Palouse Seniors, Fall 2020

Palouse

Seniors

FALL 2020

INSIDE:

Why routine checkups are vital to overall health Palouse Seniors is an advertising supplement of the Lewiston Tribune and Moscow-Pullman Daily News

2 | August 25, 2020 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

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Hormone replacement therapy and menopause WHAT IS HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY?

Menopause is a natural occurrence that takes place in a woman’s life around the age of 50. Menopause is marked by Estrogen levels fall during bodily changes that represent the end of a menopause. The online medical woman’s ability to bear children. resource WebMD says that hormone replacement therapy, Like puberty, menstrual periods or HRT, involves taking small and pregnancy, menopause involves doses of estrogen alone or estrogen fluctuations in hormones, notably combined with progestin, the estrogen and progesterone. These synthetic form of progesterone. fluctuations can cause symptoms that may make women uncomfortable, such Women who have undergone a hysterectomy or the surgical removal as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood of their ovaries may only take estrogen, swings, and difficulty sleeping. As a result, many women discuss options that while a woman who still has her uterus typically takes the combination HRT. can make them feel more comfortable.

Hormone replacement therapy may be a Many women find that HRT can relieve most of the troubling symptoms consideration.

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of menopause and help them feel more comfortable.

In addition, HRT has been proven to prevent bone loss and reduce fracture in postmenopausal women, according to the Mayo Clinic.

TYPES OF PRODUCTS There are different types of HRT. HRT may involve taking a pill or applying a patch, gel or vaginal cream.

HRT also may include a slow-releasing suppository or a vaginal ring. The delivery method will depend on the symptoms to minimize the amount of medication taken.

RISKS OF HRT While there are many benefits to HRT, there are some risks associated with the therapy. These risks depend on the dose, the length of time taking HRT and individual health risks.

In addition, unless the uterus has been removed, doctors typically prescribe estrogen taken with progesterone because estrogen alone can stimulate the growth of the lining of the uterus, increasing the risk of endometrial cancer.

The American Cancer Society says that estrogen-progestin therapy also is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer the longer the therapy is used.

MINIMIZING RISK Doctors can work with their patients to minimize the risk of developing adverse affects from HRT. Tactics include finding the best product and delivery method, seeking regular followup care, making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce other health conditions, and taking the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time needed.

Hormone replacement therapy may be an option to help manage the symptoms of menopause. Women can discuss the pros and cons of HRT with their doctors.

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The Mayo Clinic says that, in the largest clinical trial to date, HRT that consisted of an estrogen-progestin pill increased the risk of certain serious conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, blood clots, and breast cancer.

Women who begin at age 60 or older or more than 10 years from the onset of menopause are at greater risk of the these conditions. If HRT is started before the age of 60 or within 10 years of menopause, the benefits appear to outweigh the risks.

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Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune | August 25, 2020 | 3

Don’t get caught off guard by glaucoma Courtesy of Metro Editorial

Vision should never be taken for granted. Appreciating one’s sense of sight involves scheduling routine eye exams and taking steps to protect one’s eyes. But safeguarding vision also involves understanding the various conditions that can affect eye health.

Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that can lead to progressive damage to the optic nerve. People who experience glaucoma can lose nerve tissue and eventually suffer vision loss. Understanding what contributes to glaucoma can help people take the steps necessary to reduce their risk.

The American Optometric Association says that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness for people over the age of 60 – although it can occur at any age. The Mayo Clinic states that many forms of glaucoma produce no warning signs and changes in vision may occur so gradually they are not detected until the condition has reached an advanced stage.

There are various types of glaucoma. However, primary open-

angle glaucoma is the most common form, affecting about three million Americans, indicates the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Primary openangle glaucoma occurs when the eye’s drainage canals become clogged over time and fluid cannot drain out of the eye. As a result, intraocular pressure rises and damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting signals from the eye to the brain.

People with a family history of glaucoma, African Americans over age 40 and Hispanics over the age of 60 have an increased risk, says the AOA. Those with thin corneas, which is the outer layer of the eye, also are at an elevated risk of developing glaucoma.

to the cornea, indenting it slightly.

The resistance angle of the eye. will be measured and calculated to determine The effects of glaucoma cannot if pressure is present. Other tests be reversed, but glaucoma can include the following: be caught early. Medications and lifestyle changes, like more frequent • imaging tests that look for optic eye exams, can improve symptoms. nerve damage that involve a dilated Prescription eye drops can reduce the eye examination; • visual field tests to check for areas production of aqueous humor (fluid) in the eye and improve outflow of that of vision loss; fluid. Oral medications and surgery • pachymetry, which measures are other options as well. corneal thickness; and

A less common type of glaucoma is called acute-closure glaucoma, which occurs due to an abrupt and rapid increase of eye pressure. This is an emergency situation that requires prompt care to prevent vision loss.

• an inspection of the drainage

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An eye doctor will conduct various tests to determine if a patient is at risk for glaucoma. The Mayo Clinic says tonometry is commonly used to measures intraocular pressure.

During this test, the eye surface will be anesthetized with special drops.

A tonometer will be applied lightly

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4 | August 25, 2020 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

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Safety first before mixing drugs AHA notes that, when taken along with blood pressure medication, antihistamines Billions of people across the globe take can contribute to an accelerated heart medications each day. Certain medications rate and cause blood pressure to spike. can help people with potentially The AHA also cautions people taking debilitating or even deadly conditions live sedatives, tranquilizers or prescriptions to normal lives, while others can help people treat high blood pressure or depression overcome relatively minor issues like muscle to consult their physicians before taking aches or seasonal allergies. antihistamines.

The American Heart Association notes • Bronchodilators: Bronchodilators that mixing drugs can produce unexpected relax and open the airways in the lungs and side effects. This can make it dangerous are used to treat various lung conditions, for people already on prescription such as asthma and chronic obstructive medications to use over-the-counter pulmonary disease, or COPD. These drugs for issues like headache or seasonal drugs make it easier to breathe and are allergies. Understanding the potential available via prescriptions. But patients interactions between their prescriptions and with heart disease, high blood pressure, common prescription and over-the-counter thyroid disease, and/or diabetes should medications can help people stay safe. discuss the potential interactions between • Antihistamines: Antihistamines are bronchodilators and other medications they widely used to alleviate symptoms of the may be taking with their physicians. common cold or seasonal allergies, such as runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing. The Courtesy of Metro Editorial

• Cordarone: According to Drugs. com, Cordarone is used to treat potentially deadly abnormal heartbeats. Cordarone can cause severe problems that affect the lungs, thyroid or liver, and can be dangerous when combined with other drugs. For example, the AHA notes that patients who take more than 20 milligrams of Zocor, a drug used to lower “bad” cholesterol and potentially to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack and other conditions, while also taking Cordarone are at risk of developing rhabdomyolysis.

Rhabdomyolysis is a condition marked by the breakdown of muscle tissue that can lead to kidney failure or death. The AHA also says that Cordarone can inhibit or reduce the effects of the blood thinner Coumadin.

replacement products. The Federal Drug Administration notes that doctors may want to change dosages of patients’ current medications before recommending they take any nicotine replacement products.

The FDA also advises people to speak with their physicians before trying these products if they have diabetes, heart disease, asthma or stomach ulcers; have had a recent heart attack; have high blood pressure but do not take any medication for it; or have a history of irregular heartbeat.

Drug interactions can complicate treatment of various conditions. People currently on medication are urged to speak with their physicians before taking any new medicines, including over-the-counter drugs.

• Nicotine replacement products: People taking prescriptions for depression or asthma should consult their physicians before taking any nicotine

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Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune | August 25, 2020 | 5 General care and geriatric doctors also are adept at asking questions to get a sense of how patients are faring in the full-fledged issue. world. This may include topics that seemingly have no The Mayo Clinic says there are relevance to health but can be quite no hard and fast rules about how important.

A provider may ask about often seniors should visit health care topics such as bathing or dressing. providers. Those who are in generally Questions about social interaction good health may only require one or typical routines can paint a better medical checkup a year. At this picture of both physical and mental point vital signs will be checked, health. medications reviewed and lifestyle topics discussed. Doctors may even The recommended frequency of recommend or discuss tests. Patients doctor visits may change as health also can bring up any issues they may issues arise or if follow-up is needed be experiencing, however insignificant after a treatment plan or injury, they may seem. Anything from according to the caregiver company sleep disturbances to memory loss Home Care Assistance. Some seniors to unexplained fatigue or pain can may have to visit a provider once be addressed. Sometimes getting a week or once a month. Doctors, everything out in the open and being nurses and therapists will design a reassured that thereÕs nothing to regimen based on a patientÕs current worry about can be helpful. health needs.

Why routine checkups are vital to overall health Regular visits with a medical professional are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Too often people visit the doctor only when they are ill, as they may not realize just how essential well visits and physical exams are.

Routine checkups are the smartest way for people in all age groups to stay on top of their health, but they can be especially valuable for those age 50 and older. Regular checkups enable physicians to check current health against past visits, ensuring that any anomalies can be investigated and treated efficiently and promptly.

This can make the difference in slowing down the progression of a disease that has already developed or prevent something from becoming a

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The following are some compelling reasons to be diligent with provider visits.

• Frequently health issues can be silent and not noticed early on by a patient, according to Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore.

• Patients will be less likely to forget about important screenings, like mammography, prostate tests, cholesterol tests, and more.

• Vaccines can be administered, as even adults need certain immunizations to stay healthy.

• Patients can discuss potential lifestyle changes, like going on a diet or taking up a new fitness regimen.

It is essential to follow through with health care provider visits, even if they seem redundant. Physicians may detect issues that warrant close observation. Patients are urged to have an open dialogue with their doctors so they understand the reason behind health care visits and expectations in the future.

6 | August 25, 2020 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

PALOUSE SENIORS

Protect yourself from coronavirus fraud

Awareness can help consumers avoid being victimized by scammers, and the following are some additional measures people can take to protect themselves from COVID-19-related fraud.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Restrictions implemented to Inspector General has advised the prevent the spread of the novel general public about scams involving coronavirus COVID-19 have saved Medicare fraud. Such schemes are untold numbers of lives. The world targeting Medicare beneficiaries in has adjusted to such restrictions, and an assortment of ways, including many parts of the world have relaxed through text messages, social media, measures as case numbers have telemarketing calls, and even door-todeclined. door visits. When perpetrating such As communities begin returning frauds, scammers seek beneficiariesÕ to some semblance of normalcy, the personal information, which they Centers for Disease Control and then use to fraudulently bill federal Prevention has warned people against health care programs, potentially letting their guard down. While leaving their victims on the hook for many of those warnings pertain to the costly unapproved tests related to importance of continuing to practice COVID-19. social distancing as economies reopen, The CDC notes the importance advisories also include notices about of being aware of such schemes. fraud schemes related to COVID-19.

• Do not share personal account information. Scammers need their victims’ personal information to perpetrate their fraudulent schemes.

The CDC cautions beneficiaries to be suspicious of unsolicited requests for their Medicare or Medicaid numbers.

Courtesy of Metro Editorial

• Do not take callers or visitors at face value. Unsolicited callers or visitors requesting Medicare or Medicaid information should be met with extreme caution. Be suspicious of any unexpected calls or visitors offering COVID-19 tests or supplies.

Compromised personal information may be used in other fraud schemes.

or emails about COVID-19 from unknown individuals.

• Ignore offers or advertisements for COVID-19 testing or treatments on social media sites. Offers or ads for testing are one of the ways scammers are accessing personal information. Only a physician or other trusted healthcare provider should assess your condition and approve any requests for COVID-19 testing.

The COVID-19 outbreak has made it easy for criminals to exploit consumers concerned about their health. Consumers who suspect COVID-19 fraud can contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or visit Justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm to file a complaint.

• Never click on links in emails or text messages. Do not respond to, or open hyperlinks in, text messages

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Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune | August 25, 2020 | 7

How older drivers can approach vehicle maintenance and social distancing Courtesy of Metro Editorial

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in the winter of 2019-20 required people of all ages and backgrounds to make changes in their daily lives. Elderly men and women were among the groups the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified as high-risk for severe illness from COVID-19. That forced people 65 years and older to be especially cautious when engaging in otherwise normal activities, including having their vehicles serviced.

Are employees being checked for COVID-19 symptoms before each shift? These are some of the simple yet effective measures many dealerships and body shops are taking to ensure the safety of their customers.

• Ask about pickup service. Some communities that have reopened are encouraging high-risk segments of the population to adhere to stay-at-home measures. Elderly men and women are still vulnerable to COVID-19 even if the number of reported cases in their towns has decreased. Pickup service, in which a service shop employee In recognition of the threat posed will come pick up and then drop

by COVID-19, many auto dealerships off a customer’s car once the work is and service shops implemented done, can be a great way for elderly changes to their operations to ensure drivers to have their vehicles serviced the safety of their employees and without going out in public. Even their customers, including those in if pickup is not policy, ask if itÕs high-risk groups. Seniors can take possible and request that your vehicle additional measures to ensure they be disinfected upon being returned. If stay safe while having their vehicles pickup is not an option, ask a younger serviced. friend or family member to drive your • Inquire about safety measures. car in for maintenance in your place.

Before booking vehicle maintenance • Only visit safe facilities. Elderly appointments, seniors should call the drivers who must visit a dealership or dealership or body shop to determine body shop in person should confirm what’s being done to keep everyone that waiting rooms feature socially safe. Many such businesses quickly distant seating. If possible, drop the implemented new safety protocols car off and then go for a walk or find so they should be ready and willing somewhere safe off the premises to to share this information over the read a book or listen to music while phone. Look for specific information the work is being done. about sanitization practices. Are Elderly drivers who need to have vehicle interiors being sprayed their vehicles serviced can take certain with disinfectant before and after steps to stay safe in the era of social maintenance appointments? Are distancing. employees wearing masks each day?

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8 | August 25, 2020 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News & Lewiston Tribune

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