Respiratory problems are some of the most common forms of occupational health hazards in the farming and agricultural industry. SIU Medicine urges local farmers and their families to be aware of common respiratory hazards and follow best practices for reducing their risk of short- and long-term respiratory problems. Breathing hazards for farmers Daily farming operations expose farmers to a wide range of situations that may be hazardous to their respiratory health. This includes any task that involves the use of or leads to the production or airborne release of: Chemicals, including pesticides

One of the most common questions I hear from patients is: "How do I know what my skin type is?" It's a great question. Knowing your skin type—oily, dry, normal, combination, or sensitive—helps you know how to take better care of your skin and helps you find the right products to use on your face and body. Here's what I recommend when determining your skin type and crafting your perfect skincare routine: 1. Observe what your skin does when left alone The next time you have time to relax at home, wash your face using a gentle cleanser, pat it dry with a towel and then simply let it be without

Weather has always had a direct and important impact on the farming industry. But when the weather becomes wilder and changes in climate threaten to undermine a family farm's ability to stay in operation, the usual risks and stresses associated with farming can become even more pronounced. Climate change will affect farming communities, and hence have an impact on the mental health of farmers. How can these communities best support each other during these unpredictable times? Weather and well-being As people who work outdoors, farmers have an increased risk of health problems related to

Weather has always had a direct and important impact on the farming industry. But when the weather becomes wilder and changes in climate threaten to undermine a family farm's ability to stay in operation, the usual risks and stresses associated with farming can become even more pronounced. Climate change will affect farming communities, and hence have an impact on the mental health of farmers. How can these communities best support each other during these unpredictable times? Weather and well-being As people who work outdoors, farmers have an increased risk of health problems related to

As a dermatologist at SIU Medicine, I tell my patients that maintaining a consistent and personalized routine improves your skin's health, appearance and function—no matter what your skin type is (mine is oily). A daily skincare routine also helps you avoid issues like acne, dryness, dark spots, fine lines and even skin cancer. My skincare routine starts in the morning and ends at night. In this article, I'd like to talk about the three things I do every evening to protect my skin. 1. Wash with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser No matter how tired I am at the end of the day, I always make sure

Did you know the majority of farms and farmland in the United States are operated by families? Small, family-run farms also generate just over a fifth of annual production, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Many American children are lucky to call farms home. But just like adults, these kids are at risk of injury and illnesses. At SIU Medicine, we want all local farming families, including their younger members, to stay well. Keep reading for important things to know about child health and safety on the farm. Children on U.S. farms: important statistics to know About 1.5

Did you know the majority of farms and farmland in the United States are operated by families? Small, family-run farms also generate just over a fifth of annual production, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Many American children are lucky to call farms home. But just like adults, these kids are at risk of injury and illnesses. At SIU Medicine, we want all local farming families, including their younger members, to stay well. Keep reading for important things to know about child health and safety on the farm. Children on U.S. farms: important statistics to know About 1.5

When you or someone you care about has a health condition that can cause seizures, it is helpful to understand what factors can cause a seizure to happen. Providers at SIU Medicine encourage everyone to learn about seizure triggers and how to control them. What can trigger a seizure? Seizures can happen for no clear reason. But many individuals who have epilepsy or other seizure-related disorders will begin to notice patterns or predictable features of their seizure episodes. For example, someone might notice that they are more likely to have seizures when: They are highly stressed They are

Because I’m an SIU Medicine dermatologist with a specific skin type (oily), you might think I use fancy and expensive products. The truth is my skincare routine is much simpler than what I tend to see on social media. I can find everything I need from big box stores (superstores) or the local drugstore. Here's what I do every morning to protect and nourish my skin: 1. Wash with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser Since I shower in the morning, I simply complete this first step right in the shower. I always use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser with simple ingredients that removes sebum, makeup

May is Mental Health Awareness month and also coincides with the spring planting season.