Even if one is isolating because of the pandemic and mostly staying indoors, it will still be helpful to take allergy medications early in order to ward off spring symptoms. Doctors recommend using two drugs about three or four weeks before symptoms typically occur. One is a steroid nasal spray to fight inflammation, such as fluticasone propionate (Flonase). The other is an antihistamine to counteract histamine, a body chemical involved in allergic reactions, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) or fexofenadine (Allegra). Once allergy season is under way, it may help to add nasal saline rinses and antihistamine eye drops to the regimen.
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Generalized itching has many potential triggers, such as older age, dry environments, medication side effects, nerve damage, or allergens. Itch relief involves treating underlying causes, moisturizing the skin, and using a humidifier. If there is no identifiable cause of generalized itching, it may help to take gabapentin (Neurontin), use topical anesthetic patches or creams containing lidocaine, or take antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. UV light treatments and over-the-counter anti-itch creams may also provide relief.
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Some supplements pose risks to heart health. For example, red yeast rice supplements can amplify the effects of cholesterol-lowering medications. And garlic supplements canincrease the levels and effects of some medications for heart health, such as blood thinners (causing bleeding), cholesterol-lowering drugs (causing muscle damage), and blood pressure drugs (causing dangerous drops in blood pressure). It’s important to talk to a doctor before trying any new supplement, and to ask if a supplement will interfere with a medication regimen.
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A good workout video for older adults will be tailored to their health needs. It should have a warm-up, workout, cool-down, some stretching, an inspiring tone, tips to maintain the proper form, and the ability to make modifications. Types of workouts for older adults include low-impact cardio, tai chi, yoga, seated yoga, marching in place, resistance band exercises, and body weight workouts. Online exercise classes from Harvard Health Publishing are designed specifically for older adults.
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A Harvard-led study published Sept. 23, 2020, in Neurology Clinical Practice found five unapproved drugs in supplements that promise to boost cognition.
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A study published online Oct. 20, 2020, by BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care suggests that tea and coffee consumption are linked to a reduced risk for early death among people with diabetes.
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Some evidence suggests that people who report the highest intakes of vitamins A and E from both diet and supplements, and high intake of vitamin D just from supplements, have the fewest complaints of respiratory illness.
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A healthy diet, regular aerobic exercise, and proper sleep are essential to keep your brain healthy. But a new study that followed older adults into their 90s found that regular work engagement and a high level of life satisfaction are also associated with mind benefits. These help to utilize various thinking skills, increase a person’s sense of worth, and encourage more brain-building goals and activities.
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Whole grains are equally important as fruits and vegetables for a balanced healthy diet. People who want to choose food products with whole grains should look for the word “whole” or “whole-grain” before the grain’s name as the first ingredient.
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Men who follow active surveillance for managing their low-risk prostate cancer can now use two online calculators to estimate if their cancer will become aggressive in the future. Men can share this information with their doctor to help establish new strategies regarding when they should have PSA tests and biopsies, and whether to continue active surveillance.
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