Lauren Beyenhof
Lauren Beyenhof is an environmental scientist and professional freelance writer.
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- 10/26/2006
Education/Experience
college graduateInterests
air quality, health and nutrition, cystic fibrosis, spirituality, protestantism, environmental scienceAffiliations
San Diego Christian Writers Guild, Air & Waste Management Association, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation VolunteerFavorites
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Displaying Results 1 - 58 (of 58) for All Content
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I Dared God to Find YouA poem written for my husband
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An Overview of Alcoholism: A Basic Look at How it Affects the BodyAlcohol, or at least some forms of fermented drink, have been around as long as humans have. Historically it has been used for antiseptics, mood alteration and even disinfectant.
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The Benefits of Exercising when You Have Cystic FibrosisThe risk of dehydration in patients with cystic fibrosis is a legitimate concern, however, it is not reason enough to exclude people with cystic fibrosis from participating in as many normal activities as possible. -
Cystic Fibrosis Can Cause Clubbing of the Fingertips and ToesFinger clubbing is a benign symptom of cystic fibrosis and other obstructive pulmonary diseases.
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Four Secrets to Living Well With Cystic FibrosisLife with cystic fibrosis is a challenge, and coping with it involves more than just a positive attitude. -
A Day in the Life of a CF PatientAside from all the medications and airway clearance treatments, a day in my life as a cystic fibrosis patient really isn't that different from anyone else's day. -
How to Control Cystic FibrosisControlling cystic fibrosis is an ongoing challenge. By making a habit of incorporating the five different aspects of control in this article, life with cystic fibrosis becomes that much easier.
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Top 5 Myths About Cystic FibrosisAs doctors have learned more about cystic fibrosis, common misconceptions about the disease have been debunked.
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Understanding B. CepaciaB. Cepacia is an easily transmissible pathogen that affects a small populations of cystic fibrosis patients. This article outlines the history of the bacteria and ways to prevent its spread in a clinical setting.
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Bowel Movements in Cystic FibrosisCystic fibrosis patients with pancreatic insufficiency should be especially aware of all things related to their digestive process, and be able to identify what's normal for them and what isn't.
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Anti-Anxiety Medications for Cystic Fibrosis PatientsWhen panic and anxiety attacks interfere with a cystic fibrosis patient's ability to remain compliant with their treatment program, it may be time to look into medical treatment.
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Coping with Home Infusion Therapy for Cystic FibrosisMany cystic fibrosis patients are well-seasoned professionals when it comes to managing the schedule of home IV therapy; for the newly diagnosed or parents who are learning the home IV routine for the first time, it can all be a bit overwhelming. -
No Limits on Activities for Children with Cystic FibrosisChildren with CF can and should do as much physical activity as their healthy peers do. Regular exercise, especially anything that gets the heart rate elevated and forces a child to breathe more forcefully is a good way to improve lung health.
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How We Breathe: Understanding Oxygenation of the BloodOne of the main functions of the lungs is to oxygenate a person's blood. In patients with cystic fibrosis, the thick, sticky mucus that blocks the airways, bronchioles and alveoli greatly impedes the body's ability to perform the function of gas exchange. -
Nasogastric (NG) Tube Feeding for Cystic FibrosisApproximately 30% of cystic fibrosis patients are malnourished. One way to replenish the body with energy it needs to fight infection is to undergo nutritional rehabilitation.
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The Link Between Nutrition and Exercise in Cystic FibrosisLungs aren't the only organs affected by the thick, sticky mucus that cystic fibrosis produces. Studies show that better overall nutritional status contributes to better lung function. -
The Link Between Cystic Fibrosis and DepressionMany individuals with chronic illness or disease are likely to experience emotional problems such as depression or anxiety. Poor physical health can lead to psychological distress, and vice versa.
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Blood Work: Understanding BUN and CreatinineIn order to determine kidney function, a blood test called the BUN Creatinine is performed. BUN stands for blood urine nitrogen. It measures how much urea is present in the bloodstream. -
MRSA and CAMRSA: What You Need to KnowMethicillin Resistant Staph Aureus (MRSA) is commonly acquired in hospitals. This article explains what MRSA is and how to protect yourself against this formidable bacteria. -
Lindsay Wadleigh, San Diego American Idol Hopeful, Raises Awareness for Cystic FibrosisLocal San Diego girl, Lindsay Wadleigh recently auditioned for American Idol. In this interview she talks about her personal struggle with cystic fibrosis and how she's making a positive difference by using her voice to increase awareness of this life-shortening disease. -
My Person Experience with Nocturnal Oxygen Desaturation (NOD)Patients with chronic respiratory conditions may experience low levels of oxygen in their blood, especially when at rest. This article is about my experience with an overnight oxygen study. -
Allergic Broncho-Pulmonary Aspergilliosis (ABPA)This article defines ABPA and outlines the treatments available to keep it under control. -
Cystic Fibrosis and My College ExperienceThe pursuit of higher education is a challenge. My experience was even more challenging because I have cystic fibrosis (CF). This article is just a brief description of how I learned to balance my health and academics.
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What is a Hemoglobin A1c Blood Test?One of the blood tests that helps determine the concentration of glucose (blood sugar) in the body is the hemoglobin a1c. This test goes by a variety of names including HbA1c, glycated hemoglobin, or glycosylated hemoglobin. It is part of the screening process for diabetes.
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Bone Mineral Density and Cystic FibrosisA DEXA scan is a simple procedure that is useful for determining whether a cystic fibrosis (CF) patient is at risk for developing osteoporosis.
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Pancreatic Enzyme SupplementsMany cystic fibrosis patients demonstrate pancreatic insufficiency. This leads to issues of malabsorption and poor nutritional status. A number of prescription enzyme supplements are available to help the body absorb more vitamins and minerals.
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Understanding PICC LinesPICC lines are commonly placed for people who require intravenous therapy. This article describes what the process is of having the line placed, and answers frequently asked questions about having a PICC line.
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Reasons Behind Our Decision Not to Have Children: Leave, Cleave, Conceive?Are couples without children somehow less blessed? Are they selfish for not wanting to bear children? In this article I discuss how we arrived at our difficult decision to forgo parenthood.
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Preventing Lung Exacerbations in Cystic FibrosisThis article gives a brief overview of some of the most commonly prescribed medications used to prevent pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients.
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Depression, Vitamins and Chronic IllnessPeople who have difficulty absorbing nutrients from their food are more likely to suffer from depression. Studies have demonstrated that there is indeed a link between vitamin B deficiency and the incidence of depression.
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Signs, Symptoms, Causes and Treatments of Obsessive Compulsive DisorderThis article presents a brief overview of what is currently known about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Down-to-earth language and descriptions will help enlighten the lay-person about the condition.
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Food Additives, Preservatives, and Whether Organic is BestMost mainstream commercial-grade food products contain additives of some sort. America has the safest and most quality controlled food in the world.
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Household Cleaning Products and the EnvironmentBefore you stock your cupboards with every household cleaning product available, take a moment to consider the long-term effects of the common chemicals we use so recklessly.
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Understanding SpirometryThe most common test used to evaluate how well the lungs are functioning is spirometry. Specifically, spirometry measures how quickly air moves in and out of the lungs.
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Teamwork in the Work EnvironmentThe number one rule in being a team player involves knowing your place on the team. Where do you fit in? What is it that makes your particular involvement a vital aspect of the project and crucial component in completing the team's objective?
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Understanding Hemoptysis in Cystic FibrosisA complication of CF involving the lungs is hemoptysis. In its simplest definition, hemoptysis is blood in the sputum. When it happens for the first time, hemoptysis is more than a little frightening. Hemoptysis is usually a symptom of something else going on in the lugs.
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Diagnosing Cystic Fibrosis: How a Sweat Test is DoneTo date, the most reliable way to diagnose CF is analysis of the sweat for amount of chloride (salt) it contains.
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Cystic Fibrosis Steals Time and Breath from MeThis is a written transcript of my speech given at the Cystic Fibrosis Spring Gala.
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Understanding PneumothoraxPneumothorax is the technical term for a collapsed lung. In the event of a collapsed lung or suspected pneumothorax medical attention must be sought immediately.
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How CT Scans WorkThe next time your doctor orders a CT scan, you'll already know how they work without having to ask.
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Redrawing the Evolutionary DiagramThanks to the efforts of Mark Stoneking and his colleagues at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, the old evolutionary model of a stooped skeleton progressively leading towards a more anatomically recognizable form, is going the way of the Dodo.
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Beginner's Basics of an At-Home ManicureInstead of spending the extra time and money, making and keeping an appointment at the local nail salon, consider saving yourself the trip by making this deliciously feminine part of your private primping. Instructions provided are for the novice nail artist.
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New Standard Jazz Trio Heats Up the San Diego Jazz SceneAs any jazz aficionado knows, improvisational skills are key when it comes to putting a fresh face and a stylistic spin on the standards of yesterday. The guys of San Diego's New Standard Jazz Trio do just that, applying captivating creativity with impressive technique.
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California's Produce CrisisGrocery chain owners who had already braced themselves for the typical winter shortages were dumbfounded at the news that nearly $1 billion of California crops were completely decimated.
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A Candid Look at One Woman's Private Struggle with TrichotillomaniaIn order to learn more about chonic hair pulling or Trichotillomania, and its overall bearing on one's self-esteem, I spent some time with Rachel (not her actual name). She allowed me a glimpse into her life, and the daily struggles of this little-known psychosis.
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An Unexpected KissI had always daydreamed about what it would be like when I finally had a Valentine. The man who is now my husband got my attention in a very special way with an unexpected kiss.
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Cystic Fibrosis and Goal-SettingShould a person with Cystic Fibrosis aim high? Absolutely! Of course. Should that person continually keep setting higher goals? That all depends on the goals that are being made.
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Busalacchi's Ristorante-Best Spot for a Romantic Dinner in San DiegoBusalacchi's Ristorante welcomes its guests with unquestionable hospitality and a definitively creative flair. From start to finish, the dining experience at Busalacchi's is one of the best that Hillcrest has to offer.
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Progression, Treatment and Prevention of Bowel Obstruction in Cystic Fibrosis PatientsAdequate nutrition for persons with cystic fibrosis is an ongoing battle, made even more complicated by things like bowel obstruction and malabsorption.
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Hidden Danger of Particle BoardFormaldehyde is an indoor air pollutant emitted from manufactured wood products. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America identifies these products as a potential health risk.
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Cystic Fibrosis and the Battle Against BacteriaPeople with cystic fibrosis must be constantly vigilant to avoid infection. Even in the home, dangerous bacteria are present. This article describes where bacteria thrive and how to get rid of it.
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Your Help is Needed to Find a Cure for Cystic FibrosisThe Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) has plenty of events planned for 2007. Check out how you can get involved and help find a cure for this devastating disease.
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Antibiotic Overkill: Why Less is More when Using Certain Types of Cleaning Products'Tis the season for a cold, flu, or any other chilly-weather malady. Certainly no one wants to be sick around the holidays, but are all those antibacterial products really the answer to warding off the germies? This author says...probably not.
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What You Need to Know About Household Hazardous Waste and RecyclingDoes the phrase "hazardous waste" bring to mind an image of a large metal drum oozing radioactive sludge in an abandoned warehouse? It shouldn't. Certain types of hazardous waste are found in the home and must be recycled according to specific rules.
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Chlorinated Waters and Lung HealthChlorine is commonly used to disinfect drinking water and other water sources. However,exposure to this powerful chemical has been shown to impair lung function. This article describes the disinfection process, the benefits and risks to public health.
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Guide to Navigating a HMO as a Person with Chronic IllnessWritten from the point of view of someone who utilizes a HMO, this article includes tips for selecting healthcare coverage and proceeding to gain access to specialists. It also emphasizes the need to be your own advocate when it comes to insurance.
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A Day in the Life of an Adult with Cystic FibrosisManaging the daily rigors of cystic fibrosis (CF) requires diligence, discipline, and time management skills. This article presents a first-person point of view of what it's liken to contend with this incurable disease day in and day out.
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Limiting Exposure to Mold in the HomeA discussion of a growing indoor air quality issue - mold. This article discusses how persons with cystic fibrosis and allergies can limit their exposure to mold spores and reduce the instances of adverse health effects as a result.