Izzy’s Sound News

Presented By: Isidore Kirsh, Ph.D., F.A.A.A. (N.J. Lic. #678)

Dr. Isidore Kirsh Ph.D., F.A.A.A.

Improved Hearing For A Healthy Mind

Did you know that better hearing might be a key to better brain health? A growing body of research ties hearing loss to cognitive-decline problems such as dementia. So, let’s take a look at the connections and the importance of regular hearing care.

Both dementia and hearing loss are on the rise. An estimated 55 million people live with dementia, per the World Health Organization, which predicts the rate will reach 139 million in 2025. Hearing loss, estimated at over 1.5 billion youth and adults worldwide, could climb to over 2.5 billion people by 2050.

Older adults with more severe forms of hearing loss have a significantly higher risk of dementia, according to a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health-led study released this year. Researchers uncovered a 61% greater prevalence of dementia compared to those with normal hearing.

The study adds to ever-increasing reports on links between hearing loss and significant dementia risk. It stands apart from some other investigations by having relied not only on in-clinic data but also home-based information — including testing and interviews — comprising a more nationally representative popula- tion across a 65-plus age group.

Like a rising number of studies, the findings also showed potential benefits of better hearing in curbing the dementia threat. According to the investigators, hearing aid use was associated with a 32% lower prevalence of dementia among those with moderate or severe hearing loss.

It’s not quite conclusive that hearing aids prevent or reverse dementia — future research will continue to probe the issue. But it looks promising. In an online report, the investigation’s lead author stated, “This study refines what we’ve observed about the link between hearing loss and dementia and builds support for public health action to improve hearing care access.”

What can you do? Staying sharp and engaged is easier than you think and starts with regular hearing screenings. Whether your hearing seems to be changing or it’s simply been a while since your last checkup, contact our caring team for an evaluation today!

Dr. Izzy & his Staff are always here to answer your important hearing care questions. Please contact us today at 732-818-3610 (Toms River/Whiting) or 609-978-8946 (Manahawkin) or visit us at www.gardenstatehearing.com.

Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Popular Prescriptions: A Countdown Of The Top 10 Medications

By Suzy Cohen, R. Ph.

Medication usage in America plays a vital role in managing and treating various health conditions, ranging from chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes to acute conditions like infections and pain.

The United States is one of the largest consumers of prescription medications worldwide! As the demand grows, it’s important to understand the most commonly prescribed medications because it sheds light on what diseases are prominent. Right now, allow me to unveil a countdown of the top 10 medications prescribed in America!

#10. Hydrochlorothiazide or HCTZ (Microzide®) - used to treat hypertension and edema. When to take: Morning so you can avoid excessive urination at night. Common dosages: 12.5, 25, or 50 mg daily. Top 3 reported side effects: Dizziness, electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium), and increased sensitivity to sunlight

#9. Albuterol (ProAir®, Ventolin®) - used to treat asthma. When to take: As needed for symptoms, up to every 4-6 hours. Common dosages: 1-2 puffs of an inhaler. Top 3 reported side effects: Tremors, nervousness, and increased heart rate.

#8. Losartan (Cozaar®) - used to treat hypertension. When to take: Anytime, just be consistent. Common dosages: 25, 50, or 100 mg daily. Top 3 reported side effects: Dizziness, cold/flu symptoms, and back pain.

#7. Simvastatin (Zocor®) - used to lower cholesterol. When to take: Evening. Common dosages: 5, 10, 20, 40, or 80 mg daily. Top 3 reported side effects: Headache, muscle pain, and GI issues.

#6. Omeprazole (Prilosec®) - used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When to take: Morning, before a meal. Com- mon dosages: 10, 20, or 40 mg daily. Top 3 reported side effects: Headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

#5. Amlodipine (Norvasc®) - used to treat hypertension and angina. When to take: Anytime, just be consistent. Common dosages: 2.5, 5, or 10 mg daily. Top 3 reported side effects: Swelling in the ankles or feet, dizziness, and flushing.

#4. Metformin (Glucophage®) - used to treat type 2 diabetes. When to take: With meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Common dosages: 500 to 2000 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Top 3 reported side effects: Nausea, diarrhea, metallic taste, and headache.

#3. Lisinopril (Prinivil®, Zestril®) - used to treat hypertension and heart failure. When to take: Anytime, just be consistent. Common dosages: 5, 10, 20, or 40 mg daily. Top 3 reported side effects: Dizziness, headache, and dry cough.

#2. Levothyroxine (Synthroid®) - used to treat hypothyroidism. When to take: Morning, on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before breakfast. Common dosages: Varies but typically between 25 and 200 mcg daily. Top 3 reported side effects: Increased heart rate, weight loss, and heat intolerance.

#1. Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) - used to lower cholesterol. When to take: Evening. Common dosages: 10, 20, 40, or 80 mg daily. Top 3 reported side effects: Headache, muscle pain, and GI issues.

As you can see, the top 10 medications are quite revealing. Also, I wonder if some of these have greater awareness due to being sold over-the-counter (omeprazole), or because they had television commercials airing for years. Either way, there you have it, the top 10 drugs in America.

(This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com) ©2022 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

Future Stars Basketball Camp At Liberty

JACKSON – The Jackson Future Stars Basketball Camp scheduled for May 8 to May 12 is currently in open registration.

The camp is seeking boys and girls grades 3 to 8, who want to strengthen their basketball skills. The camp is being conducted by Jackson Liberty Head Boys Basketball Coach Don Connor and his staff. The camp will run from 6 to 8 p.m. in Liberty Hall on the campus of Jackson Liberty High School.

A single child attending is $75, siblings $135. Enrollment is limited to 50 campers. Walk up registration will be accepted, based on the number of campers registered at that time. For registration requests, camp information, etc., call 908-910-5614 for details or contact the Jackson Liberty High School Athletic Department at 732415-7011.

EDUCATORS! Have a special event planned for your class? Let everyone know by placing a news release in this paper! Call 732-657-7344 to find out how!