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What is a “DOULA”?

Are you pregnant or planning a pregnancy?  Did you know that you have options? Have you thought about those first few weeks at home; sleep deprived and needing assistance and guidance? A DOULA might be helpful to you, especially if your family lives far away!

The word “doula” comes from the Greek, meaning “woman who serves”. There are birth doulas, which assist the mother, father and medical staff during birth. There are postpartum doulas that assist the entire family to heal and adjust following birth. The doula is not a medical position and does not give any medical advice, but a layperson that is there to assist mom and dad emotionally and physically.

The birth doula is present as a coach for the entire labor/birthing process.  This includes 2 pre-natal visits to learn the history, needs and desires of the couple. Also included are 2 postpartum visits immediately following the birth.

The postpartum doula may arrange a meeting prior to birth to discuss expectations and goals. Immediately following birth, the PPD may come to the hospital and/or home to begin her work. She may then come to the home on a daily basis or as needed for a period of time ranging from birth – 2 weeks – 3 or 4 months, depending on the circumstances, i.e. multiples, siblings, etc.

Studies have proven that the assistance of a doula makes the period of time after a birth less traumatic, more relaxing and joyful with the presence and assistance of a doula.

Marcy D. Tracy, MS Ed., CD(DONA) PCD(DONA) VAIL VALLEY DOULA  (970) 688-4868 or (760) 846-0419
www.vailvalleydoula.com
marcy@vailvalleydoula.com

Am I Suffering from Allergies?

Allergic rhinitis is the most common cause of inflammation of the nasal membranes, affecting approximately 20% of the population.  Unlike the common cold and its symptoms due to viral-mediated inflammation, allergic rhinitis is inflammation due to exposure to certain allergens such as pollens, pet dander, and molds.  Allergen exposure leads to the following symptoms:  itching and tearing of the eyes, congestion and sneezing, headaches, earaches, facial swelling, fatigue and drowsiness.

What Can be Causing My Allergies?

A detailed history can often lead to the identification of the cause of one’s allergies.  Perennial rhinitis consists of allergic symptoms that are consistent throughout the year due to the daily exposure to allergens like dust mites and pet dander.   Intermittent seasonal rhinitis is due to the exposure to outdoor allergens like pollens and molds.  Unless associated with skin and stomach symptoms, food allergies are not typically associated with allergic rhinitis.  Allergy testing may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis and determining the specific allergen.

What Can I do to Treat My Allergies?

Allergen avoidance is important but not always practical.  Indoor allergens can be reduced by utilizing impermeable covers for all mattresses and pillows and by frequently cleaning all linens and carpets. Limiting outdoor activities during dry windy days and showering after allergen exposures can reduce one’s contact with outdoor allergens.   Unfortunately, medications are often needed to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Nonsedating antihistamines in combination with a decongestant are preferred for first-line therapy.  Other medications such as nasal steroids require a prescription.  Immunotherapy or desensitization with allergy shots is reserved for those with severe or poorly responsive allergies.

Where Can I Get Additional Information About Allergic Rhinitis?

Detailed additional information can be found at the eMedicine’s website:  www.emedicine.com

Michael Brooks, MD
Resort Medicine of Colorado

(970)390-7878

High Altitude Health

By Dr. Charles Tuft
As emergency and house call physicians in the mountains, we see many family outings compromised by situations that could be prevented by knowledge of our mountain environment.

Here in the Vail Valley, it is high, dry, and can change in an instant.

By high, we mean the altitude.  Its effects are manageable by taking it easy on the first day. It is also important to be aware to seek help if headaches develop, nausea or poor appetite persists and general well-being is not as expected. Watch for your child becoming overly fussy.

High altitude also affects skin and eyes. Skin–because sun block is much more important here where there is not as much atmosphere to filter the sun’s damaging rays.  Children’s eyes need the protection of dark glasses for the same reason.

Our dry climate demands that your body needs much more water to keep the same hydration. If you are on an outing, it is not okay to get that water by drinking from the streams. Our mountain wildlife may have been upstream and left behind transmissible diseases. Be sure to bring along enough water for everyone.
And by changeable in an instant, we mean that what starts out to be a warm short–sleeve day can quickly become cold and lead to hypothermia.   A storm may be hiding just over the next mountain or is often brewed suddenly by the micro climates that only mountains can produce.  Always be prepared by bringing along an extra layer for every member of the family.

Luckily if you have questions regarding these mountain concerns or any health care consideration, you can always contact Alpine Mobile Physicians for advice and a doctor is available to come to you with treatment 

Call (970) 376 8376.

Make Brushing FUN!

The Importance of Starting 
Good Dental Hygiene Habits Early
By Katie Kukar

Does your child have a tooth?  Then it’s time for brushing evening if it’s just one.
The earlier you show your children the importance of caring for their teeth is for their health, the easier it will be for them to develop good brushing habits for life.

One of the best ways to get a child excited to brush is to brush your teeth with them.  Kids love to mimic so show them one of your good habits.

Let them pick out a fun, colorful tooth brush and toothpaste.  Be mindful of the toothpaste you choose, read the label to check the sugar content and other ingredients.  Tom’s of Maine makes great natural toothpaste, without the added sweeteners.

If your child has a “buddy” like Dennis the Buffalo, bring him along to the dentist or bathroom for brushing to join in the fun and keep his teeth clean as well. A good time to brush is right after dinner before everyone gets settled into their evening activities. We tend to relax after dinner so make sure the work gets done first. Pick a song or rhyme that can be sung for about 2 minutes.  That is a good length of time to spend brushing your teeth.

General health is linked to dental health and any dental decay or pain can also affect growth and development of your child.  So keep up the good oral hygiene!

Choosing the right dentist for your child’s first visit can be scary.  Try Vail Valley Dental Care for all your families’ dental needs.  Their mission is “to create trusting friendships with our patients and inspire a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.”

For more information, please visit www.vailvalleydentalcare.com 
or call (970) 949-3331.  

North Country Animal Hospital

The doctors and staff at North Country Animal Hospital are committed to providing the best wellness care, preventative medicine, internal medicine, dental, and surgical services as well as, 24/7 on site emergency care. Our philosophy is to always provide a safe, clean, and friendly environment for you and your pet.

www.northcountryanimalhospital.com
2237 West Side Rd, North Conway
see ad p5    (603) 356-5538

 

see our coupon

 

Advanced Skin Care Center

Advanced technology for visible results. Our experienced staff will help you develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether it’s permanent hair reduction, removing brown spots and broken capillaries, resurfacing peels correcting acne and fine lines, Botox, juvederm or simply a relaxing spa facial... our center is the valley’s only comprehensive skin care center.

www.advancedskincarenh.com
24 Reporter Court, North Conway
see ad p5    (603) 356-7070

 

see our coupon

 

High Country Health Care

(HCHC) is a multi-site, multi-specialty, physician-owned medical group located in Summit County in Colorado’s Ski Country. Formed in March of 1996 as the result of the formal merger of five small practices the group includes 10 family practitioners, 3 Ob/Gyn’s, a primary care physician assistant, a certified nurse midwife and a family nurse practitioner.
www.highcountryhealth.com
Breckenridge Family Practice
400 N. Parkway, Suite 1A
Breckenridge    (970) 547-9200

Frisco Family Practice
360 Peak One Drive, Suite 260
Frisco    (970) 668-5584

High Country Health Care Pediatrics
360 Peak One Drive, Suite 260
Frisco    (970) 668-3104

Silverthorne Family Practice
265 Tanglewood Lane, Suite E-1
Silverthorne    (970) 468-1003

Summit Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB/GYN)
360 Peak One Drive, Suite 260
Frisco    (970) 668-5771
see ad p34, 35

Centura Health St. Anthony Summit Medical Center

Guests and residents of Summit County love exploring the mountains and leading an active lifestyle. Centura Health understands this passion and knows that with a “live life to the fullest” attitude comes the occasional illness or injury. You can trust St. Anthony Summit Medical Center to provide compassionate care. So whether you have an emergency or just need a question answered, you can count on our experts to give you the best quality care every time.
• Level III Trauma Center
• Emergency Services
• Critical Care
• Labor & Delivery
• Orthopedics
• Cardiology
• Digital Mammography
• Radiology & Imaging
• Surgical Services
• Open 24 hours
• Serviced by Flight for Life Colorado
www.summitmedicalcenter.org   
Ask-A-Nurse:    (970) 668-5222        
A free service provided by Centura Health
340 Peak One Drive, Frisco
see ad p35, 36    (970) 668-3300         

Ebert Children’s Clinic

Dr Christine Ebert-Santos has been
caring for children for over 30 years.
Our clinic is open to children ages newborn to 18 years old. Dr Ebert-Santos is available Mon-Fri and after hours for emergencies.

www.ebertchildrensclinic.com
730 Summit Blvd, Ste 101, Frisco
see ad p32    (970) 668-1616

 

see our coupon

 

Pharmacies

Carl’s Pharmacy                 Aspen                          (970) 925-3273
Basalt Clinic Pharmacy        Aspen                           (970) 927-3833
Downtown Drug                  Glenwood Spr.                 (970) 945-7987
Rite Aid Pharmacy             Glenwood Spr./Grand Junction    (970) 945-7403
Rodney’s Clinic Pharmacy   Aspen(970) 925-8837
Safeway Pharmacy            Glenwood Spr. (970) 945-1100    Grand Junction (970) 248-9871
Target Pharmacy              Glenwood Spr. (970) 945-8056    Grand Junction (970) 497-8981
Wal Mart Pharmacy           Glenwood Spr. (970) 945-5114    Rifle (970) 625-3845
City Market                      New Castle  (970) 984-2067        Glenwood Spr. (970) 945-8207
Carbondale (970) 963-5727        El Jebel (970) 963-3360

Women’s Health Physicians

Aspen Center for Women    OB/GYN    Aspen                 (970) 925-8005
Women’s Health Assoc.      OB/GYN    Glenwood Spr.     (970) 945-2238
All Valley Women’s Care    OB/GYN    Aspen/Basalt       (970) 925-9480

Family Dentists

All Kids Dental                         Dental/Pediatric        Glenwood Spr.                  (888) 989-5437
Drezek, John DDS, MSD          Dental/Pediatric         Aspen/Grand Junction    (970) 925-5658
Grand Dental                            Dental/Pediatric          Grand Junction               (970) 243-8580
Glenwood Spr. Orthodontics   Dental/Orthodontics    Glenwood Spr.                (970) 945-8525
Comfort Dental                         Dental/Orthodontics    Glenwood Spr.                (970) 947-1273

Family Physicians

Pediatric Partners                     Pediatric              Glenwood Spr.          (970) 947-9999
Aspen Valley Pediatrics             Pediatric              Aspen/Basalt            (970) 544-1300
St. Mary’s Pediatric Clinic           Pediatric              Grand Junction         (970) 244-2468
Co. Mountain Medical                Pediatric              Eagle/Edwards/Vail    (970) 476-7600
Battlement Mesa Medical Ctr.     Family Practice     Parachute                 (970) 285-7046
Aspen Medical Care                   Family Practice     Aspen/Basalt             (970) 920-0104
Mid-valley Family Practice           Family Practice     Basalt                       (970) 927-4666
Roaring Fork Family Phys.          Family Practice     Carbondale/Basalt      (970) 963-3350

 

 

Hospitals

Aspen Valley Hospital           Aspen               (970) 925-1120
Valley View Hospital              Glenwood Spr.   (970) 945-6535
Vail Valley Medical Center    Vail/Eagle          (970) 476-2451
St. Mary’s Hospital                 Grand Junction   (970) 244 2273

Vail Valley Dental Care

Vail Valley Dental Care is a relationship oriented dental practice that focuses on families through their entire life cycle.  Our mission is “to create trusting friendships with our patients and inspire them to a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.”  

www.vailvalleydentist.com
100 W Beaver Creek Blvd, Suite 232, Avon
(970) 949-3331

Terry’s Hair Studio

24 years of experience styling hair. Trained at the world renowned “Horst Education Center” in Minneapolis, Terry returned to her home in Milwaukee to master her skills at the prestigious “Erik of Norway.” Her love for skiing brought her to Vail in 1989. Specializing in haircuts, coloring, perms and facial waxing.
Call or text for an appointment.

Hwy 6 Eagle-Vail
(970) 390-3843

 

see our coupon

 

Resort Med Mobile Physicians

Since the year 2000, Resort Med has been delivering cost-effective emergent medical services to the resort communities of the Roaring Fork and Vail Valleys. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, our emergency medicine physicians bring the emergency room to you in the form of a house call.

Aspen Valley and the Vail Valley
(970) 390-7878

Gypsum Urgent Care

Open 7 days a week. 9am to 9pm
• Every day, including holidays.
• No appointments needed.

Gypsum Urgent-Emergent Care, located near the Eagle County Airport, is staffed by Emergency physicians and nurses to care for walk in and ambulance patients of all ages. This includes abrasions, bruises, scrapes and lacerations, coughs, colds, fever and flu symptoms respiratory or urinary track infections ear, eye, nose and skin infections, minor burns, minor fractures, sprains and strains, intestinal illness, and rehydration.

410 McGregor Drive, Gypsum, CO
Clocktower Building in Gypsum
(970) 777-2800

Avon Urgent Care

7 days a week 8AM-8PM
• Open every day including holidays.
• No Appointments are necessary.

We are equipped to manage most emergency medical situations. The clinic is staffed by board-certified physicians and critical care trained nurses. On-site x-ray, lab services, wound, orthopedic, respiratory care and Occupational Health Services.

230 Chapel Place, Avon
(across the parking lot from Sports Authority and Pier One).
(970) 949-6100

Avon Chiropractic

Save Thousands of Dollars by joining our Pre-Paid Club!
• Free Chiropractic consultations
• Unlimited chiropractic adjustments
• Discounts on Acupuncture and Rolfing
• Discounted Massages
• Free nutritional consultations

20% discount on nutritional supplements
Multiple package options available at substantially discounted rates.
150 E Beaver Creek Blvd, Avon
(970) 949-0444

Alpine Mobile Physicians

Alpine Mobile Physicians is a house call service that functions in cooperation with Vail Valley Medical Center to create a system of Medical Care. These doctors that have provided exceptional care in Vail’s ER and Clinics can treat you in your home or Hotel. These comforting physicians bring Oxygen, IV’s, a wide variety of diagnostic adjuncts and even a complete array of therapeutic drugs.

www.alpinemobilephysicians.com
27 Main St Unit C301, Edwards
(970) 376 8376

Ebert Children’s Clinic winter 2010

FLU_ARTICLE

DO I HAVE THE FLU?
When compared to the common cold, the flu symptoms have a longer duration of illness and more severe symptoms.  Fevers tend to be higher and both the congestion and cough are more significant.  Unlike the common cold, patients with the flu will have significant headaches and body aches.  Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also be present.  Influenza is usually diagnosed clinically.  Those patients with uncomplicated influenza infection typically do not require diagnostic testing or medical evaluations, so drink liquids, get rest and try to wait it out.
WHAT CAN I DO TO TREAT THE FLU?
The majority of influenza patients will only require symptomatic treatment for their illness what does this mean?? How about “The majority of influenza patients will only require basic over-the-counter medication and not a prescription.  Acetominophin and ibuprofen should be used to treat your fevers and body aches. Over-the-counter medications can be used for the congestion and cough.  Antiviral medications are often not needed for the treatment of uncomplicated flu cases—which is the type of flu most of people get.  A majority of those infected will typically have an uneventful course and recover without incident.  If any infected individual notes a period of improvement complicated by worsening of  symptoms, they should seek an immediate medical evaluation.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT GETTING THE FLU?

aspen x country and snowshoe

Get on Track:
Great Ideas for Kid Friendly Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Trails
By Kirsten H. Michel

If you are thinking a scenic snowshoe or cross-country excursion would be a great family adventure, the Roaring Fork Valley offers plenty of options. We have included some of our favorites to get you on the right course.

Ashcroft – Located 12 miles up Castle Creek, Ashcroft Ski Touring (970-925-1971 or www.pinecreekcookhouse.com/ashcroft) provides the most unforgettable experience. Enjoy wide-open meadows, beaver dams and stunning views of the Continental Divide. Check in at the King Cabin for gear, tickets and maps. Try the Logan Trail for a gentle snowshoe, while the Flynn Trail offers family-friendly, cross-country fun.

Aspen – Rent your gear from the Ute Mountaineer (970-925-2849 or 308 S. Mill Street) and head to the North Star Preserve Loop. With 175 acres amid the shadows of Independence Pass, the preserve offers gentle trails and peacefulness in a perfectly natural environment. Parking is located 1.5 miles east of Aspen on Highway 82 (mile marker 42.5 and 43.5). Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are free.

Glenwood Springs – Discover backcountry cross-country ski and snowshoe trails at the Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort (970-945-7491 or www.sunlightmtn.com/XC_Skiing_%2526_Snowshoeing). With 29 kilometers of groomed trails, skiers and snowshoers of all levels will wander—free of charge—between Compass Peak and Williams Peak. Find maps and rentals at the base of the mountain. Families should consider the Sunshine Trail for an enjoyable outing.

aspen snowmass

Advertorial Content for Parents Handbook

Tucked high in the Brush Creek Valley, Snowmass Village, Colorado, is like the shy neighbor who turns out to be vivacious upon closer acquaintance. This 25-square-mile town resides over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails and offers one of the best summer resort music scenes in the state. Surrounded by a spectacularly scenic wilderness area, Snowmass is one of the few resorts in the U.S. to offer plentiful mountain boarding terrain and is the only Colorado resort to offer two 18-hole disc golf courses. It's no coincidence that part of our name is synonymous with "magnitude" and "substance." And yet Snowmass Village is not your typical mountain town. One need only glimpse the grand splendor of Mount Daly and the faces of people coming off the slopes year-round to understand that this town's core lies amidst a fertile landscape of adventure and rejuvenation.
The second largest ski mountain in Colorado offering nearly 150 miles of trails is right here in Snowmass Village. Snowmass also connects to the largest network of free groomed Nordic trails in the United States.
The mountain is our main street, our mecca, our coffee shop and our office. We swap gossip on picnic blankets at the Fanny Hill concerts, catch up as we catch air in the terrain parks and on the trails. While we live here for the sun-kissed summers and for the glimpses of the elk, fox and deer who share this unique Shangri-la. We're also dedicated to ensuring our guests feel the same. From the wild west to wildflowers to wildly enthusiastic locals, the town lives up to its name.

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Weather

Vail Valley (Eagle County)
Monday, Aug 30
Hi: N/A˚F, Lo: 41˚F
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