Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable yet annually many people succumb to extreme heat. People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to compensate and properly cool themselves. The body normally cools itself by sweating. But under some conditions, sweating just isn't enough. In such cases, a person's body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs.
Do you have questions about nutrition you would like answered by an expert? Carlene Thomas is our campus resource to answer any questions you may have! Contact Carlene about any allergies, weight control, healthy eating, chronic illness management, and more! Her email is umbcrd@umbc.edu.
UHS's medical director, Dr. Verlyn Warrington, will be leaving UMBC for another position out of state. Her last day in the office is Friday, June 14, 2013. If Dr. Warrington is listed as your primary care doctor, please contact your insurance company to switch to Dr. Vivienne Rose, or another doctor of your choosing. Contact the front desk of University Health Services if you have any additional questions at (410) 455-2542.
Quitting smoking is no easy task, so it's important to be aware of all the resources and assistance available to you on campus. All of these resources are free to students, faculty, and staff:
Preparing to Quit This is a 1-hour, one session, program for those that are unsure if they are ready to quit smoking. During this session, participants will weigh the pros and cons of quitting, identify what resources are available to them, and learn about the benefits that come with quitting. There is no commitment to quit required for those that attend and this program is also open to the public. Freedom From Smoking This is a seven week program designed to help people quit smoking through positive behavior change and helping participants develop their own plan on how to quit. In eight 1-hour sessions, you'll learn about reducing stress, cravings and withdrawal symptoms, how to control your weight while resisting the urge to smoke, and more. Nicotine Replacement Therapy and Chantix (with prescription) are available for eligible cessation class participants. This program is also open to the public.
1-1 Counseling Nurse Practitioners and Physicians at University Health Services are available to meet with individuals to discuss quitting. You can have a private conversation about how quitting will affect your health. If you are eligible for Nicotine Replacement Therapy or Chantix, these options are available. These visits arefree and can be made by appointment by calling 410-455-2542.
Quit Smoking Medications There are many quit smoking medications available to the public. It is up to you and your physician to decide which may be best for you. University Health Services offers the nicotine patch, nicotine gum, nicotine lozenge, and the prescription Chantix. Each medication has its pros and cons and not everyone will experience the same results. If you are interested in trying a quit smoking medication to help you quit, you can make an appointment at University Health Services or attend a Freedom From Smoking class.
For more information on any of the above topics, please call 410-455-1558, email mdark1@umbc.edu, or visit www.umbc.edu/uhs.