Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 57

All About Raynaud’s Discorder

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Raynaud’s is a disorder that affects the arteries by restricting blood flow to toes and, most commonly, fingers. There are two types of Raynaud’s: primary and secondary.

Primary Raynaud’s (also called Raynaud’s disease) comes from an unknown origin and tends to be less severe than secondary Raynaud’s. Secondary Raynaud’s is sparked by another unknown illness, condition, or something else, often called Raynaud’s phenomenon. Causes of secondary Raynaud’s include:

  • Diseases/conditions that directly harm the arteries or nerves in the hands or feet
  • Damages to the arteries in the hands and feet caused by repetitive actions
  • Injuries to the hands and feet
  • Chemical exposures
  • Medicines that minimize blood pressure and narrow arteries

Raynaud’s attacks can be triggered by either cold temperatures or stress, marked by little- to no blood flow to the extremities. As flood flow diminishes, the skin might turn white and then blue for a short time. Once blood flow returns, the fingers (or toes) might turn red, throb, tingle, burn, or go numb.

People who have Raynaud’s typically do not experience long-term tissue damage or disability, though they can form skin sores or gangrene from extended attacks.

Roughly five percent of the American population experiences Raynaud’s, and for most, it’s a bother rather than a severe illness. Researchers continue to explore Raynaud’s.

Treatments for Raynaud’s include lifestyle changes, medicines, and in rare cases, surgery. Those with Raynaud’s can take preventative measures such as wearing a hat, mittens (not gloves), scarf, coat, and warm socks during cold weather. Warming up your surroundings before entering (warming up the car, for example) can help ease Raynaud’s. Avoiding stressful situations can also help reduce Raynaud’s symptoms. Certain medicines can be prescribed to Raynaud’s patients to minimize attacks as well.

Do you think you might suffer from Raynaud’s? Contact the experts at Michigan Hand & Wrist to schedule an appointment today.

Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Contact us today at www.michiganhandandwrist.com or call 248-596-0412.Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

MI Hand & Wrist

Firewood for Survival

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Firewood is an essential tool for survival. It’s common, renewable, and is instrumental for cooking food and staying warm. Apart from gathering a pile of twigs, dousing them in lighter fluid, and setting them ablaze, it takes a skilled outdoor enthusiast to create a proper fire.

The species of wood is important to note when it comes to firewood. Various wood types can behave differently while burning. Characteristics to look for in good firewood include ignition temperature, heat output, smoke produced, longevity, spitting, sparking, and popping. Softwoods, for instance, ignite easily, burn quickly, and work well as kindling.

Some of the best wood to use for firewood includes:

Black Locust
This excellent firewood exhibits a remarkable heat output by weight and generates a low amount of smoke. It’s perfect for wood-burning stoves or fireplaces, as it emits few sparks while lit.

Hickory
A close second, this firewood burns extremely hot and generates a minimal amount of smoke. The aroma of hickory is second-to-none and is often used in barbecues to infuse into food. Very few sparks are emitted from this firewood.

White Oak
The third option does not burn quite as hot as the first two, but it does produce less smoke. A modest amount of sparks are generated, and this wood is effortless to split. 

Try to avoid the following wood for firewood applications:

Elm
This firewood burns quickly and produces far less heat than most other woods. It’s also tough to split, generates a decent amount of smoke, and can be odorous when burned. Thankfully, it only produces a small amount of sparks.

Aspen
Second-worst on the list, this firewood produces low heat, high smoke, and lots of sparks. It can be burned in a pinch, but it’s definitely not the first choice.

Pine
Unless you are freezing to death, pine is probably not the type of wood you should use for firewood. When lit, it creates a massive amount of smoke, can cause buildup in chimneys, exudes tons of sparks, has a stinky odor, and produces a low amount of heat.

Firewood, check. Now all you need is supplies! Visit our online shop to browse our survival selection.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Wolf Survival Gear

Cold Weather and Your Vehicle’s Battery

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Did you know vehicle batteries are affected by cold weather? It’s true: crisp, frigid temperatures can wreak havoc on the battery cells. The battery functions thanks to a chemical reaction between the battery case. When cold, that reaction happens much more slowly or not at all. If the battery has aged or is too old, it could potentially die. 

Lead plates, water, and sulfuric acid comprise car batteries. There are two plates per battery cell. Four battery cells generate slightly over four volts of power. In total, a car battery generates 12.8 volts, which is enough power to start up your car. When the battery cannot generate the total voltage capacity, the car might have trouble starting up.

Accessories running on the battery (things you have plugged in) can make it even more difficult for your battery to function in the cold. Amenities such as heat, radio, and phone chargers will be apart of the initial drain when you start your car up. Leaving the headlights on or your trunk open can also leave your battery level at zero.

Maintaining a healthy battery during the winter means parking in a garage (not outside) whenever possible, insulating the battery with a device called a “battery blanket,” turning off the heat when exiting the vehicle, and unplugging electronic cords.

Are you noticing issues with your vehicle’s battery? Let the experts at Complete Auto Maintenance Centers test your battery to ensure you have the power you need.

Team CAMC is your Complete Auto Maintenance Center. For over 30 years, we have followed a single guiding principle: we never push or sell services a vehicle doesn’t need. Our team of trained technicians welcomes you like family and discusses all types of oil and fluid changes offered. Critical points are reviewed through a 13-point inspection to ensure your vehicle is ready for the next adventure on the road ahead. Contact us today to schedule the professional service you deserve from a team you trust.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Team CAMC

Four Reasons to Hire Professional Snow Removal Experts

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Snow accumulation can swiftly impede business operations, thereby hindering its success. Professional snow removal is vital to keep customers visiting your business and maintain a welcoming aesthetic. Read on to learn more reasons why professional snow removal shouldn’t be overlooked.

  1. Reduces expenses: Don’t waste your precious time – or energy – attempting to remove snow accumulation solo. Without expensive, heavy, and large equipment such as snow blowers, shovels, salt, or even a snowplow, removing snow on your own can be messy, time-consuming, and challenging.
  • Minimize injuries: Unfortunately, it’s common to hear about someone slipping on snow and ice during the winter. Millions of people fall yearly due to unsalted or un-cared-for pathways. Injuries are vast and include spinal fractures, strains, sprains, concussions, back pain, and more.
  • Liability: An unsafe environment for customers and employees can result in detrimental liability you might not be prepared for. Regular snow removal ensures you’re off the hook when it comes to liability. If there are no slip-and-fall accidents on your premises, you will be saved from costly expenses such as victim’s medical bills, lost wages, etc.
  • Employee access: If snow accumulates and employees cannot safely access the building, would your business survive? Professional snow removal can minimize lost time and provide an accessible way for your employees to enter your business. Don’t compromise your employees’ productivity by letting snow and ice accumulate on your property.

T&T Property maintenance specializes in commercial snow removal from areas such as entryways, parking lots, walkways, loading docks, sidewalks, and more. Contact us today to learn more!

T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Check out our website, call, or e-mail us today to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

T&T Property Maintenance

Six Ways to Extend EV Battery Range

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

We all know how to extend gas in our motor engine vehicles, but many people aren’t yet familiar with Electric Vehicles (EV.) Despite their gain in popularity, most EV owners don’t know much about extending battery life. Read on for some tips on how to extend your EV battery range.

  1. Capacity: Batteries are not cheap, but the bigger you can afford, the better. If the battery can hold more power, it can stretch a charge over a lengthy period. Especially while on long road trips or commuting to work, the last thing you want to do is stop and charge your EV. Interrupting your day for a recharge might be more inconvenient than paying for a bigger battery capacity to begin with.
  • Acceleration: Just as with gasoline cars, putting the pedal to the metal can noticeably burn through battery life. While driving, try to maintain a decent, consisitant pace to conserve energy.
  • Tires: When combustion vehicle owners get their oil changed, the tires are generally checked or rotated. With EVs, the absence of an engine means no visits to mechanic shops. Set a reminder to check your tires every couple of months to ensure the battery will run more efficiently.
  • Trunk: Extra weight in an EV will force the battery to work harder. If you put something heavy in your vehicle, make sure you remove it as soon as possible. Store extra items in your garage if you want your battery range to go the distance.
  • Garage: Battery-powered items should not be left in the cold. This goes for all batteries, including lawnmowers, power tools, etc. EVs abide by the same rules. Cold temperatures can decrease the range of an EV. Keeping the battery plugged in (if outside) helps, but the best solution is to store your EV in the garage.

Are you considering buying an EV and need a charger installed? Contact the experts at State Electric Company today to learn how we can help.

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge in renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs.  

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

State Electric Co.

Better Verbal Communication for Superior Glaucoma Treatment

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Patient-physician discussions are vital for treatment and education, but a new study shows that better communication may also be a valuable tool for determining the severity of glaucoma disease.

“One specific challenge in communicating about glaucoma is that the treating physician doesn’t fully grasp what the patient sees and the words they might use to describe these visual symptoms,” the researchers said. Better communication helps physicians understand the patient’s vision concerns.

One hundred seventy adults diagnosed with glaucoma were analyzed. Questionnaires rated visual symptoms, and the most notable cases were identified. Eye damage was reported in patients who experienced blurry vision, sensitivity to light, glare, cloudy vision, and poor peripheral vision. Those who exhibited the most significant variance in vision (43 percent) were people who complained of little peripheral vision.

Researchers noted there was a 62 percent variance in eye damage. Symptoms described by patients coincided with glaucoma. The information can help judge glaucoma in clinical settings.

“These symptoms suggest specific terms that are likely to reflect glaucoma damage, which can be used when communicating with patients,” said researchers.

“Missing patches can point to glaucomatous scotomas, cloudy vision can be understood as the manifestation of contrast deficits which underlie glaucoma, and worsening vision may reflect eyesight severity because of a greater rate of worsening in severe disease. Reporting worsening vision may also reflect the clinically-observed tendency of subjective vision to fluctuate more in advanced glaucoma, resulting in days of worsening, though some corresponding days of improvement would also be present,” said researchers.

Good communication can help physicians understand patient symptoms, strengthen relationships between the two, and enable patients to understand the impact of eyesight diseases on their life.

The researchers said, “Understanding what symptoms patients with severe glaucoma experience is uniquely important, as they may feel frustrated completing visual testing or lose faith in treatment due to their limited vision. If physicians demonstrate an understanding of what specific symptoms are related to severe glaucoma and the impact on a patient’s vision, they may be able to better develop therapeutic alliances with patients.”

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 or visit https://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Michigan Lasik

Signs of Dehydration

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Water is an essential aspect of our lives; we drink, bathe, cleanse, and use water daily. The chemistry of life is based on water; over 60 percent of the human body is made up of water.

In the human body, water is necessary for vital functions, including:

  • Manufacturing hormones
  • Creating saliva
  • Keeping mucus membranes moist
  • Allowing the body’s cells to grow and reproduce
  • Regulating body temperature
  • Acting as a shock absorber for the spinal cord and brain
  • Flushing body waste
  • Maintaining a sufficient electrolyte balance
  • Lubricating joints
  • Digesting food
  • Delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body
  • Running most body parts

Despite being made up of so much water, the human body can only produce about eight percent of the water necessary for survival, meaning 92 percent has to be ingested through food and beverages. Moreover, we lose an average of three liters of water every day by sweating, breathing, and using the restroom. Therefore, we need to constantly replenish our water supply throughout the day.

There are various recommendations for water intake, ranging from 68 to 91 fluid ounces per day for women and 85 to 125 fluid ounces for adult males. A hydration calculator by Hydration for Health takes different factors into account to ensure your water intake is accurate.

Unfortunately, many people throughout the United States fall below the recommended daily intake. Sugary beverages (pop, fruit juice, energy drinks, coffee, tea, alcohol, etc.) are all diuretics, which deplete water from the body.

Consequently, symptoms of dehydration are rampant throughout the country, and most people do not even realize it. Signs of dehydration include:

  • Brain fog
  • Mood swings
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Sleepiness
  • Lack of energy
  • Headaches
  • Constipation

Effects of dehydration can persist despite replenishing water, so it’s important to stay adequately hydrated at all times.

To improve the water quality in your home or business, contact the experts at Reynolds Water today.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at www.reynoldswater.com or call 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Reynolds Water

Owners Can Now Repair Imaging Devices

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A final rule was recently granted by the federal government that allows medical imaging equipment owners to repair their machines without intervention from the maker. This new rule shatters a copyright barrier that was previously in place.

An exemption to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) allows servicers to work around medical device security controls for the purpose of accessing software required to maintain or restore the system. The Copyright Office Registrar recommended the Library of Congress move forward with the change.

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance represents the original imaging equipment manufacturers and released a statement saying the recommendation to move forward will lead to “unnecessary safety and security risks” for patients.

In a statement, President and CEO of Avante Health Solutions said, “This is significant to healthcare systems looking for affordable options to maintain and repair expensive medical equipment and associated devices. Avante is thrilled, as this ruling builds on the FDA’s recognition of the merits and safety of the services provided by independent service organizations.”

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) outlined that manufacturers are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and independent technicians are not held to the same standards as they have a lower amount of scrutiny associated with their position.

Moreover, the alliance also voiced concern over whether manufacturers’ intellectual property would be exposed to the public, which would be detrimental to the industry.

“MITA Executive Director Patrick Hope said, “If this recommendation is ultimately accepted and implemented, it would amount to a license for unregulated third-party servicers to hack sensitive technology, creating grievous cybersecurity and patient safety risks. We intend to continue to advocate against this misguided approach.”

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

RadParts

Pool Installations and Renovations Increase in 2021

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During the pandemic, many homeowners re-discovered their backyards. Prospective pool owners had them installed, while those who already had pools chose to renovate.

During 2020, pool installations jumped 24 percent, according to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. Some pool installation and renovation companies are booking well into 2023.

If you have been considering a pool renovation, act now and schedule today. Some factors to consider prior to renovating or building a pool include:

Water Type
Chlorinated, saltwater, or neither? You’ve undoubtedly heard the difference between the different types of pool cleansers, but have you heard of all-natural? BioNova is cleaned and maintained by biological filters: plants. Without chemicals, UV, or ozone, biofilm filters pools naturally and effectively.

Materials
There are several different types of pool materials, including concrete, gunite, fiberglass, etc. Each finish affects the design’s overall durability, installation timetable, and maintenance costs.

Color
Shades of grey have been popular in homes and, you guessed it, pools. Natural surroundings are more apparent and better reflected with darker shades, specifically.

Pool Surround
Pools can be minimalist, old-fashioned, modern, or more. The area surrounding a pool is imperative to setting the mood. Quartz, limestone, concrete pavers, grass, artificial turf, etc., can be used to create a specific look.

Accessories
Hot tubs, spas, covers, heaters, cleaners, and so much more are all helpful to minimize pool maintenance. LED lights are also ideal for nighttime swims, waterfalls, jets, etc., to accompany the dazzling display of moving water.

Are you ready to renovate your pool or want to learn more? Contact the pool renovation experts at Pound Pool Plastering today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Pound Pool Plastering

Electrician Pay is Increasing

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The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported higher wages for electricians throughout 2020. The average salary was $61,550, with the median hourly pay being $29.59 per hour. The wages of electricians across the United States were analyzed, including apprentices who typically get paid less than experienced electricians. The national average was $60,370 in 2019 and $51,190 in 2018.

Areas with large populations and dense cities are generally where the most significant number of electricians reside. There are 78,970 electricians employed in New York City, Los Angeles, and Dallas combined.

The states that employ the highest number of electricians are:

  • California (71,010)
  • Texas (60,890)
  • Florida (41,900)
  • New York (36,310)
  • Ohio (23,430)

Higher demand for electricians results in a superior standard of pay for those in that area. Each state’s cost of living is also factored in, which results in higher averages in certain regions. Chicago, New York City, and Washington, D.C. have somewhat elevated costs of living.

The states that pay the highest wages for electricians are:

  • Illinois ($81,650)
  • New York ($81,340)
  • Hawaii ($79,030)
  • District of Columbia ($79,030)
  • Oregon ($76,040)

The industries that employ the most electricians are:

  • Building Equipment Contractors (477,560)
  • Employment Services (21,160)
  • Local Government (13,780)

The highest-paying industries for electricians are:

  • Natural Gas Distribution ($106,280)
  • Land Subdivision ($99,780)
  • Technical/Trade Schools ($93,260)

According to the Electricians: Occupational Outlook Handbook, the employment of electricians is expected to expand by 8 percent by 2029, which is twice as fast as the average for all occupations. The introduction of alternative energy such as wind, solar, and battery power provides emerging work for electricians.

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical equipment company. At J&P, we supply contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, ducts, panel switches, substations, and transformers. Call us at 877-844-5514 or visit us at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

J & P Electrical Company