Vitality August 2017 by Press Publications

August 2017

Health & Wellness

Inside... Treat your tootsies Healthy feet for diabetics Spa treatments Get flexible Back-to-school checklist

Published by The Press Newspapers, Millbury, OH

August 2017 Vitality

Table of contents... Treat your tired tootsies. Page 3

Healthy feet for diabetics. Page 4

Vitality Published by The Press Newspapers

General Manager: Mary Perkins Editor: Tammy Walro Photographer: Ken Grosjean Sales Representatives: Julie Selvey Lesley Willmeth, Leeanne LaForme Sales Assistant: Alyce Fielding Staff Artists: Ken Grosjean, Pat Eaken, Peggy Partin, Katie Seibenaller General Business, Advertising and Editorial Offices P.O. Box 169 1550 Woodville, Millbury, OH 43447 419-836-2221 Fax 419-836-1319 Visit us at www.presspublications.com Unless otherwise stated, articles and photos are from Metro Creative Graphics.

Serving 22 communities in Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties including Oregon, Northwood, Genoa, Elmore, Woodville, Pemberville, Gibsonburg, Walbridge, Oak Harbor & East Toledo.

What causes sensitive skin? Page 6

The gift of vibrant skin. Page 8

Compass Care.....................................................5 Elmwood Assisted Living & Skilled Care..........11 Genoa Retirement Village....................................9 Heartland of Oregon............................................7 Hospice of Northwest Ohio.................................16 Maumee Bay Vision...........................................16 Orchard Villa Skilled Nursing & Rehab..............11 Ottawa County Riverview Healthcare................13 Parkcliffe Assisted Living...................................14 Portage Valley Hearing.........................................9 Wood County Committee on Aging.....................6

Stretch your way to fitness. Page 10

Six things to share with your doctor. Page 15

August 2017 Vitality 3

Treat tired tootsies

Get a soak, detox at Open Arms Wellness By Tammy Walro Press Features Writer twalro@presspublications.com Your feet – day after day, week after week, year after year, they’re on the job, holding you up and getting you from point A to point B – even in those killer, “to-die-for” heels or cute, but non-supportive flip flops. It’s estimated that the average person will walk around the world four times in his or her lifetime. Why not do something nice for your trusty tootsies at the Open Arms Therapeutic Wellness Center in Oregon? Pay a visit to the Soak Bar, where you can custom-design a comforting soak choosing from various salts, herbs and powders and essential oils. Choose Pink Himalayan salt (promotes circulation, detoxifies, hydrates and helps with muscle cramps); Epsom salt (relieves muscle tension and decreases joint pain) or Dead Sea salt (eases symptoms of skin issues, detoxifies and soften skin). Add aloe vera leaf, comfrey root, turmeric root, lavender flowers, rosemary leaf, mint or other herbs and powder. Top off your foot bath with essential oils, including tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, ginger, German chamomile, rosemary or orange, lemon and lime. “Right now, we’re in flip-flop season and we have Listerine as an option on the bar,” said Ashley Hirzel, Open Arms owner. “Listerine helps dry, cracked summer skin.” After the soak, enjoy a calf and foot massage. The cost is $35 for 30 minutes and $60 for an hour of indulgence. Add a salt scrub (included with 60-minute soak), a foot mask or paraffin treatment to complete your soak. Ionic Foot Detox Chi Cleanse Open Arms Wellness Center also offers Ionic Foot Detox Chi Cleanse treatments – a water foot-bath that uses ionization technology to help the body eliminate toxins and promote greater energy, relaxation and well-being. During the session, the client wears a special waistband and wristband, then places feet in the bath that features an “array” or electrode. Salts are added. The process ionizes the water – which over the course of the 30-minute session, changes color – ranging from black, brown, dark green, orange, white or yellow green depending on toxins removed (color can also be affected by local water composition and pollutants, the manufacturer notes).

Adrienne Fisher completes a foot massage on a client at The Soak Bar at Open Arms Therapeutic Wellness Center in Oregon. (Press photo by Tammy Walro)

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Right now, we’re in flip-flop season and we have Listerine as an option on the bar.

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The cost is $45 per cleanse. They say misery loves company, but so does indulgence – Open Arms can accommodate two people at a time for soaks and Ionic Foot Detox Chi Cleanse treatments, so bring a friend or loved one along. Open Arms Therapeutic Wellness Center is located at 2300 Navarre Ave. Ste. 204. To learn more about the Soak Bar or Ionic Foot Detox Chi Cleanse, as well as massage and other services available, call 419-720-8604 or visit www. openarmsmassagestudio.com.

August 2017 Vitality

Prevention, specialized products

Helping diabetics keep healthy feet By Tammy Walro Press Features Editor twalro@presspublications.com While taking good care of your feet is important for everyone, it’s especially critical for people with diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes can develop many different foot problems, and even ordinary problems can get worse and lead to serious complications. Foot problems most often happen when there is nerve damage, also called neuropathy, which can cause tingling, burning or stinging pain or weakness in the foot. It can also cause loss of feeling in the foot, meaning one can injure it and not know it. Poor blood flow or changes in the shape of feet or toes may also cause problems, the ADA cautions. “Here in the office, we see between 300 and 400 patients per week; probably 60-70 percent are diabetic-type patients,” said Dr. Joshua Morris, of Maumee Bay Foot & Ankle Specialists, located at 3515 Navarre Ave. Oregon. “With diabetics, common things that we see are infections, ulcers, some fungal-type infections, and the effects of neuropathy,” he said. “The neuropathy is one of the biggest things because people who aren’t feeling their feet may not feel injuries or problems with their shoes – rubbing, scrapes or scratches and that can lead to problems. “One story I tell my patients is about a diabetic woman who we see on a regular basis,” Dr. Morris said. “I looked at the bottom of her foot, and there was a little pinhole. I grabbed her shoe, flipped it over and shook it, and out feel a little angel lapel pin which had actually been poking her foot. “She looked at me and said, ‘I’ve been looking for that for more than two months,’” he said. “She couldn’t feel it. Unfortunately, in our profession, we see that a lot. An injury like that could lead to infection, which could lead to amputation.” Preventative foot care is especially important for diabetics, Dr. Morris said. “We see a lot of diabetic patients every nine weeks or so for nail care, to help with callouses, etc.,” he said. “Callouses and long nails take up space – there’s only so much room in a shoe – and if there’s pressure, sores can develop. If they go unnoticed or untreated, the sore can go deeper and deeper.” Special shoes and socks can also help diabetics maintain healthy feet. “The main benefit of diabetic socks

Rodney Thomas, manager of Maumee Bay Specialty Footwear, in Oregon offers customized fitting of specialized diabetic footwear and accessories. (Press photo by Tammy Walro) is that they’re non-constricting; they expand with the patient’s legs,” Dr. Morris said. “A lot of diabetics have swelling, and if the socks are too tight, they decrease blood flow – that even further decreases opportunity to heal. “People may confuse diabetic socks with compression socks, which do just the opposite,” he said. “Compression socks are beneficial for non-diabetics – anyone who stands more than six hours a day should have compression socks,” Dr. Morris said,

adding that he wears them himself. “Your legs are almost like a reservoir; where gravity pulls the blood flow down. If you decrease the size of that reservoir, it helps blood in the veins return to the heart.” Dr. Morris provides custom fitting for diabetic shoes for patients, which is often covered by insurance. Two years ago, he opened a specialty store, Maumee Bay Specialty Footwear, next door to the clinic at 3521 Navarre Ave. Continued on page 5

August 2017 Vitality

Helping diabetics keep healthy feet Continued from page 4 The store carries a full line of diabetic shoes and inserts, along with braces, creams, lotions and socks for the benefit of his patients, as well as diabetics and other members of the community who may not want to or be able to go through insurance for specialty foot products. “We originally acquired the building next door to get more parking,” he said. “We had no original plans for the building. Our patients were asking for inserts, but I didn’t want to keep a large inventory here in the office. Once we started storing products in the building, we thought, ‘why don’t we open the front door?’” Store manager Rodney Thomas offers customized help with sizing and fitting. “I’ll ask the customer what kind of problem he or she is experiencing, then we’ll look at different shoes, inserts, etc. to find the best solution. “It’s not one-size-fits-all – sometimes it’s just shoes, sometimes it’s just an insert – sometimes special shoes and inserts will help them find relief. “For some people, we recommend they see their doctors before ordering shoes or orthotics,” Thomas said.

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We’re in the business of providing basically medical appliances – we’re not just there to sell you a pair of shoes.

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“We’re in the business of providing basically medical appliances – we’re not just there to sell you a pair of shoes,” Dr. Morris said. “We actually want to give you something that will make you feel better.” “Diabetic shoes have come a long way,” Thomas said. “I think people would be surprised. There are many, many styles and options available, including athletic and dress shoes, loafers, boots – including steel-toed work boots and even flip-flops and sandals. “We have one style with a specially

designed tongue that opens all the way up, making them easier to put on and take off,” Thomas said. “We have people who aren’t even diabetic who prefer diabetic shoes,” he said. “They like them because they’re very durable, they bend in the proper places and they have extra depth – more room for inserts to accommodate any lumps or bumps. “And most of the shoes are incredibly light,” Thomas said. “I tell people if they see a shoe on the Internet that they really like, bring in the picture and I’ll see if I can get it or get something similar,” he said. “We offer reasonably priced options, along with expertise and advice, which you can’t get when you order online.”. To reach Maumee Bay Foot & Ankle Specialists, call 419-691-1599. Dr. Morris and Dr. R. Scott Johnston also see patients at the practice’s East Toledo location at 609 Main St. (419-691-3636). Learn more at www.maumeebayfoot. com. Maumee Bay Specialty Footwear can be reached at 419-690-8969 or for more details, visit the store’s Facebook page.

The Help You Need Choosing the Right Medicare Insurance Plan. Melinda Shinaver Ohio License Number 50256 NPN 1801499

Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug-Part C Medicare Prescription Drug-Part D Medigap/Medicare Supplement

Typically, you may enroll in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan only during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) between October 15th and December 7th of each year. There are exceptions that may allow you to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan or a Prescription Drug plan outside of that period - Initial Enrollment (new to Medicare) or Special Enrollment Periods (e.g. loss of employer coverage, moving). In the Greater Toledo and Southeast Michigan areas there are over 20 MAPD plans, 25 PDP’s, and several Medicare Supplement plans to chose from. Which plan is right for you? If you are, or someone you know is, entitled to Medicare Part A (or soon will be), enrolled in Part B and confused about plan choices, costs, beneÀts, networks, etc. contact us for a no-obligation consultation. 860 Ansonia Suite 6, Oregon OH 43616 1133 Corporate Drive Suite A, Holland OH 43528 419-469-8909 ofÀce 419-469-8801 fax melinda@healthcare-advocates.org “your health care navigation specialists”

August 2017 Vitality

What are the causes of sensitive skin?

More than 50 percent of women categorize themselves as having sensitive skin. ral lipids in skin. Furthermore, invisible cracks may form, enabling moisture to seep out and irritants to get in. Skin disorders – Common skin disorders or allergic skin reactions may make skin more sensitive. Such conditions include rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, or allergic contact dermatitis. Injured skin may be more reactive to the environment and certain products as well. Allergies to food or environmental components may also make skin more sensi-

The Wood County Committee on Aging, Inc. 305 North Main Street, Bowling Green, OH (419) 353-5661 or (800) 367-4935 www.wccoa.net & facebook.com/wccoa 3HUU\VEXUJ 1RUWK %DOWLPRUH 1RUWKHDVW :RRG Perrysburg • North Baltimore • Northeast • Wood County &RXQW\ 5RVVIRUG 3HPEHUYLOOH :D\QH Rossford • Pemberville • Wayne Lunch served Monday-Friday at noon Home-delivered meals Fun and engaging programs Social services and health screenings Volunteer opportunities

tive. Patch testing can identify allergies. Some trial and error may be necessary to find a skin care regimen that works on sensitive skin. Test new products in an inconspicuous spot prior to use, choosing items that have as few ingredients as possible. Avoid items with alcohol, retinoids and fragrances. Antibacterial or deodorant ingredients also may cause problems, so choose moisturizing products and soap-free cleansers.

Stay Healthy. Look for Vitality in 2017

August 2017

Health & Wellness

Delivered with The Press in December. Call 419-836-2221 to learn more or to place an ad.

The

“Sensitive skin” can describe a host of symptoms that affect the skin on your face and body. Some people develop sensitive skin after using skin care products that contribute to irritation or make their skin feel uncomfortable, even if there is no outward appearance of change. According to Francesca Fusco, MD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, more than 50 percent of women categorize themselves as having sensitive skin. Although there are many treatments designed to treat sensitive skin, what drives irritation in one person may not produce the same effects in another. Therefore, alleviating sensitivity is not always an easy fix. Getting to the root of the irritation can help people develop a more customized plan for relief. Indoor and outdoor environment – Changes in the weather, as well as the air inside of a home can cause reactions in the skin. For example, cool, dry air and central heating can cause the skin to become dehydrated. Dirt and pollution also may play a role. Pollution in the air can be absorbed by the skin’s natural barrier, eventually weakening it, say the sensitive skin experts at Simple skin care products. Age – Skin can lose its elasticity and ability to recover quickly with age, making it prone to greater sensitivity. Couple that with the public’s quest for youngerlooking skin that involves cleansing religiously, exfoliating too frequently and relying on a bevy of anti-aging lotions, and it’s understandable why skin may become less resilient over time. Dry skin – Lack of moisture can contribute to sensitive skin. A cleanser that is too drying is often the culprit behind unnecessary irritation. According to skin care expert RenŽe Rouleau, harsh detergents in commonly used facial cleansers can break down the natu-

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August 2017 Vitality 7

What you need to know

Five myths about hearing loss By Dr. Rebecca L. Krukemyer, Au. D. 1. Hearing loss affects only “old people” and is merely a sign of aging. Did you know that every newborn in the State of Ohio receives a hearing test before leaving the hospital? Clearly hearing loss does not just affect old people. Only 35 percent of people with hearing loss are older than age 64. There are close to six million people in the U.S. between the ages of 18 and 44 with hearing loss, and more than one million are school age. Hearing loss affects all age groups. 2. If I had a hearing loss, my family doctor would have told me. Not true! Only 14 percent of physicians routinely screen for hearing loss during a physical. Since most people with hearing impairments hear well in a quiet environment like a doctor’s office, it can be virtually impossible for your physician to recognize the extent of your problem. Without special training, and an understanding of the nature of hearing loss, it may be difficult for your doctor to even realize that you have a hear-

ing problem. 3. My hearing loss is normal for my age. While it is true that the prevalence of hearing loss increases with age, that doesn’t make it “normal” – just common. Diabetes is common, but not normal. That doesn’t mean they should not receive treatment for the problem. But time and again, research demonstrates the considerable negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects of untreated hearing loss . . . with far-reaching implications that go well beyond hearing alone. In fact, those who have difficulty hearing can experience such distorted and incomplete communication that it seriously impacts their professional and personal lives, at times leading to isolation and withdrawal. 4. Your hearing loss cannot be helped. In the past, many people with hearing loss in one ear, with a high frequency hearing loss, or with nerve damage have all been told they cannot be helped, often by their family practice physician. This might have been true many years ago, but with modern advances in tech-

nology, nearly 95 percent of people with a sensorineural hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids. 5. The consequences of hiding hearing loss are better than wearing hearing aids. What price are you paying for vanity? Untreated hearing loss is far more noticeable than hearing aids. If you miss a punch line to a joke, or respond inappropriately in conversation, people may have concerns about your mental acuity, your attention span or your ability to communicate effectively. The personal consequences of vanity can be life altering. At a simplistic level, untreated hearing loss means giving up some of the pleasant sounds you used to enjoy. At a deeper level, vanity could severely reduce the quality of your life. Rebecca Krukemyer is an audiologist at Portage Valley Hearing, LLC in Pemberville. She is available via email at Rebecca@Portagevalleyhearing.com or by phone at (419) 287-2201.

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August 2017

Vitality

Give the gift of vibrant skin:

How you can navigate spa treatments The desire for healthy, cleanlooking skin drives the multi-billion dollar cosmetics and skincare industry. According to data from the SemiAnnual Consumer Insight Snapshot from DermStore, a leading skin care ecommerce website, 67 percent of consumers surveyed are very or extremely interested in trying products for their specific skin concerns. The top five skin concerns across the United States include aging, uneven skin tone, sensitive skin, dark circles, and sun damage. To address concerns about their skin, consumers are increasingly turning to in-spa services, such as facials, peels and fillers. A facial or body skin treatment can be a coveted gift for holidays or special occasions. However, navigating spa jargon can be tricky. Here are some popular services and what they entail. Traditional facial – A traditional facial typically begins with a cleansing of the face using steam to open pores. This lets impurities clear out. Depending on an individual’s skin type or concerns, a mild scrub may be used to exfoliate dead skin cells, dirt and oils. A hydrating mask or lotion will be applied to soothe skin after treatment. Chemical or fruit acid peel – Chemical and fruit acid peels rely on various acids to exfoliate and peel off the outer layer of skin. The skin beneath is usually more smooth and less wrinkled. Some deep peels target the middle layer of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery says that peels can be used to treat anything from acne to aging skin to scars. Alpha-hydroxy acid and lactic acid may be used in mild peels. Trichloroacetic acid, or phenol, is used for more potent chemical peels. Peels are best left to an aesthetician or dermatologist. Facial masks – Masks may contain many different ingredients designed to treat various skin problems. A paraffin mask, for example, involves the process of applying molten warm wax over a thin mask. The wax will open pores and moisturize the skin. Masks are applied, and then there is a waiting period, during which the mask dries or penetrates. Then the treatment will be removed. Microdermabrasion – In microdermabrasion, layers of dead skin are buffed. This dead skin may have accumulated due to age and sun exposure. Many spas employ a device that scours the skin using micronized aluminum oxide crystals. Similar at-home prod-

Skincare treatments can be an ideal gift for someone special. ucts use motorized spinning brushes that employ bristles to slough off skin cells. Lymphatic massage – Many facial treatments also include some massage. With lymphatic massage, particular pressure points are targeted to release strain from tension headaches and may even reduce skin puffiness. Massaging

the skin can promote blood flow and lead to a rosier, more youthful glow. Cosmetic fillers – Injectable dermal fillers can soften facial creases, remove wrinkles and improve the appearance of scars, says the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. These procedures are best left to professionals.

August 2017

Vitality

Cool tips for warm-weather foot care (NAPSI)-If you’re like most people, you take 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day. Here are more steps you can take to keep your feet in good shape, especially during the warmer months: 1.Sunny days and warm nights may encourage wearing flip-flops, but it’s a good idea to get the kind made of highquality, soft leather to minimize the potential for blisters. Make sure your foot doesn’t hang over the edge and beware of irritation where the toe thong fits. It can lead to blisters and infections. Don’t wear flip-flops to play sports, do yard work or walk long distances. 2. Keep your feet healthy with a waterproof, oil-free sunscreen every time you wear sandals outdoors. 3. Pampering and grooming your feet promotes good foot hygiene and should be done frequently to contribute not only to your foot health in warmer weather but also to your body’s overall health. Try soaking your feet for at least five minutes in a bucket of cool water. 4. Use a foot file or pumice stone to gently smooth the skin around the heel and the balls and sides of your feet. 5. Gently push back cuticles with a cuticle pusher or manicure stick. Cuticles provide a protective barrier -

against infection and should never be cut. 6. To prevent fungal infections, and viruses that cause warts, wash your feet daily with soap and water, drying carefully, especially between the toes. 7. Change your shoes regularly. 8. Avoid walking barefoot, particularly in public showers and locker rooms. Bare feet are exposed to plantar warts and athlete’s foot. 9. To prevent hot, sweaty feet and foot odor, rub cornstarch or roll-on antiperspirant directly on the soles of your feet. 10. Use a nail clipper to cut toenails straight across. Then, use an emery board to smooth the nail edges by filing in one direction without drastically rounding the edges. When toenail edges are rounded, it increases the chances for painful ingrown toenails. 11. Consult a podiatrist if you have any foot pain or other problems affecting your feet. Podiatrists are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat conditions of the foot and ankle. For more information about foot care or to find a podiatrist near you, visit www.apma.org.

Protect feet with sunscreen when wearing sandals or flip-flops. (Photo courtesy of NAPSI)

Has your hearing loss caused you problems?

Medicare 101 Thursday, August 31st • 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Genoa Retirement Village – Assisted Living “I came to Portage Valley Hearing because of quality of service and ¿tting of ‘aids’ and high recommendation from relatives and husband who all have hearing aids from P.V.H. and are well pleased with everything that P.V.H. has to offer.” -L. Wellington, Gibsonburg, OH

David Painter, OSHIIP Community Liaison, will educate on Medicare benefits. RSVP by August 29th at 5:00 p.m. to 419-855-7755. ENJOY FREE APPETIZERS ALONG WITH AN ASSISTED LIVING TOUR!

Rebecca Krukemyer, Au.D.

Audiologist

1-866-804-7392 ~ 419-287-2201 133 E. Front St. • Pemberville, OH 43450 portagevalleyhearing.com

419-855-7755 300 Cherry Street Genoa, OH 43430 genoahs.com •

August 2017

Vitality

Well-stretched muscles

Better flexibility can improve quality of life Improving flexibility is a goal for many athletes, whether they’re daily exercise devotees or weekend warriors. Taking steps to improve and maintain flexibility has numerous benefits that can pay dividends for athletes of all ages. According to the Harvard Medical School, well-stretched muscles more easily reach their full range of motion. That benefits athletes by improving their performance, and it can also improve daily life for non-athletes by making it easier to reach, bend or stoop to perform everyday tasks. As beneficial as being physically flexible can be, many people, no matter how hard they try, struggle to improve or maintain their flexibility. Fortunately, there are some ways that men and women can improve their flexibility and enjoy all the benefits that increased flexibility provides. • Choose the right activities. Harvard Medical School notes that activities that lengthen and stretch muscles can help active men and women reduce their risks for injury while potentially preventing back pain and issues that may affect their balance. When done correctly, yoga can improve balance and flexibility. In addition, numerous studies have linked yoga to additional health benefits, such as stress reduction, that can make people less tense, thereby improving their flexibility. • Drink more water. Drinking water helps to prevent tightness and muscle cramps. In fact, tightness or muscle cramps in the large muscles of the leg may be indicative of the early stages of dehydration. Drinking plain water is the most effective way to stay and remain hydrated. Don’t count coffee, tea or sports drinks as water, as such beverages many contain caffeine. Caffeine is a diuretic, and while diuretics cause the increased passing of urine, they also decrease the amount of water that is absorbed by the kidneys, potentially contributing to dehydration. Drink plenty of water before, during and after workouts. • Start over after an extended break. If it’s been awhile since you last worked out, resist the temptation to push yourself when returning to the gym. Depending on how long it’s been since you last exercised, you may need to start back at square one, which means reducing the amount of weight you lift and decreasing the resistance during cardiovascular exercises. Putting too much strain on muscles that have been sedentary for an extended period of time

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Poor flexibility can be painful and inconvenient, but there are many ways for men and women to improve their flexibility and, as a result, their quality of life.

When done correctly, yoga can improve balance and flexibility.

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can cause aches, pains and even injury. Muscle tightness also may develop if you go too hard too quickly, greatly reducing flexibility. • Get up and go. Poor flexibility may be a byproduct of your lifestyle. Men and women who live sedentary lifestyles are less likely to enjoy the full range of motion from their muscles than those people who are more active. Get off the couch when spending time at home, and if you work in an office, take routine breaks to stand up and walk around.

August 2017

Vitality

See answers on page 12

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August 2017 Vitality

Add eye exams to your back-to-school checklist By Callie Dudek ProMedica HealthConnect When making your child’s back-toschool list, be sure to include a stop at the eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam. While some schools offer vision screenings for students, Preston Linley, OD, optometrist with ProMedica Physicians Eye Care, stresses that it shouldn’t substitute for an eye exam. “There’s a difference between a vision screening in school and a comprehensive eye exam. A vision screening is looking for the possibility of needing an eye exam. A lot of things get missed,” he says. In fact, Dr. Linley notes that 60% of eye conditions are missed during a vision screening. A comprehensive eye exam not only checks visual distance but also looks inside your eye health and can catch things such as tumors, genetic disorders or childhood diseases. The optometrist recommends scheduling a child’s first comprehensive eye exam sometime between the ages of 2 and 5, again at age 6, then every year after. “The younger you can catch something like a visual disorder, the better the outcomes are,” he said.

An eye exam can help your child start the school year out with success. He continues, “Eighty percent of what we learn throughout the world comes through the visual system, and that’s why it’s so important for parents to bring their kids in so they can help them reach their full potential.”

Although parents can’t “see” if their child is having vision issues, taking them in for a comprehensive eye exam is one way to help them start the school year out with success. Continued on page 13

August 2017 Vitality 13

Back-to-school eye exams Continued from page 12 Children’s eye care tips: While children with a family history of childhood vision problems are more likely to have eye problems themselves, all parents should know the warning signs of vision problems. Here are some guidelines to follow when it comes to your baby’s or child’s eyes: • Babies older than 3 months – Infants this age should be able to follow or “track” an object, like a toy or ball, with their eyes as it moves across their field of vision. If your baby can’t make steady eye contact by this time or seems unable to see, let your child’s doctor know. • Before 4 months old – Most babies’ eyes occasionally look misaligned (strabismus). However, after 4 months of age, inward crossing or outward drifting that occurs regularly is usually abnormal. If you notice crossing or drifting, let your child’s doctor know. • Preschool age – If your child’s eyes become misaligned, let your doctor know right away. Because vision problems such as a lazy eye (amblyopia) may have no warning signs, and your child may not complain of vision problems, it’s important at this age to have your child’s vision checked. There are special tests to check your child’s vision even if he or she cannot yet read. • All children – If you notice any of the following, let your child’s doctor know:

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Eighty percent of what we learn throughout the world comes through the visual system...

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Eyes that are misaligned (look crossed, turn out, or don’t focus together) White or grayish-white color in the pupil Bulging eye(s) Child often complains of eye pain, itchiness or discomfort Redness in either eye that doesn’t go away in a few days Pus or crust in either eye Eyes that are always watery Drooping eyelid(s) Child rubs or squints eyes often Eyes that are always sensitive to light Any change in the eyes from how they usually look Eyes that flutter from side-to-side or up-and-down

Keeping safe • Have children wear safety glasses when they’re playing with chemistry sets, workshop tools, or toys that fire objects. • Have children wear the correct goggles when skiing, snowboarding, and riding on snowmobiles. They should wear helmets with face guards when playing football, ice hockey, roller hockey, and other high-impact sports. • Keep children away from fireworks, firecrackers, and other flammable materials. • Keep children away from activities like snow blowing, mowing, working with power tools or hand tools, using cleaning agents, applying fertilizer or weed-killer, or doing other work that can be dangerous to eyes. Learn more about maintaining healthy eyes and other health topics at ProMedicaHealthConnect.org.

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14 August 2017 Vitality

August 2017 Vitality 15

Six things to share with your doctor It is important to be honest with a doctor about certain health habits, but sometimes it isn’t so easy to be forthcoming. Fear of being judged or discussing embarrassing situations may prevent some patients from telling medical professionals the whole story. However, the things people do not share could end up compromising their treatment or prevent doctors from discovering certain ailments. Rather than omitting information, people need to be frank with their doctors. Honesty is important when speaking with a physician, even when the discussion turns to the following potentially sensitive topics. 1. Smoking: Even if you aren’t a daily smoker, mention if you smoke in social situations or grab a drag once in a while. Smoking increases the risk for many illnesses and can compromise how effective some medications can be. 2. Alcohol consumption: Be honest about how much you drink, as alcohol can interfere with medications. 3. Supplement usage: Over-thecounter medicines, herbs and other supplements can affect overall health. A doctor needs to know the entire picture before prescribing treatment. 4. Exercise habits: Don’t claim to be a gym rat if you’re more of a couch potato. An accurate idea of their patients’ fitness levels and habits is a key diagnostic tool for physicians. 5. Unusual issues: Be forthright with any issues, even those that occur in embarrassing areas of the body.

The things people do not share could compromise their treatment. Remember, if you’re uncomfortable with your doctor, you can always get a referral for a specialist who treats those areas of the body daily. 6. Drug use: Prescriptions are written in dosages for the intended recipient. Taking drugs that are not prescribed to

you, whether it’s a loved one’s prescription or an illicit drug, affects your body. If you have a medical issue, consult with your doctor so you can get your own legal prescription or begin working toward addressing your addiction.

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August 2017 Vitality

Maumee Bay Vision Center Dr. Rick A. Cherry, O.D. Dr. Victoria R. Louis, O.D. Dr. Janel E. Elamin, O.D. 3017 Navarre Ave. Oregon, 419-693-4488

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