In about a month, the kids will be back in school. Get these items checked off your list before the busy school weeks begin.

Written by Rebecca Budde, SIU School of Medicine

Have a child entering pre-k, kindergarten, sixth or ninth grade this year? Be sure you have an appointment set up for a back-to-school physical before school starts. Physicals are required for students entering pre-k, kindergarten, sixth grade and ninth grade and students who are new to Springfield Public Schools.

Staying up-to-date on vaccines and having a routine physical helps families protect their children from the most serious illnesses. “When children enter kindergarten, they have to show proof of receiving the diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis or the Tdap, their final polio, their final measles, mumps, rubella vaccine and their final varicella or chicken pox vaccine,” says SIU pediatrician Dr. Craig Batterman. Starting at sixth grade children must also have proof of this Tdap booster to attend school.

Dr. Batterman urges parents to make sure their children get the required vaccinations at the scheduled times. (View the CDC’s guidelines here.) Parents who have questions about vaccines should talk with their primary care physician, pediatrician or local public health department.

If you’re looking for a medical home for your family’s needs, including getting school physicals, contact SIU’s Center for Family Medicine, a Federally Qualified Health Center, or SIU’s Department of Pediatrics at 217-545-8000.

Copyright © SIU School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois

By Lauren Murphy, SIU School of Medicine

SIU registered dietician Cindy Yergler says there’s no scientific definition of “superfood.”

“‘Superfood’ is a popular term in the health food industry and trending media; it’s a marketing gimmick,” the seasoned veteran says.

While the label may be a ploy to lure consumers, some so-called superfoods are actually quite good for you. Superfoods typically refer to foods that are nutrient dense and contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants or healthy fats. Often, they help us more easily meet our daily nutritional requirements by providing significant amounts of important nutrients like folate, calcium, fiber, health-promoting antioxidants, sulfur-containing enzymes and vitamins A, C, K, E and B.

So what nutrient rich foods does Yergler recommend?

• “Vegetables and fruits that are deeply colored – and I don’t mean with red dye #3!” Yergler says. Go for dark green, leafy vegetables like broccoli, kale or spinach, which are good sources of fiber, folate and carotenoids. These compounds may inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer.
• Cauliflower, brussel sprouts and cabbage, aka, members of the cruciferous family of vegetables. These veggies contain phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals and fiber, and some research suggests cruciferous vegetables may lower your risk of getting cancer.
• Salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring and walnuts, all of which are rich in omega 3 fatty acid. Healthy levels of omega-3 fatty acid can lower your risk for heart disease and curb joint pain.
• Yogurt or milk, which are rich in calcium, vitamin D, protein and probiotics. Calcium and vitamin D are crucial in growing and maintaining bone strength.
• Whole grains, including brown rice, quinoa and oatmeal, are filled with vitamins, minerals, folate, protein and fiber. A diet rich in whole grains has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity. Plus, fiber helps regulate bowel movements and promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon.
• Eggs, which contain lean protein and lutein. Lutein helps prevent eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts.
• Ginger, cinnamon and turmeric, which have anti-inflammatory properties. “Inflammation is related to heart disease arthritis, hypertension, chronic dental disease and (some other types  chronic disease),” explains Yergler.

These nutrient rich foods will always be an important part of a healthy diet, Yergler says with a word of caution. “Because there is no set definition of a superfood, not all claims are valid or even safe. Especially if the food is unusual, like seaweed, make sure you investigate its claims at a reputable source, such as the Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic or the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.”

Copyright SIU School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois

Written by Rebecca Budde, SIU School of Medicine 

In the United States, hearing loss is the third most common health problem, and more than 25 million people between the ages of 20 and 69 have high frequency hearing loss due to exposure to noise, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In addition, roughly 50 million people in the U.S. experience chronic tinnitus ─ a persistent ringing in the ears.

All types of hearing loss can be devastating and lead to other health concerns. Adults with hearing loss are at a higher risk for accidents, depression and fatigue.

The good news is that treating hearing loss early can have a positive impact on many areas of your health. SIU’s team of audiologists has the experience and resources to help. Take our hearing loss test on the right to learn more about your hearing.

Copyright © SIU School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois

Written by Rebecca Budde, SIU School of Medicine

Patios, picnics and pools have replaced homework as summer is in full swing. But with summer comes a higher risk of injuries, especially for children.

According to SIU emergency medicine physician Dr. Ted Clark, around 20% of emergency room visits involve patients age 17 and younger, and the ER doctors tend to see more of these patients in the summer. “We refer to this time of year as ‘trauma season’ in the ER; typically it’s May through August.” Summer sports and activities such as biking, swimming and camping can lead to broken bones, lacerations, sprains, concussions, dehydration, rashes and burns.

“It’s tempting to keep the kids inside to protect them from all these possible injuries, but I encourage parents to allow their children to be outside and to play,” Dr. Clark says. “In the long run, avoiding the sedentary lifestyle is going to do a lot more for a child’s health than the short-term risk of injury.”

Copyright SIU School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois

Written by Rebecca Budde, SIU School of Medicine

Itchy nose, watery eyes and scratchy throat? Seasonal allergies don’t just hit in the fall and spring.

If you’re suffering from sneezing, a runny nose and congestion right now, it may not be a summer cold; you could have seasonal allergies. Although allergens are present year round, allergy sufferers may find the summer just as troublesome as the spring and fall.

According to Dr. Richard Bass, an SIU ear, nose and throat doctor, approximately 35% of the US population has some form of allergic rhinitis, aka allergies.

Though no cure, physicians can help those who suffer from allergies manage their symptoms. Dr. Bass says that some medications, including antihistamines and nasal sprays, can help. Nasal sprays can be pure steroids, pure antihistamine or a combination steroid/antihistamine. For individuals whose allergies are not improved by basic treatment options, Dr. Bass says shots are available.

Anyone suffering from allergies should see their primary care physician, who may refer them to an allergist for further evaluation and possible treatment. If you do not have a primary care physician, call SIU’s Center for Family and Community Medicine at 217-545-8000 to schedule an appointment.

Copyright SIU School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois

More time outside during this beautiful weather may also mean that you or your kids are coming inside with some red bumps or welts from an insect bite. Though insect bites can be itchy or even burn a bit, the symptoms tend to fade in a few days. For those who are particularly sensitive, mainly children, a bit of precaution before heading outdoors is a good idea.

Can you believe we’re about half-way through summer? Don’t let July slip by and put you in an August rush.

Rest up . . .