This blog is for anyone with LTHC’s (especially those with Pituitary Conditions) and, Sports/Exercise Instructors.
Showing how people with LTHC’s Compare to top level Sports Performers In everyday life,through transferrable skill & understanding between Health, Support & High Level Sports Performance
Ever thought about comparing yourself with a Grand Prix Formula 1 Team? No? Then let’s lead you into this gently!
Here we look at how complex the treatment can be for those with Pituitary Patients and those with Addison’s Disease/Pituitary Insufficiency. The team work involved in ensuring that one person can live their lives in as normal way as possible. This is in direct comparison with a completely different world in Formula One Grand Prix’s.
We have broken down the key components into sections. In Part One we looked through and considered what we deem to be the top sectors of performance that are key to success;
Individuality, Communication, Support & Control.
You can access it here.
In Part Two we re-visited Control before we moved onto smaller components including;
Health & Well-Being, Mental Health, Exercise,Temperature, Hydration & Travel.
You can Access it here
Within this blog we will conclude with Scientific Research, Analysis & Team Work, before highlighting the key points to remember, to support health, consider concerns that still remain over COVID, and look at how coaches and exercise deliverers can be more inclusive to those with LTHC’s.
Our aim here is to highlight how each small component of your health and well being can also relate directly to how every little detail within a sporting environment. Hence, allowing all of us to connect better by establishing the difficulties faced within two very different but crucial scenarios.
Control Re-Visited
This subsequent finale aims to look at control and management of LTHC’s in a carefully, considered, patient centred way, by embracing examples from the fast developing Grand Prix Programme. We have explored the control that drivers have through their steering wheels, and encourage you to find the right buttons for you to add to your own wheel of control. With this in mind, Analysis, Science and Teamwork will rap up our circuit runs brilliantly.
This video presented by both Valteri Bottas and Team Mechanic Riccardo Muscini, explores the Driver Workload ,through the specific challenges that the Monaco Circuit creates, and the limits they have compared to other tracks. What they can change on the steering wheel here is very unusual due to the circuit being on roads, with minimal options for steering wheel adjustments and overtaking opportunities. Just like LTHC’s will alter based on the surroundings.
Continue to think medical now and how differential patterns will emerge based on where we are, and what we are doing. We have looked at all our components, and now we need to work with them and pull together the details. It’s like riding around a circuit over and over again. Keeping a log, tracking our health data and, communicating for a short period of time is not going to achieve the required outcome. We need to evolve and continue doing this and utilise our information, be able to give feedback, allowing us to analyse properly, take in new things and, have a great team behind us. So let’s get started!
Analysis
Planning race set ups, trying to out do the opponents, responding to what others do and the ability to change strategies at the last minute is a crucial component of any Formula One Team. These decisions are made by senior team members utilising technological data and information, careful thinking, measured and calm responses, but also considering the drivers perspective and feedback. Telling the driver what they need to do and perhaps with holding, offering clear specific support and encouragement that they are doing well.
Diagnosis of a LTHC can be a relief in the first instance. However, it can also bring about significant fear, worry, confusion, anxiety and a lack of confidence in your ability to function as you have in the past. Being able to think on our feet and make important decisions is crucial for the safe and effective management of LTHC’s and especially those with potentially life threatening conditions. A great medical support network will help you generate a plan and guide you on what to look out for, ensuring you have clear structured methods to recognise and control symptoms.
Top Tip
Utilise Your Journey Through Diagnosis & Managing A Pituitary Condition as a support guide. It provides a unique insight into the world of managing your condition such as dealing with fatigue, pain and anxiety. Strategies to help you through what is an extremely challenging time. Crucial to take this at your own pace. It’s also a great document to revisit every now and again just to re-focus your attention to anything you can ‘utilise’ or ‘re-use’. A helpful read for anyone involved in the care and well being of someone with a LTHC. Input from all areas will help with analysis, as eagle eyed carers and family/friends may see something you don’t.
Scientific Data & Research
If the COVID19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that scientists and technology are vital to improving the quality of our lives. The speed and intensity that they work at. The intelligence and drive to identify characteristics of the virus and find a defence mechanism. The pandemic has rightly brought them in the forefront of our minds and offering us a chance at freedom.
In formula 1 there are literally thousands of people meticulously analysing, taking in information from people back in the factories, making minor adjustments and understating new regulations. Looking for small changes, manufacturing, presenting new data and intelligence. Trying to find that 100th of a second that can lead to the difference between being first or second on the grid.
In the medical field, Scientists are there right with the Doctors, nurses and Health Charities. Perhaps the forgotten link within the chain. If they hadn’t discovered the way to a diagnosis or created medication to combat symptoms where would we be? Rare conditions are difficult to diagnose and to manage. Sometimes the Doctors don’t get it right, sometimes they need to go back to the scientists. Sometimes they need to look for new routes to follow. They can’t always get it right. The background scientists and pharmaceutical companies play a huge role alongside the tireless work of charities. Many fund extensive research through fundraising. To that end these fantastic programmes are in the pipeline.
Top Tip
With the support of The Addisons Disease Support Group, Solution Medical is currently researching how an Epipen style hydrocortisone injection could be looming on the horizon.They report that;
‘…of the most asked questions the ADSHG receives is “Why don’t we have an EpiPen style injection for our hydrocortisone emergency injection?” Up until now the answer has been the complexities of science and the stability of the medication. But now thanks to SOLUtion Medical this request is becoming a reality. The ADSHG is delighted to help fund SOLUtion’s research to develop a simple, easy to use device to reduce complexity and difficulties of injections, providing an EpiPen-like experience. (https://www.addisonsdisease.org.uk/meet-the-researcher-solution-medical)
Asthma UK is in the process of looking at how technology can be used to help monitor symptoms. Digital asthma plans and smart inhalers are just a few things that are being researched and implemented. These will support people to identify when their asthma is worsening and treatment options will be able to be implemented more quickly. You can find out much more by signing up to the Newsletter.
Diabetes UK explains clearly what is already available in terms of measuring/monitoring Diabetes, like insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGM for short). This Diabetes Technology Research Page takes things a bit further, highlighting how this technology can be accessed and what is being looked at for the future.
Team Work
On Formula 1 race days the Team Principles and Mechanics for both cars are very visual. What isn’t quite so visual are team members actually sitting back at base still looking for something special, monitoring the cars, liaising and reacting/interacting. Post race feedback supporting further development, which is filtered down to the factories. Then the drive to make minor but crucial discoveries, testing relentlessly, a loop of feedback to the drivers. Each link in the chain is what makes this complex team work. Loose these links and performance will falter and weaknesses will be exposed.
What we do require and is sometimes out of our control is how the Doctors, hospitals, pharmacists and support workers co-ordinate our care. Often there will be many people involved. Some Consultants will be willing and happy to promote and embrace input from any other areas whereas some will find this time consuming and deem it unhelpful. Others may try hard but not get the response they wish for in terms of outcome for their patients. This can become particularly difficult and frustrating for all concerned and more complex if you are required to have treatment in different hospitals.
Top Tip
Don’t overload, but do find the right team that helps you. If you feel something is missing do some research on your own condition to see what is available. Contacting Health Charity Helplines are often a great way to grasp specific information in a safe and controlled manor. They are in an ideal place to signpost you to the right people. Or if you have a GP that you can rely on ask them. Both would be a great addition.
We have already looked at the use of smart watches but the Apple Watch Rewards Programme, offered by Vitality Health Insurance is a great option if you want to take things further but cannot afford the kit. However, it does come with cost and relies upon you sticking to exercise to ensure you don’t have to pay more money! Also, be VERY careful here because where health Insurance is involved, you often need your plan for a set period of time before conditions you already have will be covered.
However, this could be great for a carer or family member. Even exercise providers and coaches might find this helpful, as a monitor of sessions, the intensity, duration etc and, then make things more accessible for participants. A slightly different way to work as a member of that all important team.
So we approach the end of the Grid Prix!!!!! Here are just a few last minute tips;
So Key Things To Remember To Support Your Health If You Are The Patient
You are at the heart of your medical condition BUT you cannot control everything.
You need a good support team around you.
Analysing and logging your symptoms will not only help you to analyse your health but it will also inform your consultant (or other medical Professional).
Having a folder with letters from each Doctor/hospital that you attend could be really helpful as then if letters are missed or lost then you have copies to share and, they will help you prepare for your consultations.
Remember to pace and chunk. Not every trip to the Doctors or supermarket will be exactly the same but you can try and control certain factors, like the time of day you go and the distance you travel.
If you are a Coach/Instructor & Want To Be More Inclusive
Be ready/prepared to discuss any medical problems your participants have.
Admit to the fact that you are worried if that is the case.
Be prepared, by understanding how the LTHC will effect exercise.
If your participant does carry emergency medication be aware of where this is stored and, also how to use it if required.
Activity Alliance has produced an Inclusive Communications Guide. Just head to the How We Help Resources Guide and scroll down to get yourself the complete document entitled Access for All; Inclusive Communications.
If you are still concerned because of COVID
Ensure you have your vaccines and encourage others to have it too.
Order the free lateral flow tests and encourage others around you to do the same.
With COVID cases and deaths rising agin, it’s not weak fro vulnerable people to feel scared and anxious and to wish ‘Lockdown’ restrictions were remaining in place.
If you have been having consultations over the phone or by video and you feel this was helpful and safer then ask if this can be continued long term.
Make sure anyone around you is aware of your condition and even show them how to administer hydrocortisone injections/medications should they need to.
So to end! Something that undermines everything is communication!!!!! At every stage this is of vital importance. Without it none of the gains that are there to be made will be successful. Taking one step at a time is fine. Your pace is the right pace. Select one sector at a time to avoid being overwhelmed. Your place in the world is out there, it just needs finding, mastering and making the most of. Wishing you well, stay safe, stay well, hope you find your dream…
The All Important Links!
Time To Heal - Pituitary Patients & Team work Part 1
Time To Heal - Pituitary Patients & Team Work Part 2
Mercedes You Tube - Driver Workload
Pituitary Foundation - Your Journey Through Diagnosis and Managing a Pituitary Condition
Addison’s Disease Self Help Group
Asthma UK - Technology Enabled Asthma Management & Newsletter Sign Up
https://www.asthma.org.uk/support-us/campaigns/our-policy-work/technology-enabled-asthma-management/
Technology Enabled Newsletter
https://www.asthma.org.uk/support-us/campaigns/our-policy-work/technology-enabled-asthma-management/
Diabetes UK - What Is Diabetes Technology
Technology Guide
Vitality Health Insurance
Activity Alliance - How We Help Resource Guide