Thursday, June 27, 2019

Recuperation journey: Sunset and trees

 My backyard view of today's sunset blocked by trees. But that's OK.

Greater Valley Chamber to host 23rd annual Golf Classic in Orange


For information call 203-925-4981.

Abundant Life Fellowship Ministries in Ansonia to host cookout


Seymour Recreation to host tennis program for kids


Griffin Hospital in Derby raises awareness of hernias

An estimated 5 million persons in the U.S. have some type of hernia, but only 750,000 people seek medical attention each year./ Contributed photo

DERBY - June is National Hernia Awareness Month, and Griffin Hospital is joining in the cause by providing information about hernias and effective treatment.
A hernia is the protrusion of an internal body part through a muscle or surrounding tissue. This can happen through a rupture, tear, or weakness in the structure.
Many believe hernias are the result of lifting heavy objects, but there are several causes, including a natural weakness in the abdominal wall or inguinal or femoral canal, overexertion, coughing, surgery, or trauma.
An estimated 5 million persons in the U.S. have some type of hernia, but only 750,000 people seek medical attention each year. 
Hernias can greatly impact a person’s quality of life as the pain associated with hernias can prevent people from engaging in activities that they normally love to do. Ignoring symptoms can also lead to life-threatening complications.
Hernias can occur in both men and women of all ages, as well as in children. 
However, hernias tend to be more common in men. The most common type of hernias for men are called inguinal hernias which occur mostly in the groin area where the abdominal folds meet the thighs.
Women may be more prone to develop hernias at the top of the thigh, often resulting from the strain of pregnancy and childbirth.
Umbilical hernias are most commonly seen in infants, and generally appear as a protrusion in the naval area. 
Umbilical hernias in infants are less troublesome than other types of hernias, since they tend to close without any treatment by the time the child is 3-4 years old.

Symptoms of a hernia
Generally, individuals notice a small lump somewhere in the groin or abdominal area. Many hernias are reducible, which means the tissue can be pushed gently back into its normal place. If a bulge does not resolve itself or if pain develops at the site, seek medical treatment.
Other symptoms include:
  • Burning, gurgling or aching in the area of the hernia bulge
  • Weakness, pressure or a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Acid reflux
If left unattended, the protrusion through the hole or gap can cause increasing amounts of pain, as more of the abdominal tissue pushes through the gap. As long as the hernia is reducible, it is not considered dangerous, but it can still put pressure on the surrounding tissue. A non-reducible hernia can become life-threatening if a part of the bulging tissue becomes trapped and circulation is cut off to the tissue.
With the exception of umbilical hernias in infants, hernias will not go away on their own. It can take months or even years to worsen. Suspected hernias in children should be checked by a doctor because of the possible danger of strangulation. 
In the short term, reducing strenuous physical activity, losing weight, and/or wearing a truss can lessen the discomfort caused by a hernia. Ultimately, the only way to fix a hernia is with surgery.

To have a physician check a possible hernia, contact Griffin Faculty Physician Surgical Services at 203-732-3443 or visit griffinfacultyphysicians.org
Depending on the health insurance, a referral by a primary care physician may be required before speaking with a surgeon. 

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Ansonia Library to host 2 Harry Potter trivia sessions


Derby Neck Library to present 'The Jetsons' at Sunday matinee



DERBY - Derby Neck Library will present 'The Jetsons' at 2 p.m. July 7 for its Sunday Children's Matinee program.

Families are encouraged to enjoy meeting the Jetsons in this classic cartoon featuring a “futuristic” family and their hilarious adventures.

Popcorn and juice will be provided.

The Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave.

This info is shared from the Library's Facebook page.


Learn to paint with watercolors at Beacon Falls Library


BEACON FALLS - The Friends of the Beacon Falls Library will sponsor a fun evening of watercolor painting from 6-8 p.m. July 30 at the Library, 10 Maple Ave.
Join local artist Rich DiCarlo, President of the Valley Arts Council, while he guides you step-by-step in creating a beautiful masterpiece all your own. 
No prior artistic abilities required. The class is great for beginners and pros alike.

Registration required. A $3 materials fee is required at time of registration.

Please call the library at 203-729-1441 with any questions.


This is shared from a Facebook event page.