A season for health screenings

By Courtney Kozek, PA-C Maple Health DPC

'Tis the season for after-work gatherings, family parties, kids’ events, school concerts, and, of course, gift buying. No wonder the season sparks waves of stress as soon as the Halloween candy aisles quickly transition to candy canes and stocking stuffers.

With all the pressure comes related health concerns. While you might push off health screenings for “another time,” there are convenient ways to access screenings and strategies for managing seasonal stress.

• Manage Holiday Stress - Despite a busy calendar and December obligations, take just 15 minutes every day to focus on breathing and engaging in an activity you enjoy, like reading, taking a walk or pursuing a hobby.
• Simplify Your Life - Must you really attend that holiday party or would staying in and unwinding help you “show up” for friends and family the next day? Consider ways to reduce the time and money spent on holiday shopping.
• Take Heart - Prolonged stress can escalate blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Unless you consistently monitor your blood pressure or visit your primary care doctor, you won’t feel it. High blood pressure is called the silent killer. There are no symptoms. Annual screening is recommended for adults age 40 and older and those at an increased risk.
• Move Over, Migraines - Women are more prone to tension headaches and migraines than men, and stress during the holidays exacerbates the situation. Don’t write off headaches. There are treatments and strategies for mitigating the pain.

Cope with holiday stress in a healthy way. Courtney Kozek, PA-C can help. She is accepting new patients at Maple Health DPC, a full-service, membership-based primary care practice that offers flexible access, longer appointment times, less waiting, and a relationship with a practitioner you know and trust. Learn more at MapleHealthDPC.com or call 440-655-8017.