FREE
www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz NOVember/DECEMber 11
THE SNEEZIN’ SEASON Your allergy survival guide
Fleas?
Bite back
Berry berry good for you
Win leargy
l A n o s y D Vacu$u8m 99 worth
As I write this I’m wearing a wintry bottom half with boots (given the last 24 hours have been thunderstorms and chilly with it), but I’ve just had to exchange the long-sleeved top for a tee shirt as the sun is now shining. Such is the change of season, but I’m not complaining – just looking forward to more sunshine and less rain so I can dress with certainty for the day. The change in the weather also heralds the start of the hay fever season which can wreak havoc with allergy sufferers. We have an allergy feature in this edition of Family Heath Diary with the chance to win a Dyson Allergy Vacuum Cleaner. See page 22 for details. We’ve had a new member of our household for a couple of months now. Maisie is a 5-month-old rag doll kitten. Quite delightful – even the dog loves her. With the sun shining I opened the doors this morning and turned my back for just a couple of minutes to get a load of washing. I usually supervise Maisie outdoors as she is so little, but then I heard her meowing 20 ft up a tree unable to get down! So, summer time with all the doors and windows open, coupled with an adventurous young cat could be taxing. At least I can contain the dog! With the run up to Christmas almost here (deep breath now) I hope you and yours have a fabulous festive season and you manage to spend some time away from the everyday grind with the ones you love. Cheers!
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In this issue Daily dose of superfruit
4
Get your feet in good shape
6
New for osteoarthritis
8 10
Live it up minus heartburn
Dyson Allergy Vacuum
Giveaway Worth $899
Competition closes 18 December 2011
To enter visit
familyhealthdiary.co.nz
Win
a Dyson allergy Vacuum worth $899
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Seasonal allergies Sight for sore eyes?
12
Don’t give in to allergies
14
Family Health Diary reports… Your hay fever survival guide
16
Dyson Allergy Vacuum
22
Helping hand for depression
24
Avigra or Viagra – spot the difference
26
Baby love starts before conception
28
Fleas love to breed
30
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n Editor Neva Sinclair n Design Cathy Ellegard Goss n On the cover Jude Dobson n Cover photography Roy Emerson Photography n Make-up & styling Nikki Lovrich n For editorial enquiries, write to editor@familyhealthdiary.co.nz For Family Health Diary advertising enquiries please phone +64 9 306 2340 n Sales manager Harinda Singh DDI: 09 306 2344 Email: harinda@brandworld.co.nz Family Health Diary is published by BrandWorld Limited, Auckland. Phone (09) 306 2340, Fax (09) 307 9246. Every effort has been made to ensure the contents of this magazine reflect current accepted medical opinion and that it is as up-to-date as possible, but it does not claim to be the last word on any medical matter featured. No medical or health information, however detailed, can ever be considered a substitute for consultation with, or the advice of, a qualified doctor. Though this publication contains information that may be of the greatest importance to your health and well-being, it is not intended to replace your doctor or discourage you from seeking his or her advice. If anything in Family Health Diary leads you to suppose you may be suffering from any of the serious conditions described, you are urged to see your doctor without delay. ©2011 Copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. Family Health Diary® is a registered trademark of BrandWorld Limited.
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Your daily dose
of superfruit Cranberries are one of nature’s original superfruits. They’re packed with phenolic antioxidants (an organic chemical compound) and also rich in other plant nutrients, which equates to real health benefits.
Ocean Spray harvests its cranberries in the North American autumn by flooding water over the long-running vines, so berries float to the top to be corralled in and collected.
G
ram for gram, there are more phenolic antioxidants in cranberries than most other common fruits.¹ As well as antioxidants, cranberries contain unique compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACS) that help bolster your internal defences against certain harmful 4
bacteria. PACS prevent bacteria from sticking to healthy cells in your body and help flush them out of your system. What makes the PACS in cranberries different from those in other foods are their extra ‘anti-stick’ potential, so they’re the perfect choice to help cleanse and purify your body.
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JUST ONE GLASS A DAY So what’s the best way to get your daily dose of cranberries? Scientific research has found cranberry juice drinks containing at least 25% cranberry juice, will provide all the benefits associated with the cranberry.2 But not all cranberry juice drinks are the same, so check the label to ensure you’re getting the best quality.
UNIQUE GOODNESS OF OCEAN SPRAY® Ocean Spray® Cranberry Classic™ has a higher cranberry content than most cranberry drinks available in New Zealand. Not only is this drink high in antioxidants, a daily 250mL glass of Ocean Spray® Cranberry Classic™ also provides 100% of the recommended daily vitamin C intake for an adult. Ocean Spray® Cranberry Classic™ tastes great, so the whole family will enjoy it.
NO SUGAR OPTION Ocean Spray® Cranberry Light™ can provide your daily dose of cranberry juice with no added sugar. This lowcalorie version of cranberry juice drink has only 8 calories in a 100mL serve. It is suitable for people with type 2 diabetes, or anyone watching their sugar intake. 1. Wu X, Beecher GR, Holden JM, Haytowitz DB, Gebhardt S, Prior RL. Lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidant capacities of common foods in the United States. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2004; 52(12):4026-4037. 2. Avorn J, Monane M, Gurwitz JH, Glynn RJ, Choodnovskiy I, Lipsitz LA. Reduction of bacteriuria and pyuria after ingestion of cranberry juice. Journal of the American Medical Association 1994; 271:751-754.
Available in the juice section of your supermarket Call 0800 445 368 or visit www.oceanspray.com.au
BENEFITS OF OCEAN SPRAY® CRANBERRY CLASSIC™
TAPS NA5333
SAVE $2.00 ✁
on your next 1.5L purchase of Ocean Spray® Cranberry Classic™ or Ocean Spray® Cranberry Light™ To the customer: This coupon is non-exchangeable and will be redeemed only on the product(s) stated on this coupon. Valid until 31 January 2012. To the retailer: Provided this coupon is redeemed in accordance with our customer offer, it will be credited in full, plus the normal handling fee, by simply sending to: The Coupon Company Ltd, PO Box 47319, Ponsonby, Auckland. TCC 157045 www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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9 918258 157043 >
• Rich in phenolic antioxidants • Excellent source of vitamin C • No artificial colourings or flavourings • No added preservatives • Cleanses and purifies your body • Supports digestive and urinary tract health.
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Get your feet in good shape
If you suffer from pain you can’t explain in the heel, ankle, knee or lower back, you might want to check your foot alignment.
P
oor alignment of the feet not only affects your posture, but can cause aches and pains in other parts of the body. Around 70% of people suffer from excess pronation, which is when the foot rolls inwards when walking. It happens because our feet, which were designed to walk barefoot on soft, natural surfaces like soil and sand, take
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a daily pounding on unnatural, hard and flat surfaces including footwear. This causes the feet to roll over (to gain ground contact) and the arches to flatten. Like the foundation of a tall building, problems in the feet can have far-reaching effects throughout the body, leading to pain affecting not just the feet, but the heel, knee, lower back and legs.
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HAVE YOU CHECKED YOUR FEET? Most people don’t realise that their feet pronate, or associate the problem with poor posture and other body ailments. Yet the difference between good and poor foot alignment is obvious once you use a good orthotic. An orthotic is a corrective insole that realigns the foot to a neutral position.
The image above shows how pronated feet can be corrected by simply using an orthotic insole (as shown with the right foot).
SCHOLL ORTHAHEEL FEATURES & BENEFITS • Podiatrist designed and recommended • Designed to help cushion the foot and correct over-pronation • Unique built-in 4 degrees rear foot angle to control excess pronation and restore the foot to its neutral position Inserts provide relief from common • causes of heel and foot pain, knee pain, aching legs and back pain.
Available from pharmacies and speciality footwear stores www.schollorthaheel.co.nz
SCHOLL ORTHAHEEL RANGE Scholl Orthaheel is a range of awardwinning orthotic insoles designed to fit into most footwear, providing medical-grade support and relief at an affordable price. Designed by leading international podiatrist Phillip J. Vasyli, Scholl Orthaheel orthotics have a 4-degree rear foot wedge which helps correct body posture and restore natural foot function.
SCHOLL ORTHAHEEL FOOTWEAR Scholl Orthaheel orthotics are also built into a range of footwear and sandals in a wide range of styles and colours. Fashionable, comfortable and supportive, Scholl Orthaheel walking shoes, cross-trainers, sandals and jandals offer true comfort when walking, and help prevent knee pain, tired aching legs and, in some cases, even help with lower back pain.
SSL, Auckland, NZ. PO Box 100 091 NSMC, Auckland. TAPS DA2110LM
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New treatment for symptoms
of osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can affect many aspects of your life from everyday activities to playing with the grandchildren or enjoying a round of golf, so it’s good news there’s a new treatment proven to relieve the symptoms.
M
ore than half a million New Zealanders are currently living with arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis frequently affecting knees and hands. If you’re over 60 there’s a 50% chance you will have OA and virtually all people over the age of 80 have OA.1 8
There is no cure for OA but you can help relieve the pain and inflammation and get back to the activities you enjoy. Voltaren® Osteo Gel is new for OA sufferers. It is a topical gel, clinically proven in the effective management of local pain and inflammation associated with mild osteoarthritis in knees and fingers.2
www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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HOW DOES VOLTAREN® OSTEO GEL WORK Voltaren® Osteo Gel’s formula penetrates through the skin and works at the site of pain to help provide relief. Voltaren® Osteo Gel’s targeted action has been shown to reach therapeutic levels at the site of pain, providing clinically significant improvement in pain after one week.3 Its non-greasy gel formula is absorbed quickly and there’s no strong smell.
EASY TO OPEN CAP Voltaren® Osteo Gel has an easy grip triangular cap which makes it easy to open, especially if you have stiffness in your hands.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES CAN HELP If you have osteoarthritis, the following lifestyle changes can help1: • Get regular, gentle exercise to help reduce pain and increase flexibility – stretching, strengthening programmes such as Tai Chi, walking, swimming and aerobic exercise Maintain a healthy diet and • weight – this reduces stress on hips, knees and feet in particular • Protect your joints – talk to a healthcare professional about ways to tackle activities without putting unnecessary strain on your joints • Wear flat shoes with thick, soft soles to absorb shock.
Voltaren® Osteo Gel only available in pharmacies WHAT CAUSES OSTEOARTHRITIS? There are a number of factors that can lead to the development and progression of OA : • A ge – risk of OA generally increases for those over 40 • O verweight – this contributes to OA especially in weight-bearing joints • F emale – OA is more common in women • H ereditary factors – OA of fingers and hands can run in families and applies more commonly to women • J oint injury or overuse or physical stress from hard repetitive activity such as farming, rugby, netball. Whatever the cause of your OA, Voltaren® Osteo Gel, can help restore your mobility by treating the pain and inflammation, which means you can get on with everyday activities.
VOLTAREN SUPPLIER OF PAIN RELIEF TO THE
References: 1. Arthritis New Zealand. www.arthritis.org. nz 2. Voltaren Osteo Gel Product Information, Novartis Consumer Health, September 2010 3. Zacher et al, ‘Topical diclofenac and its role in pain and inflammation on evidence-based review’ (2008). Current Medical Research and Opinions, Vol. 24, No. 4. Voltaren® Osteo Gel (diclofenac diethylammonium 1.16%) for temporary relief of local pain and inflammation in mild forms of osteoarthritis of the knees and fingers. Always read the label and use only as directed. Medicines have benefits and some may have risks. If symptoms persist or if you have side effects consult your healthcare professional. Novartis Consumer Health Australasia Pty Ltd, Auckland, NZ. TAPS NA5362
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Enjoy the festivities...
Without the heartburn If you suffer from heartburn, you may be dreading the end of year season involving parties and lots of food. Relax and enjoy it all, because heartburn doesn’t have to hinder your celebrations.
A
t this time of year the last thing you want to be worried about is heartburn and acid reflux. Wouldn’t it be great if you could stop heartburn in its tracks so you can get on with enjoying life? The good news is, you can. For frequent heartburn sufferers Losec® Extra is the answer. It could free you from heartburn for up to three months, and you don’t need a prescription to get it. 10
UNDERSTANDING HEARTBURN If you suffer from recurring heartburn, it might be because you’re only addressing the symptoms, not the cause. Heartburn and acid reflux occurs when acid from the stomach flows up into the food pipe (oesophagus), causing a burning pain in the chest and, in some cases, a sour acid taste in the mouth. Too much stomach acid is usually to blame, and so to tackle the problem effectively you may need to limit the amount of acid your stomach produces in the first place.
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CAUSES OF HEARTBURN The stomach uses acid to sterilise food and protect against infection. Specialised cells in your stomach lining produce this acid and pump it into the stomach. If too many of these pumps produce acid at the same time, it can result in excess stomach acid. Many things can trigger excess acid production – certain foods and drinks, having a busy lifestyle and specific medical conditions. So at this time of year, heartburn is more likely.
GET LASTING RELIEF Watching what you eat, reducing excess weight, stopping smoking and avoiding stressful situations can all help reduce heartburn or reflux. But to stop heartburn or reflux at its source, you may need to regulate the production of stomach acid. That’s why millions of people worldwide use Losec®, shown to be twice as effective as antacids in the relief of heartburn and reflux.
COMMON DIETARY TRIGGERS Heartburn can be triggered by: • Spicy or fatty food • Chocolate or sweets • Caffeinated or fizzy drinks • Alcohol • Eating large portions and eating before bedtime.
TREAT THE ROOT CAUSE Unlike antacids that only temporarily relieve the symptoms of heartburn/ reflux, Losec® regulates the amount of acid your stomach produces, so that symptoms don’t have the chance to rear their head at all. Losec® Extra (omeprazole 20mg) may provide up to three months’ relief when taken for two weeks. It’s now available from your pharmacy – without prescription – making it easier to get lasting freedom from the nagging pain of heartburn.
Look for Losec® in the heartburn section of your pharmacy Losec® is a registered trademark of the AstraZeneca group of companies. Each tablet contains omeprazole 10mg (Losec) or omeprazole 20mg (Losec Extra). Losec® is distributed under licence by Bayer New Zealand Limited. Losec is a Pharmacy Only Medicine used for the relief of reflux-like symptoms, heartburn or regurgitation for people aged 18 years and over. Medicines have benefits and some may have risks. Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist or you have side-effects see your pharmacist. For short-term treatment only. Bayer New Zealand Limited, Auckland. TAPS NA5358
For more on indigestion and acid reflux visit
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Sight for sore eyes? Treat the problem Whether you have red, irritated eyes or red, itchy eyes the first step in finding a solution is sorting out the underlying cause.
R
ed, irritated and itchy eyes are not all the same. Your eye problem can have many causes from an allergic reaction to a late night or swimming. So how do you know which product will provide the best solution? Understanding the cause of your eye redness or itchiness, is key to effective treatment. If you’re unsure of the cause, the first stop should be your pharmacy where professional advice and Pharmacy Only treatments are available. 12
RED, IRRITATED EYES NEED CLEAR EYESTM Causes of red, irritated eyes include sun glare, wind, swimming, reading (and other close work), as well as irritation from contact lenses. The active ingredient in Clear EyesTM works as a vasoconstrictor to immediately reduce unsightly red blood vessels, remove redness and brighten eyes for up to 8 hours.1 There is also a moisturising action to provide longer, soothing relief and improve eye comfort.
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ITCHY, RED EYES NEED CLEAR EYESTM – ALLERGY Red, itchy, inflamed eyes are usually caused by allergens in the air so you’re more likely to have this problem during hay fever season, or warm, dry, windy weather. Causes may include pollen, mould spores, pet hair, house dust mites and irritation. If this sounds like you, the tripleaction formula in Clear EyesTM – Allergy will immediately remove redness, soothe and moisturise. These eye drops clear away the mucus that builds up in the eyes and help relieve itching associated with exposure to airborne allergens. Clear EyesTM and Clear EyesTM – Allergy are only available in pharmacies. The brand has a 20-year history in New Zealand as a trusted eye care solution, which explains why it is the number 1 selling eye drop in pharmacy.2
HOW TO USE CLEAR EYESTM 1. Clean your eyes and wash hands 2. Tilt your head back 3. Pull down lower lid to create a small pocket 4. Look up and instill one or two drops in each eye up to 4 times a day 5. Close your eye for 30 seconds and while closed, look up, down and from left to right.
HANDY HINTS • Never allow eye drop container tip to touch your eye • Allways follow recommended dosage • Avoid sharing eye drop bottles • Discard eye crops 30 days after opening.
Only available from pharmacies www.cleareyes.co.nz
References: 1. Abelson MB, Butrus SI, Weston JH, Rosner B, ‘Tolerance and absence of rebound vasodilation following topical ocular decongestant usage’, Ophthalmology 1984, Vol 91, Issue 11, Pages 1364-1367. 2. Synovate Aztec data May (MAT) 2011. CLEAR EYESTM Contains: Naphazoline HCl 0.012% w/v. CLEAR EYESTM ALLERGY Contains: Zinc Sulphate 0.25%w/v, Naphazoline HCl 0.012% w/v, Glycerin 0.2% w/v. PHARMACY ONLY MEDICINE. MEDICINES HAVE BENEFITS AND SOME MAY HAVE RISKS. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND USE ONLY AS DIRECTED. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST SEE YOUR DOCTOR. RECOMMENDATIONS: Do not touch the bottle tip to any surface as this may contaminate the solution. If you experience eye pain, changes in vision, continued redness and irritation, or if the condition worsens or persists for more than 72 hours, discontinue use and consult a doctor. Not to be used by individuals suffering from narrow angle glaucoma or serious eye diseases. If you are already using a prescription eye product, seek the advice of your doctor. Remove contact lenses before using. Clear Eyes™ is a registered TM of Prestige Brands Inc. Aspen Pharmacare. Distributed in New Zealand by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland. www.aspenpharma.co.nz TAPS NA5332
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Don’t give in to
allergies... If you suffer from hay fever you’re probably dreading another season of sniffles and sneezes. The best way to treat the problem is to be prepared early so that no matter where you are, you can act quickly at the first sign of symptoms.
SO WHICH TREATMENT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR? You want something you know will work, so the first stop should be your pharmacy. This is where you will find the more powerful treatments. 14
One of the treatments often recommended is Claratyne because it’s clinically proven to deal with symptoms such as runny nose, itchy, watery eyes and sneezing.
www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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CLARATYNE WORKS FAST Claratyne is a long-lasting antihistamine that works fast and continues working for 24 hours, so you only need to treat once a day. And the good news is, it won’t make you drowsy. Claratyne targets the cause of your hayfever by blocking the release of histamine in your body. It is the histamine release that causes your irritating allergy symptoms.
WHAT CAUSES HAYFEVER? For seasonal allergic rhinitis, which occurs mostly in spring and summer, the trigger is usually wind-borne pollen from trees, grass and weeds. If you think that pollen is the culprit, keep the family indoors with doors and windows shut on windy days during the hay fever season. You may need to keep your car windows closed when travelling and wearing glasses outdoors will help protect your eyes. Pollen is generally “on the move” in the early morning, between 5am and 10am, so stay indoors at this time, and keep away from freshly cut grass as mowing the lawn stirs up pollen and moulds. The plants most likely to cause hay fever symptoms are those that are wind
pollinated. You can check them out on the Allergy New Zealand pollen calendar at www.allergy.org.nz If you have perennial allergic rhinitis that hangs around most of the year, it is probably caused by dust mites, mould or animal dander. If this sounds like you, there are things you can do to help minimise the problem. These include regularly washing pets, replacing carpets with hard flooring and wet mopping regularly, and ensuring a well ventilated, dry home to prevent mould growth. Regardless of the type of allergy you have, one dose of Claratyne can treat your major hayfever and allergy symptoms.
ABOUT CLARATYNE • Works fast • Long-lasting, 24-hour relief from sneezing, itchy watery eyes, runny nose and hives • Non-drowsy formula, so you can get on with work and life • Suitable for all the family – liquid formulation for children • Targets the cause of the problem.
Only available from pharmacies CLARATYNE® – Tablets contain Loratadine 10mg per tablet, Syrup contains Loratadine 5mg/5ml. Pharmacy Medicine for the symptomatic relief of seasonal and non-seasonal allergic rhinitis and allergic skin conditions. Medicines have benefits and some may have risks. Always read the label carefully and use strictly as directed. If symptoms persist or side effects develop see your healthcare professional. Caution when Driving. Registered trademark. Merck Sharp & Dohme (NZ) Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand. CORP-1009987-0006. Date of First Issue: October 2011. TAPS NA5301
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It’s the sneezin’ season
Your hay fever survival guide Hay fever is not life threatening – it is often considered a nuisance rather than a major disease. But for those living with frequent sneezing, itchy eyes and a stuffy nose, there is a huge impact on quality of life.
H
ay fever is the common name to describe allergic rhinitis and involves a recurrent runny, stuffy, itchy nose, and frequent sneezing. It can also affect your eyes, sinuses, throat and ears. Like any other allergy, allergic rhinitis is an inappropriate immune system 16
response to an allergen. Allergic rhinitis occurs when an allergen comes into contact with the sensitive, moist lining in your nose and sinuses and sets off the allergic response. If you have seasonal allergic rhinitis that strikes you in spring and summer, this is commonly caused by pollen.
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HAY FEVER SYMPTOMS
At this time of year, tree, grass, and weed pollen become airborne and can result in sneezing, a runny nose, and itchiness in your nose, throat, and eyes. If you suffer perennial allergic rhinitis that can hang around most of the year, the common causes are house dust mite, pets and mould.
Hay fever can be a combination of symptoms and not everyone will have the same symptoms. Because pollen counts can vary from day to day, symptoms also can vary. According to Allergy New Zealand, a person with allergic rhinitis may have any of the following symptoms: • Watery discharge from the nose all the time, occasionally or during certain seasons of the year • Stuffy nose all the time or during specific seasons • Reddened, pebbly lining in the lower eyelids • Frequent throat-clearing • Breathing through the mouth • Snoring • Rabbit-like movements of the nose • A horizontal crease across the nose as a result of constant rubbing • Frequent sneezing, especially in the morning • Repeated nosebleeds • Headaches due to pressure from inside the nose • Frequent earaches, fullness in the ear, ear infections or hearing loss • Dizziness or nausea related to ear problems • Chronic cold without much fever • Nasal voice because of blocked nasal passages • Dark circles under the eyes as a result of pressure from blocked nasal passages on the small blood vessels. These are often referred to as “allergic shiners” • Occasionally rashes and swelling of the face. Some highly sensitive people can develop symptoms within minutes of going outside in the morning. www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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AVOIDING SPRING ALLERGY TRIGGERS If you have seasonal allergic rhinitis caused by pollen allergies, you may be tempted to hibernate over spring and summer. But that’s no solution. The allergens floating around outside will make their way inside your house, and eventually up your nose! In New Zealand the hay fever “season” is not very distinct and can vary throughout the country because of the different climates. The season starts about a month earlier at the top of the North Island than the bottom of the South Island. Below are some Dos and Don’ts to help you manage your hay fever symptoms so you can enjoy the outdoors over spring and summer. DO: • Plan outdoor activities – hot, dry, and windy days are peak allergy days. Plan to be outside when it’s cooler and less windy. After a rain is a good time to head outdoors. Get someone else to mow the lawn • – lawnmowers stir up allergens. If you must mow the lawn, use a mask and protective glasses. You can choose a simple disposable paper mask, or for tougher allergies, a “respirator mask” with a HEPA filter. • Wash your clothes and have a shower after you come in from outdoor activities. Wear natural fabrics – some experts • say natural fabrics such as cotton, attract less pollen. Silks and synthetic fabrics tend to build up static electricity, which attracts pollen. • Wash your hair before bed – this ensures any pollen collected on your hair during the day won’t rub off on your pillow. If you’re a morning 18
shampoo person, you may have to change your routine. ear sunglasses – this can help • W keep pollen out of your eyes. • Select garden plants carefully – choose low pollen producers, usually native species. If you know the exact tree, grass, and weed pollen that affect you, you can try to remove them and replant low pollen species. • Take a holiday during high pollen season – a seaside location is usually lower in pollen. • Replace carpeting and curtains – these can trap pollen inside your home so consider tile and hardwood floors, and shutters and blinds, instead of curtains. Keep indoor humidity levels below • 50% – this applies especially if mould spores cause your allergies. You may need a digital thermometer with a humidity gauge to keep track of humidity levels, and a dehumidifier to get a level lower than 50%.
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DON’T: Dry clothes outside – pollen can • collect on clothing or bed linen left outside to dry. • Open windows and doors – although fresh air is good for us, pollen-laden air isn’t. Keeping your house closed on high pollen days will help keep pollen out. Drive with open car windows and • sunroofs – especially on high-pollen days, recirculate the air in your car instead of using the vent, which may let in pollen. • Allow leaves and garden debris to gather – keep your garden area clear of anything that can harbour pollen or moulds. Wear outdoor shoes in the house – • take shoes off at the door or at least wipe them well on an outdoor mat. Visit farms or orchards – these are • typically high pollen areas so stay away.
because these plants attract bees and other insects to transfer their pollen from flower to flower. They produce fewer pollen grains that don’t generally become airborne.
WHY WE REACT TO POLLEN The reason humans react to pollen grains all comes down to proteins. Our immune systems are designed to reject “foreign” proteins from the body and pollen grains can carry 30-40 different proteins.
THE WONDERS OF POLLINATION Wind pollinated plants are most likely to cause hay fever symptoms. These plants produce high numbers of light and buoyant pollen grains which are easily distributed through the air. During pollination, the wind blows pollen off the male anthers and carries it through the air. It can land on the ground, in lakes and also find its way into the noses and eyes of humans. Because this is a very “hit and miss” form of pollination, wind pollinated plants compensate by sending clouds of pollen into the air with only a very few finding their way to a receptive female stigma. Brightly coloured flowering plants and trees are unlikely to cause hay fever
HOW CLOSE IS TOO CLOSE? The highest concentrations of pollen are within 10 metres of the plant and concentrations drop quickly as you move further away. If you know what plants trigger your hay fever you can significantly reduce your exposure to pollen by removing yourself physically from the plant when it is pollinating. Before and after the pollination period, the plant should pose no harm to you, unless you have a contact type of plant allergy.
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When we breathe in pollen grains and they come into contact with our nasal passages or the membranes of the eye, they release these proteins to the immune system in the blood vessels of the mucous membranes. Sometimes our immune systems don’t get rid of some of these pollen proteins through the usual route, but instead produce a special kind of antibody which leads to the release of a chemical called histamine. It is this histamine that causes allergy symptoms such as swelling, redness, itchiness and secretion of mucous.
POLLEN OUT AND ABOUT EARLY Pollen counts can vary during the course of one day but are usually highest between 10am and 4pm. Weather conditions also play a role in pollen levels. Pollen sticks around in moderate temperatures with low humidity and little or no wind. Dry weather and high winds keep pollen in the air, and in these conditions airborne pollen can travel hundreds of miles from where they originated. However, wet weather washes pollen away so you’re usually safe to go outside after rain.
SOME FACTS AND FIGURES ON HAY FEVER • About 20% of the general population suffers from hay fever • One third of these people develop problems before the age of 10 • Around 50% of patients experience symptoms for more than four months of the year • 20% have symptoms for at least nine months per year • Hay fever sufferers have more frequent and prolonged sinus infections • Hay fever sufferers who also have red, itchy eyes, risk developing infective conjunctivitis due to frequent rubbing • Persistent hay fever symptoms and poor quality sleep can result in lethargy, poor concentration and
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behavioural changes which can impact on learning in young children • Allergic rhinitis may predispose people to obstructive sleep apnoea, due to the upper airways collapsing during sleep. This results in reduced airflow, a drop in oxygen levels and disturbed sleep • Patients with allergic rhinitis also suffer from more frequent and prolonged respiratory infections, and asthma has been shown to be more difficult to control unless allergic rhinitis is also managed.
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TREATING ALLERGIC RHINITIS Non-sedating antihistamines – help control sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Can be used alone or in combination with nasal sprays. Anti-inflammatory nasal sprays (corticosteroids) – reduce inflammation in the lining of the nose. Best used as a preventative like an asthma preventer. Can be used longterm during the allergy season. Decongestant nasal sprays – help unblock the nose but should not be used for more than a few days at a time as this can lead to worse nasal congestion known as rebound congestion.
THE POLLEN CALENDAR The New Zealand pollen calendar contains useful information on how to limit your exposure to pollen. Once you know which specific plants trigger your allergy, you can track which months they are pollinating and be better prepared for when your symptoms flare up. You can download Allergy NZ’s pollen calendar at www.allergy.org.nz Click on Allergy Help, A-Z allergies, Allergic Rhinitis.
Eye drops – mild to moderate eye problems can benefit from eye drops containing decongestant or a decongestant combined with antihistamine. Prolonged use of decongestant eye drops can also cause rebound worsening when stopped. However, some brands of eye drops can be used preventatively and are safe to use for prolonged periods so, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the options. Desensitisation – also known as immunotherapy, this can ‘turn off’ the abnormal response of the immune system to an allergen if medication does not work. Sublingual immunotherapy is another method, where drops of the allergen solution are taken under the tongue, but is not widely used outside of Europe. References: Allergy New Zealand www.allergy.org.nz WebMD Medical Reference www.webmd.com Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology & Allergy www.allergy.org.au
Allergy New Zealand is a charity providing reliable information, education and support so you can manage your allergy and live an active and healthy lifestyle. Family Health Diary acknowledges the help of Allergy New Zealand in putting this feature together. www.allergy.org.nz
For more on allergies visit
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Win
this Dyson DC23 allergy Vacuum worth $899
Things getting up
your nose?
Don’t let irritating things get up your nose this spring and summer. Get rid of all the little irritations such as dust, pollen and mould spores with a Dyson Allergy Vacuum Cleaner.
D
yson Allergy Vacuum Cleaners are accepted by the Asthma Foundation of New Zealand and approved for people with allergies and asthma. That’s because they work differently. Ordinary vacuum cleaners have bags and filters that clog, restricting the airflow and resulting in loss of suction. These cleaners can’t retain all the dirt and dust they pick up – some is expelled out of the machine and back into the air. Dyson vacuums use a patented system of centrifugal forces to
22
spin dirt and dust out of the airflow into the bin and thanks to this technology they are more than 99.9% efficient at separating dust and dirt. The Dyson also has a sealed HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Air) filter, which is the same filter used by hospitals. These filters can capture particles as small as 0.1 microns – equivalent to a single particle of cigarette smoke. Particles this small include common household allergens such as pollen, mould spores and dust mite faeces.
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FEATURES OF DYSON DC23 ALLERGY VACUUM · No loss of suction to pick-up more room after room · Ideal for large homes, high performance on carpets and mattresses · Telescopic Wrap™ system – hose and wand compress and wrap for easy storage · Lifetime sealed HEPA filter – the same filters used by hospitals · Approved for people with asthma and allergies · Turbine head for high pick-up on carpet and better removal of dirt and pet hair · Mattress tool – removes dust mite faeces · Lightweight adjustable wand
· Hygienic one-touch bin emptying – no need to touch the dirt · Dyson HEPA machines capture more microscopic particles.
For more information on Dyson phone 0800 397 667 or go to the website www.dyson.co.nz
Dyson allergy Vacuum
Giveaway
To enter, visit
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Helping hand for
depression If you have been prescribed something for your depression, there’s a good chance your medication is Efexor-XR® (venlafaxine).
E
fexor-XR is used in the treatment and prevention of relapse of depression. It is also used in the treatment of panic disorders and anxiety, including avoidance or fear of social situations.1 Efexor-XR been available in New Zealand since 2000 and in that time has helped thousands of New Zealanders.2 This fully-funded treatment takes a dual-action approach to depression, 24
by increasing the level of two chemical messengers in the brain: serotonin and noradrenaline. This may then help to resolve a broad range of depression symptoms like constant sadness, trouble sleeping or low energy. Resolving these symptoms may be the first step to helping you control your depression so you can feel like your old self again. So that’s good news, not just for you but for your friends and family as well.
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WHAT IS THE GOAL OF TREATMENT? In treating depression, the goal is more than just to feel better. The goal of treatment is to try and eliminate all of the depression symptoms you may be experiencing and to keep them from coming back. Doctors call this the remission of symptoms. No two people have the same symptoms. Remission for you could mean having days without feelings of constant sadness, or the return of your normal sleeping and eating habits. It could mean having energy again for your favourite activities and renewed interest in the things you used to love doing. Doctors have found that people who reach remission of symptoms are less likely to have their symptoms return. That’s why it’s important to talk with your doctor as soon as you notice depression symptoms interfering with your life. Following your doctor’s recommended course of treatment will ensure the best possible outcome. If your treatment is Efexor-XR your doctor will know the right dosage and how long you need to stay on Efexor-XR to get the best results.
Talk to your doctor to see if EFEXOR-XR is right for you
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO FOLLOW YOUR DOCTOR’S ADVICE One of the most important things to remember is to take your medication as prescribed, and stay on it for as long as your doctor prescribes it. That’s because it’s not uncommon for depression symptoms to return. For some, the symptoms of depression seem to disappear or improve to the point where they no longer seem to interfere with your life. But sometimes these symptoms come back. Doctors call this a relapse, and if this occurs it is usually within six months of treatment. Symptoms can also return long after the depression seems to have disappeared. This new episode of depression is called a recurrence. Evidence suggests that a recurrence can make it more likely that symptoms will continue to return in the future.3
EFEXOR-XR (venlafaxine hydrochloride, 37.5 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg) Modified release capsules. References 1. Efexor-XR data sheet. 2. IMS June 2011. 3. Thase. E Michael. J Clin Psychiatry 2003;64 (suppl 2) EFEXOR-XR (venlafaxine hydrochloride) is a funded prescription medicine (restrictions apply) for the treatment of depression, panic and anxiety disorders. A pharmacy charge and normal doctor’s fees apply. Do not take EFEXOR-XR if you have an allergy to venlafaxine or any other capsule ingredients. Do not take EFEXOR-XR if you are on monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken MAOIs in the last 14 days.Use with caution if you have a history of aggression, glaucoma, kidney, liver, blood pressure or heart problems, raised cholesterol, a history of fits, a history or family history of bipolar disorder, abnormal bleeding tendencies, are pregnant or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines. Common side effects include stomach, bowel or urinary tract problems, headache, difficulty sleeping, drowsiness, dizziness, nervousness, confusion, agitation, muscle tremor or weakness, fast heart beat, menstrual problems, weight loss, sweating, hot flushes, hair loss, bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, changes in your eye sight, sexual function problems. If you have any side effects see your doctor. Use strictly as directed. Consult your doctor to see if EFEXOR-XR is right for you. Contains venlafaxine hydrochloride 37.5 mg, 75 mg or 150 mg. Further information on EFEXOR-XR is available from www.medsafe.govt.nz or Pfizer New Zealand Ltd, Auckland, www.pfizer.co.nz. Ph. 0800 736 363. V10311 TAPS NA 5177
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What’s the difference between
Avigra & Viagra?
When you look at the two little blue pills, Avigra and Viagra, it’s hard to spot the difference. That’s because there is none – except the price.
A
vigra is the new and more affordable treatment for erectile dysfunction. It is made by Pfizer, the same people who developed Viagra, and has the exact same active ingredient as Viagra. So the only difference is the price. Erectile dysfunction can be a cause of embarrassment for the estimated 39% of men over the age of 40 who sometimes experience difficulty with erections. For more than a decade, Pfizer has been a leading name in treating erectile dysfunction, helping these millions of men the world over improve their sex lives. 26
AVIGRA – GREAT VALUE AND RESULTS Avigra offers the same highly effective results as Pfizer’s well known Viagra treatment, but with the added benefit of substantially reduced cost – so now men have even more to smile about. Until the arrival of Avigra, the cost of treatment has prevented some men from receiving the help they needed. By making treatment more affordable, Pfizer is helping men once again know the joys of an active and rewarding sex life.
TESTED AND PROVEN Studies show that Avigra, with its active ingredient sildenafil citrate, produces
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grade 4 erections (see scale on this page), in 58% of users. Along with an optimal erection, many men using this treatment report an increase in sexual confidence, self-esteem and sexual relations satisfaction.
NEVER IGNORE ERECTION PROBLEMS While the occasional difficulty with erection is common in men from their
OPTIMAL ERECTIONS The active ingredient in Avigra has helped more than 37 million men in 120 countries reclaim their sex lives by improving the hardness of their erection. The quality of an erection is rated
Penis is larger but not hard
Penis is hard, but not hard enough for penetration
mid-forties onwards, persistent difficulty should never be ignored. It is known that a combination of stress and fatigue can result in bedroom difficulties. When those difficulties persist, it’s time to see your doctor for a thorough check-up. The health of your erection can be an early warning sign of a range of more serious conditions including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. on a 1–4 scale, with 4 being an optimal, completely hard and fully rigid erection. Looking at the scale below, if you find yourself at a 1 or 2, you might want to take this magazine to your next doctor’s visit and discuss your options.
Penis is hard enough for penetration, but not completely hard
Penis is completely hard and fully rigid
Adapted from Mulhall JP, et al. Validation of the erection hardness score. J Sex Med 2007; 4: 1626-1634.5
Ask your doctor if Avigra can help you And request it at your pharmacy AVIGRA (sildenafil citrate) is an unfunded prescription medicine for use by men in the treatment of erection problems resulting in a natural response to sexual stimulation. You will need to pay for this medicine and normal doctor’s fees apply. Do not use Avigra if you: are being treated for angina (chest pain) or other heart conditions with medicines called nitrates; are using amyl nitrite; have heart or blood vessel problems that make sexual intercourse inadvisable; have suffered a heart attack or stroke in the last 6 months; have severe liver problems; have unusually high or low blood pressure that is not effectively treated; have loss of vision in one or both eyes from an eye disease called non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION); have an eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa; have an allergy to AVIGRA or similar medications. Side effects include headache, dizziness, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, temporary changes in vision, diarrhoea, urinary tract infection or rash. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor. If any of the following happen, tell your doctor immediately or go to Accident and Emergency at your nearest hospital: signs of allergy such as shortness of breath, wheezing or difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other part; chest pain; sudden decrease or loss of hearing; seizures, fits or convulsions; a persistent and painful erection; loss of eyesight in one or more eyes. Use strictly as directed. Consult your doctor to see if AVIGRA is right for you. Contains sildenafil citrate 25 mg, 50 mg & 100 mg. Further information on AVIGRA is available from www.medsafe.govt.nz or from Pfizer New Zealand Ltd, Auckland, www.pfizer.co.nz Ph: 0800736 363. TAPS NA5351
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Baby Love
It starts before conception Planning for a baby is an exciting time, but most women don’t know they’re pregnant until a few weeks in, and by then, your baby’s vital organs are already forming.
A
lot of changes occur when a woman becomes pregnant, but it is the first few weeks when your baby needs the most dietary support so it’s important to take your pregnancy supplement as soon as you start trying for a baby. Iodine plays a critical role in the development of your baby’s brain and nervous system during gestation and the first two years of life.1,2 In the first two trimesters, your baby is entirely dependent on the mother’s thyroid hormone so its not surprising that pregnant women need to maintain thyroxine production at almost double that of non-pregnant women.1,2 28
NUTRIENT NEEDS COVERED To top its long-standing benefits, Elevit pregnancy supplement now contains 250mcg of iodine, as recommended by the Ministry of Health,2 to assist with healthy brain development. Many women know about the importance of folic acid in early pregnancy – taking it in the first three months is essential in reducing the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.3 However, the need for additional nutrients doesn’t cease after the first trimester. The body’s demand for certain nutrients, especially folic acid, increases throughout pregnancy, up until your baby reaches maximum foetal growth.1
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FOLIC ACID FOR EVERY STAGE OF PREGNANCY
ELEVIT WITH IODINE MEETS MOH RECOMMENDATIONS
Healthy cells depend on the continued and proper replication of our DNA, and folate (folic acid) plays an important role in that process.4 In pregnancy however, as your baby grows, the rate of folate breakdown in your body actually increases and peaks in the third trimester. So you need to compensate for the accelerated breakdown of folate and ensure your folate needs are met throughout your pregnancy.4
Elevit with Iodine pregnancy supplement delivers the essential nutrients both you and your baby will need, meeting the Ministry of Health’s recommended standards.1 Elevit contains 800mcg of folic acid and is the only pregnancy supplement clinically proven to reduce the risk of neural tube defects by 92%.3 Elevit with Iodine also contains 60mg of iron to help combat fatigue and prevent dietary iron deficiency, and 250mcg of iodine to assist with healthy brain development. It also contains zinc, vitamin C, calcium, B6, B12 and other essential nutrients – all in a once-daily tablet. To help prevent neural tube defects, Elevit with Iodine should be taken daily as soon as you start trying for a baby and for the first three months of pregnancy. Taken right throughout pregnancy it can help meet both yours and baby’s ongoing needs.
OTHER VITAMINS ARE ESSENTIAL TOO The graph below shows the significant nutrient increases required in pregnancy recommended by the Ministry of Health and WHO (the pink part of the graph) with folic acid showing the greatest increase, followed by iodine. Recommended Daily Nutrient Intake
* Source: Ministry of Health 2006
* Iodine source: WHO 2005
Only available from pharmacies For more information phone 0800 847 874
ne w
1. Food & Nutritional Guidelines for healthy pregnant & breastfeeding women: a background paper. Ministry of Health 2008. 2. Ministry of Health: Iodine status in New Zealand. May 2011. http://www.moh. govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/nutrition-iodine. 3. Czeizel Ae & Dudas I. NEJM 1992; 327: 1832-5. 4. Higgins JR et al. Br J Obstet Gynaecol 2000; 107(9): 1149-54. 5. Folic acid and iodine https://www.healthed.govt.nz/ resource/folic-acid-and-spina-bifidaiodine-and-iodine-deficiency. Elevit with Iodine tablets are a Pharmacy Only medicine & contain vitamins B, C, D, E & minerals. Consult your healthcare professional to see if Elevit with Iodine is right for you. The New Zealand formulation of Elevit with Iodine is the same as that used in the Czeizel study except it contains Iodine and does not contain Vitamin A. Medicines have benefits & some may have risks. Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist or you have side effects, consult your healthcare professional. Supplementary to, and not a replacement for, a balanced diet. Registered Trademark. Bayer New Zealand Ltd, Auckland. TAPS NA5334
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Fleas love to breed... If your pets still have fleas, even after you’ve treated them, you’re probably not treating them often enough to break the flea breeding cycle.
F
leas love to breed, all year round, and they multiply fast – in one month you could be seeing the third generation of fleas on your pets. One flea today can result in 760 fleas in a month, and more than 1.5 million fleas in two months.* The solution is easy – treat pets regularly throughout the year, and use an integrated flea control treatment that breaks the flea life cycle.
WHY ARE YOU STILL SEEING FLEAS? If pets are left untreated over winter this allows fleas in their developing stages to infest carpets, bedding and areas in the garden where your pets run around. 30
Pupae can survive for more than six months before hatching and there can be a huge build-up of pupae numbers over winter without you even knowing it.
THE FLEA LIFE CYCLE The fleas you see on your pet represent only 5% of the total flea population at any given time – the other 95% are fleas in developing stages in different parts of your home and garden. Fleas multiply faster from spring onwards when it’s warm and humid. So if you have an environmental infestation (in carpets and bedding) this can take months to clear up once you start treating again.
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Adult Flea
(Tip of the iceberg)
BENEFITS OF FRONTLINE PLUS
Pupae Larvae
Eggs
The fleas on your pet represent only 5% of the total flea population at any given time – the other 95% are fleas in their developing stages, in different parts of your home and garden where your pet runs around.
FRONTLINE® PLUS BREAKS THE CYCLE FRONTLINE Plus breaks the flea life cycle with two active ingredients – an adulticide (fipronil) that kills adult fleas, eggs and larvae, and (S)-methoprene that prevents pupal development. If you are using FRONTLINE Plus regularly these two active ingredients will keep fleas under control. Treating now, before the peak of summer, will prevent a flea problem during the warmer months.
• Kills fleas and controls all stages of their life cycle • Lasts longer than other flea treatments – up to six weeks for cats and eight weeks for dogs • Water-resistant • Can be used on kittens and puppies as young as eight weeks of age • Is approved to control and treat flea allergy dermatitis • Treats and controls ticks and biting lice on cats and dogs for four weeks.
Available from veterinary clinics
For more visit www.merial.co.nz
HANDY HINT If you are still seeing fleas after treating your pets, they are most likely new fleas that have just jumped on your pet and not yet come into contact with the flea treatment. Your pet can pick up these new fleas outside, so if you check your pet for fleas before and after it goes into the garden, you may be able to pinpoint the problem flea areas and ensure your pet stays away.
*Merial data on file. ®FRONTLINE is a registered trademark of Merial Limited. Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997. No’s A9008 & A9009. Merial New Zealand Limited, Level 3, Merial Building, Osterley Way, Manukau City. FRONTLINE Plus contains fipronil and (S)-methoprene. Always read the label and use strictly as directed. Keep out of reach of children. For animal use only. NZ-11-FLP-157
FREE REMINDER SERVICE Treating regularly is the best way to keep fleas under control, so to help you remember when to treat, FRONTLINE Plus offers a free email reminder service. Register for your reminder emails on the website www.frontline.nz.merial.com www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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Win a
Dyson Allergy Vacuum Value $899
To enter, visit www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz Competition closes 18th December 2011 For more information turn to pages 22-23
Win
a Dyson allergy Vacuum worth $899