Phosphorus Diagnostics: A Milestone for At-Home COVID-19 Testing

After thorough and intensive validation studies, Phosphorus, a New York City-based genomics firm, has been given the green light by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to proceed with saliva testing for COVID-19. This is the second at-home, unsupervised analysis of its kind approved by the FDA so far, featuring at-home sample collection. In light of this development from Phosphorus, the test has been made available online on their website, through health care facilities and employer partnerships who are on the forefront of resuming work with safe working conditions.

Testing Procedures

The saliva-based test has proven to be a better alternative to swab-based methods, which involve repetitive and tedious testing protocols.

Phosphorus has outlined effective protocols to be followed to acquire the test.
Choosing and ordering the test can be done on their website in a process that is friendly, confidential, and time-efficient.

Consumers will fill out a medical questionnaire to help the firm gather vital information regarding the dynamics of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.
After ordering the test and filling out the medical questionnaire, an independent medical examiner will review this information and approve the need for a test kit.

Upon approval, a sample collection kit will be sent to the consumer’s home for saliva sample collection. Instructions for collecting the samples are included to avoid any possible cross-contamination. The sample is then shipped back to the laboratory for testing, with results available within 72 hours after the lab has received the samples.

Complying With Guidelines and Standards

From the protocols used to the procedures used for testing the samples in their laboratory, it is evident that Phosphorus has complied with all standards required for this pandemic. Initially, the FDA required a synthetic sample performance study with validations done by them. However, Phosphorus has done more than that since it has become one of the first to be issued an Emergency Use Authorization generated by conducting rigorous clinical agreement studies with the FDA.

According to the reports submitted to the Emergency Use Authorization authority (EUA), Phosphorus Diagnostics has fully adhered to the guidelines stipulated within the FDA regarding COVID-19. The tests and their accompanying procedures were developed at Phosphorus's CLIA laboratory in Secaucus, New Jersey. The firm then partnered with OraSure to provide them with the saliva collection devices.

Partnership With BioIQ

In addition, Phosphorus has collaborated with BioIQ, a health care and clinical assessment technology platform, to help Phosphorus Diagnostics with the logistics of the saliva test. This collaboration has led to the easy-to-use saliva collection kit and protocols observed in the transportation of the samples to the lab. It has also enabled BioIQ's digital platform for symptom assessment, contact tracing, and follow-up care. The fruits of this partnership have proven to be reliable and effective compared to orthodox methods of testing.

Safety First

By making it possible for consumers to collect samples at home, this method of testing enables the pinpointing of COVID-19 cases while limiting possible cross-infections through close contact between health care professionals and patients. As indicated by the administration at Phosphorus Genomics, this testing procedure will allow people to be tested in the comfort of their homes, no matter their location.

Phosphorus Is Certified and Approved

Phosphorus Genomics helps health facilities incorporate the technology of next-generation sequencing (NGS) for more effective and accurate results. Its laboratory is approved and certified by the CLIA and CAP to carry out its operations in every state in the USA. Lately, Phosphorus has shifted its focus to the current pandemic. Today, most of its expertise is geared toward the handling of COVID-19.

In a recent interview, Alexander Bisignano, the co-founder and CEO at Phosphorus, acknowledged the efforts of the FDA so far in their rapid response to this pandemic. He added that it is their utmost duty to help the country get back on its feet.

This is a guest blog entry.

Alzheimer’s Symptoms to Look Out for as You Age

 

Alzheimer’s is a devastating form of dementia that affects over five million Americans. When a person is living with Alzheimer’s, they can lose their memory and even their personality, which is tragic for both themselves and their loved ones. With an illness like this, it’s crucial to spot the signs as early as possible to receive an early diagnosis, which can improve the results from accessing healthcare. Here are some symptoms you should look out for in yourself or an elderly family member.
 

Forgetfulness
 

Forgetfulness is a common occurrence in many people no matter what their age, so don’t worry if you notice yourself forgetting little things like where you last put the TV remote. The time for concern is when forgetfulness interrupts life in a significant way and becomes a common occurrence. If you find that you or a loved one forgets many conversations or doesn’t show up for planned events because they don’t remember arranging them, it is a good idea to get checked out.
 

Changes in personality
 

One of the scariest parts of Alzheimer’s is the changes it makes to a person’s personality. Notable differences would include increased mood swings, loss of interest in what they usually love, and outbursts of anger. If someone is usually happy and down-to-earth, but they are suddenly much moodier and more stressed, then it is a sign that something could be wrong.
 

Slowing down
 

One of the signs of Alzheimer’s is performing daily tasks slower than usual. For example, someone who usually spends about 15 minutes getting dressed in the morning could end up spending half-an-hour to an hour. Of course, as people get older, their movements naturally get slower, but if there is a significant change, then it’s best to visit a doctor.
 

Getting lost
 

Getting lost is a sign of Alzheimer’s that can be terrifying for friends and family. If you or a loved one has shown up in an area with no recollection of how they got there or got lost where they previously knew the area well, then it is a sure sign that medical attention is needed. Symptoms like these can be dangerous, especially as you don’t know where they will end up, so senior housing would be an option to keep them safe and ensure they have the medical attention they need.
 

Language difficulties
 

Take notice if yourself or a loved one start getting words mixed up or forget common words entirely. For example, if they start struggling to remember words like ‘curtain’ or ‘television’, then you must consider seeking medical attention, as it could be a sign of Alzheimer’s.
 

Lessened interest
 

Losing interest in hobbies you used to enjoy can be a sign of numerous illnesses, including depression, but it can also be a symptom of Alzheimer’s. If you, or someone you know, no longer cares for activities they used to love, then it’s best to talk to someone about it and get to the root cause. 

Alzheimer’s is a debilitating and unforgiving disease, but if you spot the symptoms sooner and receive an early diagnosis, the chances at a better quality of life are much higher.

This is a guest blog entry.

2020 Guide to Personal Injury Cases

If you’ve been the victim of an accident that caused injury, it’s important to know what to expect. In order to bring a successful personal injury claim, there are some steps you need to follow and documentation you will need to gather. In 2020, a personal injury case may seem more daunting than ever, but if you arm yourself with the right information, you should feel much more comfortable with your case.

What to Know About Personal Injury Cases in New York

Personal injury cases are often complex, confusing, and stressful to deal with. If you’ve been injured in a personal injury case, the last thing you probably want to think about is legal proceedings, but it’s important to preserve your rights and get the money you deserve from the responsible parties to your injury.

A personal injury claim can be brought when you have been harmed due to someone else’s negligence. Personal injury cases may take a variety of forms, such as car accidents, slip and fall cases, animal bites, or medical malpractice.

Damages in personal injury cases are the money the responsible party pays you to compensate for expenses you have incurred due to the injury, along with compensation for your pain and suffering. Damages may be awarded for:

Medical Expenses

Anything you had to pay relating to medical treatment for your injury: surgery, hospitalization, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, etc.

Lost Wages

If you’ve had to miss work due to your injury, you can be compensated for the income you were unable to earn. Future lost wages can also be awarded if you will be unable to work in the future because you’ve been injured, due to either further recovery time or suffering permanent injury.

Pain and Suffering

You can be awarded money for your pain and suffering due to your injury and how it has changed your life.

Other Costs

If your property was damaged as a result of the incident, such as your car in a car accident, you should be able to include these expenses as part of your claim. Don’t forget additional costs like prescriptions that arose from your injury.

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured

It is important to note that in New York, you have three years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Much of the time, this step won’t even be necessary to receive compensation for your injuries, although the threat of a lawsuit does help your case. Unless you have only very minor injuries, it is probably worth it to consult with New York attorneys regarding your case, as being represented by a personal injury attorney has been proven to lead to a better outcome for your case, both in your chances of getting settlement money and in the amount of money you are awarded.

Also be sure to seek medical attention immediately following your injury, as you will require official documentation to help prove the extent of your injuries.

How will COVID-19 affect your case?

In 2020, COVID-19 looms over everything, so naturally, you’ll probably be wondering how the pandemic might affect your case. The good news is your case won’t be delayed indefinitely, though you certainly might have to deal with some delays and changes, primarily that any court proceedings or negotiation attempts will most likely be done via online channels. Depending on your financial circumstances, and those of the defendant in your case, you may also feel increased pressure to settle, to either get a much-needed cash infusion for yourself or to avoid ending up with nothing should the defendant experience financial problems due to the pandemic.

This is a guest blog entry.

6 Health Benefits of Using a Stand-Up Walker

People often require mobility or support aid as they lose stability due to old age. Luckily, there are plenty of market options, including rollators, canes, and standard walkers, known to promote optimal mobility using traditional methods/technology.

Besides these more traditional options, buyers can also opt for alternatives that have entirely transformed seniors’ lives. A stand-up walker is one example of an optimized mobility device that grants users greater security and comfort than a standard walker while eliminating unnecessary wrist and neck strain.

If you feel fed up with archaic mobility aids, review these six major health benefits of stand-up walkers. With a few simple clicks or a quick trip to the store, you can enjoy this mobility aid’s confidence-boosting and posturing-improving effects. Don’t settle for traditional walkers that contort your body into pain-inducing positions. Upgrade your current mobility aid to a stand-up walker. 

Betters your posture

Seniors who use traditional walkers have to assume a back-contorting position. However, with an upright walker, you don’t have to bend your body forward. Note that failure to maintain proper posture when standing or walking poses health complications and risks. Prolonged slouching can cause joint pain, muscle pain, and low blood circulation.

Because upright walkers offer users mobility assistance without making them assume awkward and back-aching positions while walking and standing, you’ll likely notice reduced neck and wrist pain.

Additionally, the human body is designed to walk in an upright position, so it’s better to purchase a walker that doesn’t interfere with your posture. For instance, The Perfect Walker is ergonomically engineered to prevent back pain and hunching. Its padded elbow rests and adjustable height features work to distribute your weight across your shoulders and arms, allowing you to stand tall while walking.

Provides support

Besides helping you stay upright, an upright walker is built with comfortable armrests to support both the left and right sides. The armrests help to distribute weight evenly by relieving your arms from the responsibility of bearing your weight. This mobility aid also comes with a breathable backrest made of mesh to cushion your back muscles.

The lockable braking system also gives the user full control while moving around. While younger people can walk around for long periods without resting, senior citizens often need to take frequent breaks throughout, making the lockable brakes an essential feature. Once you arrive at your destination or tire after walking a significant amount of time, you can lock the back wheels and have a seat.

With these features at their disposal, users won’t have to keep your eyes peeled for park benches or other outdoor seating areas. Instead, owners of stand-up walkers can lock the brakes with a simple maneuver and rest in place. 

Boasts flexibility

Engineers designed the upright walker to function well in every situation, from indoor parties with leveled floors to outdoor events with uneven or rough terrain. The sizable rubber wheels ensure that you can maneuver various surfaces and arrive at your destination comfortably and in one piece. However, remember that you’ll have to practice using the walker to tread the hilly terrain and soil-heavy areas successfully.

As an additional benefit, you can also fold the upright walker to fit into a back seat or trunk, allowing you to transport the mobility device conveniently. Note that these walkers come in various sizes, which is why you’ll need to measure and record your trunk’s dimensions before purchasing the walker to ensure it will fit into the vehicle.

Improves self-esteem

With a stand-up walker, the user can confidently waltz around with a sense of self-sufficiency and the ability to move from one place to another without relying on a caregiver. When an individual with mobility impairments manages to complete different tasks, you’ll notice their self-esteem skyrockets overnight.

Additionally, an upright walker allows users to interact with their loved ones and communicate with others eye-to-eye. Unlike traditional walkers, your loved ones won’t feel the need to crouch down to talk to you.

Increases stability

When using a standard walker, you may suddenly lose balance or unexpectedly become fatigued. Instability impairs your independence and increases the risks of falling. Fortunately, the stand-up walker is equipped with state-of-the-art features that improve user comfort and stability, making those with mobility impairments feel more secure, confident, and stable.

Since you can adjust the settings on a stand-up walker, users can modify the mobility device’s height at-will, meaning this new-and-improved walker will adapt to your ever-changing physical needs. The unrivaled flexibility makes the stand-up walker ideal for seniors, injured individuals, chronically-ill patients, and disabled folks of all different health statuses and body sizes.

Accommodates changing Needs

Standard walkers increase slouching because they aren’t well-adjusted to suit a person’s needs, limiting your maneuverability. Since these walkers can’t be adjusted, they’re less beneficial to users, particularly those whose needs and mobility restrictions continuously change.

A lot of people require adjustable mobility aids to accommodate their declining state of health. Stand-up walkers have flexible features that facilitate customization, ensure user comfort, and conform to your evolving physical needs—bestowing this mobility aid with the title of most the most reliable walker. 

Conclusion

Considering the numerous benefits, stand-up walkers yield better results than standard walkers. They are designed to facilitate effortless movement for individuals with mobility restrictions. Therefore, when shopping for a walker for yourself or a loved one, consider the stand-up walker.

This is a guest blog entry.

5 Health Benefits of Using an Adjustable Bed for Seniors

When most people think of adjustable beds, they initially visualize a patient admitted to a hospital, increasing their bed’s incline to snack on some cafeteria Jello. Notwithstanding popular opinion, adjustable beds can benefit those with mobility restrictions or chronic health conditions. These models are also valuable for seniors with chronic pain or mobility issues.

Typically, as people age, their body experiences rapid transformations, including lowered oxygen levels, decreased bone density, and muscle strength. These dramatic changes can inconvenience and affect the quality of life for seniors over sixty. These seniors’ mobility can worsen over time if deprived of a quality night’s sleep.

Attaining a good night's sleep means owning a comfortable bed conducive to eight hours of uninterrupted slumber. That’s where an adjustable bed comes to the rescue. Here are five benefits you can expect after purchasing an adjustable bed for seniors.

Helps relieve chronic pain

One of the most important benefits of an adjustable bed is that it helps reduce chronic pain. Designed with advanced features, adjustable bed owners can recline into a position suitable for their sleeping needs. When seniors, specifically those with chronic diseases, sit or sleep in a comfortable position, the pain arising from conditions such as arthritis and sciatica will subside.

If you're wondering how the adjustable bed works, it is essential to note that you can control your position with just a touch of a button. You can visit the My UpBed website to learn more about these state-of-the-art bed models.

That said, if you experience severe chronic pain, you can schedule an appointment with your physicians for medical advice that can steer you in the direction of pain relief. Whether the situation requires physical therapy or surgery with lengthy recovery times, these medical professionals can help your elderly loved ones lead pain-free lifestyles and enjoy a high quality of life. 

Promotes a comfortable resting and sleeping position

Seniors with back pain or other chronic pain need a comfortable place to rest or sleep. However, snuggling into a spine-aligning position often poses a challenge for many sleepers. Although support cushions can help to some extent, it's neither an ideal nor long-lasting solution. The good news is that adjustable beds bridge this gap by enabling a person to rest and sleep in a comfortable position based on their preferred sleep style, mobility restrictions, and chronic conditions.

Moreover, through the touch of a button, you can raise your head and shoulders whenever you want to eat or watch television. Similarly, you can lower the bed to your preferred height. The bottom line is that adjustable beds can change settings to suit your specific needs.

Boosts blood circulation

As a person gets older, they may lack the ability to move around freely due to poor blood circulation. Almost all seniors suffer from varicose veins and ulcerated legs caused by prolonged bed rest periods.

While exercising can help reduce this problem, routine cardio isn’t possible for disabled individuals with a limited range of motion. A simple solution to this problem is boosting blood circulation by raising the lower body above the heart. With an adjustable bed, this position is simple to achieve. With a simple push of a button, you can raise the lower portion of your bed with ease. 

Helps reduce the severity of snoring

Breathing problems can prevent an individual from benefitting from a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, snoring occurs when a sleeper is lying flat, forcing the neck to exert unwanted pressure on the windpipe, thereby closing it.

As a result, air cannot move through the windpipe to the lungs effortlessly, so a person produces a snoring sound. In the long-term, this windpipe-straining sleeping position could lead to breathing difficulties, preventing an individual from enjoying quality sleep.

Fortunately, the adjustable bed allows you to raise yourself into a preferred position and prevent tension typically applied on the neck, which can inflict too much pressure on the trachea. When propped into this nearly-inverted position, you’ll rest comfortably and peacefully throughout the night and wake up feeling refreshed. 

Reduces acid reflux

Most people tend to eat before retiring to bed. Sadly, sleeping in a flat position can inhibit the food from traveling through the esophagus, causing an acid pool. As food collects and obstructs the esophagus, it triggers stomach acid build-up, resulting in indigestion, heartburn, and even acid reflux disease.

 If you or a senior,you know, have been diagnosed with acid reflux, you may need to consider an adjustable bed to help prevent stomach acid that rises in the esophagus. Keep in mind, when you elevate your head up five inches or more, stomach acids will be barred from traveling upwards.

While some people may settle for a pillow to help elevate the head, this method isn’t nearly as reliable as it can slip and slide as you toss and turn. In a pinch, pillows tucked under your neck will suffice. However, those elderly sleepers searching for long-term solutions should turn to adjustable beds when addressing their sleep-related woes. 

Conclusion

Though an adjustable bed will involve a higher initial cost, this purchase will be well worth the investment when you rest soundlessly throughout the night and wake up ache-free. Unlike other beds on the market, an adjustable bed offers you the flexibility you need and allows you to adjust select portions of the mattress or the entirety of your sleeping surface.

Remember, mattresses aren’t a one-size-fits-all product. Tailor your bed to your unique sleeping needs.

This is a guest blog entry.

Basic Pandemic Protections: What You Should Know

Despite some states opening back up and students returning to school, the pandemic rages on. As of October 1, the US has had over 7.3 million cases of COVID-19 and many states are seeing upticks in their numbers.  

The good news is that there are things we can do to protect ourselves, such as maintaining social distance, wearing a mask, and washing hands often. With some diligence and a few sacrifices, you can keep yourself and your family safe from the virus. 

Read on to learn more about basic safety precautions you should be taking. 

Wash Your Hands Often

Wash your hands as often as possible. Use warm water and soap and wash for at least 20 seconds any time you are out in public and return home and in the following situations:

• You cough, sneeze, or blow your nose
• You use the restroom
• Before preparing or eating food
• Before you touch your face
• After coming in contact with another person (especially if they are ill)
  

If you can't wash your hands, make sure you use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol until you can wash them properly.

Wear a Mask

Any time you are around others in public, you should wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose. Masks should have multiple layers of material and should not have valves. The mask isn't a substitute for social distancing, though, so you should still maintain an appropriate distance from others even if you are wearing a mask.

Basic PPE kits should include masks, hand sanitizer, face shields, and even rubber gloves if they are used properly.

Monitor Your Health Daily 

You should be alert for any symptoms of the virus on a daily basis, especially if you are leaving the house. If you have symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Loss of taste or smell
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea 
  

If any of these symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider and consider avoiding public places. 

Maintain Social Distance

Any time you are in public, maintain proper social distance, which is 6 feet. Adhere to signs and marks on the floor in grocery stores, restaurants, etc. to allow enough space between people. If you are in contact with anyone who is at high risk, this is especially important. 

If anyone in your house gets sick, try to stay away from them as much as possible. If you can, have them isolated in a bedroom or area of the house away from others and have them use a separate bathroom that is cleaned and disinfected regularly.

  
Clean and Disinfect Properly 

High-touch surfaces, such as tables, doorknobs, countertops, door handles, light switches, faucets, phones, remote controls, keyboards, touchpads, etc. should all be cleaned and disinfected daily, or more often if necessary. 

If the surfaces are dirty, clean them first and then disinfect. Be sure to follow proper guidelines for disinfection.

Protect Yourself and Your Family During the Pandemic 

Basic precautions and a commitment to avoiding unnecessary outings are the key to staying healthy during the pandemic. Be smart, take recommendations from credible sources, and do your part to keep others safe and healthy as well. 

Our blog has many other helpful articles on health, keeping yourself safe, and getting involved in the medical field. Before you go, take a look around at some of our other blog posts.
 

This is a guest blog entry.

8 Medical Supplies That Every Home Should Have In Case of Emergencies

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/TxP9AeN-WA0

Having a fully-stocked emergency kit in your home is very important. You need to invest in having all the necessary supplies and learning how to use them.

This will help you administer first aid to your loved ones when the need arises and also monitor your health as required.

Assuming that won’t need to administer first aid at some point would be incorrect. Take the necessary steps to ensure that you are fully prepared and well educated.

If you are wondering which medical supplies you should invest in. Here are a few for you to consider.

Quality Face Masks

When tending to a sick family member, you need to remember to protect yourself too. Face masks are meant to prevent any contamination. They will also help you avoid contracting any communicable diseases as you administer first aid.

Be sure to get quality face masks that are of medical standards to ensure you are protected. Consult with the HisoMedical company to get the best quality protective wear.

Well-Stocked First Aid Kit

Having a kit with everything needed to administer first aid to someone who’s sick is very important. The Red Cross recommends that you get a first aid kit for both your home and car.

It is also important to include emergency numbers and any medication that can ease pain in the kit. When you invest in a first aid kit you’ll need to check it regularly to know what needs to be replaced.

You should also pay attention to the expiration dates to avoid using anything that would aggravate the situation. As you get your first aid kit you need to make sure that it has all the tools that are needed.

The Red Cross organization recommends a few essential things that should be included in every first aid kit. Take a look at them and make sure you have everything mentioned.

A Sphygmomanometer

Keeping tabs on your blood pressure makes all the difference. It is important to constantly check your levels to ensure that you get treatment on time. With the unpredictability of hypertension, constant use of this device will save you from being admitted to the I.C.U.

It will help you make better decisions and learn what is working and what isn’t as you work toward getting better. Having this device at home will also help you save time. You won’t have to constantly go to your doctor to get your readings.

However, you should make sure that you are well informed about how to take accurate blood pressure readings.

A Thermometer
Fever spikes are one of the most common signs of illness. However, just feeling someone’s temperature is not an accurate way to determine whether they need medical attention.

This is why you need to invest in a quality and accurate thermometer. The thermometer readings will help you determine how bad the situation is.

You can then make an informed decision and take the appropriate steps toward getting better.

Witch Hazel and Calamine Lotion

If you need to address any skin issues, then these two are the products you should have on hand. Witch hazel features a natural astringent and an anti-inflammatory property that allows it to treat diaper rashes, bruising, and itching.

Calamine lotion comes with anti-itch properties that help soothe the skin and ease irritation. It is best used to treat sunburns, eczema, chicken pox, and bee stings.

Having these two in your house will help you attend to such skin issues without having to go to the doctor. However, if the issues persist you should consult with your doctor to get a better solution.  

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide contains antiseptic properties that help prevent infections on minor cuts and burns. When using it on the skin, be sure to clean the affected area first then apply the hydrogen peroxide. Pay attention to your doctor’s instructions while using this product.

Eye Wash and Protective Wear

The eyes are the most neglected parts of the body. However, when you get an eye infection, you must pay attention to making it better.

You can do this by using an eyewash that will help ease the pain and reduce any inflammation. The eyewash will help you get rid of any unwanted things in your eye that may be contributing to your infection.

Having eye pads will help keep your eye clean and reduce discomfort caused by light. This will help your eye heal faster.

A Weighing Scale

One of the most rewarding benefits of working out is the effects and improvement of your health. Tracking your weight is a great way to keep up with your progress.

However, if you notice a rapid drop in your weight, this can be an indication that all is not well. This is why you need to have a weighing scale at home. You’ll get to seek help at the appropriate time before things get out of control.

Conclusion

Investing in your health involves keeping tabs on your progress and having the necessary tools and know-how when things deteriorate.

Knowing this, you should be prepared to take the necessary steps to equip your home with the supplies that you’ll need.

Always remember that first aid is only effective if you consult your doctor afterward. This will help you avoid any complications that can easily be addressed by your doctor.

This is a guest blog entry.