Vitality - Fall 2013 - (Page 4)

Health Beat PHOTO BY THINKSTOCK 5 Managing Pain During PREGNANCY Most expectant mothers experience a few pregnancy-related aches and pains, as well as the headaches and muscle soreness we all get from time to time. But most over-the-counter pain medications should not be taken during pregnancy because of their potential to cause birth defects, especially during the ﬁrst trimester. That doesn't mean you should suffer through it. Here are a few healing alternatives: Acetaminophen: Pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen or cough medicines are off limits, but acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally considered safe for short-term use. Cold or hot packs provide on-thespot pain relief-especially for your back. Exercise can ease back or other joint pain and help ensure you're ready for the rigors of labor. Massage away the pain at your favorite spa. Many offer prenatal massages geared for expectant mothers. 4| FA L L 2 0 1 3 ESSENTIAL TIMES TO UPDATE YOUR ADVANCE DIRECTIVE Most people know they should have an advance directive to state their health wishes clearly should they become unable to communicate for themselves. But when is the right time to think about something so serious? To nudge yourself along, use these "ﬁve D's" from Harvard Medical School for ideas on when to create or update your advance directive: DECADE: At each 10-year birthday (40, 50, 60 and so on) DEATH: When you lose a loved one DIAGNOSIS: If a serious medical problem arises DIVORCE: If your spouse was named as agent of your directive, divorcing usually revokes this authority automatically DECLINE: If your health declines rapidly or threatens your independence oad Downl ARE YOU WEARING THE RIGHT HELMET? Learn which helmet goes with which activity by downloading a handy tip sheet from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Go to citizensmemorial. com/vitality, and click "Tip Sheet." Curtis P. Schreiber, M.D., with the CMH Neurology Clinic, recently crossed the 30,000-mile mark on his bicycle. Schreiber placed an odometer on his trail bicycle on July 11, 2005, and bikes about 12 miles daily throughout the year. Question Corner As an adult, do I really need to wear a helmet when biking? ANSWER: Always err on the side of caution when it comes to protecting your head. Scrapes, scratches and broken bones recover in time, but head and brain injuries can have major repercussions. Save yourself from long-term disability or even death by strapping on a helmet during any activity-of any length-when you have more speed and less control. Examples are skiing, biking, skating, skateboarding and riding a scooter. http://citizensmemorial.com/vitality http://citizensmemorial.com/vitality

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vitality - Fall 2013

Vitality - Fall 2013
Contents
Health Beat
Diabetes Survival Guide
A New Light
Road to Recovery
Heart Smart
Q + A

Vitality - Fall 2013