At OPTIMAL CARE, INC., we are concerned about your health and well being. The following is a list of health tips you may find useful:
1. INFECTION CONTROL
Infection control is taking measures to prevent the spread of illness or infection. Some common measures:
A. Wash hands thoroughly–before & after eating, if ill or sneezing, cleaning a wound or changing bandages, after using the toilet, etc.
B. Use bleach to disinfect–one part bleach to ten parts water. (NEVER mix bleach with other cleaning products).
C. Do not share personal items– toothbrushes, combs, razors, etc.
D. Wash fruits and vegetables under running water. Cook foods thoroughly. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
E. Use a separate cutting board for uncooked meats and other raw foods.
2. GET IMMUNIZED! Flu shots are recommended for the elderly and very young–especially during the winter season.
3. GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
The key to getting a good night’s sleep is going to bed and getting up the same time every day–even on weekends or holidays. Also skip caffeine and nicotine from the late afternoon on. Exercise daily if you can–in one study regular exercisers slept an hour longer and fell asleep faster.
4. DEPRESSION
Depression is an illness that can damage a person’s thoughts, feelings and health. You can feel sad, blue or unhappy. Depression is caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. There are medications to control depression.
A. See your doctor if you are feeling depressed.
B. Don’t make difficult decisions if you are feeling depressed. Get someone to help you if you have to make a major decision.
C. Exercise as often as you can.
5. GLAUCOMA
Glaucoma is the buildup of pressure in the eye caused by fluid buildup. Most of the time it occurs slowly and there is no pain (chronic glaucoma), however it can occur suddenly with pain (acute glaucoma).
Both types of glaucoma cause vision loss. Symptoms include loss of side vision, blurred or fogged vision or the appearance of colored rings or halos around bright objects.
See an opthalmologist immediately if these symptoms occur. Pills or eye drops can treat this condition. Loss of vision can occur if left untreated.
6. MACULAR DEGENERATION
Macular degeneration is caused by the loss of function of the retina, which helps you see small details. The vision in front of you can appear dark, faded or blurry, but you might still have good side vision. Macular degeneration can be treated if dignosed early.
7. OSTEOPOROSIS
Osteoporosis is a bone disease where the skeletal bones become thinner and prone to breakage. The main causes are lack of physical activity, lack of estrogens or androgens and possibly a low intake of calcium. Symptoms include pathological fractures and collapse of the vertebrae.
Treatment can vary, but hormone therapy is a common therapy. A diet high in protein and calcium is also prescribed. Remaining active can prevent this condition.