Community News
Restless Leg Syndrome

Have you ever been told that you kick a lot during the night? Or perhaps your spouse does. This could be due to Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). The nerve receptors in the bottom of your feet are hyper-sensitive, and this disorder is part of the nervous system that causes involuntary movement of the legs. RLS usually interferes with sleep and is also considered a sleep disorder. People with chronic diseases like Parkinson’s, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy often experience RLS. Sleep is important, even more rest is important. So wear at least one Voxxlife sock to bed to calm the nerve receptors.

Compression Stockings for Travel

Today’s travel often involves long flights in cramped seats that can be very hard on your circulation. Wearing socks or stockings with mild compression will comfortably help increase circulation and reduce the risk of swelling. The compression steadily squeezes your legs, helping your veins and leg muscles move blood more efficiently. They offer a simple, safe and economical way to keep blood from stagnating. Other things that will help you during long flights include getting up and stretching every hour while flying, staying hydrated and flexing your ankles every 30 minutes.

Using Essential Oils

Aromatherapy is also referred to as essential oil therapy. It can be defined as the art and science of using highly concentrated medicinal plant extracts to promote mental and physical health. Did you know that one of the most effective ways to enjoy the benefits of essential oils is by diffusing? Breathing deeply relaxes the body and allows the essential oil molecules to be utilized very efficiently. Massage is another wonderful way to enjoy essential oils. Add 3-4 drops to 1 oz of coconut oil and enjoy. Never use essential oils directly on your skin without a carrier oil and NEVER ingest essential oils. Just breathe!

Sleep Well with Exercise

Researchers indicate that individuals who exercise regularly report that their sleep quality improves. They also report fewer depressive symptoms, more vitality, and less sleepiness during the day. Activities such as riding a stationary bicycle, walking, doing yoga, or exercising on a treadmill all have sleep benefits. Physical activity increases deep sleep, the most restorative sleep phase, which boosts immune function, supports heart health, and reduces stress and anxiety. Current exercise recommendations for heart health is 150 minutes per week (30 mins. per day). See a physiotherapist for an exercise prescription suited to your needs that can help improve your sleep!

Product Spotlight: HumanN® Neo40®

Help to naturally restore and replenish your body’s nitric oxide levels with the patented Neo40 daily formula. It is clinically researched to help relax arterial walls and support healthy circulation. The patented formula helps boost the efficiency of the body’s nitrate pathway so that more nitric oxide is available when and where it’s needed. Each tab contains 420mg of our patented nitric oxide blend, with added vitamin C and B12. Benefits include a healthy blood pressure, healthy triglyceride levels, healthy arterial function, better cardiovascular health, increased endurance, and increased workout performance.

In Your Community

Managing your healthcare has never been easier. eCare@Pharmasave is a suite of digital tools that provides you with online access to manage your health in ways that are simple to set up and easy to maintain. With your account you can view your prescription history, order refills at your convenience and see details such as a picture of your medication and important label information. Visit Pharmasave.com or download Pharmasave’s free eCare app to set up your personal account. Then, visit the pharmacy to complete the registration process. Manage your medications as part of your healthy routine with eCare@Pharmasave. To find out more, speak to your Pharmasave Pharmacist today.

Effects of Concussions on Vision

When someone has a head injury, they typically have vision problems that can be temporary or permanent. When a vision problem is causing or contributing to a problem with reading, balance, or movement, the recovery process will move slowly until the vision component is treated. Some symptoms might disappear after a while, such as eye pain or headaches, and yet other symptoms may remain, such as blurred or double vision, or vice versa. If you suspect that a concussion has caused vision problems resulting in difficulty coping with daily activities, see a developmental optometrist for a visual evaluation.

Getting Regular Medical Exams

Making regular medical appointments is an important way to maintain your health and find any potential health issues that could cause more serious problems in the future. When you see your doctor regularly, they can detect health conditions or diseases. Early detection gives you the best chance for getting the right treatment quickly, avoiding any complications. By getting the correct health services, screenings, and treatment you are taking important steps toward living a longer, healthier life. It’s a good idea to have someone accompany yourself or your loved one to medical appointments to ensure there is clear communication about needs, concerns, or questions.

It’s Easy to Become a Lifesaver

Did you know, only 2.6% of eligible Winnipeggers donate blood? This small but dedicated group of lifesavers supply a majority of the inventory that Manitoba patients require. A single victim of a motor vehicle accident may require up to 50 units of blood. A cancer patient may use up to five units per week. By joining this club of lifesavers you can make the difference in the life of a patient in need! An hour of your time could give someone a lifetime. Book online at www.blood.ca

Hangover or Just Dry Eyes?

We find that most people are not able to easily tell what is causing their eyes to be red, itchy, watery or dry. It’s important to know the real cause in order to get the correct treatment. Allergies are the most likely cause in the springtime, but often get confused with Pink Eye, which is a highly contagious disease, especially in children, and must be treated differently. If your eyes are red because they are dry, our doctors can prescribe special eye drops that help lubricate them and keep them moist. Don’t let your eyes stay red and dry for very long, as it could harm your vision. Relief is just a phone call away!

Tea and Toast Syndrome

“Tea and toast syndrome” refers to malnutrition in seniors when a lack of desire or inability to prepare and/or eat proper meals results in them relying on simpler meals like tea and toast. Seniors who skip meals almost daily, have gained/lost more than 10 pounds in the past six months, take medications, have dental issues, or have a disability can be at risk for malnutrition. Some common signs to watch for include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, memory issues, digestive issues, a weak immune system, muscle weakness, and anemia. There are support services available to help seniors eat well and regularly!