Digestive Health Monthly - September 2018
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Whether you are living with the daily challenges of a chronic gastrointestinal (GI) disorder or know someone who is, your voice is needed to create change!
This month, we're exploring the idea of change and how you can proactively work to create positive change in your own life and for the millions of others affected by a chronic GI condition. Whether by contacting your House Member of Congress to create change in Washington; having a conversation about your health and wellness needs with a healthcare professional, family member, or friend; or making a change in how you approach your treatment goals, in September, take the change challenge and do one thing that makes a difference for yourself or others.
Together, we can make changes that make a difference!
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September is Pain Awareness Month
8 tips for managing chronic pain
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Chronic pain afflicts an estimated 30 to 50 million Americans and is the number one reason individuals seek medical care. Chronic pain can lead to disability and profound emotional suffering, preventing those affected from participating in personal and professional activities.
But, there are things you can do to help. If you are suffering with chronic pain, it's important to work with your doctor or other healthcare provider to develop a pain management plan that works for you.
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Write a Letter, Change the World
Make your voice heard in Washington
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During the month of September, join us in making your voice heard by your House Members of Congress. Write a letter or draw a picture sharing your personal experience with a chronic GI disorder and the need for greater research funding into treatments and cures through the
Functional GI & Motility Disorders Research Enhancement Act
, HR 1187.
On IFFGD's Advocacy Day, September 26th, we'll hand deliver your letters to your Representative, maximizing the impact of our message - that
research must happen NOW!
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Diabetes in America
NIDDK releases a new update
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With over 110 million Americans currently affected or at risk for developing diabetes, the disease touches just about everyone. Uncontrolled, diabetes can cause damage to the eyes, kidneys, heart, and even the GI tract.
Launched this month by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), the third edition of
Diabetes in America provides a comprehensive update on diabetes and its complications, including how it affects the GI tract.
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Becoming Savvy About Health Info
Learn how to evaluate health information in the media and online
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As health information becomes increasingly available, more and more people are finding answers to their health questions online and through the media. While these resources can give you access to the latest research studies, news on emerging treatments, and helpful health tips, they are also a common source for exaggerated cures, contradictions, and plainly misleading information. And, telling good information from bad can be a challenge.
But, by watching out for a few common 'red flags' you can weed out unreliable health information and become a more savvy health consumer.
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Lifestyle Changes for GERD
Get tips for reducing reflux and heartburn
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Lifestyle changes mean modifying things we have control over. While diet and lifestyle do not cause gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), reflux and heartburn can be aggravated by foods, certain medications, excess weight, and even posture.
But, you don't have to change everything! By making just a few, small changes you can help reduce your symptoms and start to feel better.
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Clinical trials and research studies are important to improving our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of diseases and developing new and better treatments. By participating in a study, you can help advance research and learn more about your condition.
Here are 3 studies currently recruiting participants:
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All Functional GI Disorders
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Researchers at Macquarie University are seeking individuals with a functional GI disorder to participate in a patient registry.
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Individuals with rare genetic disorders are being sought to donate blood samples to the Human Genetic Cell Repository Program.
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IFFGD is a nonprofit organization. We rely on donor support to fund research and to provide reliable information and support to those affected by chronic gastrointestinal disorders.
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IFFGD | 414-964-1799 | iffgd@iffgd.org | www.iffgd.org
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