Children can experience a variety of vision problems that may affect their learning, development, and daily activities. Common conditions include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, lazy eye (amblyopia), and crossed eyes (strabismus). Signs of vision problems may include squinting, frequent headaches, sitting too close to screens, rubbing the eyes, covering one eye, or struggling to read. Early detection is essential because many vision issues can be effectively managed with glasses, vision therapy, or other treatments. Regular comprehensive eye exams help identify problems early, supporting healthy vision and giving children the best opportunity to succeed at school and play.
Community News
September Book Club
Discover Healing Arthritis: Complementary Naturopathic, Orthopedic & Drug Treatments by Dr. Penny Kendall-Reed, a Canadian naturopathic doctor. This practical guide explores natural therapies alongside conventional care, helping readers better understand arthritis and manage symptoms through evidence-informed lifestyle, nutrition, supplements, and treatment options.
What Happens When You Quit
The quitting smoking timeline varies from person to person, but generally follows a similar pattern:
20 minutes: Blood pressure and heart rate drop.
12 hours: Carbon monoxide levels in the blood decrease.
2 weeks to 3 months: Circulation improves, lung function increases, and physical activity becomes easier.
1 to 9 months: Coughing and shortness of breath decrease as lung function continues to improve.
1 year: The risk of heart disease is halved compared to a smoker’s risk.
5 years: Stroke risk is similar to that of a non-smoker.
10 years: The risk of lung cancer is halved compared to that of a continuing smoker, and the risk of other cancers decreases further.
PCOS Awareness Month
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects around 10 million globally. Its exact cause remains uncertain, though genetics and environment contribute. It’s a key cause of female infertility, with diverse physical and emotional symptoms. Despite the name, not all have ovarian cysts. Insulin inefficiency and excess lead to glucose problems and more androgens. Progesterone imbalance causes irregular periods. PCOS emerges after puberty or in early adulthood and is often undiagnosed due to varied symptoms. Diagnosis requires two of: irregular periods, enlarged ovaries, and excess androgens. Early management, including weight loss, reduces diabetes and heart disease risk.
Caring for Dentures with Arthritis
Living with arthritis can make everyday tasks more difficult, including caring for dentures. Pain, stiffness, and reduced hand mobility may make it challenging to insert, remove, or clean dentures properly. Fortunately, simple adaptations can help. Denture brushes with larger, easy-to-grip handles and other assistive devices can improve comfort and control during daily cleaning. It’s also important to schedule regular dental visits to ensure dentures continue to fit properly, as loose or ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation and affect eating and speaking. With the right tools, routine care, and professional support, people with arthritis can maintain healthy dentures and a confident smile.
Community Events
Celebrate lively Elvis Tribute Shows. Enjoy great music and a welcoming community atmosphere, perfect for the whole family. Sept. 5 – Pelican Lake Lounge. Sept 11- Rockwood Anavet 341 Wilton Street. Sept 18 Portage La Prairie Legion. Sept. 26 Erickson Legion. Contact Denny at Elvis “The Memories” by Denny for details. 204-470-6993 or [email protected]
Know The Signs Early
August is Autoinflammatory Awareness Month, a reminder that living well starts with listening to your body. Persistent or recurring symptoms such as unexplained fevers, joint pain, fatigue, rashes, or ongoing inflammation should never be ignored. While these symptoms can have many causes, they may also be signs of a rare autoinflammatory disease. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve long term health and quality of life. If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms or have concerns, speak with your local healthcare practitioner. The Canadian Autoinflammatory Network provides trusted education, resources, and support for individuals, families, and healthcare professionals. Learn more at
Take a Ride on the Red!
Splash Dash Boat Tours – Operating from the docks at The Pony Corral, offers an engaging and accessible way to explore south Winnipeg by water. Ideal for seniors, the tour is wheelchair-friendly, with convenient access—buses and vans can drop off near the dock with minimal walking required. Free parking is available on-site. After your tour, enjoy delicious dining at The Pony Corral, either indoors or on their scenic patio. Relax and take in the sights as our Transport Canada certified captains share fascinating stories and history along the beautiful Red River.
Low Stomach Acid
Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria) is a common but often overlooked cause of digestive discomfort. Symptoms may include bloating, gas, belching, acid reflux, and feeling overly full after meals. It can also reduce absorption of key nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. Contributing factors include aging, long-term acid-suppressing medications, chronic stress, zinc deficiency, stomach inflammation, and Helicobacter pylori infection. At Uptown Integrative Health, our naturopathic doctors identify the underlying cause through comprehensive assessment and appropriate testing, then create personalized nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement plans to restore healthy digestion and improve overall wellness.
Healthy Pregnancy Support
Pregnancy is an exciting journey, and regular prenatal care helps support the health of both mother and baby. Routine appointments monitor your baby’s development, answer questions, and identify concerns early. After birth, postnatal care is equally important, helping mothers recover physically and emotionally while supporting newborn health, feeding, and family adjustment. Having a trusted healthcare team provides reassurance through every stage, from pregnancy to the first weeks at home. Whether you are expecting your first child or growing your family, professional prenatal and postnatal care offers guidance, education, and compassionate support for a healthier, more confident start together.
The Link Between Smoking and Arthritis
Smoking is a major risk factor for developing certain types of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It not only increases the likelihood of developing RA but can also make symptoms worse and treatments less effective. Smoking contributes to chronic inflammation, which can damage joints and other tissues over time. It may also slow healing and increase the risk of complications after joint surgery. In osteoarthritis, smoking may impair blood flow to cartilage, accelerating joint damage. Quitting smoking can significantly improve arthritis outcomes and overall health, making it one of the most impactful lifestyle changes for joint health.
