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familyhealthdiary.co.nz MARCH / APRIL 2014
Asthma: get it sorted before winter hits
WIN
PLUS Ditching those excuses for not seeing a doctor...
fresh meals for a month See back page for entry details
3 chances to win
The cicadas are still singing away merrily outside my window so although it’s officially autumn, it certainly doesn’t feel like it. School’s well and truly back and Uni has started so I guess the summer feeling will ebb away…but not just yet!
IN THIS ISSUE
My New Year’s resolution of being more regular with exercise is doing a little better than last year’s poor effort, with the regular walking being the cornerstone of it. I’ve surprised myself because I actually look forward to it. I realise how much I don’t see when I drive places…it’s quite a treat to take an evening jaunt around your neighbourhood and see what’s happening, discover roads you haven’t seen before, little parks I didn’t know even existed. And of course, it’s great to give the neighbours a nod as they walk their pets. Sometimes it’s an actual ‘hello’, but if it’s towards the end and there are hills involved, it might just be a nod!
GET ON TOP OF ASTHMA
Anyway, I hope you’re on your way to achieving the goals you set out with at the start of the year. And on the health front, give some time to those health complaints you live with, like asthma. Find ways to manage them better and make life easier. Take care till next time.
4 Planning the best start for baby 6 Smoking… there's a way out 8 Don't take pain lying down
10 Take action before winter hits 12 Get real control over asthma 14 Keep your blue inhaler at the ready 16 Haemorrhoids… don't sit on symptoms 18 Avigra - the more affordable Vagra 20 The natural solution to digestive health complaints 22 Treat osteoporosis just once a year Editor: Aileen Nakhle Design: Raydar For editorial enquiries write to: editor@familyhealthdiary.co.nz For Family Health Diary advertising enquiries: Please phone sales manager Harinda Singh DDI: 09 306 2344, Email: harinda@brandworld.co.nz
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WHAT'S HAPPENING AT www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz Our online feature story this month: CALL THE DOCTOR, MAYBE? You know your body, so if a part of it appears different or behaves unexpectedly, you’d go to the doctor, wouldn’t you? Well, yes… probably… maybe. Putting off a visit to a GP is a bit like playing Russian Roulette with your health. After all, your doctor can help prevent a small problem spiraling into a much bigger problem if caught early enough. This month at www.familyhealthdiary.co.nz we investigate why some of us choose avoidance over health. Here’s a hint of what we found…
My doctor’s changed: Some people blame the loss of the old-fashioned relationship between doctor and patient, where the doctor doubled as a friend and confidante, for our reluctance to make an appointment. These days people move, doctors move and it’s hard to maintain a history that spans decades.
Our advice: If you don’t feel comfortable opening up to your doctor, choose another one or ask your friends to recommend someone. If your doctor listens to your concerns, answers your questions respectfully and helps you feel at ease, then he or she is probably a keeper.
This is weird, hopefully it will just go away: Is that what you’re thinking? What if it doesn’t go away? Turning a blind eye is a choice made by many, but even something as innocuous as a mole should be checked out. Melanoma is a cancer of the skin's pigmentproducing cells, and it kills thousands of people every year.
Our advice: Resistance can be linked to a fear of what the doctor might say, so try to be brave and take action soon. Doctors report that patients can be afraid of hearing the worst, but bad news can become a self-fulfilling prophecy if treatment is delayed.
To read the full story, visit us online Family Health Diary is published by BrandWorld Limited, Auckland. Phone 09 306 2340 Every effort has been made to ensure the contents of this magazine reflect current accepted medical opinion and that it is as up-to-date as possible, but it does not claim to be the last word on any medical matter featured. No medical or health information, however detailed, can ever be considered a substitute for consultation with, or the advice of, a qualified doctor. Though this publication contains information that may be of the greatest importance to your health and well-being, it is not intended to replace your doctor or Seemay back for details discourage you from seeking his or her advice. If anything in Family Health Diary leads you to suppose you bepage suffering from any of the serious conditions described, you are urged to see your doctor without delay. ©2014 Copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. Family Health Diary® is a registered trademark of BrandWorld Limited.
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Planning a baby? Plan the best start Everyone knows that bringing a child into the world is a huge responsibility. Yet it may surprise you to know that even before your baby is conceived, you have choices that influence your baby's health and development. From the moment your baby is conceived, a rapid growth curve begins. Just four weeks into pregnancy, vital organs are already forming. And all this could be happening before you even know you’re pregnant. To help ensure your baby has all the nutrients it needs for healthy development in these early stages, it’s important you start taking a 4
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supplement like Elevit with Iodine from the moment you start trying for a baby.
HOW ELEVIT CAN HELP Elevit with Iodine contains the essential nutrients your baby needs, at Ministry of Health recommended levels. And only Elevit is clinically proven to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, like Spina Bifida, by 92%.1
SPINA BIFIDA AND HOW FOLIC ACID HELPS Spina Bifida is the most common neural tube defect in New Zealand. It occurs in the womb when the baby’s s spinal column doesn’t close all the way. It can result in various degrees of paralysis and sometimes even permanent disability. Folic acid helps reduce the risk of Spina Biffida. But it’s hard to get the levels you need in pregnancy, from diet alone. That’s why the Ministry Of Health recommends you take 800mcg of folic acid every day, at least four weeks prior to conception and for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Elevit with Iodine contains the recommended amount of folic acid as well as other key nutrients for baby's healthy development, like iodine and iron.
VISIT elevit.co.nz FOR MORE ADVICE Elevit has a wealth of information on their website like videos that answer frequently asked questions on baby’s development, the role of folic acid, and more.
THE ELEVIT DIFFERENCE Elevit with Iodine has New Zealand’s highest combination of key nutrients, like iron, folic acid and iodine of any pregnancy supplement, which is why it's only available from pharmacies. It contains iodine, to assist in healthy brain development, and iron to help prevent dietary iron deficiency in the mother and provide benefits for baby. And all you need is one tablet a day.
er Sta rt taking Elevit earlier, not lat ent With so mu ch critica l develowepm eks few ha ppe nin g in the first of pre gn an cy, don ’t wa it untile you vit. know you ’re pre gn ant to tak oreEle Th e best tim e to sta rt is bef rt pre gn an cy, from the tim e you sta trying for a ba by.
Elevit with Iodine – only at pharmacies 1. Czeizel Paed Drugs (2000) 2(6). 2. Food and Nutritional Guidelines for Healthy Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: A background paper. Ministry of Health 2006. Always read the label and use strictly as directed. Supplementary to and not a replacement for a balanced diet. Consult your healthcare professional to see if Elevit is right for you. Bayer New Zealand Ltd, Auckland. The New Zealand formulation of Elevit is the same as that used in the Czeizel study except it does not contain Vitamin A, but does contain iodine.TAPS NA6931
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Smoking... there's a way out If you smoke but you don’t want to, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Champix and other support treatments. If you’re not sure whether Champix could help you, here are some initial questions answered.
Q: I’VE TRIED TO QUIT BEFORE BUT ALWAYS FAILED. WHAT AM I DOING WRONG? Trying to quit with no support is difficult. Around 95% of smokers who try to quit by going cold turkey are smoking again within a year. One of the reasons for this is that many people suffer nicotine withdrawal symptoms when they quit. These symptoms can last more than 10 weeks and may include the desire to smoke, headaches, sleepless nights, feeling down or irritability and more.
Q: SO, IS THERE A DIFFERENT APPROACH? Champix is a quit-smoking treatment that’s different to gum or patch-based treatments you may
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have tried. It is a tablet you take twice a day for at least 12 weeks. By the end of the 12-week Champix programme, you’re around four times more likely to have given up, than if you’d taken no medication.
Q: ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS FROM CHAMPIX? Giving up smoking is hard and you may have side effects from the nicotine withdrawal. Talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of Champix. Two of the most common ones are nausea and difficulty sleeping. Some people may experience side effects such as mood changes, but it isn’t known if they occur as a result of quitting or taking Champix.
Q: HOW DOES CHAMPIX WORK? Champix works in two ways. It reduces withdrawal symptoms and blocks the ‘feel-good’ effects of nicotine, so if you do smoke, you probably won’t enjoy it as much.
Q: WHAT WILL IT COST? If you’re ready to quit now, talk to your doctor about Champix. You may be eligible to have the entire 12-week course funded. Normal doctors’ fees and pharmacy dispensing fees apply.
WHAT YOU’LL FIND AT www.champix.co.nz If you’re preparing to quit, a great place to start is at www.champix. co.nz, where you’ll find a series of web clips with answers to common questions.
Q: IS CHAMPIX ALL I NEED TO QUIT? Just remember that while Champix may help, it will also take a combination of professional support, willpower and encouragement from family and friends to beat the habit. Champix (varenicline) 0.5 mg & 1 mg Tablets Champix (varenicline) is a prescription medicine that helps adults stop smoking. Champix is fully funded under special authority. A pharmacy charge and normal doctor’s fees apply. Do not take Champix if you are allergic to varenicline or any other tablet ingredients. Tell your doctor if you have ever had depression, other mental health problems, kidney problems, have a history of repeated fits, heart problems, are pregnant, intend to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. Some people have had changes in behaviour, mood or thinking including self-harm or harming others. If you or your family notice changes in your behaviour, mood or thinking, stop taking Champix and see your doctor. Some people have had allergic reactions to Champix that can be life threatening. If you get swelling of the face, mouth, throat or a skin rash, stop taking Champix and see your doctor immediately. There have been reports of heart attack and strokes in some people taking Champix. Heart attacks and strokes can also be caused by smoking. If you have had any of these conditions tell your doctor. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, dry mouth, vomiting, headache, toothache, muscle or joint pain, dizziness, difficulty in sleeping and abnormal dreams. If you have other side effects see your doctor. Always read the label and use as directed. Consult your doctor to see if Champix is right for you. Contains varenicline 0.5 mg or 1 mg. Further information on Champix is available from www.medsafe.govt.nz or Pfizer New Zealand Ltd, Auckland, www.pfizer.co.nz. Ph. 0800 736 363. V11113 P8475 TAPS6198
Your chances of successfully quitting are greatly improved if you get the right help, including doctor’s advice, behavioural support and treatment. Our web clips will show you why, and provide hints and tips for staying on the smoke-free path, even when stress, boredom or social situations really test your willpower. Even if you’ve quit before, had a slip-up and then went back to smoking, there’s advice for getting back on course.
FOR MORE ADVICE SEE YOUR DOCTOR OR GO TO www.champix.co.nz
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Don’t take pain lying down Tough back or muscle pain can interrupt your life – frustratingly putting all the things you want (and need) to do on hold. How soon you get going again depends on how you deal with that pain. When you injure yourself, it’s tempting to just lie on a couch for days hoping you’ll feel better. But for a full recovery, you need to keep moving. Early management of an injury is important. Addressing the inflammation – a major cause of
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pain – can also help get you on your feet again.
WHY DOES IT HURT SO MUCH? When you injure yourself, your body produces chemicals called prostaglandins in response to the injury. Prostaglandins cause inflammation, which can hurt. Inflammation is the body’s way of protecting an injury, but early on it may slow recovery. Voltaren Rapid 25 blocks the production of prostaglandins, which means it effectively reduces pain and inflammation.
INJURY RECOVERY TIPS • In the first 72 hours following an injury, you should rest and apply ice packs to the affected area. • If appropriate, compression bandages and elevating the affected limb can also limit bleeding and swelling. • After this initial period, it’s important to get moving again, because inactivity can cause stiffness, limit mobility and actually prolong the pain. • Physical manipulation such as physiotherapy may help you feel better. Using an antiinflammatory treatment such as Voltaren Rapid 25 can also help you keep moving.
VOLTAREN RAPID 25 WORKS TWO WAYS Voltaren Rapid 25 contains an effective anti-inflammatory and is clinically proven to help reduce pain in as little as 15 minutes and for up to 8 hours.*
Voltaren Rapid 25 is available without prescription in your pharmacy, but you won’t find it on the shelf. It’s a specialised treatment that only your pharmacist can recommend.
ASK FOR HELP So, avoid the temptation to stay pinned to the sofa. When acute muscle or back pain strikes, speak to your doctor or head down to your local pharmacy for expert advice. Ask about Voltaren Rapid 25, to help you stay active and get back to doing what you enjoy.
Voltaren Ra pid 25 ben efits * • Fast-actin g * * • La sts up to 8 hou rs * • Clin ica lly pro ven to red uce acute pai n • Ph arm acist On ly M edicin e for strong pai n • Code ine-fre e
Voltaren Rapid 25 ®
only available from your pharmacist VOLTAREN SUPPLIER OF PAIN RELIEF TO THE
*When taken as a dose of 2 x 25 mg tablets. Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Incorrect use could be harmful. Do not use if you have stomach ulcers. Your pharmacist's advice is required. Novartis Consumer Health Australasia Pty Ltd Auckland, NZ. TAPS NA6932 familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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ASTHMA… get it sorted before winter If you have asthma, you may be a little wary of the winter that’s fast approaching. After all, cold air is one of the triggers for asthma. The good news is that a trouble-free winter can be achieved through good management. Making sure you are on top of your condition, or your child’s, is vitally important. Statistics show that at least one person dies a week from asthma in New Zealand and thousands are hospitalised every year.
WHY WINTER WILL MAKE IT WORSE Winter brings cold air, and the colder the air, the less humid it is. Breathing this cold air dries the mucus membranes lining your lungs which can aggravate allergies – and most asthmatics have allergies. You can help make the air you breathe less dry by breathing through your nose rather than your mouth. As well as irritation, cold air can increase the risk of infections. Viral infections, such as influenza, are the most common asthma trigger.
GET TO THE DOCTOR It’s important to discuss your asthma with your doctor so they can assess the severity of your condition, especially if your think your symptoms are persistent or getting worse. 10
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As well as helping you with an asthma action plan, or revising the one you currently have, your doctor might advise an influenza vaccine – and it’s free if you are on preventative asthma medicine. Ann Wheat, nurse manager and educator at Asthma New Zealand, says that taking your flu vaccine is an easy and effective way to help yourself stay safe this winter. Taking action before the viral nasties hit can make a huge difference to your health further down the line.
BATTLING LITTLE CRITTERS On the home front, dust mites are major trouble for asthma sufferers. It’s a year-long battle to keep them under control… they are in soft furnishings, bedding, and the carpet. Ann Wheat recommends the use of a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner and to try not to have floor coverings. “Carpet is worse than rugs as you can at least shake and clean the rugs outside. New carpet is better than old. Basically, the older the carpet, the worse it is,” she adds.
AVOID COMPLACENCY Sure, you know you have asthma but when you’re feeling well it can be easy to let your commitment to taking preventative medication slip. However, not taking your treatment can cause problems later as you become vulnerable. Says Ann, “Often the asthma nurse will have an in-home visit to an asthmatic who is feeling unwell and ask to see their medication… then the patient brings out six or seven unused boxes of preventative medicine.” She stresses that taking your medicine is one of the two most important pieces of advice she can give – the other being flu vaccination – to help you maintain good health.
New research: can para site s prevent asth ma? Asth ma UK is funding fasci natin g resea rch on whet her the use of parasite secretion can help preve nt asth ma symptoms. The resea rchers are looki ng into whet her the secretion supp resse s the relea se of chemical IL-33, which has been foun d in the lung s of peop le with severe asth ma . IL-33 is rapidly relea sed in response to allerg ens and in turn sets off the imm une syste m. It is hoped that by using the parasite’s secretion in asth ma medication, a person’s imm une syste m will be convi nced that the allerg ens are harmless, there by preve nting asth ma symptoms. The resea rch is due to be comp leted in 2016. Asth ma New Zeal and’s Ann Wheat isn’t surprised by the resea rch, as she says that even in New Zeal and it’s known that child ren who grow up on farms are less likely to deve lop asth ma than city dwellers who often live in more sanitised environm ents. “Also, we know that peop le comi ng from deve lopin g countries, who do not have asth ma, can get it in increased rates when they’ve moved to a deve loped /first world country,” she adds. familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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Get real control of asthma 1
It may seem like just a lovely daydream, but a life without the coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath of asthma is actually possible. If you live with asthma, do you assume you have to live with the symptoms too? You might also assume all asthma treatments are pretty much the same. If that’s the case, you might be surprised at what’s out there. At your next doctor’s visit, ask about options that will help you manage your asthma better. One option is Seretide® (fluticasone propionate/salmeterol xinafoate), which can actually help prevent symptoms in the first place.2
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LEAVING SYMPTOMS BEHIND In a major New Zealand asthma study, 81% of people thought their asthma was well controlled, yet three-quarters were using their blue reliever at least once daily and the remainder were taking at least 3-4 puffs a day.3 In short, most people overestimated their level of asthma control. The fact is, if you’re using your reliever more than twice a week, chances are your asthma is not as good as it could be.4
GET CONTROL OF ASTHMA Seretide can help you control your asthma, often to the point where the symptoms don’t bother you at all.1 Control means:4 • No coughing or wheezing • No night-time awakenings • No emergency visits to your doctor or hospital • Participating in activities you enjoy and not having to avoid them • Using a blue reliever inhaler less than two times a week and living life more.
HOW SERETIDE WORKS Seretide's dual action formula is so good at treating asthma, it can actually help prevent symptoms in the first place. As a result you could have symptom-free days for most of the year.5
IS SERETIDE RIGHT FOR YOU? Your doctor is the best person to talk to about your asthma control. The most important thing is to let them know what symptoms you’re experiencing and how often you’re having them. You could also visit www.seretide.co.nz where you’ll find FAQs, as well as tips around nutrition, exercise and daily living with asthma.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT FULLY FUNDED6 SERETIDE – THE PURPLE INHALER
Th e Seretid e Accuh ale r® The Seretid e Accuh ale r is a conven ient alte rnative to a2 traditional inh ale r becaus e: n, • It is eas y to use – justt ope shu and ale inh click, • You don ’t need to use a spa cer • It can be used by chil dre n ove r the age of fou r yea rs dos e • It als o com es wit h a ays kno w alw ll ’ you so r nte cou es dos exa ctly how ma ny are lef t.
1. Bateman ED et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2004;170 (8): 836-844. 2. Seretide Datasheet, GSK New Zealand 3. Holt S. NZ INSPIRE Study Overview. Research Review. 2008:113. 4. Global Initiative for Asthma. Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention. Updated 2012. Available at http://www.ginasthma.org/ Accessed 10 June 2013. 5. Woodcock A et al. Prim Care Resp J. 2007;16(3):155-161. 6. PHARMAC notification. Available from http://www.pharmac.health.nz/ckeditor_assets/attachments/641/ notification-2013-12- 09-eltrombopag-zanamivir.pdf. Accessed 9 December 2013. Seretide® (fluticasone propionate/salmeterol xinafoate; available as a 50/25, 125/25 or 250/25 micrograms per actuation inhaler, or as a 100/50 or 250/50 micrograms per actuation Accuhaler®) is a Prescription Medicine for the treatment of reversible obstructive airway disease (ROAD) including asthma, and for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Seretide is a fully funded medicine. Seretide 250/25 microgram inhaler is a private purchase medicine that you will need to pay for. Use strictly as directed. Seretide is not for relief of acute symptoms. Always carry your reliever inhaler. Do not discontinue Seretide abruptly. Tell your doctor: If you are taking any other medicines or herbal remedies, you have pulmonary tuberculosis (TB), a thyroid problem or a heart problem, or you are having treatment for high blood pressure. Side Effects may include: Headache, 'shaky' feeling, fast heart rate, irritation in the nose and throat. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist or health professional. For more information, see Seretide Consumer Medicine Information at www.medsafe.govt.nz. Normal doctor's office visit fees apply. Ask your doctor if Seretide is right for you. Seretide and Accuhaler are registered trade marks of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies. Marketed by GlaxoSmithKline NZ Limited, Auckland. Adverse events involving GlaxoSmithKline products should be reported to GSK Medical Information on 0800 808 500. TAPS CH3930-14DE. familyhealthdiary.co.nz
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Keep your blue inhaler at the ready When the symptoms of asthma hit – tightness in the chest, wheezing or the feeling you can’t breathe – your blue inhaler can bring calm and relief. That’s why it’s important to have a reliable reliever inhaler with you at all times. If you have asthma, you’ll know that symptoms can come on quickly, and when they do, reassurance can be found in Ventolin’s® (salbutamol) blue reliever inhaler – your key to catching a breath again.1 14
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Com mon asth ma trigg ers Cert ain condition s can trigg er sym ptoms. The se inclu de: • Colds and chest infections • Alle rgen s, such as hous e dust-mit es and polle n • Ciga rette smo ke • Air pollution • Exe rcise • Cold air • Stress.
WHAT HAPPENS WITH ASTHMA When exposed to these triggers, the airways narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Two things happen when the airways are irritated: Swelling: the lining of the airways becomes inflamed and swells; mucus gets clogged in the airways making it harder for air to flow through. Constriction: the muscles around the airways tighten up; this squeezes the airways, again making it harder for air to flow through.
VENTOLIN – TRUSTED ASTHMA RELIEF Your blue inhaler is often your first step in relieving asthma symptoms when they occur. Ventolin has been used by New Zealanders for over 40 years.2 It’s a brand you can trust to give fast relief from asthma symptoms, helping you breathe easy within minutes.1,3 Ventolin is also alcohol-free1 so you don’t get any unpleasant alcohol aftertaste, which might be noticed by children.
VENTOLIN BENEFITS1,2 • Alcohol-free, no unpleasant after-taste • CFC-free • Suitable for all ages • The original blue inhaler that Kiwis know and trust.
WHEN TO USE IT1 Ventolin should be used for symptom relief only or, in the case of exerciseinduced asthma, your doctor may tell you to take one or two puffs before you exercise. Frequent use of your blue inhaler (more than 2 to 3 times a week) means that your asthma management is not as good as it could be, and may be a reason for asking your doctor about preventative asthma treatment. A preventative inhaler can help keep asthma under control so that symptoms don’t disturb your day-to-day life.
Ask your doctor and pharmacist for Ventolin by name 1. Ventolin Data Sheet, GSK New Zealand. 2. Gillies J et al. NZ Med J. 2005:118 (1220):79-83. 3. Price A, Clissold S. Drugs. 1989;38(1):77-122. Ventolin® (salbutamol) is available as an alcohol-free and CFC-free Inhaler, 100 micrograms per actuation. Ventolin is a partially funded Prescription Medicine. You will need to pay a part charge for this medicine. It is a short-acting bronchodilator used for the relief of asthma symptoms. Use strictly as directed. Do not use Ventolin: If you are sensitive to any of the ingredients in the preparation. Tell your doctor: If you feel that the medicine has become less effective or you are using more than usual, have hyperthyroidism, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, are taking any other medicine or herbal remedy including those you buy from a supermarket, pharmacy or health food shop. Side Effects may include: Headache, nausea, shaky or tense feeling, fast or irregular heart beat, ‘warm’ feeling (caused by blood vessels expanding under the skin), mouth or throat irritation, shortness of breath or wheezing. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist or health professional. Additional Consumer Medicine Information for Ventolin is available at www.medsafe.govt.nz. Prices for Ventolin may vary across pharmacies. Normal doctor’s office visit fees apply. Ask your doctor if Ventolin is right for you. Ventolin is a registered trade mark of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies. Marketed by GlaxoSmithKline NZ Ltd, Auckland. Adverse events involving GlaxoSmithKline products should be reported to GSK Medical Information on 0800 808 500. TAPS CH3931-14DE
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Haemorrhoids… don’t sit on symptoms If it feels like no matter what you do, you can’t get rid of haemorrhoids, then there's a good chance you haven't seen your doctor yet.
SO WHAT EXACTLY ARE THEY? Despite the notoriety, there’s often a lack of understanding about haemorrhoids. Also known as piles, they are inflamed veins in the region of the anus, caused by pressure.
Haemorrhoids are so common, half of us will get them at some point. Both men and women are affected equally.
They can be internal or external, and lead to the following:
They can be painful, stubborn, and in many cases they can keep coming back.
• Pain and itching
But if you think there’s not much more you can do other than ‘put up’ with them, then think again.
• Blood on toilet paper, in stools and the toilet bowl • Painful swelling or hard lumps.
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What can really make the difference is seeing your doctor: the expert who can also prescribe an expert treatment.
including the pain, itch and inflammation.
Ti ps on preventio n Mod ern lifestyle s invo pe riods of sittin g an lvi ng lon g ha ve cont ribut ed to d in activity in crea sin g nu m be r an Ot he r fa ctors in clud of sufferers. e: • Poor eatin g ha bits drin ki ng en ou gh wa/ not te r • Co nstipat ion / di arrh oea • Pre gn an cy • St ra in in g on th e toilet • Obes ity • H ea vy liftin g. As you ag e your weak en s an d st retskchin tissu e so th os e ag ed 40 anes m ore ea sily, m ore lik ely to get ha d olde r are em orrh oids.
Even better, it works fast and is long-lasting too. Ultraproct is also fully funded, so you’ll only have to pay your usual doctor’s and prescription charges. In return, you’ll get targeted treatment that gives long-lasting relief.
DON’T GRIN AND BEAR IT Just putting up with haemorrhoids and not seeking help can mean you suffer unnecessarily. Don’t sit on symptoms – get along to your doctor instead.
SEE YOUR DOCTOR AND ASK ABOUT ULTRAPROCT®
YOUR DOCTOR – KEY TO RELIEF Not everyone wants to talk about haemorrhoids, but unless you see your doctor you might be relying on a bit of guesswork when it comes to treating them. So seeing your doctor is a really important step. They’ll give you a proper diagnosis, so you can be sure it’s haemorrhoids and not something else. Your doctor can also prescribe a treatment called Ultraproct®.
ULTRAPROCT® CAN HELP Ultraproct is a unique formulation of active ingredients proven to treat the most troublesome symptoms,
ULTRAPROCT® Ointment and Suppositories (Ointment contains 0.92 mg fluocortolone pivalate, 0.95 mg fluocortolone hexanoate and 5 mg cinchocaine hydrochloride per gram) (Suppositories contain 0.61 mg fluocortolone pivalate, 0.63 mg fluocortolone hexanoate and 1 mg cinchocaine hydrochloride per suppository). ULTRAPROCT is a fully funded prescription medicine. Normal doctor’s fees and pharmacy charges will apply. Do not use ULTRAPROCT in the first trimester of pregnancy. Only use in second and third trimester of pregnancy and breastfeeding when prescribed by your doctor; do not use if you suffer from virus diseases, tuberculosis or syphilitic processes in the area to be treated. Prolonged use (longer than 4 weeks) should be avoided. Care must be taken to ensure ULTRAPROCT does not come into contact with the eyes. Careful hand washing after use is recommended. Tell your doctor if you notice any unwanted effect, or if there is a change in your health that you think might be caused by ULTRAPROCT. Always use ULTRAPROCT strictly as directed by your doctor. Additional consumer medicine information can be obtained from the Medsafe website www.medsafe.govt.nz or from bioCSL (NZ) Ltd, PO Box 62 590 Greenlane, Auckland 1546. Freephone 0800 502 757 or www.biocsl.co.nz ULTRAPROCT® is a registered trademark of Bayer Schering Pharma AG. TAPS CH3932
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What’s the difference between
Avigra & Viagra? When you look at the two little blue pills, Avigra and Viagra, it’s hard to spot the difference. That’s because there is none – except the price. Avigra is the more affordable treatment for erectile dysfunction. It is made by Pfizer, the same people who developed Viagra, and has the exact same active ingredient as Viagra. So the only difference is the price. Erectile dysfunction can be a cause of embarrassment for the estimated 39% of men over the age of 40 who sometimes experience difficulty with erections. For more than a decade, Pfizer has been a leading name in treating erectile dysfunction, helping millions of men the world over improve their sex lives. 18
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AVIGRA – GREAT VALUE AND RESULTS Avigra offers the same highly effective results as Pfizer’s well known Viagra treatment, but with the added benefit of substantially reduced cost – so now men have even more to smile about. Until the arrival of Avigra, the cost of treatment has prevented some men from receiving the help they needed. By making treatment more affordable, Pfizer is helping men once again know the joys of an active and rewarding sex life.
OPTIMAL ERECTIONS The active ingredient in Avigra has helped more than 37 million men in 120 countries reclaim their sex lives by improving the hardness of their erection. The quality of an erection is rated on a 1–4 scale, with 4 being an optimal,
Penis is larger but not hard
Penis is hard, but not hard enough for penetration
completely hard and fully rigid erection. Looking at the scale below, if you find yourself at a 1 or 2, you might want to take this magazine to your next doctor’s visit and discuss your options.
Penis is hard enough for penetration, but not completely hard
Penis is completely hard and fully rigid
Adapted from Mulhall JP, et al. Validation of the erection hardness score. J Sex Med 2007; 4: 1626-1634.5
TESTED AND PROVEN Studies show that Avigra, with its active ingredient sildenafil citrate, produces grade 4 erections (see scale above), in 58% of users. Along with an optimal erection, many men using this treatment report an increase in sexual confidence, selfesteem and sexual relations satisfaction.
NEVER IGNORE ERECTION PROBLEMS While the occasional difficulty with erection is common in men from their
mid-forties onwards, persistent difficulty should never be ignored. It is known that a combination of stress and fatigue can result in bedroom difficulties. When those difficulties persist, it’s time to see your doctor for a thorough checkup. The health of your erection can be an early warning sign of a range of more serious conditions including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Ask your doctor if Avigra can help you And request it at your pharmacy
AVIGRA (sildenafil citrate) is an unfunded prescription medicine for use by men in the treatment of erection problems resulting in a natural response to sexual stimulation. You will need to pay for this medicine and normal doctor’s fees apply. Do not use Avigra if you: are being treated for angina (chest pain) or other heart conditions with medicines called nitrates; are using amyl nitrite; have heart or blood vessel problems that make sexual intercourse inadvisable; have suffered a heart attack or stroke in the last 6 months; have severe liver problems; have unusually high or low blood pressure that is not effectively treated; have loss of vision in one or both eyes from an eye disease called non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION); have an eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa; have an allergy to AVIGRA or similar medications. Side effects include headache, dizziness, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, temporary changes in vision, diarrhoea, urinary tract infection or rash. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor. If any of the following happen, tell your doctor immediately or go to Accident and Emergency at your nearest hospital: signs of allergy such as shortness of breath, wheezing or difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other part; chest pain; sudden decrease or loss of hearing; seizures, fits or convulsions; a persistent and painful erection; loss of eyesight in one or more eyes. Use strictly as directed. Consult your doctor to see if AVIGRA is right for you. Contains sildenafil citrate 25 mg, 50 mg & 100 mg. Further information on AVIGRA is available from www.medsafe.govt.nz or from Pfizer New Zealand Ltd, Auckland, www.pfizer.co.nz Ph: 0800736 363. TAPS NA5351
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Feeling heavy, bloated…. and think you've tried everything? If you get bloating, wind or digestive discomfort, you’ve probably tried everything for it. Or have you? It can be hard to get to the bottom of digestive complaints, and finding a bit of relief can be hit and miss. Digestive health complaints can be caused by poor diet, lack of exercise, side effects from medicines or pregnancy, just to name a few. If you’ve tried a few ways to ease bloating, wind or irregularity, you may be interested in trying Phloe. Phloe is a natural, gentle daily supplement that has been clinically shown to keep you regular and avoid digestive discomfort.
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Family Health Diary March/April 2014
HOW PHLOE WORKS Derived from kiwifruit, Phloe has a unique triple action formula. It combines fibre, prebiotics and enzymes to naturally support and optimise bowel health. This combination helps avoid episodes of bloating, flatulence and the ‘feeling of fullness’.
DOCTORS RECOMMEND PHLOE A survey has shown that 65% of doctors see between 6-15 patients a week for gastrointestinal concerns. Digestive health complaints are very common, with constipation the most stated reason for visiting the doctor. 91% of doctors in the survey said they would recommend Phloe to their patients.1
Join th e phloe health y you club Sign up an d re ce ive m ag azin e, providin gHea lthy Y ou us eful inform ation anyou with m an agin g your bowe d tip s on lon g- te rm. Y ou wi l health prod uct inform ationll also re ce ive vouche rs for your nean d discou nt Phloe. Visit w w w. ph xt pu rcha se of for fu rth er inform at lo e. co. n z ion.
The fibre in Phloe works by bulking the stool with moisture, which assists movement through the bowel. The great thing about the enzymes in Phloe is that they work naturally and gently to support movement in the bowel. The prebiotics in Phloe have been shown to support the good bacteria in our digestive systems and help with the natural balance of bacteria in the gut. Having the right balance is one of the keys to maintaining good bowel health and overall wellbeing.
Available at pharmacies and supermarkets For more information visit www.phloe.co.nz 1. BGA GP Mailer, 1 July 2010. Always read the label and use only as directed. Supplementary to, and not a replacement for, a balanced diet. Data on file. Vital Foods Ltd, Auckland. TAPS CH3717
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Treat osteoporosis just once a year If you’re managing osteoporosis with tablet treatments, there is another option… and you’ll only need it once a year. If you have osteoporosis, you might be treating it with tablets. But you have to remember to take them, constantly, which is easier said than done. If you find that you are missing doses, or struggling to take as directed, your bones may not be getting the protection they need. Fortunately, there is another option that helps protect your bones for a full year. It’s not a tablet. It’s an infusion you have only once a year.
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Family Health Diary March/April 2014
ACLASTA – ONCE A YEAR With Aclasta, once you have your first infusion – which takes around 15-30 minutes – you don’t need to think about your Aclasta treatment again for another year. If you are on Aclasta, it’s important to get the infusion every year for at least three years. That will help ensure you have ongoing protection for your bones. After three years, your doctor will reassess how often you need this treatment.
Wh at is ost eoporo sis ? Osteoporosis is often refe rred totheas the “sile nt epide mic” becau ses until wa rnin g sign s are not obviou the disease is advan ced. du ally Bones becom e less den se, grabrit tle re mo , ker wea m ma kin g the an d easily bro ken. an d Th ere is no cure, but medication p. som e life style cha nge s hel ar Aclast a is a convenient once-a1-ye 2 for infu sion that protects you months at a tim e. ine if It is also a fully fun ded medicma l nor the ly On it. you qua lify for ly. app s fee ent tm trea d doctor’s an HOW DOES ACLASTA WORK? For those in normal health, bone breakdown (resorption) and bone formation take place in close sequence and remain balanced. For those with osteoporosis, there is an imbalance in the bone cycle, resulting in bone loss. This imbalance can occur after menopause in women - when
ovaries stop producing the hormone oestrogen, which keeps bones healthy - and with ageing in both genders. Aclasta works by slowing down bone breakdown, which allows the boneforming cells time to rebuild normally.
DON’T REACH BREAKING POINT If you are currently putting up with a tiring tablet regime, or about to begin osteoporosis treatment, remember there is another option. Just think Aclasta, once a year. Ask your doctor if Aclasta is right for you. And for ongoing protection, don’t forget to get the infusion yearly.
HELP YOUR BONES Every day…. • Eat a balanced diet high in calcium • Spend 30 minutes outdoors in sunlight (for vitamin D) • Be physically active for 30 minutes • Limit alcohol to two standard drinks • Don’t smoke.
Ask your doctor if Aclasta is right for you Aclasta® (zoledronic acid 5mg) is a prescription medicine for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. Aclasta is an infusion and contains 5mg of zoledronic acid. Check with your doctor to see if Aclasta is right for you. It is important to have an Aclasta infusion each year to ensure you get maximum treatment benefit. Aclasta is fully funded for patients who meet specified criteria. Funding does not include the cost of infusion and normal doctors and prescription charges will apply. Caution while under dental treatment or if dental treatment is planned. Calcium, hydration status and kidney function may be assessed by your doctor before and after you are given Aclasta. Your doctor may recommend that you take regular Calcium and Vitamin D supplements. Adverse effects are usually mild and transient. Common side effects are flu-like symptoms and bone, joint, and/or muscle pain; anaemia; headache; dizziness, transient low blood calcium; gastrointestinal symptoms, renal impairment, breathing difficulty and lethargy. If symptoms persist or you have side effects see your doctor. Aclasta is the registered trademark of Novartis AG. Novartis New Zealand Limited, Auckland. For further information check the Consumer Medicine Information [CMI] at www.medsafe.govt.nz. ACL 0214-259 TAPS CH3923
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