How to safely dispose of unneeded meds
Q: I missed National Drug Take Back Day. How can I safely get rid of medications I am no longer taking? A: One of the best ways to dispose of unneeded and unused over-the-counter and prescription medications is to drop them off at a location that will take back unused medications. The Drug Enforcement Administration sponsors National Drug Take Back Day events, typically in October and ... READ MORE
Some tips to counteract the winter blues
Q: With the start of fall and daylight savings time approaching, is it true that some people feel “blue” during the cooler months just because there isn’t as much daylight? A: While October brings fall leaves, pumpkins and welcome cooler temperatures, it also represents a shift to shorter daylight hours, with the sun setting earlier each day. For many, these cooler, darker days... READ MORE
Tips for skin care and wrinkle prevention
Q: Between dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and trying to stay informed about what’s happening in the world, I’m finding myself significantly more stressed than usual, and it’s negatively impacting my skin. What changes can I make to my skin care routine to best take care of my skin and reduce the emergence of wrinkles? A: The skin is the human body’s largest... READ MORE
Take steps to avoid heat-related illnesses
Q: Temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit for much of the summer season in Virginia. How do I keep myself safe during these summer months? A: Climbing temperatures coupled with high humidity can pose health risks to many people. Older adults in the community are at an increased risk for heat-related illness due to age-related changes in skin thickness, a decrease in sweat... READ MORE
Thinking about traveling abroad one day?
Q: When this pandemic quarantine lifts, I am planning to travel outside the country. I heard from a friend about his bad experience with “travelers’ diarrhea.” What can I do to prevent that and fully enjoy my trip? A: While travelers’ diarrhea is one of the most predictable illnesses for travelers, the old rule that you should “boil it, cook it, peel it or forget it” has... READ MORE
How to avoid seasonal allergy problems
Q: With COVID-19 keeping a lot of us isolated, I am being encouraged to go outside now and then — at a safe distance from other people, of course! But with springtime coming, how do I treat the itchy, watery eyes and sneezing that I get from seasonal allergies? A: The warmer weather inspires us to spend time outside, but it also brings a cover of yellow pollen from trees, weeds and... READ MORE
Opioid overdose: Don’t blame the patient
As someone who knows people — including loved ones — who are dependent on opioids, I agreed for a long time with the 67% of Americans blaming drug users for their opioid-use disorder. That is, until I met Billy. Billy (not his real name, to protect privacy) was an intelligent student who was close to his sister and mother. At age 16, after ACL surgery, he was prescribed opioids for... READ MORE
A daily aspirin isn’t right for everyone
Q: Should I be taking a low-dose aspirin to prevent heart attacks and strokes? A: Maybe not. Recent research has shown that low-dose aspirin may not be necessary and may even introduce additional unnecessary risks in certain people. Strokes and heart attacks, also called myocardial infarctions, can occur due to buildup of plaque in the arterial walls causing narrowing of the blood... READ MORE
Over 40? Screen for breast cancer
Q: I heard October is breast cancer awareness month. Do both men and women need to check for breast cancer? A: October is indeed breast cancer awareness month, and it is important to take your health into your own hands (literally and metaphorically) by keeping up with annual breast cancer screenings. Although more common in females, breast cancer can develop in men, too. Therefore,... READ MORE
Steps to take to avoid the flu this year
Q: During a recent visit I noticed that my local pharmacy was advertising the flu shot. Is it too early to get the vaccine? What else can I do to prevent getting the flu? A: It is not too early to receive your flu shot! Flu season occurs during the fall and winter months and typically peaks between December and February. After you receive the flu shot, your body’s immune system... READ MORE
