It is that time of year again when the days are shorter, the weather is colder, and you start to feel gloomy. We all understand the reason behind the shorter days and colder weather, but why do you feel sadder or even depressed in the winter? It could be due to a type of depression called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD for short. Ironic name, isn’t it?   What is SAD? Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is related to the change of seasons and lack of sunlight during the winter months. ¹ People with SAD may even feel depressed during other seasons of the year when it is rainy or cloudy, and on rare occasions, SAD may occur in the spring or early summer. To better understand exactly what SAD is, it is important to know what causes it and what it may look like.   What Causes SAD? There have been many causes of SAD observed and researched over the years; however, researchers are still determining these causes. Studies have indicated that those who have SAD are more likely to have reduced levels of serotonin, a vitamin D deficiency, and a disruption of melatonin levels. ² Serotonin:  This chemical, which is responsible for regulating mood, has reduced levels in those who experience SAD. Sunlight has been shown to play a role in serotonin levels, but with shorter daylight hours in the winter, serotonin levels may decrease. Vitamin D Deficiency:  This vitamin may help promote serotonin activity and is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. With less sunlight during the day, a vitamin D deficiency may occur. Melatonin:  This hormone is responsible for maintaining the normal sleep-wake cycle in the body. People who experience winter-pattern SAD may produce too much of this hormone which may increase sleepiness, leading to oversleeping.   Symptoms of SAD There are many symptoms of SAD ranging from mild to severe as the season progresses. Here are some symptoms to look out for as the seasons change: ³ Feeling sad or down most of the day, nearly every day Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed Sleeping too much Feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty Thoughts of death or suicide Appetite changes leading to weight gain Tiredness and low energy It is normal to have down days, but if you experience any of these symptoms for days at a time, talk to your healthcare provider. Knowing and understanding these symptoms, along with speaking to your healthcare provider or mental health specialist, may help prevent a devastating outcome.   Who is Affected by SAD? Just like normal feelings, SAD can affect men and women of all ages. It is estimated that millions of Americans experience SAD, and many may not even know they have it. ² Among those millions of Americans, some individuals are more likely to experience the disorder than others.   Age, Sex, & Geography Age, sex, and geography all play a role in who is affected by SAD. It is common for the disorder to begin in young adulthood, with women experiencing it more often than men. ² Not only do age and sex play a factor, but also geographical area. People who live further north or further south of the equator are at a higher risk of SAD due to decreased sunlight during the winter season. ³   High-Risk Individuals Just like other disorders, some people with pre-existing conditions are at higher risk of developing SAD than others. Those individuals include people who have: ² Family history of SAD Low vitamin D throughout other seasons Major depression Bipolar disorder Other mental disorders such as anxiety, ADHD, or schizophrenia   Prevention & Treatment Although there is no known prevention, taking action prior to the fall and winter months may help you manage the symptoms of SAD and prevent them from worsening over time. Some individuals have found it helpful to start treatment earlier, before symptoms occur and continue when the symptoms would normally ease, while others need continuous treatment to prevent the symptoms from returning. ³ There are various practices for effective treatment including light therapy, antidepressant medications, mood-boosting supplements, therapy, or a combination of these. Light Therapy:  involves sitting in front of a light therapy box, specifically designed to emit bright light and filter out harmful UV rays. Typically, this treatment takes 20 minutes or more per day and is commonly used first thing in the morning. Most people see improvements within the first couple weeks of beginning the treatment. ⁴ If you don’t have access to a light therapy box, try sitting near a sunny window or spending time outside if the weather allows. Medications/Supplements:  selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are common antidepressants used to help treat SAD. Taking a vitamin D supplement or other mood-boosting supplements may also help boost your mood and support healthy vitamin D levels in the body. Therapy:  psychotherapy specifically may help treat SAD by teaching new ways of thinking and behaving. Focusing on changing unhelpful thoughts and actions may improve depressive and anxious feelings. This may include engaging in pleasant indoor or outdoor activities to refocus lost interests. ²   If you experience SAD symptoms during the fall and winter months, or maybe never noticed but fit the categories for being at risk, try the preventative measures mentioned and seek treatment if necessary. If you feel worsening or severe depression or are experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact your healthcare provider immediately for proper support. You can also use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline  which provides 24/7, free and confidential support. ⁴         Sources: 1.      https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression/SAD 2.      https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder 3.      https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20364651 4.      https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/seasonal-affective-disorder

The outside of your body is just as important as the inside, with your skin being the first line of defense against the world. Your skin not only protects you but can also provide clues to your overall health, which is why you should always take good care of your skin. What Does Your Skin Protect You From? While we know that our skin is a barrier against the outside world, what exactly is it protecting us from on a daily basis?¹ Environment Your skin helps to protect you and keep you safe from a variety of different environmental factors. It helps to regulate body temperature and protect against excessive heat and cold, along with the sun’s rays. The melanin in your skin is the first line of defense against the sun, with higher melanin content providing greater protection.²  Infection If you happen to scrap your knee or are healing from surgery, don’t worry because your skin helps to protect and heal you from certain wounds you may get. It helps to heal itself by working with other parts of your body to go through the different stages of wound healing, which allows your body to help fight off germs and any other infections that may arise.³ Chemicals Your skin also helps to protect you against harmful chemicals in the air or that you may happen to encounter. There is a tough outer lay called the “stratum corneum” which acts a barrier that prevents deeper absorption of most chemicals. This layer of skin creates a waterproof like seal that helps to repel these substances.¹¹ How To Keep Skin Healthy Even though your skin does a good job at protecting you, there are ways that you can help yourself and your skin stay healthy. Treat your skin gently You should always make sure to treat your skin gently, since daily cleansing and shaving can often take a toll on your skin. With some ways to be gentler with your skin being: Limiting your time in hot water, as that can remove essential oils from your skin Avoid harsh soaps and perfumes. Pat your skin dry after being in water, since this allows your skin to retain some moisture.¹² Protect your skin from the sun Protecting your skin against the sun can not only help protect you from those painful red sunburns, but help to keep your skin healthy.⁴ Some ways to help prevent damage from the sun would be: Wear sunscreen even if it isn’t sunny outside, and make sure to get the correct type or your skin. Wear clothing that blocks UV rays. Don’t use your vitamin D deficiency as an excuse to go out unprotected in the sun, you can always get a vitamin D supplement from a local pharmacy if needed. Avoid tanning beds, since they expose you to excessive UV radiation in a small period and can have irreversible effects. Manage stress Stress has effects on your whole body, but did you know that stress can affect your skin as well? It can cause a chemical response in your skin that makes it more sensitive and reactive. It can cause skin issues to flare up such as psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema, and make these flare-ups slower to heal. There are ways that you can help keep skin healthy, even when you’re stressed:   Don’t neglect your skin. Taking care of your skin and establishing a solid skincare routine can help keep your skin healthy and happy. Take time for yourself, even if it is just ten minutes to read a book or take a bath, do something that helps to relax you. Get enough sleep every single night. This can help to lower your stress levels Know that you can set limits and boundaries when you’re feeling stressed. It is okay to say no when you’re not feeling well.⁵ Eat a healthy diet What you eat every day can affect your whole body, but especially your skin. Our bodies rely on proper hydration and a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, healthy fats, and protein to function. ⁶  If you aren’t getting the essential vitamins and nutrients your body needs, then your skin and body won’t function the same. To ensure you’re eating a healthy diet full of essential nutrients, you should:⁷ Follow the recommended portions for fruits and vegetables in every single meal. Cut down on processed foods. These can cause issues with your body and skin. Drink the recommended amount of water for your body weight every day.⁸ Avoid smoking and drinking Alcohol and tobacco are substances that you should avoid if you want to have healthy skin, as they can have adverse side effects. If you drink alcohol regularly, then you may experience a variety of side effects. Short term effects include dry skin and flushing of the skin, or your skin taking on more of a red tint. The long-term side effects are an increased risk of skin infections and skin cancer due to the prolonged alcohol use weakening your immune system.⁹  Regular tobacco smokers may experience different effects, such as yellowing of the fingers and nails, and discoloration of the teeth in the short term.  Long-term tobacco use may lead to dry skin, uneven skin pigmentation, baggy eyes, a saggy jawline, and deeper wrinkles and furrows on your skin. ¹⁰ Your skin is a vital organ and the largest organ that you have, and you should always try to take care of it. No matter your age, there are always little things that you can do to take better care of your skin!   Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279255/ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/anatomyvideos/000125.htm#:~:text=Melanin%20protects%20skin%20from%20the,tanned%20cells%20are%20sloughed%20off . https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534261/ https://healthmatters.nyp.org/6-tips-to-protect-your-skin-from-the-sun/ https://www.webmd.com/beauty/the-effects-of-stress-on-your-skin https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/what-is-myplate https://akronmohs.com/blog/diet-and-skincare-how-big-an-impact-does-diet-have-on-your-skins-health/ https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/how-to-eat-a-balanced-diet/eight-tips-for-healthy-eating/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/alcoholic-skin#long-term-effects https://www.aocd.org/page/Smoking   https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/skin/default.html#:~:text=How%20fast%20the%20skin%20absorbs,the%20lower%20layers%20of%20skin https://www.cutislaserclinics.com/blog/take-it-easy-5-ways-to-be-gentle-on-your-skin/#:~:text=While%20these%20things%20help%2C%20it,get%20clearer%20and%20healthier%20skin .

Some say your senior years are the best years: your children are grown, grandchildren are in the picture, and you get to spend countless hours with your close friends doing the things you love. But you may be wondering, how can you stay healthy as you age so you can enjoy all these wonderful things?   What Can I Do? Your health should always be a priority, no matter your age. However, older adults need to pay closer attention to their health to help them live a happy, healthy, independent life. Follow these healthy aging tips to help get you on the right track!   Get Vaccinated Staying up to date on your vaccinations can help protect yourself   and those around you from life-threatening disease and illness. Since older adults are more likely to get certain diseases, your pharmacist or doctor may recommend receiving specific vaccinations as you get older. Below are a few vaccines they might suggest: ¹ COVID-19 Flu (high-dose or adjuvanted) RSV Pneumococcal Shingles The vaccines you should receive depend on your age. Starting at age 50, it is suggested you receive a shingles vaccine to avoid painful rashes caused by the shingles virus. At age 60, getting your RSV vaccine can help protect you and your loved ones, especially babies and young children, from respiratory illness. Once you reach age 65, vaccinating against pneumococcal disease can help prevent pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections. ² It is also encouraged to get your flu shot every year, and your Td vaccine every 10 years once you’ve received your Tdap vaccine. When you get vaccinated, you are protecting more than just yourself – you also help protect those around you! Those that have weakened immune systems or long-term health issues are often not able to receive the same vaccines as the rest of us. Doing your part and getting vaccinated can help protect them too.   Prioritize Physical Health Staying active as you age is a great way to keep your body in good working order. Physical activity helps to increase mobility, prevent falls, and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Not only that, but it can give your brain a boost! Endurance exercises  like biking, dancing, and swimming help boost circulation and strengthen your heart and lungs. ³ Strength exercises  like weightlifting or resistance band exercises work to keep your muscles strong. ³ Balance exercises  like simply standing on one foot can help improve your coordination and build strength to help reduce the risk of falling. ³ Flexibility & stretching exercises  like barre and yoga help keep you limber. ³ Other ways to keep your physical health in check are to drink less alcohol, prioritize sleep, quit the use of tobacco, and get regular health care checkups. ³   Focus on Mental Health Mental health tends to deteriorate as we get older. Engaging your mind in challenging activities helps to keep your mind active and healthy and may even slow cognitive decline as you age. Learn something new  such as a new skill, game, or language. ³ Get out and about  to visit somewhere new or somewhere you love. Spend time on your hobbies  like reading a book, knitting, cooking, or playing an instrument. ³ Another way to care for your mental health is to keep stress in check. Chronic stress can lead to brain and body damage, which may in turn make you more stressed. Find activities that help to decrease stress levels. Speaking up if you are overwhelmed or feeling down can help save a life. Reach out to friends, family, or an anonymous help line if you are struggling with your mental health. You are never alone!   Fuel Your Body Eating foods that are rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals help to keep your brain and body healthy. Nuts, vegetables, and fish are great foods to promote heart health and brain function. ³ Other things to focus on while developing a healthy diet include: ³ Prioritizing nutrient-rich foods Limiting foods with unhealthy additives Saying “yes” to fruits and vegetables Watching your portion sizes Sometimes, diet alone isn’t enough to fuel your body with what it needs. As we age, our bodies go through changes that can alter our nutritional needs, and many medications may increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies. ⁴ Some people may benefit from taking supplements to fill in those gaps. Talk to your pharmacist to see if any of these supplements are right for you. ⁴ Calcium:  may be linked to healthy bone density and lessened bone loss Omega-3 fatty acids:  heart-healthy fats that may help fight inflammation Collagen:  may improve skin hydration and elasticity Coenzyme Q10:  aids in energy production Vitamin D:  may help with muscle mass, enhance immune function, and boost mood B vitamins:  aids in energy production, immune health, and brain function Protein:  may boost muscle mass and muscle function Ginkgo biloba:  may improve cognitive function Saw palmetto:  may support prostate health Curcumin:  helps boost healthy inflammation levels   Just because you are aging, does not mean you can put your health on the backburner. As you age, it is important to keep yourself healthy, inside and out! Getting vaccinated helps protect you and those around you, focusing on your physical and mental health helps keep you active, and fueling your body through diet and supplements may help boost your overall health. If you have any questions about vaccines, diet changes, supplement recommendations, or mental health, talk to our pharmacist!   Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/immunizations-and-vaccines/vaccinations-and-older-adults https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/doctor-visits/vaccines-shots/get-vaccines-protect-your-health-adults-age-50-years-or-older https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/live-long-be-well-science-based-tips-for-healthy-aging https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/a-definitive-guide-to-supplements-for-healthy-aging

We hear that getting enough vitamins and minerals is critical to our health, but we don't always get the full details on what we need and why. Without understanding what each vitamin and mineral does, it can be hard to know if we are getting enough of them. Having a greater awareness of your nutritional needs may help you lead a healthier life.   What's the difference between vitamins and minerals? Vitamins and minerals are often listed together because they are both essential for our bodies. Though similar in what they do for us, vitamins and minerals are different in where they are found.   Vitamins are organic compounds made by either plants or animals. Some species can produce a vitamin naturally while others cannot. For example, dogs can produce their own vitamin C, but humans need to get vitamin C from our diets.¹ As humans, we need to get most of our daily vitamin intake through diet, environmental exposure, or supplementation. This is necessary because as our bodies are not capable of producing most vitamins, or we produce too little of them compared to what we need.   Minerals are elements found in the earth and food and are divided into two categories: macrominerals and trace minerals. Macrominerals are beneficial in larger quantities while trace minerals are beneficial in smaller quantities.² We typically get our daily intake of minerals from the foods we consume, such as nuts and seeds, leafy greens, eggs, and more. In some cases, your doctor may recommend consuming more or less minerals; you may need to take a supplement if you don't get enough of a mineral in your diet, but you may need to eat less of certain minerals if they are not healthy in larger quantities or if a medication you are on impacts those levels.³   Not all nutrients fit neatly into the vitamin and mineral categories—there's antioxidants, flavonoids, fatty acids, and more—but those all listed out don't roll off the tongue as well. In this case, we use "vitamins and minerals" as a catch-all for the building blocks that our bodies need.   Which vitamins and minerals do I need daily? Depending on your health and your level of activity, you may need more or less of certain vitamins to properly fuel your bodies. Generally, this is a list of some vitamins and minerals that you should be adding to your regimen daily.   It is worth noting here that though these vitamins and minerals have been studied in relation to their benefits, very few have been proven definitively to improve any conditions. If you choose to add a supplement for any of these, remember that supplements are not FDA-approved, and none of the claims that come along with those have been reviewed or verified by them.   Alpha-Lipoic Acid ⁴ This powerful antioxidant is produced in the body and assists in regenerating other antioxidants, like vitamins E & C. Although this antioxidant is naturally produced in the body, some people may need to take an alpha-lipoic acid supplement to help manage a surplus of oxidants caused by chronic diseases or metabolic disorders. Alpha-lipoic acid has been linked to several health benefits and may be used to: Help reduce nerve pain Reduce risk of chronic disease Support healthy levels of inflammation Boost skin health   B12 Vitamins ⁵ Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that is not produced naturally in the body but is found in animal products. Consuming meat, fish, and dairy may help provide the daily recommended amount of vitamin B12. Here is a list of potential health benefits from taking vitamin B12: May help red blood cell formation May improve mood May benefit brain and memory May support healthy hair, skin, and nails   Calcium ⁶ The body needs calcium to build and maintain strong bones and is the most abundant mineral in the body. Stored in your bones and teeth, calcium helps your muscles move and your nerves carry messages from the brain. Calcium may have a few positive effects on your health: May increase bone mineral density May reduce risk of preeclampsia in some pregnant women May help muscle growth and recovery May support bone health   D Vitamins ⁷ Vitamin D works to help absorb calcium into the body and is actually a hormone (or prohormone), despite the name. Vitamin D is most often acquired through sun exposure—when the skin is exposed to the sun’s UVB rays, the body produces vitamin D. Besides the sun, it can be found in fatty fish, egg yolks, cheese, mushrooms, and more. Vitamin D has similar possible health benefits to calcium and it also may support: Bone and teeth health Healthy immune system Brain health Healthy inflammation levels   Elderberry ⁸ This fruit from the Sambucus tree has long been used to help ease cold and flu symptoms and help boost the immune system. Elderberry is loaded with antioxidants and contains certain compounds that may be beneficial to your health. Elderberry may help with: Supporting healthy skin Supporting the immune system   Folic Acid ⁹ Folic acid is another term for a type of vitamin B (vitamin B9 to be exact) and is found in leafy greens, citrus fruits, and beans. Extra amounts of this water-soluble vitamin leave the body through urine, meaning the body does not store folic acid. Because of this, it’s important to get a regular supply through diet or supplements. This vitamin may have many functions, including: Supporting cell function and tissue growth Working to create, use and break down proteins (in combination with vitamin B12 and vitamin C) Helping formation of red blood cells   Ginkgo ¹⁰ The leaves and seeds from the Ginkgo biloba tree have often been used in traditional Chinese medicine. In more modern research, ginkgo extract (which is made from the ginkgo tree leaves) is more commonly used. Many ginkgo supplements are rich in antioxidants and may: Support healthy inflammation levels Support circulation and heart health Boost mood Help manage headaches and migraines   Iron ¹¹ Iron is an essential mineral needed to support a healthy circulatory system. The body needs iron to make hemoglobin, which helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Without proper levels of iron, the body becomes anemic and can have a host of issues from that, including lack of energy, memory issues, and a lowered ability to fight off infections. Iron can be found in meat and seafood; it is commonly supplemented, especially in those with vegetarian or vegan diets. The benefits of getting enough iron may include: Healthy circulation Healthy energy levels Improved exercise performance Increased cognition   Lutein ¹² Part of the carotenoid family (what gives vegetables their bright orange, red, or yellow color), lutein is full of antioxidants and is known to be used to help boost eye health and vision. Lutein is found in the retina, concentrated mostly in the back of your eye, and may contribute to several health benefits including: Healthy inflammation levels Healthy vision Healthy eye tissue Reduction in cell loss   Magnesium ¹³ Found in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and beans, magnesium plays a crucial role in brain and body function. It helps with energy production, protein formation, muscle movements, and more. Although this mineral is found in certain foods, it is often supplemented as most people don’t get enough through diet alone. Here are some potential health benefits of magnesium: Supports balanced mood Supports heart health Support healthy bones Supports healthy sleep patterns   Omega-3 Fatty Acids ¹⁴ These “healthy fats” are fatty acids found in foods like salmon, flaxseed, and chia seeds. Omega-3 fatty acids are not produced in the body and need to be obtained from diet or supplementation. ¹⁴ These fatty acids play a vital role in your cell membranes and are concentrated in high levels in your eyes and brain. Other health benefits may include: Supporting heart health Supporting energy levels Supporting endocrine system Lowering risk of blood clots   Probiotics ¹⁵ Probiotics are "friendly" bacteria that live in the gut and can be found in foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and more. Increasing your probiotic intake, including through supplementation, is especially encouraged when taking an antibiotic; antibiotics can often cause the gut bacteria to become imbalanced. Some benefits of consuming probiotics may include: Weight management support Healthy digestion Immune support Healthy skin   Note that probiotics  and prebiotics are very different and should not be confused. Prebiotics are essentially what feeds the probiotics.   Quercetin ¹⁶ This flavonoid is found in many fruits, vegetables, and drinks and cannot be made by the human body. Quercetin contains powerful antioxidants that may contribute to heart health along with many other health concerns, including: Healthy inflammation levels Healthy allergy response Lowered risk of infections Healthy blood pressure levels   Turmeric ¹⁷ A plant in the ginger family, turmeric is a readily available spice. Both turmeric and its main component curcumin (what gives turmeric its yellow color) have numerous health benefits. Historically, turmeric was used for skin disorders, upper respiratory tract, joints, and the digestive system. Today, turmeric is used in ways that may support: Healthy joints Healthy digestion Healthy allergy response Healthy mood   Zinc ¹⁸ Zinc is a mineral found in the body’s cells and plays a vital role in cell growth, division, and the activity of enzymes, proteins, and DNA. Since the body cannot make zinc, it is necessary to get it from foods like meat, fish, whole grains, dairy, and more. Besides supporting cell health, zinc can help support: Immune health Wound healing Blood clotting Sense of taste and smell   Even with a better understanding of some main vitamins and minerals, we recommend talking with your healthcare team (including your team at our pharmacy!) before making any major change in diet or supplementation. Not only can they help you evaluate what may best fit your needs, they can also discuss how medications you are taking could impact your vitamin and mineral levels. If you are taking any supplements, make sure to tell your pharmacist and doctor!     Sources: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/195878 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-with-minerals https://medlineplus.gov/minerals.html https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/alpha-lipoic-acid-benefits/ https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-b12-benefits https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-Consumer/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/161618 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323288 https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002408.htm https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ginkgo-biloba-benefits https://www.verywellhealth.com/iron-supplements-benefits-4178814 https://www.healthline.com/health/lutein-for-eyes https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnesium-benefits https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17290-omega-3-fatty-acids https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/probiotics-101 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324170 https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/turmeric https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/zinc

Viral Hepatitis is a condition that affects an estimated 354 million people globally,⁶ but Hepatitis itself is a general term referring to inflammation or swelling of the liver.² Hepatitis can be caused by a variety of disorders, substances, and infections, and severity may depend on the cause.¹  Because Hepatitis can have several root causes, understanding the symptoms and types is important for mitigating your risk and making healthy decisions. The Liver Your liver is the body’s largest solid organ and is located under the ribs on the right side of the body. Many bodily functions rely on the liver, and serious issues can arise if it isn’t in good working order. Some jobs the liver is responsible for include cleaning toxins and harmful substances from the blood, disposing of old red blood cells, bile production, metabolizing nutrients, clotting protein production, blood volume regulation, and glycogen storage for energy.⁷  Two parts comprise the liver: a large right lobe, and smaller left lobe. These are made up of thousands of smaller lobules and blood vessels that allow blood to flow through the liver and be filtered.⁷ Hepatitis Symptoms Hepatitis can vary in severity based on cause and progression of inflammation, and can include the following symptoms:² Fatigue or exhaustion Nausea and vomiting Lack of appetite Abdominal discomfort and pain Light or clay-colored stool Dark urine Fever Joint pain Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) If left untreated, hepatitis can progress to the point of permanent damage to the liver. Contact a healthcare professional if you experience any of the above symptoms.² Causes of Hepatitis Viral infection is the most well-known cause of Hepatitis, or liver inflammation, but it can have many sources, including but not limited to¹: The body’s immune system attacking the liver Fatty liver Liver damage due to substances such as poison, alcohol, and in rare cases, illicit drugs High doses of medications like acetaminophen Viral infections such as Hepatitis A, B, and C Bacterial infections   Viral Hepatitis Variants Viral Hepatitis is found in 5 different variants: A, B, C, D, and E, with the most common being A, B, and C. A healthcare professional can administer blood tests to ascertain levels of liver enzymes in the blood and measure liver function. If they suspect hepatitis, additional tests may be performed to detect the viral variants.² Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) is most commonly caused by ingesting contaminated fecal matter. It’s a milder infection and although it can pose a threat to immunocompromised patients, will resolve itself without treatment in most cases.⁸ Treatment will typically entail supportive care and relieving symptoms for healthy individuals while their body fights the infection, or antivirals for high-risk patients.²   Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)  is primarily transmitted via contact with the bodily fluids, such as blood or semen, of infected individuals.⁸ It can also be passed from pregnant patients to their child during birth. HBV can cause both short-lived and chronic infections, and in some cases lead to cirrhosis (severe scarring of the liver) or even liver cancer.⁸ Because the severity of HBV symptoms can vary, some individuals may experience no symptoms for years in chronic cases, despite continuous liver damage from the infection.²   Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) symptoms may not present until it has already affected the liver significantly, making it a common cause of liver damage, cancer, and liver failures leading to transplantation.⁸ Treatments for this variant often utilize antiviral medications with the goal of viral levels below detection in the blood, known as a Sustained Virologic Response (SVR). ²   Hepatitis D Virus (HDV), also known as delta hepatitis, is different from other variants in that it is a satellite virus. This means it doesn’t make its own viral shell but consists only of genetic material. Without a shell, it is not capable of causing an infection on its own, and only occurs in those already infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis D can worsen health outcomes for patients with HBV and can be best prevented by early detection and treatment of HBV.²  Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) is similar to HAV in its infection method, being primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water, especially in regions with poor sanitation measures. HEV is also a milder variant and can often be resolved without treatment in healthy individuals. It can however still pose a risk for immunocompromised individuals and those taking immunosuppressants, such as recent transplant recipients.²   Non-Viral Hepatitis Causes Non-viral hepatitis refers to any form of liver inflammation and swelling that is not caused by a viral infection. Non-viral cases can be more difficult to determine the root cause, and severity may vary. These are the most common types of non-viral hepatitis:² Autoimmune Hepatitis occurs then the body’s own immune system attacks the liver, causing inflammation and potential damage, and extended use of immunosuppressants is often needed for treatment. While specialists don’t know exactly what causes this type of hepatitis, genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role.²   Alcoholic Hepatitis is brought on by excessive drinking over a prolonged period of time.¹  Since the liver is responsible for metabolizing alcohol, alcohol abuse can lead to inflammation and damage. Treating alcoholic hepatitis is achieved by abstaining from alcohol and making changes to diet.²   Drug-Induced Hepatitis can be caused by an adverse reaction to prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, or herbal supplements. Finding and stopping the medication that is causing the problem is a typical treatment, along with symptom management.²   Ischemic Hepatitis is inflammation resulting from a lack of blood flow to the liver and is also known as “shock liver.” This form of hepatitis can be a complication of several conditions that lead to low blood pressure, such as heart failure, severe infections, and surgical procedures. Treatment takes the form of resolving the root cause and providing care to manage symptoms and improve liver function.²   Metabolic Disorders such as Wilson’s Disease can lead to inflammation and damage in the liver.² Also known as Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), this type of hepatitis is often associated with excess storage of fat in the liver. Healthy lifestyle changes can halt progress and reverse effects of MASH if damage is not yet severe.⁹   Who is at risk for Hepatitis? Individuals at risk for hepatitis are as numerous as its variants, and different conditions and behaviors will increase risk for different inflammation causes. The following groups may be at greater risk for hepatitis: People born in a country with a medium-to-high prevalence of viral hepatitis are at greater risk for HBV¹⁰ Illicit drug users are at an increased risk for Hepatitis A, B, and C, especially those who inject.³ Sexually active individuals are more likely to be exposed to HBV, particularly partners of HBV positive individuals and people with multiple partners in the past 6 months.⁴ People infected with HIV are more likely to experience severe infections when exposed to viral hepatitis, and HIV shares many infection risk factors with hepatitis.⁵ Mitigating risks Subheads The best prevention for Hepatitis A and B is vaccination.⁸ Other viral variants like Hepatitis C, D, and E do not have vaccines currently available, and it is best to avoid high-risk behaviors for transmission. Some of these behaviors include⁸: Sharing or reusing needles Having unprotected sex Drinking unsanitary water or water from questionable sources Non-viral hepatitis is often preventable, and you should avoid the following unhealthy behaviors that may put undue strain on your liver:² Alcohol abuse Taking greater than the recommended dose of medications Sedentary lifestyle and poor diet   Schedule your Hepatitis Vaccine at Briargrove Pharmacy now by clicking the link below! Sources: https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/hepatitis https://medschool.ucla.edu/news-article/the-different-types-of-hepatitis#:~:text=Then%20there%20are%20non%2Dviral,or%20certain%20medications%20or%20toxins. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/populations/idu.htm https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/populations/stds.htm https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/populations/hiv.htm https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/statistics/2021surveillance/index.htm https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21481-liver https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/about/index.html https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22988-nonalcoholic-steatohepatitis https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/populations/Born-Outside-United-States.htm

Pool days, grill-outs, boating, vacations – summer is finally here! The summer months come with fun outdoor activities, but precautions need to be taken while enjoying this outdoor time. Staying hydrated is important, especially during the hot summer months. Hydration helps maintain a normal body temperature, lubricates and cushions joints, protects your spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, gets rid of waste through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements, and supports heart and gut health. ¹ Some circumstances require you to hydrate more, such as: ¹ Hot climates Physical activity Running a fever Experiencing diarrhea or vomiting While out and about this summer, it’s important to know and understand the heat related risks associated with high outdoor temperatures. Heat-Related Illnesses Heat-related illnesses can become very dangerous, very fast. From dehydration to heat stroke and more, summer can bring dangerous situations if you aren’t prepared. Many of these heat-related illnesses may sound and look similar, so it’s important to understand the differences to know how to act. Dehydration Dehydration happens when your body is losing more fluids than you take in. ² If not treated, dehydration can lead to more serious problems such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to identify the symptoms of dehydration in children and adults: ² Thirst Dark yellow, strong-smelling urine Urinating less often Dizziness or lightheadedness Tiredness Dry mouth, lips, and tongue Sunken eyes If you find yourself having any of the mentioned symptoms, you should drink fluids, starting with small sips rather than big gulps, and get to a cool area indoors. Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion occurs when the body is losing excessive amounts of water and salt, usually through sweating profusely. ³ It can also be due to dehydration, overexercise, or strenuous work in hot weather. ⁴ A lot of heat exhaustion symptoms are like those of dehydration: ³ ⁴ Dizziness or lightheadedness Irritability Urinating less often Aside from those similarities, these are other symptoms to look out for that are different than those of dehydration: ³ ⁴ Headache Nausea Weakness Heavy sweating Elevated body temperature Heat exhaustion needs to be addressed immediately before it worsens. If you or someone around you is experiencing heat exhaustion, remove them from the hot area and give liquids to drink in small sips. Remove any tight clothing or layers, apply a cold compress to the head, face, and neck, and lie them down to reduce risk of injury if fainting occurs. If necessary, call 911 if symptoms do not improve or if the person affected starts vomiting. ⁵ Heat Stroke Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness and can cause permanent disability or death if not given emergency treatment. ³ During a heat stroke, the body can no longer control its temperature, causing it to rise rapidly to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. ³ Since heat stroke can cause permanent damage if not treated right away, it is crucial to correctly identify its symptoms: Confusion, altered mental status, or slurred speech Loss of consciousness Hot, dry skin Seizures Very high body temperature Rapid and strong pulse or heart rate Call 911 immediately if someone is experiencing a heat stroke as this is a medical emergency and may result in permanent disability or death if not treated right away. Move the person to a cool area and help lower their temperature by applying cool cloths, a cool bath, soaking their clothes with cool water, and circulating air to speed up cooling. It is also noted to NOT give them anything to drink as this may lead to vomiting and convulsions. ⁵ Other Heat-Related Illnesses There are other heat-related illnesses that are important to learn about even though they may not be as serious as the others mentioned above. Just because these are not as serious, it does not mean they should go untreated. Any heat-related illness needs to be addressed, no matter the severity.  These other illnesses include: Heat Cramps: occur when the body’s salt levels decrease due to excessive sweating. Symptoms include muscle pain or spasms and heavy sweating during intense exercise. If you are experiencing heat cramps, drink water and eat a snack to replace carbohydrates and electrolytes. ³ It’s also important to move to a cool place and stop any physical activity until the cramps go away. ⁵ Heat Rash: a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. This can look like red clusters of pimples or small blisters that usually appear on the neck, upper chest, groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases. ³ To help alleviate heat rash, stay in a cool, dry area, keep the rash area dry, apply powder (e.g. baby powder), and avoid using ointments and creams. Sunburn: reddening of the skin from being overexposed to the sun or other ultraviolet light. It may take time for a sunburn to first appear and may not take full effect for 24 hours or longer. ⁶ Sunburns look like red, tender skin that is warm to the touch but may later form blisters, cause severe reactions such as fever, chills, nausea, or rash, and skin peeling days after. To help ease pain associated with sunburns, stay out of the sun until healed, put moisturizing lotion on the affected areas, stay hydrated, and do not break any blisters. It is important to note that although sunburns are temporary, the damage they can cause to the skin cells is permanent. Tips to Stay Cool & Hydrated Too much fun in the sun can be dangerous so following these easy tips can help you keep cool and hydrated while still enjoying your summer. Fueling Your Body Eating hydrating foods and drinking appropriate liquids will help keep you hydrated during the day. Some great food options include watermelon, strawberries, tomatoes, soups, bell peppers, low-fat meats like chicken breast, and even spicy foods like salsa. Sipping water throughout the day is a great way to stay hydrated. Don’t wait to drink until you are thirsty! If you prefer something other than water, try a sugar-free juice or if you are participating in physical activity, an electrolyte sports drink may be a good option. Try to avoid alcohol but if you do choose to indulge, drink a bottle of water between brews to stay hydrated. ⁷ Protecting Your Body Wearing the right type of clothing and other protectants can help immensely to keep you cool during a hot summer day. Loose, light-colored, cotton clothing are great options to wear to allow you to sweat. Another great clothing option is sun-protective clothing. This type of clothing uses special dyes and chemicals to block harmful UV rays. ⁷ Hats and sunglasses are functional options to keep the hot sun off your head and out of your eyes. Even if you’re covered up, don’t forget the sunscreen! Give extra care to easily burnt areas such as the nose, ears, shoulders, and back of neck. It’s also a good idea to use a lip balm with SPF to keep your lips from burning. Now you are ready to enjoy your summer while staying safe! If you have any questions about other ways to stay hydrated or safe from the heat, talk to our pharmacist for recommendations. Shop in-store for sunscreen, bug repellents, water bottles, kids toys, and more! Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dehydration/ https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/heatrelillness.html https://www.healthline.com/health/heat-stroke-vs-heat-exhaustion https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/warning.html https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003227.htm https://www.healthline.com/health/beat-the-heat Graphic: https://www.weather.gov/wrn/heat_infographics

What is the gut? You often hear how the health of your gut affects your body, skin, and mental health, among many other things. But what exactly does your gut encompass?  Your “gut” refers to your gastrointestinal (GI) system, and it contains all the organs that take in the food and liquids you consume and break them down into substances your body uses for energy, growth, and tissue repair. The gastrointestinal system, also called your digestive system, is comprised of your mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. It also includes your salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, which make the juices and enzymes that help your body digest food and liquid. ¹ When you consume food, your GI tract breaks it down to the most basic parts and the valuable nutrients are absorbed through the wall of your gut to then be transported into your bloodstream. To be able to do this, the gut uses nerves, bacteria, and hormones. The bacteria in your gut is of significant importance as they form a mucosal layer that strengthens the gut wall. The health of your gut is generally determined by the levels and types of bacteria in your intestinal tract. ² What is the gut microbiome and why is it important? A biome is described as an ecosystem characterized by its environment and inhabitants. Your gut is in fact a miniature biome that is populated by trillions of microscopic organisms. These organisms include over a thousand species of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Your gut microbiome is unique to you and is affected by diet and environmental exposures. Most of the microorganisms in our guts have a symbiotic relationship with us meaning we both benefit from each other. We provide them with food and shelter, and they provide important services in our body and the helpful microbes also help to keep potentially harmful ones in check. When your gut microbiome is healthy and thriving, you will thrive, too. If your gut microbiome is unhealthy or out of balance, it can affect your entire body. ³ What is the role of your gut microbiome? Your gut microbiome interacts with many of your systems. In fact, it plays such an important role for your body to function that some healthcare providers have described it as being almost like an organ itself. ³ So how does your gut microbiome affect your body’s other systems? Digestive System Bacteria in your gut help break down certain complex carbohydrates and dietary fibers that your body can’t break down on its own. They produce short-chain fatty acids and the enzymes necessary to synthesize certain vitamins such as B1, B9, B12, and K. Short-chain fatty acids feed the cells in your gut lining and help to keep the overall environment healthy. Gut bacteria also help to create bile in your intestines. Your liver sends bile to your small intestine to help you break down and digest fats so that the bile acids can be reabsorbed and recycled by your liver. If your body became unable to recycle bile acids, your liver wouldn’t have enough to produce the new bile your digestive system needs to digest and absorb fats. This would allow leftover cholesterol to build up in your blood. ³ Immune System “Good” microbes in your gut help train your immune system to tell them apart from “bad” ones. Your gut is your largest immune system organ, containing up to 80% of your body’s immune cells. Helpful gut microbes constantly compete directly with unhelpful types for nutrients and real estate in your body. Some chronic bacterial infections that affect your GI tract are directly related to a damaged gut microbiome. ³ Short-chain fatty acids that are produced by helpful gut bacteria help maintain your gut barrier, keeping toxins out of your bloodstream. These short-chain fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory properties for your gut. Inflammation is a function of your immune system but can become hyper-reactive. Chronic inflammation is a feature of autoimmune disease and may play a role in other diseases such as cancer. ³ Nervous System Certain bacteria in your gut produce or stimulate the production of neurotransmitters that send chemical signals to your brain, such as serotonin. Serotonin plays several roles in your body, including influencing learning, memory, happiness, body temperature, sleep, sexual desire, and hunger. Lack of a healthy level of serotonin is thought to play a role in depression, anxiety, and other health conditions. Researchers continue to investigate how your gut microbiome may be involved in various neurological, behavioral, nerve pain, and mood disorders. ⁴ Endocrine System Your endocrine system consists of tissues that create and release hormones. Hormones are chemicals that carry messages throughout your blood to your organs, skin, muscles, and other tissues. These signals tell your body what to do and when to do it and are essential for life and your health. ⁵ Gut microbes interact with endocrine cells in your gut lining which secrete hormones that regulate aspects of your metabolism. Researchers continue to explore how your gut microbiome might be involved with metabolic syndrome such as obesity, insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. ⁵ How do food sensitivities affect your gut health? Healthy and properly tuned GI tracts can break down dietary components from food into nutrients without a dysregulated immune response. However, adverse reactions to food have been steadily increasing and evidence suggests this is due to environmental factors. Adverse reactions to food are known as food sensitivity, food intolerance, or food allergy. ⁶ What is the difference between food intolerance, food allergy, or food sensitivities? Food Intolerance Food intolerance refers mostly to the inability to process or digest certain foods. The most common food intolerance appears to be lactose intolerance, or the inability to digest dairy products. As we age, our intestines make less of the lactase enzyme that processes lactose, resulting in more lactose sitting in the digestive tract causing bloating, inflammation, or diarrhea. ⁷ Food Allergy A more severe problem happens when someone develops a true allergic reaction to certain foods. This causes an overblown response by your immune system against an otherwise harmless substance. With a true food allergy, this can cause potentially life-threatening issues like troubles breathing and low blood pressure. Other severe symptoms may include significant rashes, feeling of passing out, and facial swelling. ⁷ Celiac Disease Celiac disease is not an allergy or food intolerance, but an autoimmune disease which is triggered by the ingestion of gluten. When gluten is ingested, it causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy cells resulting in digestive problems such as stomach pain, bloating, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and headaches. Adults may also experience anemia, joint pain, weak bones, numbness in hands and feet, and mouth problems such as canker sores. ⁸ Food Sensitivity A large part of the population experiences symptoms that are not related to food intolerances, allergies, or celiac disease. These symptoms are not life-threatening and can be referred to as food sensitivities. Although not life-threatening, these symptoms can be quite uncomfortable and disruptive and may include joint or stomach pain, fatigue, rashes, and brain fog. Food reactions, especially sensitivities, may fade away with time as our immune system and gut microbiome are constantly changing. ⁷ What can you do for gut health? If you want a healthy gut, you have to feed it well. Your diet should consist of both probiotics and prebiotics, which are two components that are increasingly being recognized as essential to not only your intestinal health, but your overall health. Probiotics can be found in foods such as yogurt and fermented vegetables. Some good prebiotic options are beans, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. ⁹ Having a healthy gut microbiome helps foster a healthy immune system and reduces damaging inflammation in your body. It allows your healthy or “good” bacteria to avoid being overrun by the unhealthy or “bad” bacteria. ⁹ If you have any questions about additional things you can do to maintain a healthy gut, please visit with our pharmacist. If you believe you are experiencing any food intolerances or sensitivities, you can consult with your physician about testing options. If you are experiencing a food allergy and need immediate assistance, please call 911. Sources 1.      https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/gastrointestinal-system 2.      https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/7-reasons-to-listen-to-your-gut#:~:text=The%20gut%20refers%20to%20your,understand%20how%20the%20gut%20works. 3.      https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/25201-gut-microbiome 4.      https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22572-serotonin 5.      https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21201-endocrine-system 6.      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6767923/ 7.      https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/food-allergy-intolerance-or-sensitivity-whats-the-difference-and-why-does-it-matter-2020013018736 8.      https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/celiac-disease/#:~:text=Celiac%20disease%20is%20not%20an,is%20sometimes%20severe%20and%20immediate. 9.      https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/feed-your-gut

As a patient at our pharmacy, your health is our priority. Another priority of ours? The privacy and security of our patients’ health information. The Importance of Health Information Safety Keeping personal information secure is no longer as simple as keeping your files in a lock box. With technology being a go-to way to store and access information, it is easier than ever before for your data to be stolen, leaked, and misused. This can lead to negative consequences like: Medical identity theft. Identity thieves can try to use your personal and/or insurance information to get things like medical treatments, prescription drugs, or surgery. ¹ Job discrimination. Employers having access to health information can influence hiring and firing decisions. ¹ Legal disputes. Some health information can affect the outcome of a legal dispute. ¹ Victim targeting. Certain types of patients can be targeted by scammers based on their medical diagnosis. ¹ Because of these potential consequences, our government put in place the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). This includes Privacy and Security Rules to protect individually identifiable health information. Entities subject to the Privacy Rule include: Healthcare providers. Every healthcare provider, regardless of size of practice, who electronically transmits health information in connection with certain transactions. ² Health plans. Including health, dental, vision, and prescription drug insurers. ² Healthcare clearinghouses. An institution that electronically transmits different types of medical claims data to insurance carriers. ² Business associates: Organizations using or disclosing individually identifiable health information to perform or provide functions, activities, or services for a covered entity. ² It is important to note that not all organizations are covered by HIPAA. For example, when you store health information in a mobile app, on a mobile device, or in a personal health record that is not offered through a healthcare provider or plan, your health information is not protected by HIPAA. ³ This can look like wearable technology like FitBit or Apple Watch and Health apps like Noom. What Health Information is Protected by HIPAA? The HIPAA Privacy Rule protects your health information by placing some limits on how it may be used and shared. Individually identifiable health information is protected by the HIPAA Privacy Rule. This is information that relates to your past, present, or future physical or mental health or condition; to the provision of health care to you; or to past, present, or future payment for the provision of health care to you.⁴ This also includes information that identifies you or for which there is a reasonable basis to believe it can be used to identify you. Examples of individually identifiable health information include: Information your doctors, nurses, and other health care providers put in your medical record. ⁴ Conversations your doctor has about your care or treatment with nurses and others. ⁴ Information about you in your health insurer's computer system. ⁴ Billing information about you at your clinic. ⁴ Information used by companies or individuals that provide data, billing, or other services to doctors, hospitals, health insurers, and other healthcare care organizations. ⁴ Protect Your Health Information: Dos and Don’ts While HIPAA exists to protect health information held by health care providers, health insurers, and more, it is important to take precautions to protect the health information that you control. DO secure your information with passwords. Use a strong password and update it often. A strong password should be at least sixteen characters, random, and unique from other account passwords. ⁵ DON’T post health information online. Never post anything online that you do not want to be made public and never assume that an online public platform is private or secure. Information posted online is permanent. DO use multi-factor authentication. Passwords can be vulnerable to hackers, so further protect your accounts by setting up multi-factor authentication. Common methods of authentication include a one-time passcode sent via text message, email, or authenticator app, security questions, face ID, and more. ⁶ DON’T give your personal information to unverified callers. There are identity thieves who try to use personal health information to receive medical treatment, prescription drugs, and more. Verify the legitimacy of the caller before sharing your information. ⁷ DO avoid using public wi-fi networks. Most free public wi-fi networks lack security measures, meaning, others using the same network could easily access your online activity. Avoid using public networks when accessing personal information or entering payment information. DON’T fall for phishing attempts. Never click on unfamiliar links sent via email or text. Clicking on phishing links can result in your device being infected with malware and make your information vulnerable. DO shred paper documents that contain personal health information. Shredding not only frees up space and helps the environment, it can also prevent unwanted parties from getting a look at your personal information. DON’T use apps and websites without doing research. Use known and reputable apps and websites, especially those that involve sharing personal information. Read the terms of service and privacy notice to verify that the app/website will only perform the functions you approve. ⁷ Privacy and security of our patients’ health information is a top priority. If you believe your information was used or shared in a way that is not allowed under the HIPAA Rules, or if you were not able to exercise your rights, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or your State's Attorneys General Office. Sources: https://www.jotform.com/what-is-hipaa-compliance/ https://www.cdc.gov/phlp/publications/topic/hipaa.html https://www.healthit.gov/sites/default/files/how_to_keep_your_health_information_private_and_secure.pdf https://www.healthit.gov/topic/your-health-information-security https://www.cisa.gov/secure-our-world/use-strong-passwords https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/use-two-factor-authentication-protect-your-accounts https://www.healthit.gov/topic/privacy-security-and-hipaa/what-you-can-do-protect-your-health-information

It’s been a long day, you’re ready to go home and have some drinks to unwind when you remember you’re taking an antibiotic. The bottle says, “Do not consume alcohol while taking this medication,” but a few drinks should be fine, right? Wrong – here’s why! Why is combining drugs and alcohol a bad idea? It may come as a surprise for some, but drinking alcohol while taking medications (prescription or over-the-counter) can lead to potentially severe side effects and even death. We often forget that alcohol is in fact a drug, and if mixed with other drugs can cause unwanted side effects such as nausea, headaches, fainting, loss of coordination, and more. ¹ Not only can mixing drugs and alcohol have a negative effect on your body, but it can also interfere with how the medication works. Alcohol can cause your medication to have several different effects: ² The medication may become less effective. The concentration of the medication may reach toxic levels. Side effects may worsen. New symptoms may arise. Talk to your pharmacist about the potential side effects of mixing your medication with alcohol, even if the label does not come with a warning. It’s important to be honest with your pharmacist about your drinking habits so they can accurately judge any risks. What can happen if I mix drugs and alcohol? Mixing alcohol with prescription or over-the-counter medications can have serious side effects. Some common symptoms include: ² Blood pressure changes Mood and behavior changes Dizziness and fainting Nausea and vomiting Headaches Seizures More serious complications caused by mixing alcohol with medications are liver damage, heart problems, internal bleeding, and could lead to an overdose or alcohol poisoning. ³ Drug and alcohol interactions may depend on the type of medicine, the amount of alcohol, and your genetics, sex, and overall health. ³ Often, older adults, women, and children and teens may experience more severe side effects of alcohol and drug interactions for a number of reasons. ⁴ Older Adults Alcohol does not break down as quickly in older adults and their body’s water to fat ratio is decreased. According to a study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 78% of surveyed adults over the age of 65 were current drinkers and also taking a medication that could interact with alcohol. ⁴ This can lead to drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and a greater risk of falls and injury. Women Women may be at greater risk of side effects from mixing alcohol and drugs than men due to having a lower percent of body water compared to body fat. This causes alcohol to break down slower, resulting in a higher blood alcohol level after drinking the same amount as a man. This increases the risk of experiencing negative side effects. Children and Teens While seemingly at a lower risk for drug interactions with alcohol, it is still a concern. Alcohol abuse in youth can cause life-long complications and can especially be a risk when mixing alcohol with ADHD medications. Another concern is how the younger population is consuming their alcohol. Energy drinks are a common alcohol mixer among college students, which can lower the feeling of intoxication resulting in excessive drinking and alcohol-related injuries. ⁴ What medications can interact with alcohol? Many medications, including over-the-counter products, can vary in severity of symptoms. The most common medicines that react with alcohol include: ³ Opioids Antidepressants Antipsychotic medicines Sleeping aids Cold and flu medicines Antibiotics Pain medicines Sedative medications, including those that help you sleep, can cause your breathing to slow or stop when consumed with alcohol. This can be extremely dangerous and is a common cause of death. ² Certain medications including painkillers, allergy relief, and cold medicine may contain multiple ingredients that can react with alcohol. ¹ Some medications can even contain up to 10 percent alcohol, such as cough syrup and laxatives. If you are unsure of your medication ingredients, talk to your pharmacist to get a better understanding of what your medicine contains. Most over-the-counter medications will have sections on the label listing various things such as active ingredients, purpose, uses, warnings, directions, other information, inactive ingredients, and can even include a phone number to call with questions. ⁵ Below are symptoms or disorders that are commonly remedied with medication (both prescription and over-the-counter) and the possible drug alcohol interaction side effects. ¹ Allergies, cold and flu. Common side effects of consuming alcohol while taking these medications may include drowsiness, dizziness, and increased risk for overdose. Many cold medications already have alcohol in them, so combining that with drinking alcohol can induce severe drowsiness. Anxiety. Taking anxiety medications may heighten your anxiety symptoms if mixed with alcohol. Some side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, difficulty breathing, unusual behavior, memory problems, and impaired motor control. ADHD. When mixed with alcohol, many ADHD medications can have contradictive side effects including impaired concentration, increased risk for heart problems, liver damage, dizziness, and drowsiness. Heartburn. Rapid heartbeat, increased alcohol effect, and sudden changes in blood pressure are just a few side effects of consuming alcohol while taking heartburn medications. High cholesterol. A few side effects of mixing alcohol with high cholesterol medications include liver damage, increased flushing and itching, and increased stomach bleeding. Infection. Alcohol should not be consumed if you are taking an antibiotic. Not only can the alcohol reduce the effect of the antibiotic, but it can also result in a fast heartbeat, stomach pain, vomiting, liver damage, and more. Pain. Common pain killers, when mixed with alcohol, may result in upset stomach, ulcers, liver damage, and rapid heartbeat. Sleep issues. Mixing alcohol with sleeping aids can result in increased drowsiness, slow breathing, impaired motor control, memory problems, and much more. If you are currently taking any type of medication, even an over-the-counter cold medicine, talk with your pharmacist about the potential interactions your medication may have with alcohol. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, please call the SAMHSA National Helpline for free, confidential help at 1-800-662-4357, or visit samhsa.gov for more information on how to get help. At Briargrove Pharmacy we offer a variety of services including one-on-one medication reviews. Book a review with someone on our team today by clicking the link below! Sources: ¹ https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/harmful-interactions-mixing-alcohol-with-medicines ² https://www.verywellmind.com/mixing-alcohol-and-medication-harmful-interactions-67888 ³ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines-and-alcohol ⁴ https://www.drugs.com/article/medications-and-alcohol.html ⁵ https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-drugs/drug-interactions-what-you-should-know

February is American Heart Month and a time when all people are encouraged to focus on their cardiovascular health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. People who are most at risk for heart disease are those with high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and those who smoke. Several other conditions and lifestyle choices can put you at a higher risk of heart disease, such as: (1) Diabetes Overweight and obesity Unhealthy diet Lack of physical activity Excessive alcohol use Symptoms of Heart Disease Heart disease may be “silent” and not diagnosed until a person experiences signs or symptoms of a heart attack, heart failure, or an arrhythmia. Symptoms may include: (2) Heart attack: chest pain or discomfort, upper back or neck pain, indigestion, heartburn, nausea or vomiting, extreme fatigue, upper body discomfort, dizziness, and shortness of breath Arrhythmia: fluttering feelings in the chest or palpitations Heart failure: shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling of the feet, ankles, legs, abdomen, or neck veins What Behaviors Increase the Risk of Heart Disease Lifestyle choices can greatly increase your risk for heart disease. Things like: Eating a diet high in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol has been linked to heart disease and related conditions. Too much sodium in your diet can raise your blood pressure which increases your risk for heart disease. Not getting enough physical activity can lead to heart disease and increase the risk for other conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Drinking too much alcohol can also raise blood pressure and increase your risk for heart disease, and any tobacco use increases your risk of heart disease and heart attack. Genetic factors likely play some role in high blood pressure, heart disease, and other related conditions as well. However, it is also likely that people with a family history of heart disease often share common environmental factors that may increase their risk. (3) Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations for Heart Health A healthy diet and lifestyle are the keys to preventing and managing cardiovascular disease, along with many other conditions. It doesn’t have to be hard! Even just small changes can make a big difference if you are consistent. Don't think of these changes as a temporary diet but as a change in your overall pattern. Make some of these simple steps below for long-term benefits to your overall health and your heart: (4) Know how many calories you should be eating and drinking to maintain a healthy weight. This will account for several factors such as your age, gender, and level of activity. A good starting point could be a calorie calculator online, but it is best to speak with your provider so they can help you take your personal factors into account. Increase the amount and intensity of your physical activity. You should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week. Being physically active is a major step toward good heart health. Not only will it help you keep your weight under control, but it strengthens the heart muscle and wards off any artery damage. Here's how different exercises can benefit your heart health: (5) Aerobic Exercise improves circulation which results in lowered blood pressure and heart rate. It also reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. Ideally, you should perform some type of aerobic exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Examples of this type of exercise include brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis. Resistance Training (Strength Work) can help reduce fat and create leaner muscle mass. Research shows that a combination of aerobic exercise and resistance work may help your good cholesterol and lower the bad. You should aim for at least two nonconsecutive days per week of strength training. Examples include working with free weights such as dumbbells or hand weights, weight machines, resistance bands, or body-weight exercises like push-ups and squats. Stretching, Flexibility and Balance don't directly contribute to heart health but they allow you to stay flexible and free from joint pain, cramping, and other muscle issues which in turn helps you maintain your aerobic exercise and resistance training. You should stretch every day before and after every other exercise. Eat an overall heart-healthy diet such as: (6) Vegetables such as leafy greens (spinach, kale, cabbage), broccoli, and carrots Fruits like apples, bananas, oranges, pears, grapes, and prunes Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, and whole-grain bread Protein-rich foods: Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, tuna, and trout Lean meats such as 95% lean ground beef, pork, chicken, or turkey Eggs Nuts and seeds Legumes such as kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, black-eyed peas, and lima beans Foods high in healthy fats: Olive oil Walnuts, almonds, and pine nuts Nut and seed butters Sesame, sunflower, pumpkin, or flax seeds Avocados Tofu Foods and drinks to limit include processed foods, added sugars, high-sodium items, soda, and alcohol. Live tobacco-free. Cigarette smoking and using other tobacco products greatly increase your risk for heart disease. If you currently smoke but would like to quit, you can follow the below five steps: (7) Set your “Quit Day” within the next 7 days and make a pledge in front of people who will support you. Choose your method whether it’s “cold turkey”, or cutting down the number of cigarettes per day until you reach zero. Talk with your healthcare professional to decide if you’ll need medicines or other help to successfully quit. Make a plan for your quit day and afterward such as having healthy snacks available, keeping yourself busy with activities you enjoy, etc. And finally, quit tobacco on your quit day! As always, you can and should consult a healthcare professional such as your physician or pharmacist who can also help you take the proper steps to quit for good. Work with your healthcare team. You and your healthcare team, like your physician and pharmacist, can work together to prevent or treat any conditions that may lead to heart disease. Discuss this treatment plan regularly, and bring any questions you have to all your appointments. If you've already had a heart attack, your healthcare team will work with you to prevent another one. If your treatment plan includes medications, be sure to take any medications as directed and tell your pharmacist if you are experiencing any side effects. Are you thinking about adding a heart healthy supplement to your daily routine? Check out our online shop! Sources 1.       https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm 2.       https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/about.htm 3.       https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/risk_factors.htm 4.       https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/aha-diet-and-lifestyle-recommendations 5.       https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/3-kinds-of-exercise-that-boost-heart-health#:~:text=Aerobic%20Exercise,-What%20it%20does&text=How%20much%3A%20Ideally%2C%20at%20least,per%20week%20of%20moderate%20activity. 6.       https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/heart-healthy-living/healthy-foods 7.       https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/quit-smoking-tobacco/5-steps-to-quit-smoking

For many, the new year marks an opportunity to reflect on the past year and start fresh. We make New Year’s resolutions to change for the better, whether that be getting in shape, eating healthier, saving money, or getting organized. However, sometimes we make resolutions we cannot keep up with. Say goodbye to unrealistic goals and the pressure that comes with them! Let’s embrace setting attainable resolutions that make room for healthier habits for 2024 and beyond. Goal: Eat a Healthy Diet Fueling your body with healthy nutrients is one of the easiest and most sustainable ways to help manage weight and improve overall health. Instead of trying an unrealistic fad diet, opt for slowly incorporating healthier options into your diet to develop life-long healthy eating habits. Not sure where to start? According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025, a healthy eating plan includes:¹ Fruits Vegetables Whole grains Fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products Protein-rich foods like seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, legumes (beans and peas), soy products, nuts, and seeds Low amounts of added sugar, sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol Staying within your daily calorie needs. Not sure what your daily calorie needs are? Try Mayo Clinic’s Calorie Calculator! Goal: Improve Physical Health Taking care of your body is one of the most important things you can do to be your healthiest self in 2024. Maintaining adequate physical activity, being proactive in your health, and getting a good night’s rest are all key to ensuring your body looks, feels, and works its best. Get Active Physical activity benefits everyone. No matter your age, ability, race, ethnicity, shape, or size, physical activity can provide immediate health benefits like improved sleep, reduced stress, improved weight management, and lowered risks for many chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.² According to the CDC, adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate activity.² Not sure where to start? Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine like walking your dog, parking further away, or opting to take the stairs. You can also schedule time into your week to do physical activities you enjoy like going on a walk, dancing, swimming, or riding a bike. Get Better Sleep While sleep is vital for a person’s well-being, many of us struggle to fall asleep when our head hits the pillow or wake up without getting any quality sleep. This struggle can leave us feeling tired during the day and lead to physical and mental health problems; chronic health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity; and interfere with daily functions.³ Not sure how you can start implementing better sleep in 2024? Try the following: Wake up at the same time every day. Being consistent reinforces the body’s sleep-wake cycle, and waking up at different times every day will throw off that cycle.⁴ Get enough sleep. The recommended amount of sleep is 7-8 hours per night. Allow for that time in your sleep schedule by going to bed early enough to still wake up at your chosen wake-up time.⁴ Ease into your target sleep schedule. If you are making larger changes to your sleep schedule, make small adjustments over time. This will help your sleep schedule be more sustainable in the long run. Be Preventative Improving overall physical health is easier when you feel your best. Prevent disease and falling ill by staying proactive with your health. Go to your annual check-ups. Scheduling an annual exam with your doctor and screening for diseases can help you find problems early when your chances for treatment are better. Stay up to date on vaccinations. Vaccines not only protect you from preventable diseases—they keep your community safe, too! Book your next vaccine with Briargrove Pharmacy by clicking here. Wash your hands. Say no to pesky germs and prevent the spread of infection and illness by washing your hands frequently. Remember: wet, lather, scrub, rinse, and dry! Review your medications. Whether your regimen includes a short-term prescription or has multiple maintenance medications, making sense of it all can be challenging. Review your medications with your pharmacist to simplify your regimen, decrease side effects, check for drug interactions, and more. Goal: Improve Mental Health Mental illness is among the most common health concerns in the United States affecting more than 1 in 5 adults and over 1 in 5 youth and it can affect your overall well-being.⁵ Take better care of your mental health and boost your mood in 2024 by investing in self-care: Manage stress by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and practicing mindfulness activities like yoga. Build healthy support systems by spending time with loved ones, participating in group activities, and participating in your community. Make time for you. Whether it’s going for a walk or carving time out of your schedule to take a relaxing bath, take time to focus on you and only you. Make Your Resolutions Stick In 2024, we are embracing attainable resolutions that stick. No more unrealistic goals that we forget about by February. Sticking with New Year’s Resolutions is easier said than done, but still very possible. Try these tips in tricks to stick with your resolutions in 2024 and beyond:⁶ Set realistic goals. Start small. Setting a huge goal can be overwhelming, so try taking baby steps to start. For example, set a goal to lose 5 pounds instead of 30 pounds. You can always expand the goal later. Plan for obstacles. Obstacles are often unavoidable, but you can overcome them. Don’t give up! Track your progress. Hold yourself accountable by tracking your progress. Keep track in a journal or take photos of your progress. This will help you stay motivated. Get help. Lean on your support system when times get tough. Reward yourself. Celebrate your accomplishments when you achieve small goals or milestones. Splurge on a treat or something you have been wanting. Keep things interesting. Doing the same things can get boring. Keep things interesting by changing up activities or expanding goals. Healthy habits are not something we can only implement in the new year. Practice healthy habits all year long with changes that are attainable and sustainable for you. And don't forget that people are rooting for you and happy to offer you support. Sources: 1.       https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/ 2.       https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/activepeoplehealthynation/moving-matters.html 3.       https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-deprivation 4.       https://sleepeducation.org/healthy-sleep/healthy-sleep-habits/ 5.       https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm 6.       https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2010/12/making-your-resolutions-stick

Your medications are personal – and having your prescriptions filled from a warehouse across the country by strangers is the opposite of personal. Choosing the right pharmacy for you and your family is as important as choosing the right doctor, and you should trust your health to someone who gets to know you. National chain pharmacies often seem like the most convenient option for pharmacy care, and insurance companies may indicate they are the best or only choice for patients to use. In fact, they are owned and operated by billion-dollar conglomerates that prioritize their shareholders over their patients.¹ Patients deserve to be their pharmacy's priority. Be the priority by choosing your local, community pharmacy. Looking for more reasons? Here’s five more. Accurate and Reliable Care When it comes to your health, it’s a priority that your medications are handled with accuracy and the utmost care. As chain pharmacies are often understaffed with overworked employees and have an increased number of medications to fill, more mistakes like miscalculations and misfiled information are likely to be made. Mail-order pharmacy also comes with their fair share of risks with late refills, outdated information, and destroyed medications during shipment. On the other hand, independent community pharmacies with smaller, experienced staff are much less likely to make these mistakes, so you can order and pick up your medications with confidence. According to a 2018 Consumer Reports Survey, “Independent pharmacies earned high scores on such measures as courtesy, helpfulness, and speed of checkout and filling prescriptions, as well as pharmacists’ knowledge and accuracy. At the bottom, large national chain pharmacies.”² Affordable Care A common misconception is that chain pharmacies offer the lowest available prices on medications. False! A 2018 Consumer Reports Survey reported that 21% of consumers reported that independent pharmacies recommended lower-cost medication solutions while only 9% reported chain pharmacies offered lower-priced options. In that same survey, consumers reported that chain pharmacies tended to have higher out-of-pocket prices.³ Community pharmacies know the struggles that their patients face, such as lack of insurance options and fixed income. In order to stay open, independent pharmacies strive to offer options that they know patients need. Convenience Often patients report that convenience is their top reason for choosing a chain pharmacy over an independent, but did you know independent community pharmacies can take convenience to the next level? Independent pharmacies have the flexibility to serve patients at the individual level by customizing each patient’s service to what they need. Need a last-minute emergency refill? Community pharmacies are more likely to go out of their way to fill prescriptions faster. Don't have time to wait in pharmacy lines? Only 3% of independent pharmacy patients reported long wait times compared to 18% of chain pharmacy patients reporting the same. ³ Do you prefer the convenience of your medication being delivered to your home? This isn’t a service unique to chain pharmacies. Many independent pharmacies offer more convenient delivery options like home delivery, mail order, curbside, and drive-through—and they’ve been doing it for years. Enhanced Services and Patient Education Chain and mail-order pharmacies are often only able to provide you with your prescribed medications. Local, independent pharmacies take service to the next level by offering services to address your health as a whole. You can count on your local independent pharmacy to provide personalized supplement recommendations, access to a pharmacist who can answer any questions and address any issues you may have, and regular follow-ups to ensure you get the quality care that you deserve. Need medication adherence help? Non-adherence to a medication regimen has been found to have significant financial costs (Cutler, Rachelle Louise et al. “Economic impact of medication non-adherence by disease groups: a systematic review.” BMJ open vol. 8,1 e016982. 21 Jan. 2018, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016982)—and beyond that, it can have a significant impact on treatment failures that are costly in other ways. (Kim, Jennifer, et al. “Medication Adherence: The Elephant in the Room.” US Pharmacist, vol. 1 (2018), 19 Jan. 2018, pp. 30–34., www.uspharmacist.com/) While chain pharmacies are providing medication packaging as an online-only service or phasing the service out entirely, independent pharmacies often step up to offer the medication packaging services their patients need. Need customized medication? Most independent pharmacies offer some compounding services to tailor your medications to your specific needs or have a connection to another community pharmacy that can assist. Whether you have allergies to certain ingredients in your medication or need a different dosage form or strength, you can often count on an independent pharmacy to help.³ Need extra one-on-one guidance? Community pharmacists prioritize patient education by working one-on-one with their patients to explain the “why” and “how” of their prescriptions, simplifying medication regimens, checking for drug interactions, creating wellness plans to ensure each patient reaches their health goals, and more. Independent pharmacists also work closely with patients’ providers to have the most up-to-date information on both sides so that patients receive the best possible care. If you think you would benefit from a medication review, ask our local pharmacy team about scheduling a consultation today. Support Your Community Choosing your local independent pharmacy means directly supporting your local community. While making quality care accessible to their communities, independent pharmacies also help their communities thrive economically by generating jobs and tax revenue and playing a major role through civic contributions.⁴ Not only do independent pharmacies support their local communities, the money you spend at the pharmacy stays in the community. From accurate and reliable care to enhanced services and affordability, choosing an community pharmacy is the obvious choice. As an independent pharmacy patient, you can rest assured know you are the priority — not a script number without a name. Choose local by supporting an independent pharmacy. Sources 1. https://www.truthrx.org/patientinformation 2. https://www.consumerreports.org/pharmacies/consumers-still-prefer-independent-pharmacies-consumer-reports-ratings-show/) 3. https://www.consumerreports.org/money/pharmacies/buying-guide/ 4. 2021 NCPA Digest, sponsored by Cardinal Health