work long-term? You’re not alone. Many people find themselves unable to work due to various disabling conditions, but they often struggle with securing long-term disability (LTD) benefits. Long Term Disability insurance is a safety net designed to replace a portion of your income when a serious health issue prevents you from working. However, the process of obtaining these benefits can be complex and fraught with challenges, including frequent denials, which is where Long Term Disability Appeals come into play. This article will guide you through the conditions that typically qualify for LTD and explain how specialized LTD lawyers can assist in securing the financial support you deserve. 1. musculoskeletal disorders Diseases like arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and chronic back issues can severely impair your physical capabilities, making it tough to fulfill work duties. These conditions are among the most common reasons individuals seek LTD benefits. With the physical strain and pain associated with these disorders, maintaining a regular work schedule becomes increasingly difficult, if not impossible. 2. mental health issues Mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to work capabilities. Disorders such as severe depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD can significantly disrupt your ability to function effectively at work.

Migraines can be a debilitating experience, especially as we age. For women over 55, migraines often come with unique challenges influenced by hormonal changes, lifestyle adjustments, and age-related factors. However, understanding the triggers and exploring practical solutions can make a significant difference in managing the condition. Here’s what you need to know about migraines after 55—and steps to take back control of your life. Why Migraines Become More Common After 55 Migraines are often linked to changes in estrogen levels, which can fluctuate dramatically during menopause and post menopause. These hormonal shifts may increase the frequency and severity of migraines for many women. Age-related factors such as increased stress, changes in sleep patterns, or even certain medications for other health conditions can also contribute. Additionally, some women may become more sensitive to common triggers, such as certain foods, dehydration, or even bright lights. Practical Steps to Manage Migraines While migraines can feel overwhelming, there are actionable steps you can take to minimize their impact and potentially prevent them: 1. Identify Your Triggers Keeping a migraine diary can help pinpoint what causes your migraines. Common triggers include: • Stress or anxiety • Certain foods like chocolate, red wine, or aged cheeses • Skipping meals or dehydration • Bright or flashing lights • Strong smells 2.