ALEXANDER FUNICELLO - PULMONARY FUNCTION TESTS

Alexander Funicello is a pulmonologist who often performs the pulmonary function test, which can help determine the patient’s lung health. The test is performed using a spirometer, which determines if the airflow is optimal or not. The spirometer is capable of measuring how much air the patient can exhale. Based on the results, the doctor can determine what conditions may be involved, and what the ideal course of action should be.

There Are Two Ways to Determine Lung Volume

The first method, which usually gives results that are more accurate, is called plethysmography. The patient sits in a box that looks similar to a phone booth, where they have to breathe through a mouthpiece. The box is airtight, and the pressure is changed depending on the technologist’s approach. The test can give an accurate result, but people with claustrophobia may struggle in that closed environment.

Breathing Nitrogen

Another helpful method is breathing nitrogen or helium; two harmless gases that can help determine the lung’s capacity and general performance. To the chamber in which the test takes palace a tube is attached that measures the lung’s capabilities, and most importantly, its volume.

Diffusion Capacity

Part of the test is to measure diffusion capacity. This is achieved with the help of a harmless, traces gas. The patient breathes the gas in, but only for a very short period of time – usually a single breath – and then the patient breathes out, and the technologist measures the amount of gas found in the exhaled air. This helps the doctor determine how effective the lungs are at moving the oxygen and delivering it to the bloodstream, which then can deliver it to the other organs. This is the very basis of breathing; how effective the lungs are at diffusing oxygen affects almost everything else in the body.

Preparing for the Test

The test requires some preparation, and a little bit of restraint. It is generally not recommended to eat a heavy meal before the test, and smoking is also forbidden in the last couple of hours before the test. This generally means 4 to 6 hours. There are also certain medicines that can compromise the test results, especially bronchodilators, which many patients who are undergoing this test are usually taking. When the patient is on a medicine like that, the doctor will provide specific instructions for them that can vary based on their unique circumstances.

The Test Can Be Mildly Unpleasant

The test involves some forced breathing, which can make people dizzy or out of breath. That is usually the full extent of the unpleasantness, and it is but a small price to pay for the benefits of this test.

Alexander Funicello is an experienced pulmonologist who often performs life-saving tests on his patients.

Sources: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003853.htm

Alexander Funicello - How Dogs Can Make a Family Even Stronger

Alexander Funicello and his wife have had two different dogs throughout their 20+ years (and counting) of marriage, and they learned valuable lessons from both animals. Having a dog in the family is a big decision. It requires taking on certain responsibilities, and not just by one person, but the whole family. Sharing these responsibilities is very important, because if the dog is only taken care of by one person, that can lead to fights. Conversely, when the animal is everybody’s responsibility and is loved by all members of the family, it will be a connective force that will bring the family members closer to each other.

Bonding

Being able to connect to others is one of the best aspects of the human experience. When we have something in common, that process is much easier, and when we are bonding with a family member, the connection is inherently stronger. There is very little, if any common ground that is more powerful than having a dog.

Showing Care and Responsibility

When you have children, getting a dog can provide additional advantages. Through the interactions with the animal, children – even very small ones – can learn how to care for other living things, including humans. The truth is that having dogs at a young age can play a huge part in becoming more caring, more responsible grownups.

Alexander Funicello and his wife have owned several dogs throughout the years, and they learned many things from them, aspects that we tend to forget or take for granted from time to time.

Sources:

http://www.canidae.com/blog/2012/10/does-your-dog-make-your-family-stronger/

Alexander Funicello on Hiking in California

Alexander Funicello often finds himself hiking in the more remote areas of California. His wife accompanies him on many of these journeys, but they also enjoy visiting the more popular spots. As they have noticed throughout the years, there are natural sights that never really get old for them; regardless of how many times someone experiences them.

Pine Ridge Trail

One of the most popular trails in all of California, the Pine Ridge Trail takes hikers to the Sykes Hot Springs, one of the many worthy natural attractions the Big Sur can offer. The hike is roughly 9-10 miles and it can be quite demanding, especially after the first two hours or so when the hikers have to climb.

Cataract Trail Loop

Marin County is one of the most beautiful regions in California with a naturally inviting landscape that includes various waterfalls. The hike itself isn’t that demanding as far as day-long hikes go; in fact most hikers can complete it in around 12 hours.

The Sea Trail

Located in Los Gatos, the Skyline to the Sea Trail is one of the most inspiring scenic routes California can offer. The forests are amazing, and as far as the Bay Area hiking spots go, Castle Rock and Big Basin Redwoods are among the most popular destinations nationwide.

Alexander Funicello loves every aspect of hiking, enjoying even the really long ones when they are left to Mother Nature’s grace. These trips provide him an amazing opportunity to bond with his wife.

Sources: http://www.everytrail.com/best/hiking-california

Alex Funicello -  You Can Reinvigorate Your Relationship

Alexander Funicello lives happily with his wife. They got married more than 20 years ago, and managed to build a very strong relationship that has seemingly gotten even better throughout the years. Looking in from the outside, it could seem that they did it effortlessly, but there has never been, and never will be a good long-term relationship that does not require certain efforts. Any relationship can get to the point where it needs new life in it, and it is very important to recognize those moments because that is a prerequisite for changing them. When the signs are clear, how can one change the course of an entire relationship?

Sometimes It Simply Comes Down to Making an Effort

Many people make the mistake of expecting an effort when they themselves are guilty of not making one. Men often wish their partner were more forthcoming from a sexual standpoint, but at the same time, they aren’t really doing anything to earn that. When both parties are willing to make a continuous effort to bring back certain aspects of a relationship; that is when the chemistry usually starts to work again.

Making Improvements in Life

Everybody has weaknesses, certain aspects that could be improved upon. This can mean a wide variety of different things, including physical or mental health, or simply showing interest in something. Find an aspect that you can improve and you think your partner would appreciate if you would, and the whole relationship will be better for it.

Alexander Funicello never really stopped doing the little things, sending flowers, taking his wife out to dinner, or simply telling her how beautiful he thinks that she is. That is one of the many reasons why their relationship still works.

Sources:
http://www.healthguidance.org/entry/17020/1/How-to-Reinvigorate-Your-Relationship.html

Alexander Funicello - Windsurfing Benefits

Alexander Funicello is an avid windsurfer who often frequents the California waters to enjoy one of his favorite hobbies. There are many benefits to windsurfing, and one doesn’t really have to be a professional to take advantage of them. Anybody who can ride the waves at an intermediate level can enjoy the sport.

It Is a Full Body Workout

Not many people associate windsurfing with a grueling workout, but in reality it is quite hard to keep balance on the board. The movement involves a lot of different muscle groups with special emphasis on the core muscles. Standing in an upward position works the legs as well, and the upper body’s movements are responsible for steering and keeping everything intact. The shoulders, the back and the arm muscles all have to pitch in if the windsurfing enthusiast wants to stay on the board.

One of the Most Enjoyable Sports

Windsurfing is truly one of the most enjoyable sports, not just among water activities. Mastering the movement requires a conscious effort that connects the body and the equipment, with weather being the extra factor. Many people get frustrated with the process in the beginning, as staying up on the board is not necessarily easy. It requires finding one’s balance, but that process is very different to skateboarding or skiing, mainly because of the different, leaning position. Once he or she manages to get a feel for the equipment in relation to their own body, that’s when the enjoying part really kicks in. From that point going forward, windsurfing becomes a rush like few other sports.

It’s Really Not That Expensive

One might think that buying all the equipment is extremely expensive, but that could not be further from the truth. There is only one major expense, the board and the sailing rig for it, but one can start out with relatively cheap sets, and gradually work their way up to the top in terms of skill and equipment. If someone is really handy and knows how to build stuff, they can also find windsurf templates on the internet, or even detailed guides that show how to build one from scratch. That is of course, not recommended for those who don’t have experience building things, only for those who have a pretty good idea of what they are doing.

It’s a Pretty Safe Sport

Because of the equipment, windsurfing is actually safer than traditional surfing. It is still an extreme sport and as such, it can be taken to the extremes with high speed rigs that can quite literally fly, but if one wants to keep the experience more casual, they can absolutely do that as well.

Alexander Funicello is an avid windsurfing enthusiast who frequents the best California locations, and wants to enjoy the sport until he is physically capable of doing so.

Sources:

http://howtowindsurf101.com/the-advantages-of-windsurfing-why-is-windsurfing-awesome/

Cough Cough - A Brief History of Pulmonology

Pulmonology is the medical specialty that involves the respiratory tract and any issues that may arise with it. It is known as chest medicine or respiratory medicine in some places and is considered to be a branch of internal medicine. Doctors who choose this field are called pulmonologists and are specially trained in diseases or conditions involving the chest like pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema and a variety of chest infections.

Pulmonary circulation was one of the first major discoveries related to the field. This disproves the earlier theory by Galen, that blood reaching the right side of the heart passes through small pores in the septum into the left side to be oxygenated. It was Ibn Al-Nafis who accurately described the path of blood through the pulmonary artery, the lung then back into the heart o be pumped around the body. This changed the game of pulmonary medicine.
It began to evolve as a specialty in the 1950s, with William Welch and William Osler founding the National Associate for the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis. The NASPT is the parent organization for the American Thoracic Society.

Alexander Funicello is a pulmonologist from Fresno, California who has been in the field for over 20 years. He knew since he was a child that he wanted to be a doctor but it was losing a close relative to lung cancer that inspired him to work with the chest and lungs. Alexander Funicello opened his own practice 15 years ago and has done a lot of research on new advances in his field.

Golf Fundamentals for Beginners

Golf is a complex sport with a rich history of many rules and types of equipment. It can be daunting for a novice to jump into the game. But follow some simple and easy tips will help you to not be embarrassed on the green.

Don’t get overwhelmed with fancy toys. Focus on purchasing a basic set of clubs to learn with. You will only need a driver, a putter, a sand wedge. After getting comfortable with these clubs, add in a 6-iron, 8-iron, pitching wedge, and a fairway wood or hybrid with an 18-21 degree loft. Make sure you feel comfortable with them before you hit the course. Many pro shops or driving ranges have clubs that you can test and get a feel for. Go with the club that is easier to control.

Lessons are a valuable tool. Starting out with a coach will help you to develop good habits on the course before there is time to cultivate bad ones. Tips from friends or colleges that golf are great but can’t compare to a trained PGA professional.

Practicing your long game by hitting balls as hard as you can is fun but your short game is where well-taught skills can shine. About half of your strokes are within 50 yards of the green, so you should be spending at least half of your time practicing for these shots. Practice at home by shooting the ball into buckets at various distances in your backyard.

Alexander Funicello, a pulmonologist from Fresno, California loves to golf in his spare time. 

Basic Tips For Beginning Skiers

Skiing can be a fun and exhilarating winter activity for people of all ages. But you need to learn how to ski before hitting the slopes. Getting a certified instructor to show you the fundamentals never hurts and reading a few tips can also be valuable. Take your time and don’t expect to be an expert (or even an intermediate) by the end of your first day. Just focus on having fun and don’t fret if you eat some powder.

  1. Bend your knees. It can be hard for beginners to stay in the squatting position for long periods of time and they will often try to stand up. This will cause their form, balance, agility and control to be compromised, and usually ends with the skier rolling in the snow. Your heel should always be in the heel cup, if it’s not, you aren’t bending your knees enough.
  2. Don’t look down. Although it can be tempting to see what the tips of your skis are doing, it can cause you to run into oncoming objects and even lose your balance. Many instructors suggest looking at least 10 feet ahead of your at all times. Plus you will miss out on the beautiful scenery if you are constantly looking down, also that tree that is right in your path.
  3. Don’t be afraid to fall. It’s going to happen, so just embrace it.

Alexander Funicello loves many outdoor activities, skiing being one. He and his wife like to hit up the slopes at Tahoe, Mammoth and Bear Mountain as often as they can. Alexander Funicello is a pulmonologist from Fresno, CA.

Golder Retrievers -  The Family Man’s
Best Friend And So Much More

Golder retrievers were originally bred as hunting or gun dogs to bring back shot game without damaging it. This is how their name came about. However they have become the third-most popular family dog breed in America, the fifth-most popular in Australia and eighth-most in the UK. It is no surprise because they have a friendly and gentle temperament, making them great with kids of all ages.

Retrievers are not just great with kids and game, because of their high intelligence they can be trained to make excellent guide dogs for the blind, detection dogs for many substances, hearing for the deaf, and search and rescue dogs. The breed loves water and with their thick inner coat and outer coat that repels water, they won’t hesitate to save a drowning victim from even the coldest water.

Because they are a large-sized breed they need substantial outdoor exercise and do best in suburban or country environments. However they should be kept fenced because they instinctually like to roam. They are also common contestants in purebred dog shows, beautifully manicured coats and fancy tricks help bring home 1st place for many golden retrievers.

People around the world make a golden retriever part of their family. Alexander Funicello has done just that with Ruby, his retriever. He and his wife rescued her years ago from a shelter in their hometown of Fresco, California. Ruby loves to go on hikes and play outside, enjoying the trails and mountains, with her mom and dad, Alexander Funicello.

The Seriousness of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COPD is no joking matter. The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a serious medical condition that increases the difficulty of breathing for the victim who has it. On top of that symptom, COPD is a progressive condition, which means the condition of the patient diagnosed with the illness will feel it worsen over time. With an estimated twelve million Americans suffering from the condition in the country today, this is a serious condition that people should be aware of when caring about their lungs.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that the death total of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is so high that it has become the fourth highest leading cause of death in the United States. Though men are noticeably more likely to contract the disease rather than women, the death rate is about equal for both genders. People who are older have a higher chance of contracting the progressive illness of the lungs.

One of the most notable symptoms of COPD is coughing. If the coughing persists over three months, the medical physician of the patient may diagnose them with the disease. As the illness progresses, most often the next symptom is wheezing. After that, the symptoms can become critical and cause fatigue, shortness of breath, fever, respiratory infections, and in some cases swollen feet and ankles.

Alexander Funicello is a pulmonologist who lives and works in Fresno, CA. He has seen plenty of his patients walk through his door with the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The good doctor does what he can to help the patient and make their time easier and more comfortable as they battle the disease.

COPD - a Progressive Disease in the Lungs

COPD is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease that is the number four cause of death in the United States today. Though the chances of acquiring the disease come with age, men are more likely to catch COPD than women. With an estimated twelve million amount people in America with the disease, there are reasons to be concerned about those who have the condition. The progressive disease becomes worse over time if not treated properly. Unfortunately, this can lead to death, but between men and women the death rate remains the same. 

The condition progresses over time. As it progresses, the patient’s worsen condition can have symptoms added to their condition. These symptoms include wheezing, which is the sound of whistling in the lungs when breathing in and out. Wheezing happens when the aid in the body is forced through the narrow of obstructed airways in the lungs. In most cases, there is too much mucus in the passageways for people to breathe properly and are thus forced to wheeze. Later more symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, fever, headaches, and respiratory infections can be added to their patient’s list. In some cases, the condition can cause swollenness in the feet and ankles.

Alexander Funicello is a pulmonologist who has worked with hundreds, if not thousands, of patients throughout his fifteen year career. Though contracting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be very difficult for a patient, Funicello does the best that he can to accommodate his patients and to help them fight the chronic and uncomfortable disease.

 The Opportunities of       Golf

Many golfers would say that the game they love provides a physical challenge at times, but the mental challenge can be harder to overcome. Golfing legend Arnold Palmer once said that golf is a game that is deceptively simple and endlessly complicated. Any golfer, whether amateur or professional, who has played the game for more than just a few holes here or there will admit that the legendary Palmer describes the game perfectly.

 The game of golf is not only about the mental and physical challenge though. It is about getting outside and soaking in the warm sun, building relationships with the other golfers on the course, and sometimes about sealing the deal with a client. The game of golf provides a variety of opportunities for those who enjoy going out and hitting a few balls around for a couple of hours.

There have been may deals sealed over the course of a game of golf. As most salesmen know, if they want to be able to win over a client, they should first invite them to play a round of golf, then make sure to let them win. The game also provides a great opportunity for golfers to go out, stretch their legs and enjoy the sun. With the pace of the game not being as aggressive as many other competitions, the game can even be leisurely and relaxing.  

Alexander Funicello loves playing the game of golf. He has built many relationships with people while playing the game and has enjoyed the leisure time that the game provides. On top of it all, Funicello loves that the game keeps him mentally sharp as he tries to improve his game.


The Dangerous Attacks of Smoking

Though it seems that everyone in the modern age should know about the dangerous side effects of smoking, there are still some who are unaware of the consequences of the dreadful addiction. Then there are those who know the dangers yet still choose to smoke in spite of it. Every year new data piles up that proves just how bad smoking is, but people still keep lighting up.

 There is no doubting the direct connection that lung cancer and smoking have. However, if smoking does not take down a person through cancer, the activity has other ways to hurt the host. Some of the ways include heart disease, stroke, and chronic lung diseases. Research analyst have noted that smoking can lead to an increase of the chances of having cancer in the throat, mouth, cervix, bladder, and kidneys.

All of these possibilities are great possibilities to those who smoke. With all the research that has been done, researchers have tried to find a positive for smoking. Unfortunately, when it come to the end results, there was no positive reason for people to start or continue their smoking habit.

 Alexander Funicello is a pulmonologist who knows well the effects of smoking. Recommending to everyone that they should stop or never start smoking, Funicello tries to help many people extend their lives by quitting the powerful addiction. Funicello is happy to know that the percentage of Americans have smoke has dropped over the past two years. The progress is happening and hopefully soon Americans will live in a country without smoking.

Getting Into Med School

The competition among pre-med students to get into any medical school is fierce, and medical advisors says that students trying to get in should apply to as many medical schools as possible in order to raise their chances of being accepted into one.

Even those standout students who seem anointed to go on to a long and successful career in medicine are told they should apply to as many as they can. Too many limit themselves to only a dozen or so medical school applications, but they do so at their peril. Thousands and thousands of students are vying for a place in medical school every year, but there are only a limited number of openings.

Students who are applying to medical school must be able to show that they have the proper background for this career decision. Many medical school applicants are interested in science and research but it is no substitute for clinical exposure. Of course, such clinical exposure is seldom going to be of the same order of exposure available to a medical student. But hopefuls might shadow their family physician, volunteer in a free clinic or hospital, or take part in a formal premedical program that includes time spent with physicians. The experience is going to be invaluable.

No matter who good the applicant is in academics, it is essential that they have a persuasive med school application. Whether a student has a 4.0 GPA or is a borderline applicant, their experience descriptions and personal statements must convince the people who review the application that they are worthy of an interview, and of being accepted into an accredited program.

Alexander Funicello submitted applications to twenty-seven medical schools and was accepted by three of them. He attended the Baylor University College of Medicine in Waco, Texas, and today is practicing medicine in his hometown of Fresno, California.

The Great American Smokeout

Every year since 1977, the third Thursday of November has been reserved as a day to remind American smokers to kick the habit. It's the day of the annual Great American Smokeout, and smokers who choose to give up the practice, at least for that day, are urged to make a plan to quit, and stick to it.

It's an important cause: smoking claims hundreds of thousands of American lives every year, and leads to countless health issues. The Great American Smokeout challenges people to stop using tobacco products and helps them learn about the many tools they can take advantage of to quit, and quit for good.

It's hard to quit smoking. Nicotine is an addictive substance. Research shows that quitting cold turkey is the best way to stop, and also shows that smokers have the best chance of staying off tobacco when they have support, such as smoke-cessation hotlines to call, stop smoking support groups, online quit groups, nicotine replacement products, and the encouragement and support of friends and family members. Using at least two of these measures to quit is more effective than using just one by itself.

The Great American Smokeout has improved the lives of millions of Americans by changing attitudes about smoking, and by helping smokers to stop. Because of the Smokeout there have been changes that led to smoke-free laws that are now in place in many states. Looking back today, it's hard to believe that just one generation ago smoking in public places was commonplace and accepted.

Alexander Funicello is a doctor who specializes in pulmonology and is an outspoken opponent of smoking. Each November he tells his patients who smoke about the Great American Smokeout, and urges them to quit.

The Game of Golf

Golfing legend Arnold Palmer once said that golf is deceptively simple and endlessly complicated. Millions of golfers, from the amateur to the professional ranks, can attest to the elegantly simple truth of that statement.

Golf is one of those games where the basics can be learned on the first day. Newcomers soon discover that it can take a lifetime to master the finer points of the game, and for many that mastery never quite comes. In spite of the frustration that can come with playing the game, many people consider it the sport of choice, and the way that they would most prefer to spend their spare time. For one thing, playing eighteen rounds of golf means at least a couple of hours in the fresh air. And walking those eighteen holes is an excellent light workout. The combination of getting that workout while pursuing a favorite pastime can be a very appealing combination.

In addition to exercise, golf has long been known as an ideal way to build social and business relationships. For a sales professional it can be the ultimate win-win situation: treating a client to a Saturday morning round of golf, and getting some business taken care of at the same time. Both parties can build a stronger rapport with one another and this can spill over into a greatly improved business relationship. Many more people, of course, enjoy playing golf for the sheer pleasure of the game.

Alexander Funicello is a pulmonologist in Fresno, California. He is an avid golfer who is always working on improving his game.

Fresno,CA,USA