National Save Your Vision Month: 3 Tips to Preserve Your Eyes

By kanid | Published: March 19, 2014

2014Mar19_GenPharma_ACan you imagine a life without sight? Many of us cannot. Eye health is something we tend to take for granted. That’s why March is designated as National Save Your Vision Month by the American Optometric Association. It’s a campaign designed to raise awareness about the importance for Americans to have regular eye exams. It also includes some tips on how to maintain your precious eye health.

Whether your vision fades because of age or injury, you shouldn’t wait to think about how valuable it is to you. According to the American Optometric Association, eyestrain and other health problems that impact vision are becoming increasingly common and can occur in 9 out of 10 people who use computers at work. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 3 steps to start protecting your vision now.

#1: Get an annual eye exam.

Regardless of your age, an annual eye exam is a vital part of maintaining your physical health. In fact, eye doctors are often the first to detect chronic systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Regular eye exams can ensure normal vision development and academic achievement for children, as well as prevent and detect eye disease in adults.

#2: Take precautions in the work place.

If you work outdoors, wear proper gear to protect your eyes from debris and sun. If you work in front of a computer, take frequent breaks from looking at a computer screen, adjust the monitor contrast and brightness to a comfortable level and position your monitor about 16-30 inches from your eyes.

#3: Know the common symptoms of vision impairment.

Be aware of the most common symptoms that accompany vision issues and be sure to contact a healthcare professional if you experience them. The most common symptoms include:

  • blurred or double vision

  • excessively watery eyes

  • excessive blinking and squinting

  • headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain

No matter how great you think your vision may be, there’s no time like the present to get a check-up. Take advantage of the annual reminder during National Save Your Vision Month to get your eyes checked. The staff at [company_short] is always here to answer your questions and assist you in finding the perfect eye-health products from our in-store selection. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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Pain Identification: 7 Signs It Could Be Serious

By kanid | Published: March 4, 2014

2014Mar04_GenPharma_AWe’re all accustomed to a certain level of pain on a regular basis – soreness from an old injury, a belly ache from overeating or a headache from skipping your usual coffee. Most of the time, the pain you experience is minor and you have an idea of what’s causing it. But other times, the pain seems worse than usual or sticks around longer than it should.

However inconvenient it may be, pain exists for a reason. More than just a pesky side effect, it is your body’s way of communicating that something could be wrong.

Next time you experience pain you’re unsure about, skip the internal debate about whether or not it’s serious and reference this list. According to healthcare experts, all of the following conditions can be red flags.

Here’s a list of seven pains you shouldn’t ignore:

#1: A horrible headache.

While sinus headaches are common with a standard cold, medical training reveals that the worst headache of your life is a classic sign of a brain aneurysm.

#2: Chest tightness.

Not to be confused with heartburn, the type of chest pain that involves extreme pressure or a sudden, heavy ache could signal a heart attack.

#3: Leg pain with swelling.

A pain in your calf accompanied by redness, swelling or warmth could be a blood clot.

#4: Sharp pain in your side.

When combined with nausea and fever, the sharp pain in the right side of your abdomen could be the sign of appendicitis or an ovarian cyst for women.

#5: A throbbing tooth.

An infection from a damaged tooth could spread to other parts of the body, so you may need a root canal to keep bacteria away from the nerve.

#6: Severe back pain.

If over-the-counter remedies can’t significantly dull the ache, you may have an abdominal aneurysm or a kidney stone.

#7: Painful urination.

Discomfort during urination could be the result of anything from a urinary tract infection to bladder cancer.

If you’re experiencing extreme levels of any of the seven pains on this list, you should get checked out by a professional. And the sooner, the better. Whether your pain is the result of something minor or more serious, speaking with a professional will undoubtedly result in getting some relief.

Next time you have any health related question, please feel free to consult your community healthcare experts at [company_short]. At [phone_main], we’re just a phone call away and we’re always here to help.

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Improve Health & Lose Weight with Chia Seeds

By kanid | Published: February 27, 2014

2014Feb27_GenPharma_AIf you’re looking for a healthy new food staple to compliment your current diet, there are plenty of popular super foods to consider. But if you’re interested in increasing your intake of fiber, calcium, antioxidants and protein while curbing your appetite, look no further than the chia seed.

What are chia seeds?

Chia seeds are produced from salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family. As early as 3500 B.C., chia seeds were a staple in the human diet, but their popularity faded over time. The word chia actually stems from a similar word in the Mayan language that means strength. Historically, chia was considered to be almost magical because of its ability to increase energy and stamina over long periods of time.

Today, many of the world’s best athletes use chia seeds to increase endurance. And as modern nutritionists look for ways to bring important nutrients back into the human diet, chia seeds are making a comeback.

How can we benefit from eating them?

#1: Chia seeds deliver maximum nutrients with minimum calories.

Just two tablespoons of chia seeds each day can provide 42% of the daily recommended value of fiber, in addition to twice as many antioxidants as blueberries, six times more calcium than milk and 100% more omega-3 fatty acids than salmon. They’re also a great source of protein, magnesium, iron and zinc.

#2: The fiber in chia helps fight disease.

According to the American Dietetic Association, the average American only consumes 12 to 15 grams of fiber each day, although the recommended dose is 20 to 35 grams. Chia seeds have the ability to fill that void for many Americans. The ADA states that populations consuming a higher amount of dietary fiber have lower rates of chronic disease.

#3: Chia can help with weight loss by making you feel fuller longer.

Some studies show that low-calorie chia seeds have the ability to expand to curb your appetite. They are also known to naturally regulate your blood sugar, which helps put a stop to cravings. Therefore, many people use chia seeds to supplement weight loss.

As your community healthcare experts, we love sharing tips and tricks to keep you as healthy as possible. Give chia seeds a try! And as always, feel free to give us a call at [phone_main] with any questions you may have. We look forward to seeing you soon!

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Top Three Health Resolutions for 2014: Don’t Give Up Yet!

By kanid | Published: February 18, 2014

2014Feb18_GenPharma_AWe are just weeks into a new year, but January 1 already seems like a vague memory. Chances are, you set goals for 2014, but you’re already struggling to carry them out. New Year’s resolutions related to your physical and emotional health are very popular year after year, but they can also be the hardest resolutions to keep.

Read on to learn about the top three health resolutions for 2014, as well as tips to help you be successful.

#1: Get more sleep.

Due to the long-term implications of sleep on your overall health, this is an important resolution for many of us. No one can argue that sleep is an indispensable ingredient for a healthy life, but getting enough of it can be easier said than done. Whether you have trouble getting to sleep to begin with or have a tendency to wake up in the middle of the night, we have some tips for you:

  • Resist the urge to eat late at night. Consuming calories, especially sugar, can contribute to restlessness.

  • Reduce your caffeine intake. Set a time of day when you will cut off your caffeine consumption and experiment to see what works for you. A good rule of thumb is to avoid coffee and tea after 2:00 PM.

  • Make sleep a priority. Say no to social engagements and other obligations that would cause you to stay up past your ideal bedtime.

  • Experiment with vitamins and supplements that support sleep. Melatonin, valerian and chamomile are great options available over-the-counter.

#2: Be happy.

As we all face the usual stress factors that are a part of everyday adult life, many of us struggle to simply be happy. To some, the decision to choose happiness and take proactive steps in that direction may come naturally. To others, especially those facing unexpected bumps in the road that is life, being happy may feel impossible this year.

Either way, many people resolve to make 2014 their happiest year yet. And there are actions you can take toward increasing your happiness this year:

  • Engage in meaningful activities. Take up gardening or volunteer with a community service organization.

  • Foster friendships. Studies show that both introverts and extroverts experience a boost in happiness when they spend time with others.

  • Focus on forgiveness. Holding grudges can affect mental and physical health negatively.

  • Consider a mood-boosting supplement. Fish oil, St. John’s Wort and GABA can be used to relieve anxiety and depression.

#3: Stop smoking.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your risk of heart attack begins to decrease within just 24 hours of quitting. That’s just one of the many reasons why giving up your smoking habit may be the best resolution to keep. It’s not easy to do, but a good quitting plan can help you get past symptoms of withdrawal. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Talk to your friends and family. They can provide moral support, accountability and smoke-free activities to keep you busy.

  • Talk with your pharmacist about quit options. Nicotine patches, gum or other medications can help with cravings.

  • Anticipate and plan for challenges. Drink water, take a walk or call a friend when you’re experiencing cravings.

Whether your resolution was to lose weight, quit smoking or increase your health in general, your community pharmacist is here to provide advice and product recommendations. Visit [company_short] to speak with a pharmacy staff member today. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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American Heart Month – 5 Ways to Improve Heart Health

By kanid | Published: February 13, 2014

2014Feb13_GenPharma_ADid you know that the leading cause of death among both women and men is heart disease? That’s right – about 715,000 Americans have heart attacks each year and in the United States alone, heart disease is responsible for about 600,000 deaths annually.

But heart disease is preventable and controllable. That’s why February is American Heart Month – the month designated to raise awareness about small steps any individual can take to prevent heart attack and heart disease. With cardiovascular disease costing the United States $312.6 billion each year, the situation is very serious. You’re never too old or young to start taking better care of your heart. You can start by talking to friends and family and taking your own heart health seriously.

Here are five steps to increase and maintain better heart health:

#1: Eat a healthy diet.

Limit your consumption of foods that are high in sodium, saturated fat and trans fat. Replace unhealthy foods with a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. Other foods that are recommended for reducing your risk of heart disease include beans and certain types of fish.

#2: Maintain a healthy weight.

Those who are overweight or obese typically have a higher risk for heart disease. Take appropriate steps like maintaining a healthy diet and exercise plan to maintain a weight that is healthy for someone your height.

#3: Don’t smoke or use tobacco.

Even secondhand smoke poses a serious health hazard. The chemicals in tobacco cause damage to your heart and blood vessels, leading to narrowing of arteries that can eventually cause a heart attack. And nicotine makes your heart work harder by increasing heart rate and blood pressure and narrowing blood vessels. Tobacco use of any kind is one of the most significant risk factors for developing heart disease, so either quit immediately or make a vow to never start.

#4: Exercise regularly.

The Surgeon General recommends that adults should spend at least 30 minutes on exercise most days of the week. The physical activity will help maintain a healthy weight with lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

#5: Get regular health screenings.

Because high blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage your heart and blood vessels, it’s important to check your numbers regularly. Without regularly scheduled health screenings, you may not be aware of any issues. Ask your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol and screen for diabetes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, someone in America has a coronary event every 25 seconds. Don’t allow yourself to be a statistic. Start taking steps toward a healthier life today. If you have any questions about your current heart health or steps you can take to improve your overall health, speak with a professional today. Just stop by [company_short] to receive personalized recommendations.

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How to Prevent, Identify and Treat Dandruff

By kanid | Published: February 11, 2014

2014Feb11_GenPharma_AThe chronic scalp condition characterized by itching and flaking is known as dandruff. While it’s not contagious and is rarely serious, it can be difficult to treat and embarrassing for the person living with it. Read on to learn how to handle this pesky condition.

Who is affected by dandruff?

Dandruff is very common. So common, in fact, that it affects more than 50% of the population. In most cases, it begins in early adulthood and continues through middle age. It has been linked to hormones because of its arrival after puberty and the fact that its more common among men than women. People with excessively oily skin and hair are more prone to dandruff. Other risk factors include having a diet that lacks foods high in zinc, B vitamins and certain types of fat and having certain illnesses like Parkinson’s disease. Other causes include:

  • Dry skin

  • Psoriasis

  • Contact dermatitis (sensitivity to hair care products)

  • Malassezia (a yeast-like fungus)

  • Eczema

While dandruff is most common in adults, a kind of dandruff called cradle cap is common in newborn infants. The disorder causes a scaly scalp and can be alarming for parents. However, just like adult dandruff, it isn’t dangerous. Cradle cap usually clears up within a few months without any treatment.

Symptoms and Treatment

For most people, the symptoms are easy to identify and fairly simple to combat. There will be white, oily looking flakes of dead skin in the hair and on the shoulders. You will probably feel like your scalp is dry, itchy and scaly. You’ll notice that the condition worsens during dry and cooler weather.

Most of the time, dandruff can be treated with over-the-counter products. Because a variety of dandruff shampoos exist with a number of different active ingredients, trial and error is the best path to finding the ideal treatment for you.

Other steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing dandruff include:

  • Shampoo more often

  • Reduce the number of styling products you use

  • Get a little sun

  • Reduce stress factors in your life

  • Eat a healthier diet

If you’re still scratching your head after a few weeks of experimentation with over-the-counter remedies, it may be time to seek professional assistance, especially if your scalp becomes swollen or red. Other conditions like seborrheic dermatitis can be confused with dandruff and can easily be identified and treated by a doctor.

Next time you’re looking for a product in our pharmacy, please don’t hesitate to ask a staff member for a recommendation. Whether you’re dealing with dandruff or a common cold, the healthcare experts at [company_short] are happy to help. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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4 Ingredients to Maximize Your Exercise Regimen

By kanid | Published: January 29, 2014

2014Jan21_GenPharma_A You’ve heard it time and time again… exercise is an integral part of a healthy life. And exercising the right amount is an important balance to find, just like drinking enough water and getting enough sleep. Finding the time and energy to make exercise a priority is difficult, so taking steps to ensure that you’re getting the maximum benefit from all your hard work is important.

Have you thought about what else you could be doing to get the most out of your fitness regimen? Whether you have or you haven’t, we’ve got news for you – what you put into your body makes a huge difference! Having a snack before you workout will give you energy and stamina, but eating something after a workout is even more important to repair muscle tissues and replenish the fuel you burned off.

Eating after exercise is all about recovery and storage. Studies show that eating within fifteen minutes of workout completion is best, because the longer you wait to replenish, the longer your muscle recovery will take. According to Kathleen M. Zelman, MPH, RD, LD, “Foods provide the gas to the body’s engine, and fluids provide the water to your body’s radiator.”

Here are the four components of a healthy diet for someone who exercises, as well as some meal and snack examples.

#1: Protein

You’ve probably heard that protein is necessary to rebuild muscle tissue that is damaged during intense exercise. It is also helpful for increasing water absorption and improving muscle hydration. Here are two ways to get your protein:

  • Eggs are low in calories, high in protein and naturally contain vitamin D.

  • Salmon is high in protein and packed with omega-3s.

#2: Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are helpful both before and after a workout. Your muscles rely on carbs for a quick energy source, but also need carbs to replenish muscle glycogen.

  • Brown rice is fine, but nutrient packed quinoa is even better.

  • Bananas are fast-acting and filled with potassium.

  • Hummus contains both proteins and carbs. Eating it with whole-wheat pita adds slow-releasing carbohydrates to keep energy levels up for hours.

#3: Antioxidants

Muscle breakdown from workouts can cause free radical/ oxidation damage and inflammation, so it’s important to consume antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods to combat the muscle soreness.

  • Research has shown that blueberries contribute to a quick recovery.

  • Kiwi contains both carbohydrates and antioxidants.

#4: Hydration

There’s no question that water is necessary before and after exercise, but many people wonder about the benefits of sports drinks, which provide additional carbohydrates and sodium. For athletes exercising in hot, humid conditions, especially for longer than 60 minutes, a sports drink may be beneficial. Another recommendation would be to drink orange juice or chocolate milk. You’ll get more potassium, which is important in the restoration process post-workout.

Knowing when and what you should eat and drink is just one small part of living a healthy life. No matter how health conscious you already are, there’s sure to be a few more things you could be doing to maximize your exercise efforts, boost your immune system and live the healthiest life imaginable. As always, the staff at [company_short] is here to provide recommendations and consult with you on any of your healthcare needs.

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Prevent & Fight Influenza

By kanid | Published: January 23, 2014

2014Jan23_GenPharma_AThe United States is well into the 2013-14 flu season, which typically begins in October and ends in May. Whether you realize it or not, you probably know someone that has been infected with the influenza virus this year. The unpleasant symptoms, which include a high temperature, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sore throat, cough, cold sweats and shivers can last about a week. The characteristic symptoms are often followed by tiredness and a general unwell feeling for several additional weeks.

In the US alone, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 die because of the flu each year. The peak of influenza season in North America is February, so now is the time to raise awareness about flu fighting measures. Here are 3 ways to stop the flu virus in its tracks.

#1: Take preventative measures to stop the spread of germs on a daily basis.

Wash your hands often with warm, soapy water and avoid close contact with sick people. If you have been sick or others have been sick around you, take steps to disinfect common items like door handles, telephones and light switches. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and be sure to cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If you do get sick, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying home until you have been free of fever for at least 24 hours.

#2: Get an influenza vaccination.

According to the CDC, a flu vaccine is the best defense against flu-like viruses. While various strains of the flu virus exist, the vaccine protects against the three most common viruses. Everyone 6 months or older should get vaccinated for the flu each year, especially high risk individuals like healthcare workers and pregnant women.

#3: Take antiviral drugs for the flu if your doctor prescribes them.

If you do come down with a case of the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to make the illness milder and shorter. These medications are not available over-the-counter, but they can reduce the chances of complications and make you feel better, faster.

Many over-the-counter medications exist to lessen the symptoms associated with cold and flu. Please feel free to visit [company_short] for all of your healthcare needs. We invite you to speak with a pharmacy staff member for personalized recommendations about the products that are best for you.

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Top 4 Tips for Winter Fitness

By kanid | Published: January 21, 2014

_2014Jan21_GenPharma_AMaintaining an exercise routine year-round can be tough. When it’s cold outside, it can be even more difficult, especially if you enjoy outdoor exercise. Even the most disciplined fitness addicts tend to get discouraged when the temperatures drop below freezing. If you remain dedicated to your fitness routine in the face of cold temperatures, we applaud you. Just make sure you read our recommendations for staying healthy and safe when exercising outside this winter.

#1: Be cognizant of your own limitations.

While outdoor exercise can be exhilarating, it can also present a danger for some people. If you have certain conditions, including asthma or heart problems, check with a healthcare professional before pushing your limits in colder temperatures.

#2: Choose your clothing and footwear carefully.

First and foremost, you need to consider warmth. When you’re working up a sweat, you may feel much warmer than it actually is. But when you start to cool down, the sweat on your body will give you a chill. The best solution is to dress in layers and swap cotton clothing for sweat-wicking materials that will keep the wet materials off of your skin.

When roads are covered in ice and snow, your footwear is of critical importance. Be sure to wear a trail shoe with a wide tread to decrease your chances of slipping. You may also want to consider purchasing shoes a half size larger to accommodate thick socks for added warmth.

Because blood flow is concentrated in the body’s core during cold weather, your extremities are extra susceptible to frostbite. You’ll want to wear gloves lined with fleece or wool, a pair of extra socks and a hat or headband to cover your ears. You may also consider chemical heat packs to warm your feet and hands.

#3: Don’t make it harder than you have to.

Experts and healthcare professionals alike recommend running into the wind first. That way, you’ll head home with the wind at your back. You’ll be less likely to get cold as you’ll probably be moving slower toward the end of your workout and you’ll be wet with sweat.

Don’t forget that running in the snow and ice is more difficult than an easy, breezy, summertime jog. When you’re facing harsh winter conditions, you should place importance on time, not distance. Moving around ice patches will require more time and energy and warming up your muscles will take longer, so moving at a slower pace will be unavoidable.

#4: Be smart and responsible.

Wear sunscreen, stay hydrated and check the weather forecast. Exercising outside in the cold and rain presents additional risks as your inability to stay dry will lower your body temperature even more. Extreme wind chill can penetrate your clothing and increase your vulnerability to frostbite. Additionally, temperatures below zero can present unnecessary risks.

Don’t forget about your indoor options. While many serious runners believe that running on a treadmill isn’t as strenuous, it’s still a great option when outdoor conditions are less than desirable. Alternatively, you may consider giving your body a complete break for up to five days and rest assured that you haven’t lost any fitness.

If you have questions about how a condition or medication may play a role in outdoor exercise, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at [phone_main]. As always, we are here to help.

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The Disease that Affects 30 Million Americans

By kanid | Published: January 14, 2014

2014Jan14_GenPharma_A January is Thyroid Awareness Month! Located in the base of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple, the thyroid is a small gland with a huge function. Because it influences the function of many vital organs, a healthy thyroid is critical to your overall health.

An estimated 30 million Americans are living with thyroid disease and at least half of them are undiagnosed. Although it can be easily treated, raising awareness for thyroid disease is important, because it impacts so many people. It’s more common than both diabetes and heart disease.

Why is thyroid health important?

In addition to influencing the metabolism and major organs such as the heart, kidneys, liver, brain and skin, the thyroid gland produces a hormone that controls virtually every cell, tissue and organ in the body. Ongoing, untreated thyroid disease can have serious consequences including elevated cholesterol levels, heart disease, infertility and osteoporosis.

A thyroid that fails to function properly can produce either too much or too little hormone, resulting in the conditions known as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. A person with an overactive thyroid, hyperthyroidism, may notice the following symptoms:

  • exhaustion

  • rapid pulse, shaking of the hands

  • nervousness, agitation, anxiety

  • weight loss

  • diarrhea

Alternatively, someone suffering with hypothyroidism will not have enough thyroid hormone in the bloodstream and will suffer with the following symptoms:

  • difficulty concentrating

  • depression

  • hair loss

  • constipation

  • lethargy and exhaustion

  • feeling cold

How do you know if you have a thyroid problem?

Speaking to your healthcare provider and knowing your family history can be a great way to determine whether you are at risk. A simple blood test and physical examination can be conducted if you are experiencing any or all of the symptoms listed above. Additionally, performing a simple neck check at home is a great method for early detection. Follow these 4 steps to conduct your self-exam:

  1. Hold a mirror in your hand and focus your eyes on your lower neck, just above the collarbones.

  2. While keeping your eyes focused on your neck in the mirror, tip your head back, take a sip of water and swallow.

  3. As you swallow, check your neck for any visible lumps or bulges. Remember that the Adam’s apple is above the thyroid gland, so don’t confuse the two.

  4. After repeating the process a few times, speak with your healthcare provider if you do notice any lumps or bulges.

Because thyroid disease is so easily treated, there’s no reason to be part of the 15 million Americans who suffer with the disease daily and remain undiagnosed. As your neighborhood healthcare experts, the staff at [company_short] is here to answer any questions. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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