MEDICATIONS AND PRESCRIPTIONS

   

   According to Consumer Reports on Health, people who are older than 50 years can break or crack a bone due to a fall or accident and are unaware of it.  This age group should be evaluated for osteoporosis by a doctor in case the injury was precipitated by fragile bones.  “Silent fractures,” may not be painful or cause noticeable symptoms.  It is estimated that 80 percent of these people may be at risk for breaking a bone, especially if once having had a fracture.  Starting early treatment is crucial.  Loss of height or a slightly stooped posture may be the first clue.  Inherent causes of fractures are undertreated in older adults, especially men.  Fewer than 50 percent of women and only 5 percent of men had a fracture due to fragile bones, so make an appointment with your doctor, and learn how to “Minimize bone-sapping medications (Consumer Reports on Health 10/2011.)

 When my husband had Parkinson’s I asked the specialist for details of any side effects from the prescription indicated for him in case it might cause him to have a fall.  He said, “Your pharmacist is updated frequently about possible side effects that may arise, especially for any new drugs that have entered the market.”  Breast cancer, Endometriosis, Lupus, Arthritis, Prostate cancer, Endometriosis, Infertility, Blood clots, Rheumatoid arthritis, Type 2 diabetes, heartburn, Gastroasophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Ulcers, are among them.   Each local hospital in our province has someone with a degree in dietetics that includes working with normalizing weight and diets.  British Columbia has wonderful vacation places to relax and make needed diet changes for improved health.  Some of them have provisions for staying for a week or ten days.  Green Croft Gardens have 20 acres in the Shuswap area that raise organic vegetables and fruits.  More details about finding the place can be found at 250-832-9998.  My sister and her husband have received help from another such place, at Suede Hills Organic Farm near Kamloops that also raise organic fruits and vegetables.  Details about finding it can be found by calling 250-877-682-1188.  After rushing his condition with two surgeries and one prescription for chemotherapy after his cancer diagnosis, my brother-in-law with his wife decided to change their eating habits and after three years he is well again.  The supper meal includes blending a green drink containing raw vegetables and fruits, along with almonds and other nuts. Why not add a decade or more healthy years to your life and delight the family, which includes great grandchildren.  Our local Morning Star dated February 8, 2010 announced a new columnist has been hired who will be emphasizing the value of home gardening, and building health while enjoying the beauties of having a garden.