Tag Archives: incontinence supplies

Unusual Ways to Relieve Stress

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on August 7, 2014 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

Sure, everyone would love to be less stressed. But we’ve all read the lists of ways to reduce those stresses and either taken them to heart or thought “I don’t have time for that!” So here are some quick, easy and unusual ways to try and keep all that stress at bay. Comment with any uncommon ways of your own!

Paint the house blue
Blue has been shown to have relaxing effects on the mind and helps with focus. Now, you might say, “I have enough on my hands, I’m not going to repaint all the rooms in my house.” Of course. But even purchasing a light blue poster board and hanging it up behind the computer or above a TV can be helpful.

Bake something
A lot of sites recommend blowing up a balloon to make you breathe deeply, and breathing deeply is supposed to be relaxing. But blowing up a balloon can make you lightheaded. What else could I do that would make me breathe deeply? Good aromas! So really, you don’t even need to bake something, you could just grab a scented candle and give it a few good sniffs. Then light it: even more relaxing!

Get a mouth guard
Stress causes us to not only clench our jaw, it can make us grind our teeth at night. Dentist prescribed night guards are ideal, but can be quite expensive without dental insurance. If you’re experiencing tooth or jaw pain, see your dentist. But in the meantime, a store-bought one might help, and be a solution to some headaches as well.

Light a match
Write down five things that really stress you out or annoy you. Fold up the paper and burn it in a safe place, as a symbol of letting things go that you can’t control 100%. Or better yet, tuck it in to some charcoal in your BBQ, fire it up and have a tasty end to a long day!

Set up recurring shipments
This one is less unusual, and more just super helpful! At TotalHomeCareSupplies.com, you can set up recurring shipments of all the incontinence, ostomy or other supplies you need. Check out these three easy steps to setting up our EZ ship program.

Product Reviews – Thanks!

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on August 6, 2014 under BladderMatters, Ostomy Care, Very Urological | Read the First Comment

We think we carry the best possible incontinence, ostomy and urological products out there.

But you don’t have to take OUR word for it.

We love it when our customers review our products. It lets their fellow customers know specifics of the product and first-hand accounts of using them. We thought we’d highlight a few of these reviews in today’s post. When you finish, please feel free to write some reviews of your own!

Review of First Quality Prevail Adult Briefs:
“I have used this particular brand of briefs for many years and I highly recommend them. They’re absorbent and not too bulky. They’re comfortable and really are the best brief out there.”

Review of Hollister New Image 2pc Flextend Skin Barrier CTF:
“I love these flanges this inside portion is protected by what appears to be plastic covering over the barrier. The ease of use and the outer sticky tape helps hold the flange and barrier are in place. Rarely does it become un-sticky even in the shower. I would recommend them and I’ve tried many types.”

Review of Dale Foley Tube Catheter Leg Band:
“This is the best way to hold a cath tube in place. Have used many and found nothing better.”

While we of course love positive reviews, we want to hear about all the types of experiences that our customers have with our products. We use these reviews when considering which products and product lines we should sell, and will sometimes pass on the comments to the manufacturer. Our goal is your satisfaction with everything we sell.

For instance, this review of ConvaTec Aloe Vesta Perineal Skin Cleanser helps us know that there’s another product out there that a customer would like us to carry:
“Great product although it’s hard to spray[,] a foaming product would be better. Hospitals carry the liquid foaming that is what I really was looking for.”
(That cleansing foam can be found here.)

So if you have an opinion on a product you’re using, it’d be great if you’d head over to TotalHomeCareSupplies.com and write it up! Thanks in advance!

Why Buy American

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on August 4, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

When it comes to incontinence supplies, you need the most trustworthy product out there. That’s the number one priority. But what if there are other factors in purchasing these products that can make you feel good about helping out not only your country, but also the environment?

Enter Prevail, by First Quality. Not only are their products designed with comfort in mind, they’re designed with the country and the environment in mind. All their products are engineered and assembled in the US. Why is that so important? Because it means that by purchasing their products, you’re helping create and keep jobs here in the US. These are jobs that are safe and fair to the employees.

In addition, every time you buy a Prevail product instead of one that has to be shipped in from another country, you’re helping the environment. That item doesn’t need to be brought across an ocean, using up more oil than necessary. And not only that, Prevail themselves are committed to sustainability initiatives. During the process of manufacturing their products, only 1% becomes landfill waste.

And when you get your incontinence supplies shipped to you, you also save gas by not taking that extra trip to the drug store in the middle of the night. It’s convenient for you and better for the country. Many delivery services now use trucks that run on alternative-fuel, including those utilized by TotalHomeCareSuppplies.com. UPS just expanded its fleet of alternative fuel trucks, and last year, OnTrac was named one of SDCE 2013 Green Supply Chain Award Winners.

We are proud to be working with companies whose efforts are keeping both American jobs and the global environment in mind.

Camping Checklist

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on August 1, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Anyone going camping during this last month or so of summer? If you are, and you need incontinence supplies, there are some some extra items to add to the checklist. Here are a few items that are either essential or helpful. First up, something that everyone should have whenever heading out of the house for the tent life:

1) Bath Wipes
These unscented, hypoallergenic wipes are extra large, so you’ll only need one for each person each day (initially, at least, as they will also come in handy after meals to clean faces and hands). Each washcloth has more than enough moisture to cleanse thoroughly. They come eight to a pack, but they’re so inexpensive, two packs might be a good choice even for a short trip.

2) Flashlights, Paper Towels, Can Openers
There are many other convenient items that you could probably get away with forgetting, but these three are pretty much the most essential, besides the tent. Pack these items a few days beforehand to make sure they don’t get lost in the shuffle of last minute packing.

3) Underpads
A wonderful accessory when camping and experiencing incontinence issues. If you have been employing reusable underpads at home, get a pack of disposable underpads for the trip. While reusable underpads are less expensive in the long run and better for the environment, the convenience of disposable is great for camping. They’ll make the mornings so much easier and with Prevail underpads, you only need one layer at a time.

4) Games
Chatting by the campfire is ideal, but you want to make sure you have a back-up option in case the talk starts to slow. Take some card games, but nothing large or that requires a board. Then you’ll know that you’re ready to provide the outdoor entertainment once the sun goes down.

5) Extra Incontinence Supplies
That may sound bulky, but it doesn’t need to be. Just be smart about it. Pack everything you may need (extra briefs, wipes, gloves, creams, washes and disposable bags) into one bag, like a small gym bag. Have a really large tube of cream? Just take what you need by putting some into a travel sized bottle. Keep in mind that because your schedule and activity amount may change during your vacation, your supply needs might change as well.

Having everything securely packed will make you able to relax and appreciate your vacation. Last tip: if you have multiple bags, during packing time, note which item was place in which bag. Then take that list with you. It will save time later and you’ll know exactly what you packed. Enjoy your trip!

Being Smart About Incontinence

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on July 29, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Living with incontinence can be inconvenient, and can even have the potential for embarrassment. But! With the right knowledge, supplies and attitude, everything runs more smoothly and the feeling of any embarrassment becomes a thing of the past. Those who are incontinent can take action so that life can be lived on their terms.

Finding the cause:
Of course, many times, just because the cause of incontinence is known, that doesn’t mean that there’s a cure. But knowing the reason for one’s incontinence is helpful, even if only in a mental capacity. It can also help with determining what type of protection is necessary. Once the type is known, one may be able to predict the level of protection needed. A list of the types of incontinence can be found here. Getting educated: ✓

Leaks, crinkles and unsightly lines:
Most adult diaper leaks are caused by one of three things: the size is too large, a proper leg seal hasn’t been established, or the wrong type of insert has been placed in the diaper. You can find more information about these leaks and how to prevent them here. The crinkle-factor can be minimized by purchasing the right fit, and purchasing items with the words “cloth-like outer fabric,” like it says on these Prevail Per-Fit Adult Protective Underwear. The less plastic on the outside of the diaper, the less likely the wearer is to hear anything while moving. And the cloth outer fabric diapers are just as absorbent and leak-proof as plastic backed diapers. Panty lines can be minimized by wearing more organic fabrics, and experimenting with different types of diapers. Mess and fuss: ✓

Buying adult diapers and accessories:
Many people do not enjoy the stigma that comes with purchasing adult diapers in person, whether or not they are for themselves. Ease that concern by getting all needed supplies shipped directly to your home in a discreet box. This solution is not only subtle, it’s convenient. This is a service TotalHomeCareSupplies.com offers for all customers, and all orders over $40 receive free shipping. Plus, be sure to check out our promotions page for any coupons we currently offer. Purchasing: ✓

It’s easy to be fully prepared when presented with all the facts. When you’re informed and equipped, a full life is still easily in reach.

Prevail Per-Fit for Women and Men

Posted by Jeanne Lowry on July 24, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

Prevail is announcing something new in the world of adult diapers. They know that those individuals who wear protective underwear would ideally wear something that’s as close to possible as a regular pair of underpants. That’s why they’re now offering their Per-Fit products, for women and men.

These underwear are gender specific – the women’s come in a lovely light lavender color, while the men’s come in white with classic grey lines on the band. And both are created from a cloth-like material, meaning they look and feel closer to regular underwear.

Other great features of these underpants include Odor Guard® protection, which means each style has targeted absorbency zones that will whisk moisture from the skin before locking it away and neutralizing any ammonia odor.

Customers will also find these adult pull-ups more breathable. Between the specifically ventilated and breathable waist area and the higher cut on the legs, air is more able to freely migrate on the wearer.

Both the protective underwear for the women and the men are available in medium, large and extra large. Each product page provides a sizing chart so our customers can make informed decisions on what will be the best fit for them.

For those experiencing LOBC (loss of bladder control), many may find that their unique shape is better served with a pair of Per-Fit protective underwear.

At TotalHomeCareSupplies.com, shipping is completely free on all orders over $40. Orders come packaged in discreet, unmarked boxes for customer security.

Staying Cool in the Summer

Posted by Elizabeth Hill on June 26, 2014 under BladderMatters | Read the First Comment

It is officially the first week of summer – and things are heating up in most parts of the country. It’s hard enough to stay cool in the summer and even harder when wearing an adult diaper for incontinence. Since staying inside where it is air-conditioned is not always an option – we have a few tips and guidelines to help beat the heat.

Keep the air moving. Today’s new adult diapers are made of fabric-like material – no more plastic-backed diapers that trap the heat. Breathable briefs are typically thinner and allow for air circulation. A popular option is the Prevail Extra Adult Pull-Up that includes ventilated panels that help prevent heat build-up.
Powder up. If you don’t have any skin issues – baby powder or a corn starch-type powder can help keep you feeling cool when temperatures are rising. If using a diaper with side tape tabs – be sure to not get any powder on these since it might prevent them from sticking.
Keep it clean. Change your adult diaper more often in the summer and be sure to keep all areas clean. Moisture plus warmer temperatures can increase the chance of skin irritation. Be sure to carry extra disposable adult wipes during summer travels so that you are always prepared.
Air it out. If time and the situation allows – take a little break between diaper changes and allow the area to get some air or wear cotton underpants for an hour or two.
Dress appropriately. Cotton skirts and dresses for women and shorts for men are your best bets during the summer. Light-colored and loose fitting clothing is a great choice for beating the heat. Stay away from dark colors and synthetic (especially polyester) materials – save those for the winter months.
Drink up. Becoming dehydrated is the last thing that you want. Drinking plenty of water will keep your body hydrated and better able to regulate your temperature. Many fruits and vegetables are comprised of over 90% water – so take advantage of summer produce to help with hydration.

Prevail Underpads on Sale at TotalHomeCareSupplies.com

Posted by Brooke Phillips on March 11, 2014 under BladderMatters | Be the First to Comment

First Quality Prevail Underpads are a great choice when extra coverage for wetness protection is needed. These disposable incontinence underpads provide maximum wetness protection on bedding, chairs, sofas and other surfaces that may be exposed to moisture or leakage. Each Prevail Underpad features a soft, yet strong top sheet that pulls moisture away from the skin for dryness and comfort. The skin-friendly, cloth-like top sheet is comfortable for the user, with no plastic edges exposed to the skin. All Prevail Underpads are latex-free.

Prevail Underpads are designed with a poly backing that helps to keep the underpad securely in place on any surface. Position the underpad in either a square or diamond shape for maximum coverage and wetness protection.

Absorbent Prevail Underpads are available in three different sizes: 23×36 inches, 30×30 inches and 30×36 inches:

FQ UP120 23×36 Inches 120/Case $40.96
FQ UP150 23×36 Inches 150/Case $40.99
FQ UP100 30×30 Inches 100/Case $45.99
FQ UP620 30×36 Inches 120/Case $53.99

Try out the First Quality Prevail Underpad without buying a whole case! Our Prevail Underpad Sample Pack includes two 30×30 inch pads and a $9 coupon off your next order:

SMPFQUP100 30×30 Inches 2/Sample Pack $3.00

All orders are packaged in discreet, unmarked boxes for customer privacy, and shipping is completely free for all orders over $40. Read about our Fast, Free, Discreet shipping policy here. For more Prevail incontinence products and low cost incontinence supplies, visit TotalHomeCareSupplies.com.

Prescription Medications That Can Cause Memory Loss

Posted by Brooke Phillips on February 18, 2014 under Caregiver Corner | Be the First to Comment

Could your medication be causing memory loss? For many older adults or adults with chronic medical conditions, irreversible confusion and memory loss is a constant worry. Fortunately, scientists now know that age or a degenerative illness is not always be the culprit. If you are alarmed by forgetfulness in yourself or a loved one, the reason may be stored in your bathroom cabinet.

Any of the following drugs can affect normal cognitive function, contributing to mental confusion, forgetfulness and memory loss:

1. Cholesterol-lowering drugs (Statins)

Common cholesterol-lowering drugs include: Atorvastatin (Lipitor), rosuvastatin (Crestor), simvastatin (Zocor), lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol) and fluvastatin (Lescol).

Cholesterol-lowering drugs may be prescribed as part of treatment plan for high cholesterol. Cholesterol plays an important role in the human brain, forming connections between nerve cells such as those necessary for memory and learning. Drugs that lower levels of cholesterol in the blood may also deplete levels of cholesterol in the brain, causing memory loss and mental confusion.

2. Hypertension drugs (Beta-blockers)

Common hypertension drugs include: Metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol), propranolol (Inderal), sotalol (Betapace), timolol (Timoptic), atenolol (Tenormin) and carvedilol (Coreg).

Hypertension drugs may be prescribed as part of a treatment plan for high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, chest pain (angina), migraines, tremors and certain types of glaucoma. Beta blockers slow down the heart rate and lower blood pressure. They are believed to impede memory by blocking key chemical messengers in the brain, such as norepinephrine and epinephrine.

3. Antidepressant drugs (Tricyclic antidepressants)

Common antidepressants include: Clomipramine (Anafranil), imipramine (Tofranil), mitriptyline (Elavil), trimipramine (Surmontil), protriptyline (Vivactil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan) and nortriptyline (Pamelor).

Antidepressants may be prescribed as part of a treatment plan for depression. They may also be prescribed as part of a treatment plan for other conditions that affect mood, including anxiety disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, chronic pain, smoking cessation and some hormone-related disorders. Tricyclic antidepressants are believed to block the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, which also suppresses memory.

4. Anti-seizure drugs (anticonvulsants)

Common anti-seizure drugs include: Gabapentin (Neurontin), pregabalin (Lyrica), topiramate (Topamax), acetazolamide (Diamox), levetiracetam (Keppra), carbamazepine (Tegretol), ezogabine (Potiga), lamotrigine (Lamictal), oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), rufinamide (Banzel), valproic acid (Depakote) and zonisamide (Zonegran).

These drugs may be prescribed as part of a treatment plan for seizures, nerve pain, mood disorders, bipolar disorder and mania. Anti-seizure medications limit seizures by depressing the flow of signals through the central nervous system, which also affects memory.

5. Anti-anxiety drugs (Benzodiazepines)

Common anti-anxiety drugs include: Alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clonazepam (Klonopin), flurazepam (Dalmane), midazolam (Versed), quazepam (Doral), temazepam (Restoril) and triazolam (Halcion).

Benzodiazepines are often prescribed as part of a treatment plan for anxiety disorders, agitation, delirium, and to prevent muscle spasms or seizures. They dampen activity in certain parts of the brain, including areas that involve the transfer of memories from short-term to long-term, resulting in an amnesic effect. Benzodiazepines also have a sedative effect, and they may be prescribed to treat severe insomnia, anxiety that results from depression, and as part of an anesthesia cocktail.

Benzodiazapines drugs build up more quickly in older adults than in younger adults, and they take longer to flush out of their system. This puts older adults at higher risk for side effects such as memory loss, delirium, falls, fractures and accidents. Sudden withdrawal can trigger very serious side effects, including severe sleep disturbance, aggravated anxiety and panic attacks, hand tremor, sweating, irritability and confusion, memory problems, dry retching and nausea, weight loss, heart palpitations, headache, muscle pain and stiffness, hallucinations, seizures, psychosis and suicide. It is extremely important to consult with a health professional before reducing or stopping any benzodiazepine prescription.

6. Sleep aids (Nonbenzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics)

Common sleep aids include: zolpidem (Ambien), Eszopiclone (Lunesta) and zaleplon (Sonata).

Sleep aids may be prescribed as part of a treatment plan for insomnia, sleep-related issues and mild anxiety. Sleep aids affect the body in a similar way to benzodiazapines, with a sedative effect that also dampens activity in parts of the brain that involve the transfer of memories from short-term to long-term. They can cause amnesia, and for some they may occasionally trigger dangerous or unusual behaviors. Sleep aids can be addictive, and sudden cessation can cause serious side effects and withdrawal symptoms. It is important to consult with a health professional before reducing or stopping sleep aids.

7. Narcotic painkillers (opioid analgesics)

Common narcotic painkillers include: hydrocodone (Norco, Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet), Fentanyl (Duragesic), hydromorphone (Dilaudid, Exalgo), and morphine (Astramorph, Avinza).

Narcotic painkillers are prescribed to relieve moderate to severe pain, such as post-surgery pain, severe nerve pain, and pain caused by chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Opioid analgesics work in two ways: 1) by stopping the flow of pain signals in the central nervous system, and 2) by dulling the body’s emotional reaction to pain. The chemical messengers that are involved in long and short-term memory are also affected by narcotic painkillers, and memory loss may become a problem with extended use.

8. Parkinson’s drugs (Dopamine agonists)

Common Parkinson’s drugs include: Ropinirole (Requip), pramipexole (Mirapex) and apomorphine (Apokyn).

These drugs are prescribed as part of a treatment plan for Parkinson’s disease, restless legs syndrome (RLS) and some pituitary tumors. Parkinson’s drugs affect the neurotransmitter dopamine, a chemical messenger that plays a role in learning and memory, motivation, pleasure and fine motor control. Major side effects can include memory loss, confusion, hallucinations, drowsiness and compulsive behaviors.

9. Antihistamines

Common antihistamines include: diphenhydramine (Benadryl), clemastine (Tavist), Brompheniramine (Dimetane), hydroxyzine (Vistaril), carbinoxamine (Clistin) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton). *Loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are also common antihistamines, however they do not have the same impact on memory and cognitive function.

Antihistamines are used as part of a treatment plan to help relieve and/or prevent cold or allergy symptoms. Antihistamines may also be prescribed to treat or prevent motion sickness, nausea, dizziness, vomiting and insomnia. Both prescription and over-the-counter antihistamines inhibit the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, a chemical messenger that helps to control a wide range of bodily functions. Antihistamines can suppress activity in the memory and learning areas of the brain, leading to forgetfulness and memory loss.

10. Incontinence drugs (Anticholinergics)

Common incontinence drugs include: Oxybutynin (Ditropan XL, Gelnique, Oxytrol), tolterodine (Detrol), Darifenacin (Enablex), solifenacin (Vesicare) and trospium (Sanctura).

Incontinence drugs may be prescribed as part of a treatment plan for overactive bladder or urge incontinence. Anticholergenics help reduce episodes of urge incontinence: a sudden, intense urge to urinate quickly followed by the involuntary loss of urine. These drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in either inhibiting or exciting various bodily functions – such as activating muscles or lowering heart rate. Anticholinergics help prevent involuntary contractions of the bladder muscles that control urine flow. They also suppress activity in the memory and learning areas of the brain, resulting in memory loss over time.

In addition to incontinence drugs, a variety of over-the-counter incontinence products can play an important role in the treatment plan. Adult protective underwear or diapers, pads or panty liners can help individuals to manage their symptoms with dignity. These products can be worn comfortably and discreetly under normal clothing, providing security and peace of mind by eliminating the risk of embarrassing accidents.

For more information about products to help manage incontinence, visit TotalHomeCareSupplies.com, or try the Total Home Care Supplies Bladder Matters blog.

Fish Oil Supplements May Increase Brain Mass, Protect Against Alzheimers

Posted by Brooke Phillips on January 24, 2014 under Resources | Be the First to Comment

Long-Term Study Links Omega-3s and Brain Health

A recently released study by the University of South Dakota shows a strong link between fish oil supplements and reduced risk of Alzheimer’s. According to their research, people with higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids have larger brain volume. This discovery is particularly exciting because shrinking brain volume among the elderly is frequently associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

The eight-year study involved more than 1,100 post-menopausal women who gave blood samples and underwent MRI scans to study their brain volumes. Researchers studied the correlation between omega-3s and brain volume, since the human brain is known to be rich in DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids. Fish and fish oil are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, although they can be found in a few plant-based sources as well, such as flax seeds and chia seeds.

Not only did women with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood have greater brain mass, but the volume was noticeably increased in the hippocampus – a region of the brain that is directly related to the progression of dementia.

For more information, visit FoxNews.com/Health.

Alzheimers and Incontinence

Over time, the damage to the brain caused by Dementia and Alzheimer’s disrupts the signals sent to the central nervous system and to the bladder and bowels. As the disease progresses, these faulty signals eventually lead to urinary and fecal incontinence.

For many people, discussing incontinence and incontinence products can be embarrassing or even shameful. However, with proper management, the lives of those affected – and their caregivers – can greatly improve. Proper management includes finding the right product to meet your loved one’s needs. There are many products available to help contain urine and feces while protecting tender skin and preserving dignity.

To learn more about the incontinence products we offer, visit our Bladder Matters Blog, or visit the Total Home Care Supplies Web Store.

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