Do you need sunscreen in the winter? Applying it to your exposed skin is probably the last thing on your mind when you’re bundling up in scarves and coats when temps drop. But just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays take a break. So, the answer to that question is yes. Even though we usually associate sunscreen with the summertime, your skin is at risk for cancer from UV radiation year-round, including the winter season. 

Key Takeaways

• Even in the winter, UV rays are dangerous and can be harmful, especially if you’re near snow or ice in high altitudes.
• With up to 90% reflection capability, snow and ice can intensify the impact of UV rays.
• You should wear sunscreen in the winter and on cloudy days to reduce the risk of skin cancer and prevent premature aging.

Why Do You Need Sunscreen in the Winter?

Even though UV levels are lower in the winter, they’re still high enough to cause damage to your skin. While invisible to the human eye, they can penetrate through clouds and windows to break down your skin cells and cause a phenomenon known as “photoaging.” 

This kind of premature aging can age your skin faster than time alone by causing fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. By consistently wearing sunscreen in the winter, you can create a protective barrier that prevents these effects. 

Here are some other facts about the winter season that make wearing sunscreen during this time of year critical, even on days that it is overcast: 

• The Northern Hemisphere is closer to the sun, causing UV rays to be more intense. 
• The ozone layer, which is like a protective shield the earth uses to filter UV rays, is thinner in cold months. 
• Reflective surfaces in snowy regions amplify UV radiation, with snow and ice reflecting up to 90% of the rays.

When you consider all of these factors, it’s easy to see why the answer to “Do you need sunscreen in the winter,” is yes. Your skin is still vulnerable to premature aging and skin cancer despite the fact that it doesn’t feel hot. 

How Can You Protect Your Skin in the Winter with Sunscreen?

Protecting your skin in the winter is about more than simply remembering to apply sunscreen, although that is a great place to start. Dermatologists recommend generously applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin. And don’t forget the areas you may overlook, like your ears and lips. For your lips, try using a lip balm that already has SPF in it.

If you’re participating in outdoor sports or activities during the winter, you should choose a water-resistant sunscreen to ensure you’re still protected if you sweat or come into contact with water.

You’ll want to apply your sunscreen 15–20 minutes before you go outside and reapply it every two hours (more if you’re sweating or active) for maximum protection and efficacy.

Protecting Your Skin with RMC

So, now you know—it’s essential to safeguard your skin year-round with sunscreen because UV rays have no days off. While protecting yourself with sunscreen is useful for preventing premature aging and reducing your risks of skin cancer, you should also be vigilant about any changes you notice in your skin, like new spots or moles or changes to existing ones. 

If you’re worried about winter’s unique risks for your skin health or you’ve noticed any changes, our oncologists are here to help! Contact us for a comprehensive skin evaluation and personalized advice on how to protect your skin year-round.

We sat down with Amanda Morgan, RN in Infection Control, who is also managing our new Student Nurse Residency Program starting in January. Read about her career path at RMC and how she got involved in working with students!

Who is eligible for our Student Nurse Residency Program?

Third-semester nursing students should apply 6-8 weeks before their 3rd semester begins. It is required to maintain good standing and enrollment in nursing school. The application is online, and if you have questions, you can contact me, Amanda Morgan, at 256235-5864 or amorgan@rmccares.org.

What makes the program unique to RMC?

It’s brand new and allows students to work one-on-one with another RN to help build their knowledge base. During the program, they get the opportunity to rotate through all the departments. RMC will provide educational opportunities specific to their educational needs throughout the program in a lunch-and-learn setting.

The board of nursing allows student nurses to perform specific nursing care and skills that PCTs are not allowed to, such as administering certain medications once they’ve been deemed competent.

Why did RMC start this program?

We want to provide nursing students the opportunity to learn about RMC’s different departments and be equipped to apply full-time at the end. This program allows them the opportunity to apply for scholarships and tuition reimbursement. Other opportunities would be available to them once they’ve passed the NCLEX.

How long have you been at RMC?

28 years at RMC. I have had the opportunity to work in many departments and roles over my career. The people at RMC have become family to me.

What is your role with this program?

Student Nurse Residency Manager – I enjoy my role because I started as a floor nurse, worked as a manager, and now infection control, but I’m excited to get back into working with students. I was a clinical instructor early in my career, and it’s nice to get back to watching the excitement of new nurses as they learn and grow!

What made you stay at RMC?

There are so many opportunities for nursing, that even if you start in one area, you have the opportunity to grow into different roles and leadership positions. RMC offers support. It has been good to me throughout my personal life. It does not feel like you work for a huge organization, but you are working with a family that takes care of you personally and professionally!

How did your career start?

I graduated from Auburn and grew up in Piedmont. I started in Pediatrics, because I loved taking care of the kids. I was a manager for 8 years, where I was still able to provide patient care and have a leadership role that was guiding a team at the same time. That’s what I miss most being in infection control, so I’m glad to be getting back to interacting with staff through Student Nurse Residency Program.

Diagnosing celiac disease can be tricky due to the main symptom, a gluten allergy, being hard to detect. Since a great deal of foods contain gluten, it can be hard to narrow down if that is the true culprit of someone’s sickness. However, if you are officially diagnosed with celiac disease, it can be challenging to adjust to the lifestyle changes you’ll need to make to live a healthy life.

But with the proper guidance and support from an experienced, empathetic gastroenterologist, you can improve your quality of life, minimize intestinal damage, and drastically decrease GI discomfort. Keep reading to learn more about living with celiac disease.

Key Takeaways

• Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by an acute gluten allergy that damages the small intestine and the nutrient-absorbing villi within, leading to malabsorption of nutrients.
• Symptoms include digestive discomfort, weight loss, skin rashes, severe vitamin deficiencies, anemia, and more. 
• Changing your lifestyle requires diligence, but following a strict gluten-free diet will drastically improve your quality of life.
• Experimenting with new foods and cooking techniques and finding the proper support are just some of the ways you can improve your quality of life after a celiac disease diagnosis.

How Does Celiac Disease Impact Your Body?

Autoimmune diseases cause our bodies to wage war on themselves inadvertently. With celiac disease, the immune system attacks the tiny villi that line your small intestine whenever you consume foods that contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. What are villi? Good question.

Villi are little nodes that absorb the nutrients in your food so your body can put it to good use. With enough damage to your villi over time, they can no longer absorb the nutrients, leading to malnutrition, anemia, vitamin deficiencies, infertility, and other health issues.

What Are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease?

As we mentioned earlier, diagnosing celiac disease can be tricky. Its symptoms can point to a myriad of conditions. If you suspect you have celiac disease, it’s vital to seek professional help for accurate testing and guidance.

• Abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea
• Weakness and fatigue
• Unintentional weight loss
• Bone or joint pain
• Low muscle tone
• Abnormal periods
• Headaches
• Brittle nails
• Dermatitis herpetiformis (also known as “blistering rash”)
• Mouth ulcers

What Are Some Tips for Living with Celiac Disease?

With the right approach, you can live a thriving life after your celiac disease diagnosis. Here are some tips and lifestyle changes you can try to improve your quality of life as you transition to a gluten-free diet:

1. Food Label Vigilance

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and other grains, so it’s in many food items. The more obvious gluten-rich foods are bread, pasta, cereals, crackers, and beer. However, gluten often hides in unexpected places, like soup thickeners, sauces, processed meats and dairy products, wines, and sweets.

Learning to read food labels carefully in this new phase of your life. Here are some other phrases that indicate a food contains gluten and you should not consume it:

• Malt
• Triticale
• Hydrolyzed vegetable protein
• May contain (wheat, barley, or rye).
• Contains (wheat, barley, or rye).

Some people who do not have celiac disease merely need to avoid ingredients that for sure contain gluten because they have another type of gluten intolerance. Celiacs (people with celiac disease), on the other hand, must attempt to avoid foods with potential gluten contamination. 

This difficult task of avoiding gluten contamination involves strictly consuming foods from the few companies that claim their products are made in a gluten-contamination-conscious facility—especially those certified by the NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) or NCF (National Celiac Foundation).

2. Discover Gluten-Free Alternatives

It may feel like gluten is in everything you love to eat, and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed with figuring out what is and isn’t gluten-free. But with time, patience, and familiarity, you’ll be able to remember what to avoid and what is safe to eat. 

Many grains and flours are actually naturally gluten-free, allowing you to diversify your cooking and baking.

• Rice, quinoa, corn, and most oats are safe staples for your pantry.
• Almond, coconut, and chickpea flours are excellent alternatives for baking.
• Arrowroot and tapioca starch are good thickening agents.

Additionally, try finding a gluten-free cookbook for inspiration and guidance on delicious meals that meet your dietary needs.

3. Try New Restaurants

Again, eating with a celiac disease diagnosis can feel daunting, but in our modern, progressive era, you can find a restaurant that caters to almost anything. 

Consider it an adventure to try new restaurants that specialize in gluten-free cuisine or have dedicated gluten-free menus. But always remember to ask about cross-contamination to ensure your meal is safe.

If you’re still wary, consider bringing gluten test strips to detect gluten in food and beverages. This can help give you peace of mind and help you enjoy dining out better. 

Celiac Disease and Quality of Life: How Can RMC Help?

Living with celiac disease comes with its own set of unique challenges, but you’ve got this! With the right lifestyle changes, you can improve your quality of life and enjoy excellent, delicious food. Embracing a gluten-free diet and exploring new culinary options can help you manage your diagnosis and stay healthy. 
If you’re experiencing symptoms or need guidance on living gluten-free, our gastroenterologists at RMC are here to help. Get in touch today for a comprehensive diagnosis and the support you need.

Jonathan Parker, BEE Recipient Q4 2024

Meet Jonathan Parker, who has worked at RMC for nearly 9 years in total. He works in Central Supply, delivering goods to departments across campus. He’s a joy to work with on any given day, but on one particular occasion, Jonathan’s acts of bravery made an impact on our entire staff and lives we may never know. One colleague who witnessed the emergency event said this:

“You never know when you will be called upon to react to an emergency situation… Last Monday, October 14th one of our own (employees) suffered a medical emergency in the back parking lot. Jonathan while performing his routine deliveries observed this emergency and responded quickly to the employee in need. Being an employee at a hospital you have to be observant of your surroundings at all times because anything can occur especially at a place where people come to for help. Jonathan with his quick response was able to get the employee the help he needed at that time. Although the situation with the employee did not turn out the way we had hoped and prayed for. The observance, bravery, and diligence Jonathan displayed is one of the valuable assets that an RMC employee should possess. Thank you, thank you, thank you for being the person you are and for being there when you were needed!!!”

-Altovese

Jonathan’s family and co-workers gathered around to surprise him for the BEE award ceremony. At the ceremony, Altovese spoke up and said, “Jonathan, you have no idea how you impacted me. I used to walk into work only looking ahead. Now, I walk around campus with a new awareness. I’m alert and looking out for people who may be in need the way you were that day.”

Jonathan says, “Who knew that someone from Central Supply could get the BEE award! I was completely surprised by something so unexpected. It’s truly an honor.”

If you see Jonathan around campus, give him a big thank you for the positive impact he makes every day!

When family members experience a medical condition, we may often wonder if it is hereditary, meaning we have an increased chance of suffering from the same condition. If you have older relatives who have had complications with diverticulitis, you may have asked yourselves (and now the internet), “Is diverticulitis hereditary?” Keep reading below to find out.

Key Takeaways

• Diverticulitis is a colon condition when inflammation or infection occurs in the diverticula.
• Genetics can play a role in developing diverticulitis.
• Lower your chances of diverticulitis by eating a fiber-rich diet, staying hydrated, and exercising.

What Is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a progression of diverticulosis, a colon condition that happens when diverticula, small pouches, develop inside the colon. Diverticulosis on its own isn’t necessarily a cause for concern; however, once it progresses to diverticulitis, the following painful symptoms can develop:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Rectal bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• Constipation or diarrhea, which is less common

Diverticulitis produces these uncomfortable and painful symptoms due to inflammation and infection from trapped waste or undigested food in the diverticula. The small pouches called diverticula develop as we age, and our colon muscles and tissue weaken and deteriorate. 

Is Diverticulitis Hereditary?

Genetics can be a contributing factor in the development of diverticulitis. If you have elderly family members who have the condition, this can increase your risk of developing this GI disease. On the other hand, if you have a family history of chronic inflammation, this can also play a part in developing diverticulitis. 

What Causes Diverticulitis?

There are also other factors that can influence the likelihood of experiencing this digestive condition. The two most common causes are age and diet. As we mentioned earlier, as we get older, our muscles and tissue strength start to decline, increasing the risk of diverticulosis developing and possibly progressing to diverticulitis.

Additionally, hard, strained bowel movements increase the risk of diverticulitis because they put pressure on the walls of the colon. Frequent constipation due to dehydration and a low-fiber diet also increases the risk of developing diverticulitis by causing the diverticulum to tear and become infected.

You can decrease your risk of developing diverticulitis by eating fiber-rich foods or taking a fiber supplement, taking a probiotic, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly. Fiber helps your colon create solid stool while staying hydrated, which helps keep your stool soft to minimize strain and pushing. Exercising helps with digestion, keeping food moving regularly through the digestive system.

When to See an RMC Gastroenterologist

Sometimes, diverticulitis goes away on its own if it is mild or uncomplicated. In more severe cases, complications can include gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, intestinal obstruction, fistulas, and other serious conditions. If there’s fresh blood in your poop, you look pale or feel weak, have to pee often or have painful urination, or your stomach is sensitive to the touch, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible.

 Our gastroenterologists at RMC offer the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment options for various digestive disorders, including diverticulitis. They’re ready to answer all of your questions and create a safe, effective treatment plan. Get in touch today!

You’re probably familiar with the feeling: a burning sensation creeping up from your belly into your chest, signaling you’ve consumed something that has triggered your acid reflux. Whether you feel it occasionally after a heavy meal or more frequently, the search for relief can be hit or miss. As such a vital part of our diet, some people who often experience its symptoms wonder, “Does water help acid reflux?” Keep reading for answers.

Key Takeaways

• Heartburn, acid reflux and GERD are related conditions that affect the human digestive system.
• Water can be an effective solution to help relieve acid reflux by diluting stomach acid.
• Other drinks that can reduce acid reflux symptoms include herbal teas, low-fat milk, and non-acidic fruit and vegetable juices.
• Alcohol, acidic or citrus juices, sodas, and coffee are drinks to avoid if you have acid reflux. 
• There are over-the-counter medications available to help reduce acid reflux and heartburn.

Understanding Acid Reflux, Heartburn, and GERD

Did you know your stomach has a lid on it? It’s called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). It’s a piece of muscle at the top of the stomach that functions as a lid or doorway, opening and closing to allow food to travel from the esophagus to the stomach. When the LES isn’t functioning correctly or is weakened, it can open when it’s not supposed to and allow irritating stomach acid to travel up your esophagus and into your mouth.

And since our esophagus doesn’t have the same protective mucous lining as the stomach to protect it, this backflow of acid causes the burning sensation known as heartburn, a symptom of acid reflux.

Many people experience heartburn or acid reflux occasionally; however, if it’s happening multiple times a week, you may have a digestive condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD. This is a more serious and chronic condition that, if left untreated, can lead to more serious health issues. By understanding these terms and symptoms and how they’re connected, you can better equip yourself to manage your symptoms and prevent discomfort. 

Symptoms of Acid Reflux and GERD

You may have experienced the following symptoms if you have acid reflux or GERD:

• A burning feeling in your chest, called heartburn
• A sour or bitter taste in your mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• A chronic cough or throat irritation
• Regurgitating your food or sour liquid

Does Water Help Acid Reflux?

So, does water help acid reflux? Actually, yes, water can help relieve or prevent acid reflux for a couple of different reasons. Firstly, sipping water throughout the day helps break down the food you consume. This allows your stomach to digest food more easily and keeps your digestive system running smoothly. Secondly, if you’re already experiencing acid reflux, drinking water can help by diluting the stomach acid, which can reduce irritation in the esophagus even if the backflow is still occurring. 

Furthermore, if you’re actively experiencing acid reflux, drinking water washes down the acid filling the esophagus, providing temporary relief. And lastly, dehydration or not drinking enough water can exacerbate or induce acid reflux due to your stomach acidity becoming unbalanced.

While water is a simple and accessible remedy, it may not work for everyone or provide long-term relief. It’s also not the only drink you can consume to ease or prevent symptoms.

Other Drinks That Help Relieve Acid Reflux

Water can become boring for some people to drink all the time. If you’re looking for something more flavorful but won’t agitate your acid reflux, you can try the following:

• Herbal Teas: Chamomille, ginger, and licorice teas are known for their soothing effects on the digestive system.
• Low-fat and Plant Milk: Dairy can exacerbate acid reflux; however, low-fat and plant-based milk is usually gentle enough for sensitive stomachs.
• Fruit and Vegetable Juices: Non-acidic juices, like cucumber, pear, watermelon, carrot, aloe vera, and spinach, contain natural compounds that may be beneficial for people with GERD.

Try incorporating these options into your routine for flavorful alternatives that are also healthy and help reduce acid reflux symptoms.

Drinks to Avoid When You Have Acid Reflux

On the other hand, some drinks can trigger acid or exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. Avoid the following to keep your heartburn at bay:

• Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages can damage the mucous lining in the stomach, affect acidity, and impair esophagus contractions.
• Acidic juices: Citrus juices, such as tomato, orange, and grapefruit, can be too acidic, irritating the esophagus.
• Sodas: The carbonation in sodas can cause bloating and pressure on the stomach, worsening acid reflux symptoms.
• Coffee: The acidity and caffeine in coffee can be major irritants if you’re prone to acid reflux.

Medication to Relieve Acid Reflux

If you need immediate relief from acid reflux or the drinks mentioned above aren’t effective, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) options available. Antacids like Tums quickly neutralize stomach acid. H2 blockers like Pepcid AC reduce acid production for longer. Proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec and Prevacid block acid production and allow your esophagus time to heal.

If you are someone who regularly experiences acid reflux symptoms like heartburn, we highly recommend seeing a gastroenterologist, like those here at RMC, for a diagnosis and long-term remedy.

When to See a Gastroenterologist at RMC

If you’re finding that water only provides temporary relief for your heartburn and other acid reflux symptoms, it may be time to consult a specialist. Chronic acid reflux can be an indication of more serious underlying issues that require medical attention, like GERD or gastritis.
At RMC, our gastroenterologists can help identify the root cause of your acid reflux and develop a comprehensive treatment plan to help you find long-term relief. Stop letting acid reflux disrupt your life! Reach out to our team today to improve your digestive health.