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SeniorLifestyle

October 2019 A Special Supplement to

The Times - Delivering Your Community • Thursday, October 17, 2019

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Take fainting spells seriously, cardiologist advises Multiple conditions can be underlying cause of losing consciousness Often in movies, fainting is the result of high emotions, pregnancy or even a response to someone bleeding or a spider crawling up a wall.

But fainting, or syncope, shouldn’t be readily dismissed.

Syncope is defined as a temporary loss of consciousness due to insufficient blood flow to the brain. And while fainting can indeed be caused by a wide range of conditions ranging from emotional

are all heart conditions that can cause a person to pass out.

That’s why Morris Hospital cardiologist Dr. Muhammad Marwali says those who experience any kind of fainting episode should see a physician. Marwali specializes in electrophysiology, diagnosing and treating people whose hearts have electrical signal disorders.

“People should take syncope very seriously,” Marwali said. “Especially when Contributed they also have symptoms of Morris Hospital cardiologist dizziness, palpitations or Dr. Muhammad Marwali heart racing, or if the syncope occurs with exercise.” stress to standing up too When a person passes quickly, it also can be a sign out, Marwali said an emerof a serious heart abnorgency room visit is recommality. Heart arrhythmias, mended if they have had blood clots, myocardial multiple syncope episodes, ischemia, cardiac valve dis- have passed out without ease, aortic stenosis, heart any warning symptoms attacks and heart failure or if the episode is asso-

Avoid medication errors with these tips Metro Creative Services

The potential for adverse drug events is elevated when people are taking multiple medications at one time. For example, mixing pills has the potential to cause serious injury or even death.

Doctors, patients and pharmacies must work together to ensure that medication is taken safely. One of the best ways to prevent errors with medications is for patients to take an active role in their health

care management. u Know your dose. ChilPrescription medications dren are at an especially are a necessity for many high risk for medication people. The American errors because they require Academy of Family Physidifferent doses than adults, cians says that, each week, offers the Mayo Clinic. four out of five adults in Adults of different weights the United States will use who share medications can prescription medications, run into trouble as well. It over-the-counter drugs is key to follow the dosand/or various suppleing instructions, as even ments. Approximately a minor error in regard one-third of adults take five to dosage can potentially or more medications at the cause a big problem. same time. u Follow up with your doctor. Certain medications can cause side effects that only can be noticed by lab testing, such as an impact to the liver. Doctors also may be under an obligation to follow up with patients taking psychological drugs to ensure the efficacy of treatment. Make sure you keep all follow-up appointments. u Maintain a current list of meds. It is up to patients to share information with prescribing doctors regarding any and all products being taken to avoid harmful interactions.

Using the same pharmacy Metro Creative Services for all prescriptions also is One of the best ways to prevent errors with medications is for helpful.

patients to take an active role in their health care management.

See MEDICATION, page 3

ciated with chest pain or shortness of breath. If it’s just a one-time event that lasts only a few seconds, he suggests an appointment with a primary physician to determine the cause.

A primary care physician or a cardiologist will first order tests to determine the cause of a person’s fainting episode, Marwali said.

Blood tests, electrocardiograms (EKG), angiograms and exercise stress tests are all common diagnostic tools.

Patients also may be placed on a Holter monitor for one or two days or on an event monitor up to 30 days that keep records of heart signals during fainting episodes.

Marwali diagnoses and treats patients whose syncope may be due to arrhythmias, where the heart

beats too slowly (bradyarrhythmia) or too quickly (tachyarrhythmia). A person with bradyarrhythmia may need a pacemaker that will pick up the pace of the beats, whereas a person with ventricular tachyarrhythmia may need a cardiac defibrillator ICD implanted that delivers an electrical shock when the heart goes into cardiac arrest.

In the event of a light-headedness or a syncope episode, Marwali recommends immediately sitting or lying down and calling someone for assistance.

Marwali sees patients at the Morris Hospital Cardiovascular Specialists’ office on Starfire Drive in Ottawa.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 815-705-1000.

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The American Optometric Association notes that vision changes naturally occur as a person ages. Such changes do not necessarily mean drivers have to give up the keys to their vehicles. In fact, they may just require more routine eye examinations. The NHTSA says having trouble reading signs easily, recognizing someone from across the street, seeing streets signs and pedestrians, and handling headlight glare are common signs of age-related eye problems.

pedal and difficulty turning the steering wheel. Pain in the knees, legs or ankles

also can make it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles.

See DRIVING, page 4

Listen to what your heart is telling you.

Can I control my vehicle?

Age-related loss of strength, coordination and flexibility can make it hard for aging men and women to control their vehicles.

Some signs that drivers might be having trouble controlling their vehicles include trouble looking over shoulders to change lanes, difficulty moving foot from the gas pedal to the brake

Chest discomfort, shortness of breath, racing or slow heartbeat, lightheadedness and extreme fatigue can all be signs that something’s not right with your heart.

The board certified cardiologists with Morris Hospital Cardiovascular Specialists can help.

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Various remedies can address age-related driving issues, and drivers should discuss them with their doctors the moment they feel as though their skills behind the wheel are starting to diminish.

Medication From 2 u Be honest about height and weight. Medication labeling and package inserts typically use metric units to correlate dose to a person’s physical attributes.

Individuals should know their information in metric measurements and be honest with themselves about what they weigh. u Use medications correctly. It is important not to chew

nonchewable pills or cut pills unless the pharmacist or doctor has said it is safe to do so.

Accurate dosing also requires using the right spoon or syringe, not silverware. Store certain types of medications, such as eye drops and ear drops, separately so they’re not mistaken for one another.

These are just some of the ways to prevent medication errors. People can consult with their doctors and pharmacists for more assistance in staying safe.

With advanced capabilities and technology, they are experienced in diagnosing and treating blocked arteries and heart rhythm problems.

If you have a family history of heart disease or any concerns about your heart health, call 815-705-1000.

Convenient office locations in Channahon, Dwight, Morris and Ottawa.

www.morrishospital.org/cvspecialists Syed Ahmed, M.D. Mary Gordon, D.O. Muhammad Marwali, M.D. Athar Saeed, M.D.

The Times - Delivering Your Community • Thursday, October 17, 2019

Men and women know that adjustments must be made as they get older. Athletes nearing their golden years may not be able to push themselves as hard at the gym as they once did. Professionals nearing retirement age might not be able to pull long hours at the office like they used to.

But aging affects more than just work and play. As men and women age, their ability to perform everyday tasks, including driving, may diminish as well.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that, as people age, certain changes they experience can affect their ability to safely operate an automobile. Changes in eyesight, physical fitness and reflexes may require aging drivers to reassess their skills behind the wheel. The NHTSA notes that drivers can ask themselves the following questions as they try to assess their driving abilities.

How is my eyesight?

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Questions older drivers can ask themselves to see if it’s still safe to drive

The Times - Delivering Your Community • Thursday, October 17, 2019

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Learn how to sleep like a child again Metro Creative Services Many adults lament that even if they were solid sleepers in their younger years, by the age of 50, their quality of sleep has unraveled. Some cling to the wisdom that people simply do not need as much sleep as they get older. Even though that is partly true, sufficient sleep is still a vital component of a healthy life.

The National Sleep Foundation recently updated its sleep recommendations per age group to include categories “may be appropriate” and “not recommended.”

This includes a range of hours that may be adequate for certain adults. Adults between the ages of 26 and 65 are advised to get seven to nine hours of sleep per evening. However, six hours or 10 hours also may be acceptable. People over the age of 65 need roughly seven to eight hours of sleep each night, though between five and six hours also may be fine. Generally speaking, anything under five hours is not recommended based on data reviewed by sleep experts.

Many older adults do not get enough sleep due to insomnia, states Jack Gardner, MD, a neurologist certified in sleep medicine.

They’re concerned about health issues, may have sleep apnea, can experience pain or frequent urination, or may be taking medication that impedes sleep. Dr. Leila Kheirandish-Gozal, director of clinical sleep research at the University

Are my loved ones concerned about my driving?

Adults can learn strategies to get more restorative and lengthy sleep. of Chicago, says that, over time, insufficient sleep can impact metabolism, mood, memory, and heart function.

Various strategies can help people get more sleep and enjoy better sleep quality. u Create a luxury bed environment. Splurge on the largest mattress you can afford and one that is comfortable for both parties (if married/coupled). A roomy bed routinely invites sleep. If you have a restless partner, try two separate beds pushed against each other. u Consider white noise.

The sounds of the house or outdoors may be keeping you up. Many people find that the gentle hum of a fan

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or a white-noise machine with a calming sound effect makes it easier for them to dose off than complete quiet. It can also block out extraneous noises. u Keep electronics out of the bedroom. It can be challenging to disconnect from electronics, but it is

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essential to falling asleep.

Even a back-lit text coming through in the wee hours can be enough illumination to disrupt sleep. u See your doctor. If medications or illnesses are keeping you up, a change in regimen may provide the relief you need.

Aging drivers may feel offended when family members question their ability to drive.

However, the NHTSA notes that sometimes other people notice things about a person’s driving that the person does not. The concern expressed by loved ones should not be taken lightly.

Do I drive with passengers?

Drivers who routinely drive with passengers, especially young children, carry extra responsibility. As a result, such drivers owe it to themselves and their passengers to honestly assess their driving abilities.

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Does driving make me nervous, scared or overwhelmed?

Drivers who feel confused by traffic signs and traffic (including pedestrian traffic) should stop driving until they can discuss the issue with their physicians. Medication can sometimes make drivers feel sleepy or confused, and some aging drivers even find themselves overwhelmed in otherwise normal driving situations.

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Driving From page 3

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issues, and physicians can offer advice on how to safely

manage any problems that may arise.

See EXERCISE, page 8

KEEPING YOU HEALTHY Jeanette Mosley, APRN, has joined Dr. Mark Wargo’s family medicine team to care for your family.

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Before beginning a new exercise regimen, men and women over 50 should take heed of several safety tips to ensure their efforts are not derailed by accident or injury.

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The Times - Delivering Your Community • Thursday, October 17, 2019

In an ideal world, people young and old exercise each day. But as men and women age, finding time to work out is not so easy.

Commitments to work and family often take precedence over daily exercise. As a result, many people 50 and over might not have exercised regularly or at all in many years. But as children grow up or even move out, people facing down their golden years are often compelled to get back in the gym. That’s a wise decision that can increase a person’s chances of being healthy and happy

in retirement. But before beginning a new exercise regimen, men and women over 50 should take heed of the following safety tips to ensure their efforts are not derailed by accident or injury. u Speak with your physician. The National Institute on Aging notes that even people with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or arthritis can be physically active. However, anyone with such a condition (and even those who don’t) should consult with their physicians and receive a full physical before exercising. Such a consultation and checkup can shed light on any unknown

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Exercise and aging: How to work out safely after 50

The Times - Delivering Your Community • Thursday, October 17, 2019

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Find relief from menopause symptoms Going gray naturally with style Metro Creative Services

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Menopause is a natural part of the female aging process. During menopause, a woman’s body, which was once primed for reproduction, is no longer able to produce children.

Part of menopause is the cessation of menstruation. However, changes to one’s period is not the only signal that menopause has begun.

Menopause is a hormonal process that is different for just about every woman. The health and wellness resource Verywell Health advises that there are no hard and fast rules to menopause, and its start, duration and ending vary from woman to woman. For many, the transition will take around four years.

The symptoms women will experience are unique, but there are some that are relatively common.

Addressing symptoms for comfort becomes a joint venture between women and their doctors.

Gray hair is a natural side effect of aging. The rate at which hair will turn to gray differs based on genetics and other factors. Some people may go gray seemingly overnight, while others may gray at the temples first before the rest of their hair gradually changes color.

Aging women often wonder if they should cover up their gray hair or embrace the silver. Going gray is no longer something that has women running to their stylists at the sight of the first gray strand.

Some actually opt for silver even before their own

Hot flashes

Hot flashes are known as vasomotor symptoms.

They are often described as a sudden sensation of heat in the chest, face and head followed by flushing, perspiration and sometimes chills, advises Harvard Medical School.

Up to 80 percent of women experience hot flashes during menopause.

The Mayo Clinic says that hormonal replacement therapy is an effective way to alleviate hot flashes. For

gray sets in. According to a 2017 survey of hair trends

by L’Oréal Professional, 28 percent of women embraced or considered opting for silver hair.

The trend has continued to gain steam. Celebrities like Jamie Lee Curtis and Helen Mirren were some of the first to embrace their grays.

Younger celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Pink and Lady Gaga have opted for silver tresses to make a statement.

But there are still many women who prefer to transition gradually or avoid the harsh chemicals in some hair products.

See GRAY, page 8

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Exercise, healthy eating, supplements, and certain medicines may help alleviate menopause symptoms. those who can’t take hormones or prefer not to, lowdose antidepressants also may decrease menopausal hot flashes. Gabapentin for seizures and clonidine for high blood pressure are other drugs that may be used off-label for hot flashes.

gen, which occurs during menopause, is directly related to a decrease in bone density. Hormone replacement may be effective, and vitamin D supplements may help as well.

See MENOPAUSE, page 8

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Many women are seeking natural options to look their best.

Embracing grays or creating subtle tints with natural ingredients can help women feel confident and beautiful.

Osteoporosis

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Doctors may recommend medication or supplements to prevent or treat osteoporosis. A reduction in estro-

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Health screenings men should discuss with their physicians Metro Creative Services

Prostate cancer

The USNLM notes that most men age 50 or older should discuss screening for

Don’t Let The Flu Get You Down.

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Health screenings can catch diseases and other conditions in their early stages when they’re most treatable. Such screenings should be a vital part of men’s health routines. Even men who feel healthy and live active lifestyles must make routine visits to their health care providers. prostate cancer with their physicians. Ethnicity and family history are some of the recognized risk factors for prostate cancer. As a result, African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer in a first degree relative younger than 65 should discuss screenings beginning at age 45.

There are pros and cons to prostate cancer screenings, and these should be part of men’s discussions with their physicians.

Physicians may recommend colorectal screening for men under age 50 with a family history of colon cancer or polyps.

In addition, physicians may

All men between the ages of 50 and 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer.

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The Times - Delivering Your Community • Thursday, October 17, 2019

Routine doctor visits are a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. As noted by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, even men who feel healthy and live active lifestyles must make routine visits to their health care providers.

Such visits can assess risk for future medical problems and offer men the opportunity to update vaccinations. Routine health checkups also give doctors a chance to screen for medical issues.

Doctors consider a man’s age and other risk factors to determine when and how frequently he will need certain medical screenings. For example, while men between the ages of 40 and 64 are often advised to get blood pressure screenings at least once per year, those with diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, and other conditions may need more frequent screenings.

No two men have the same medical histories, which only highlights the need for men of all ages to schedule annual physical exams with their physicians. Such exams can reveal potential problems and also make for great opportunities to discuss more specific medical screenings with their physicians.

The following are some general screening tests and guidelines recommended for all men between the ages of 40 and 64, courtesy of the USNLM.

The Times - Delivering Your Community • Thursday, October 17, 2019

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8 Gray From page 6 The National Cancer Institute states that more than 5,000 different chemicals are used in hair dye products, some of which are reported to be carcinogenic in animals. There are many natural ingredients that can add tint to hair to make gray less visible. Coffee, for example, can cover grays and add dimension to dark tresses. Chamomile tea is recommended for blonds to add natural highlights and perhaps camouflage their grays. Calendula, marigold, rosehips, and hibiscus can deepen red shades or add some subtle red highlights. Henna also is a popular natural method to add a red-orange color to hair. Creating highlights to offset gray hair can work as well.

Spraying lemon juice on hair and sitting in the sun can produce lightening effects.

Menopause From page 6 Women whose bone mass was less than ideal before menopause may find that they are at a greater risk for osteoporosis than those who had good bone mass.

Weight gain

Women who are in perimenopause or menopause may find that excess body fat develops, especially around the waist. Healthline advises that women may have to cut more calo-

Exercise From page 5 u Begin with low-intensity exercises. Even if you feel great and have maintained a healthy weight, don’t push yourself too hard at the start.

Your body needs time to adjust to physical activity, so choose low-intensity exercises like walking and light strength training so your muscles, tendons and ligaments can adjust. Initially, exercise every other day so your body has ample time to recover between workouts. u Choose the right places to exercise outdoors. Exercising outside provides the best of both worlds for many people, providing a chance to

Screenings From page 7 Cholesterol The USNLM advises men to have their cholesterol levels checked every five years. Men with certain conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, may need to be checked more often.

Diabetes Diabetes screenings are recommended every three years for men age 45 and older. Men who are overweight and younger than 45 should ask their physicians if they should be screened before they reach 45.

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Osteoporosis Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men, but that doesn’t mean men are immune to this condition marked by a weakening of the bones due to tissue loss. Fractures after age 50, heavy alcohol use, smoking, and low body weight are some risk factors that can make men vulnerable to osteoporosis.

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During surgery, adjustments can be made to assure the best possible outcome.

ries and increase physical activity in order to combat weight gain. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps a person feel full and is low in calories.

Vaginal dryness

The Mayo Clinic says that estrogen can be administered directly to the vagina using a cream, tablet or ring. This can help relieve vaginal dryness. For those who prefer nonhormonal avenues, lubricants also can add moisture to make intercourse more comfortable. get healthy all while enjoying the great outdoors. When exercising outdoors, choose areas that are not remote and where others can see you and offer help if you suffer an injury or have an accident.

Boardwalks, public parks and outdoor gyms are safer places to work out than wooded areas or other places well off the beaten path. u Stay hydrated. The NIA notes that many people lose their sense of thirst as they age. But just because you aren’t thirsty does not mean you don’t need water, especially while exercising. Water regulates body temperature and lubricates the joints, thereby decreasing your risk of injury during exercise.

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