How Remote Patient Monitoring is Improving Substance Abuse Care?

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) plays a critical role in substance abuse care by providing continuous health data monitoring and immediate response capability. Key components of an effective RPM system include real-time monitoring of vital signs, medication adherence tracking, and the ability to communicate and engage with patients in their recovery journey seamlessly. This technology has proven particularly useful for managing chronic conditions, and now it’s making a significant impact on substance abuse care.

This real-time interaction allows healthcare providers to detect early signs of relapse and take prompt action, potentially preventing a full-blown relapse. By offering a constant connection between patients and their healthcare providers, RPM ensures that help is always at hand, leading to a safer and more effective treatment process.

Substance Abuse Care Areas Benefiting from RPM

1. Detoxification: RPM ensures real-time monitoring of withdrawal symptoms, enhancing patient safety during detox.

2. Rehabilitation: RPM tracks progress and helps detect early signs of relapse, aiding effective rehabilitation.

3. Outpatient Treatment: Maintaining constant patient-provider contact, RPM supports outpatient programs by monitoring health and behavior changes.

4. Medication-Assisted Treatment: RPM assists in monitoring medication adherence, response, and side effects in MAT programs.

5. Therapy and Counseling: Used with virtual therapy, RPM provides therapists with insights into patients’ well-being to adjust therapy plans.

6. Aftercare Programs: RPM aids in aftercare by monitoring ongoing recovery progress and quickly identifying potential relapse signs.

The Impact of Remote Patient Monitoring in Substance Abuse Care

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) is transforming substance abuse care in several ways:

  • Enhanced Accessibility: RPM offers healthcare services to patients in remote locations, breaking geographical barriers.
  • Increased Patient Engagement: RPM promotes real-time interaction between patients and healthcare providers, motivating patients to stick to their treatment plans.
  • Early Intervention: Continuous monitoring allows for early detection of relapse signs, enabling immediate intervention.
  • Cost Efficiency: By reducing the need for frequent hospital visits and allowing early intervention, RPM can potentially lower healthcare costs.
  • Comprehensive Care: RPM can help provide a more holistic view of a patient’s health. By tracking a variety of health metrics, healthcare providers can gain valuable insights into a patient’s overall wellbeing, not just their substance use. This can lead to more comprehensive and effective treatment plans.
  • Anonymity: RPM can provide a sense of anonymity for patients who might feel stigma or shame associated with substance abuse treatment. This anonymity can make it easier for some patients to seek help.

RPM is redefining substance abuse care. In addition to enhancing accessibility, increasing patient engagement, allowing for early intervention, and improving cost efficiency, RPM also offers comfort, anonymity, comprehensive care, and improved communication, further amplifying its transformative potential in substance abuse care.

Conclusion

The integration of RPM into substance abuse care holds great potential for improving patient outcomes.  As technology advances, substance abuse centers should explore and adopt RPM as a transformative tool, ultimately helping individuals achieve lasting recovery and healthier lives.

Explore our Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) solution for more information. 


References

Pharmanewsintel.com. (n.d.). How Can Remote Patient Monitoring Improve OUD Care? Retrieved from https://pharmanewsintel.com/features/how-can-remote-patient-monitoring-improve-oud-care
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator. Retrieved from https://dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/directory.aspx

Why Remote Patient Monitoring is Critical for Offshore Emergency Response

In today’s rapidly advancing healthcare landscape, remote patient monitoring (RPM) has emerged as a vital tool for providing timely and accurate medical intervention.

From offshore oil rigs to sea vessels, where a patient with life-threatening injuries may be a long way from an ambulance response, timely access to medical help becomes a significant challenge. That’s where Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) comes into play. This article explores the importance of RPM in offshore emergency response, highlighting its benefits and successful case studies.


Offshore Emergency Response Challenges

Offshore emergency response situations come with their own set of challenges. The isolation and distance from traditional healthcare facilities make it difficult to provide timely medical assistance.

In some situations, a helicopter needs to be called in to airlift the patient to a hospital on land, but even then, the patient will need care while they wait

Additionally, limited resources and space constraints on offshore platforms further complicate healthcare delivery. The significance of prompt and accurate medical intervention in these situations cannot be overstated.


The Role of Remote Patient Monitoring in Offshore Emergency Response

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) plays a crucial role in offshore emergency response. RPM utilizes advanced technologies to remotely monitor patients’ vital signs in real-time, going beyond facilitating remote examination and communication between doctors on shore and patients on the oil rig.

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) enables seamless collaboration between the remote doctor and on-site support staff, ensuring comprehensive care until the helicopter arrives for transport. By integrating emergency equipment and devices, critical data is collected and transmitted accurately, enabling prompt medical intervention and reducing the risk of complications.

Relevant Medical Devices

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for Remote Patient Monitoring

AEDs are portable devices designed to deliver an electric shock to the heart in cases of cardiac arrest.

PATIENT MONITORS


Bedside patient monitors capture continuous vitals such as Non-invasive blood pressure, ECG, SpO2, Temperature, Respiration rate, End-tidal CO2 and Invasive blood pressure.

ULTRASOUND PROBE


Portable ultrasound probes provide real-time imaging, enabling medical professionals to assess internal structures


Successful Case Study: Offshore Telemedicine Emergency Service

In the study “Offshore telemedicine emergency service: a 1-year experience,” researchers investigated telemedical emergency care feasibility in offshore wind farms on the North Sea, where access to medical care is limited.

The researchers established a telemedical integration system that transmitted vital parameters (such as ECG, blood pressure, and saturation) from the offshore location to a telemedicine center. They utilized a satellite connection on a supply ship for data transfer via WLAN.

The project’s results demonstrated the feasibility of offshore telemedical support for on-site rescue service personnel using raw data transmission. Both test scenarios and actual patient care confirmed the successful implementation of telemedicine in this remote setting. However, reliable transmission depended on defined areas with WLAN coverage, ensuring a 100% success rate.


Conclusion

The importance of remote patient monitoring in offshore emergency response cannot be underestimated. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) platforms offer real-time monitoring, early detection of health issues, and prompt medical intervention, thereby ensuring the well-being of offshore workers. Successful case studies further emphasize the positive outcomes achieved through RPM implementations, including significantly improved offshore emergency response outcomes and safeguarded the health and well-being of offshore workers.

Embracing RPM platforms is not only a step towards enhancing safety but also a testament to the commitment of organizations in prioritizing the health and welfare of their remote workforce.

Explore our Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) solution for more information. 


References

The Journal of mHealth: “Offshore Telemedicine: How Oil Rigs Keep Workers Safe at Sea.” Available at: https://thejournalofmhealth.com/offshore-telemedicine-how-oil-rigs-keep-workers-safe-at-sea/
BMJ Open: “Offshore telemedicine emergency service: a 1-year experience.” Available at: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/9/8/e027563
Wind Systems Magazine: “Preparing for a Wind Farm Emergency.” Available at: https://www.windsystemsmag.com/preparing-for-a-wind-farm-emergency/
Maritime and Coastguard Agency: “Medical Kits.” Available at: https://www.msos.org.uk/medical-kits

How Remote Patient Monitoring is Revitalizing Nursing Home Care

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) has emerged as a powerful tool to enhance patient outcomes and revolutionize the quality of care provided in nursing homes.

The convergence of the post-pandemic era and the exponential growth of the elder population has made nursing homes an indispensable necessity.

In this blog, we will explore the critical role of Remote patient monitoring and its profound impact on addressing challenges in nursing home care.

Challenges in Nursing Home Care

Caretakers with senior couple sitting in living room at nursing home

 

Every day in the United States, 10,000 people turn 65, and the number of older adults will more than double over the next several decades.

American Health Care Association (AHCA) report highlights unprecedented economic crisis in Nursing Homes. The increasing demand for elder home care exacerbates this issue, necessitating innovative solutions.

Limited Resources and Staffing

Nursing homes often face resource and staffing constraints, hampering their ability to deliver comprehensive care. The increasing demand for elder home care exacerbates this issue, highlighting the need for innovative solutions.

Health Monitoring and Timely Interventions

Traditional monitoring methods in nursing homes can be time-consuming and inefficient, leading to delayed interventions. Rapid detection of health changes and timely response are vital to ensuring residents’ well-being.

Care Coordination and Communication

Effective coordination and communication among healthcare providers, caregivers, and families are essential but can be challenging in the fast-paced nursing home environment. Streamlining these processes is crucial for providing cohesive and personalized care.

Fall Prevention and Safety

Falls pose a significant risk in nursing homes, resulting in injuries and hospitalizations. Implementing robust fall prevention strategies and ensuring resident safety are imperative to enhance quality of care.

Use Cases of Remote Patient Monitoring in Nursing Home

Implementing Remote Patient Monitoring to Address High Operating Costs and Stagnant Recovery May Help Prevent Nursing Home Closures and Ensure Continued Access to Care for Seniors.

Continuous Health Monitoring

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) enables nursing homes to implement continuous monitoring using remote health monitoring devices. Real-time monitoring of vital signs enables prompt intervention and proactive care management.

Early Intervention and Preventive Care

RPM provides real-time data and alerts for early intervention and preventive care. Immediate notification of abnormal readings allows adjustments to medication or diet plans.

Improved Care Coordination

RPM platforms enhance care coordination between staff, doctors and family members, through secure messaging, video consultations, and data sharing, fostering collaboration and informed decision-making.

Fall Detection and Safety Measures

RPM plays a vital role in fall prevention and resident safety. Wearable devices with fall detection capabilities alert caregivers and healthcare providers, enabling swift assistance.

In long-term care facilities, the growing use of RPM technologies has brought many benefits to both residents and caregivers. 

Implementing RPM in nursing homes leads to a higher quality of care, improved outcomes, and a safer environment for residents. The continuous monitoring, early intervention, improved communication, and enhanced safety provided by RPM address the challenges faced by nursing homes effectively.

How Smartfuture RPM Improve Nursing Home Care

Smartfuture RPM platform offers a comprehensive solution tailored to the unique needs of nursing homes.

With EHR/EMR and billing integration, chat and call functionalities, and SMS alerts, Smartfuture RPM solution helps healthcare providers enhancing patient care, improving monitoring efficiency, and streamlining communication and data management as exactly what they need.

Discover more about Smartfuture RPM platform and unlock the full potential of remote patient monitoring in nursing home care.


References

AHCA/NCAL. (n.d.). High Operating Costs and Stagnant Recovery Could Mean More Nursing Home Closures, Threatening Access to Care for Seniors. Retrieved from https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Press-Releases/Pages/AHCA-Releases-Report-Highlighting-Unprecedented-Economic-Crisis-in-Nursing-Homes.aspx
AARP International. (n.d.). Aging Readiness and Competitiveness. Retrieved from https://www.aarpinternational.org/initiatives/aging-readiness-competitiveness-arc/united-states

How Remote Patient Monitoring is Revolutionizing Physical Therapy

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) technology has enabled a digital transformation of the healthcare system, including the field of physical therapy. By integrating RPM into physical therapy practices, providers including physical therapists, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, outpatient clinics and sports medicine centers can ensure continuous monitoring, personalized feedback, and optimized treatment plans for their patients.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the essential role of RPM, leading PTs and OTs to advocate for its use through specific billing codes.

Telehealth shouldn’t be for emergencies only

This important advocacy by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) highlights the significant benefits of integrating Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) in physical therapy. By harnessing the power of RPM, healthcare providers can deliver personalized care, optimize treatment outcomes, and enhance patient engagement.


Use Cases of Remote Patient Monitoring in Physical Therapy

We explore how Remote patient monitoring is revolutionizing physical therapy, promoting improved outcomes and enhanced patient care.

1. Remote Rehabilitation

RPM facilitates the remote delivery of physiotherapy services. Wearable devices or motion sensors allow physiotherapists to remotely monitor exercise adherence, range of motion, muscle strength, and relevant metrics. This enables therapists to track progress, provide feedback, and adjust treatment plans without in-person visits.

2. Injury Rehabilitation

For athletes recovering from sports injuries, RPM supports their rehabilitation process.

Remote Patient Monitoring Helps Orthopedic Surgeons Improve Patient Outcome

Wearable devices and sensors, like knee sensors, track important factors such as swelling, joint stability, muscle activation, and movement patterns. They provide valuable data for physical therapists to remotely assess recovery progress, identify biomechanical issues, and customize treatment plans and exercise progressions for optimal recovery.

3. Performance Optimization

For performance optimization in physical therapy, various portable medical devices can be used. These include wearable sensors, motion trackers, force plates, and smart training equipment. These may include:

  • Portable electromyography (EMG) devices: These devices measure muscle activity and can help assess muscle imbalances, identify areas of weakness, and optimize training programs.
  • Inertial measurement units (IMUs): IMUs are small wearable sensors that can track movement patterns, joint angles, and acceleration. They provide valuable data for assessing biomechanics and optimizing athletic performance.
  • Force plates: Force plates are portable platforms that measure ground reaction forces during different movements. They can help assess balance, gait patterns, and landing mechanics, enabling the optimization of performance and injury prevention strategies.
  • Handheld dynamometers: These devices measure muscle strength and can be used to assess muscle imbalances, track progress, and guide targeted strength training interventions.
  • Portable oxygen analyzers: These devices measure oxygen consumption and can be used to assess cardiovascular fitness and optimize exercise intensity during performance training.

RPM aids in tracking athletes’ performance and monitoring potential injury risk factors. By monitoring biomechanics, muscle imbalances, movement patterns, and workload metrics leveraging these medical devices, physiotherapists identify areas for improvement, implement injury prevention strategies, and optimize training programs remotely.

4. Wellness Programs

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) platforms support general health and wellness programs. Through video calls and integration with wearable devices, physiotherapists and fitness trainers remotely manage programs for weight and diabetes management, and assess users’ progress.


Conclusion

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) is revolutionizing physical therapy by enabling remote monitoring, personalized care, and improved patient engagement. By harnessing the power of RPM, physical therapists optimize treatment outcomes and deliver high-quality care, transcending traditional clinical settings.

We hope this blog has shed light on the transformative potential of RPM in physical therapy and the immense benefits it brings to both patients and providers. By embracing RPM, we can shape the future of physical therapy and elevate the standards of patient care.

Explore our Remote Patient Monitoring(RPM) solution for more information. 


References

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Telehealth Best Practice Guide: Telehealth for Physical Therapy. Retrieved from https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/best-practice-guides/telehealth-for-physical-therapy/physical-therapy-and-remote-patient-monitoring
American Physical Therapy Association. (n.d.). Telehealth. Retrieved from https://www.apta.org/advocacy/issues/telehealth 
How Remote Patient Monitoring Helps Surgeons Improve Patient Outcomes. Retrieved from https://ptgenie.com/remote-patient-monitoring-helps-surgeons-improve-patient-outcomes/

5 Mother’s Day 2022 Singapore Gift Ideas

Mother’s Day 2022 on 8th May is almost here! Tired of gifting a bouquet of flowers every year? Here are 5 Mother’s Day gift ideas to show your mother, or the mother of your children some love and appreciation.

MedCheck Blood Pressure Monitor + Blood Glucose Monitor + Body Scale Bundle

Our mothers put in so much effort into taking care of us, ensuring that we are healthy and happy. As they get older, it is our turn to take care of them. This Mother’s Day 2022, purchase the MedCheck Blood Pressure Monitor, Glucose Monitor and Body Scale bundle to show them you care. These MedCheck products come with a mobile application that allows you to monitor the vitals of your loved ones remotely and keep track of your loved ones’ health even when you are busy.

The MedCheck products are on sale on Shopee and Lazada this Mother’s Day celebration so grab the chance and give your mother the gift of wellness this year.

Eu Yan Sang Birds Nest

Bird’s nest is rich in calcium, iron, potassium, sodium, phosphorous, sialic acid, and amino acids. This makes it the perfect health supplement for gifting your loved ones. Moreover, bird’s nest also contains epidermal growth factor, which helps in cell regeneration and boosts collagen production. With this Mother’s Day gift, your mother will definitely thank you for keeping her youthful and beautiful! What’s more, coupled with Eu Yan Sang’s Mother’s Day 2022 promotion, bird’s nest is the perfect booster to pamper your mother.

Sleep Assessment

Have you noticed your mother getting increasingly restless as she ages? Have there been more complaints about difficulties or problems in sleeping? Noticed your mother visiting the bathroom in the night more than before? Well, these are some common symptoms of sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is an increasing condition commonly undiagnosed. However, as we age, our risk for sleep apnea increases. This Mother’s day 2022, show your love and concern for your mother by helping her to complete this Free Sleep Assessment here. Sometimes, health is the greatest gift of all.

OSIM uGlow set

All women love to be loved. This uGlow set will not only sho ut how much you love your mother but will help her to upgrade her beauty routine and help tackle early signs of ageing (don’t tell her we said that). For mothers who are too busy to take care of their skin, the uGlow Eye and uGlow Mist is a perfect Mother’s Day 2022 gift as it fits perfectly in bags or cosmetic pouches –  addressing theirs on the go beauty needs.

Art Jamming Session

Nothing beats spending quality time together with your mother. The perfect Mother’s Day 2022 gift may just be some Mother’s Day activities. Instead of getting an expensive gift, you may consider spending some time art jamming and creating memories this Mother’s Day. The final art piece can also be your very own Mother’s Day card!

Mental Health Management

Before 2020, mental disorders were already the leading causes of global health-related burdens, particularly depressive and anxiety disorders, according to The Lancet’s review on global mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic created an environment that exacerbated determinants of poor mental health. Notably, the locations hit hardest by the pandemic — quantified by decreased human mobility and daily infection rate — saw the greatest increase in the prevalence of major mental health issues.

With the ongoing vaccinations and the lifting of lockdown measures in many parts of the world, we’re slowly moving towards an approximation of post-pandemic life. Still, many people are struggling to cope with the losses incurred over the past two years, and appropriate healthcare services may not be easily available. The remote management of mental health — counseling, therapy, substance abuse support delivered through communication channels — is essential. Here are some ways you can monitor and manage mental health symptoms:

Set a routine for yourself

According to an article published in the Journal of Global Health, regular routines serve as a buffer against stress exposure on mental health. Primary routines are behaviors that are necessary to maintain biological needs, including hygiene, sleeping, and eating. These should be combined with secondary routines like exercise, leisure, socialization, and work or study practices. With the disruptions caused by the pandemic, it’s important to adopt a routine that suits your current situation and pays attention to safety protocols like longer handwashing or masking up. If you’re struggling with building an effective routine, you can make small changes and take notes of any weak spots, then talk to your therapist for any recommendations.

Keep track of your red flags

One good mental health habit to cultivate is to be mindful of what bothers you. We mentioned in our Smartfuture post on managing mental health how it helps to recognize any symptoms of stress or anxiety, such as feelings of frustration, worry, sadness, or physical discomfort. Sometimes, mental health issues can also manifest as unexplained actions like sudden outrage or compulsively checking the news. Pay attention to your patterns, and keep an eye out for what may have triggered these moods — it could help your therapist better work with you. For immediate relief, try to distract yourself from negative emotions by stretching, journaling, listening to music, or practicing breathing exercises.

Take a mental health day

Working remotely means the lines are blurred between our working spaces and home. It’s tempting to stay at our desks and work longer hours because we want to feel more productive. To keep our mental health in shape, it’s best to set boundaries by having a set start time, end time, and break times every day. Lifestyle writer James Gonzales also points out that we will still need dedicated time off, even if it’s just a free day to lounge around and rest the mind. Make the most out of your employee benefits and take a mental health day. You can opt to do relaxing activities like yoga, massage, swimming, or hiking — or simply stay at home and lounge around. The key is to listen to your body and mind on when to take a breather.

Attend therapy sessions regularly

It’s great if you already have a therapist and you’ve resumed in-person sessions. But what if you can’t see your therapist face-to-face, or you don’t have a therapist at all? Fortunately, we now have options for remote treatment. Freelance writer Karen Hoffman notes that online therapy is expected to continue and grow as a form of mental health support in the coming years, post-pandemic. Telehealth practices provide patients access, quality, and cost advantages to therapy. You don’t have to delay treatment, and you can work through personal problems with your therapist — so long as you attend virtual sessions and actively participate in them.

Smartfuture is a Singapore-based company that offers solutions to connect healthcare with their patients, so they can adequately manage their conditions. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.

Specially written for OurSmartFuture.com
By: Raizel Jaelynn

5 things that could be making your COPD worse

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. According to WHO, COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide. Although, there is currently no cure for COPD, do you know that the following 5 misconceptions could be making your COPD worse?

If you have COPD, you cannot exercise
Moderate exercise has been shown to be safe and beneficial for most people with COPD. Particularly, management of COPD symptoms with pulmonary rehabilitation has proven to improve the quality of life for patients.

There is no point in quitting smoking if you already have COPD
Smoking cessation is one of the most effective treatment for COPD. Preliminary studies have shown that smoking cessation can reduce the rate of COPD progression for at risk patients. Therefore, it is still imperative to quit smoking even if you are already diagnosed with COPD.

There are no treatments for COPD
While there is currently no cure for COPD, treatments can help to regulate the symptoms and progression of the disease.

Body weight does not affect COPD
Numerous studies have suggested that COPD is related to Body Mass Index (BMI). Particularly, underweight patients are associated with poorer prognosis. Thus, maintaining a healthy BMI is important for COPD patients.

Diet does not affect COPD
A healthy and balanced diet can help you to breathe easier and improve COPD symptoms. Therefore, food rich in simple carbohydrates such as soft drinks; food rich in trans fats and saturated fats such as fried food, should be limited.

Debunking the Top 8 Sleep Apnea Myths

Sleep apnea is a disorder in which your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. With sleep apnea rising up to be one of the most prevalent sleep disorders worldwide, sleep apnea is becoming more common than you think. But how much do you know about sleep apnea?

Here are 8 myths about the condition debunked to better your knowledge.

1.  Sleep Apnea is harmless
While symptoms of sleep apnea like snoring or waking up to pee in the night may appear relatively harmless – Sleep apnea, when left untreated in the long term, can significantly increase your risks for diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes.

2. Sleep Apnea is caused by a blocked airway
The most common type of sleep apnea, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), as the name proposed, is caused by a collapsed airway. However, Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) is caused by the brain signals to the muscles that regulate breathing is not properly transmitted, resulting in sleep apnea.

3. Sleep Apnea only occurs in the elderly
While it is somewhat true that the risk of sleep apnea significantly increases as we age, sleep apnea does not only occur in the elderly. Children and young adults may also experience sleep apnea.

4. Alcohol can help you sleep and improve sleep apnea
Contrary to popular belief that alcohol can help you sleep better, studies have shown that under the influence of alcohol, our muscles relax more than usual, which in turn increase the tendency for collapsed airways, leading to the development of sleep apnea.

5. Children do not experience sleep apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is common in children, affecting 1-10% of children. Common risk factors include premature birth, down syndrome, and obesity. If your child experiences sleeping difficulties or frequent lethargy, it is advisable for them to go for a sleep test.

6. Lean people will not have sleep apnea
Although obesity is a major risk factor for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), it is estimated that non-obese patients constitute 20% of the OSA patient population. Worryingly, non-obese patients with OSA have greater than fourfold risk of hypertension and cardiovascular conditions than obese patients.

7. Sleep Apnea only occurs in snorers.
While heavy and loud snoring is one of the symptoms of sleep apnea. It has been observed that patients with central sleep apnea rarely snore.

8. Only men experience sleep apnea
While men do have a higher risk factor of sleep apnea than women, it does not rule out the fact that women can suffer from sleep apnea too. However, the risk for sleep apnea increases for women who are overweight or have experienced menopause.

Surprised by the results? While sleep apnea common may be more common than you think, the condition is totally preventable with early intervention. If you are worried about your sleep, get your FREE sleep assessment here.

Field safety notice (International Markets) – Philips CPAP machines

 

Philips Sleep Respiratory Care-FSN

Dear Customer,

This email is to inform you of the updates on the FSCA (Field Safety Correction Action) for the Philips Respironics BiPAP or CPAP device that you have purchased.

Please refer to the Field Safety Notice (FSN) issued by Philips Sleep and Respiratory Care (SRC) attached in this email for more information.

Kindly acknowledge this email by providing us with the following details:

  • Serial Number of your Dreamstation (Found on the back of the device)
  • Full Name
  • Contact number

We regret the inconvenience and seek your continued understanding and patience in this matter.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at online@oursmartfuture.com or WhatsApp us at 8836 0984.

Thank you.

Regards,
Smartfuture Pte Ltd

Feeling Unexplainably Tired? Here Are 5 Reasons Why

While it is inevitable to start feeling all depleted or experiencing moments of intense fatigue at some point of our life, it is not normal when you find yourself extremely tired despite the full 6 to 8 hours of sleep or that no matter how many cups of coffee you had in the single hour and you still find yourself yawning away.

There are many reasons that could possibly contribute to the fatigue, and knowing what causes them will be key to addressing the issue. Here are some reasons why the tiredness is not going away.

Symptoms of an Underlying Medical Issue

Many conditions list tiredness as a symptoms. From thyroid conditions (where patients struggle to find an energy balance) to mental conditions (such as depression), to kidney diseases or Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

In the case of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), patients are unable to get a full night of uninterrupted sleep, which in turns causes daytime fatigue.

Speaking to a general practitioner will help you to rule out health problems and make a diagnosis and receive treatment and also learn how you can pace yourself and increase your energy. Online screeners are also a great way to get yourself started, here is an OSA Assessment that you can try – https://oursmartfuture.com/get-sleep-check/

Diet

For those that decide to go on a diet, cutting off sugar is a definite NO. Skipping meals may not allow the body to get enough calories which are needed to keep the energy level up. Long gaps between meals also deplete the blood sugar which will also decrease the energy.

For those going on a sugar spike diet, a sudden surge of sugar will cause a rollercoaster effect on the blood sugar. While you will feel the surge of energy after consumption of sugar, the rebound effect will hit after as the blood sugar crashes. What comes after is the sluggishness and the little bit of energy holding itself together.

Additionally, vitamin deficiency because of the change of diet can cause major fatigue as well. Experts advise that a better approach to diet will be also to include foods that take longer time to digest – sweet potato, bananas, nuts, and beans for example – these food tends to release sugar steadily throughout the day.

Hormones Changes

When you are under stress, your body goes into a fight-or-flight mode. Which causes an increase in the stress hormone, cortisol. In small doses, this response is safe but in the case of it being long-term, it takes a toll on the body in the form of poor sleep and low energy.

To tackle the issue, first, you have to identify the stress issues and learn how to control the way you face the problem. Learning different techniques of deep breathing and meditation can also help you stay calm in stressful situations.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle with nowhere to expel causes a buildup of energy that last beyond bedtime, keeping you awake.

Adding in some simple exercises in your daily routine, such as taking a 20mins walk after a meal or doing yoga routine before sleeping are a great way to get rid of the excess energy. Researches have also indicated that exercise does not only help boost sleep duration but also the quality of sleep.

Bad Habits

It can be tempting to take that seemingly harmless after meal nap or playing another round of PUBG on the phone but these are the reasons that contribute to the lack of sleep during bedtime.

Using the phone, for example before sleep, increase alertness at night and long period of looking at the blue-light can be detrimental to your eyes.

Inculcating good sleeping habits such as ensure that your bedroom is quiet, dark, and at a comfortable temperature and also not lying awake on your bed for more than 10 minutes are some important habits to introduce to your lifestyle. Here are more ideas for you to consider : https://oursmartfuture.com/change-the-way-you-sleep-with-5-easy-sleep-tips/


While extreme fatigue may seem like a fairly harmless condition, with the occasional dozing off during meetings or lost of attention during a conversation. Studies have also shown that extreme fatigue has also been the cause of car accidents and also attribute to suicidal behaviour. If you find yourself or a friend displaying symptoms of extreme fatigue, its time to practice good sleep hygiene or consult your general practitioner.