Presbyterian | Spring 2019 | Your Story

www.phs.org/centennialcare 11 The family doctor says: Watch your weight Your metabolism changes as you age, which means you burn fewer calories. As a result, your weight can creep up and raise your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. To avoid extra pounds, you’ll probably need fewer calories as you move beyond your 50s. And exercise regularly. The orthopedic surgeon says: Avoid falls Your chance of a serious fall rises with age. Still, most falls don’t just happen, which means you can often prevent them. Stand up slowly—getting up quickly can make you feel wobbly. Keep floors clutter- free and your home well-lighted. And get enough shut-eye. If you’re sleepy, you’re more likely to stumble. The internist says: Take medicines as prescribed Medicines meant to help you could hurt you instead if not used correctly. So read the label on all your medicines. If you don’t understand the directions, ask your doctor or a pharmacist to explain them to you. And never take a larger dose than prescribed because you think it might help you more. That could be dangerous. The dietitian says: Focus on healthy foods Eat from the rainbow—enjoy plenty of produce in different colors. Also build your diet around whole grains; low-fat or fat-free dairy products; lean meat, skinless poultry, and fish; and nuts and legumes. Go easy on sugary or salty foods and ones that have saturated and trans fats. Do you sneeze and sniffle whether or not you’re sick? That could mean you’re one of the 50 million Americans with allergies. Allergies can affect your eyes, nose, mouth, throat, and skin. They’re a sign that your immune system is overreacting to an allergen. Plant pollen is one of the most common allergens. Others include: • Mold • Dust mites • Pet dander Allergies might come and go with the seasons. Or they may be severe and yearlong. They can cause ear and sinus infections or asthma flare-ups. Your provider can help You may find relief with over- the-counter remedies. Saline nasal sprays, for instance, can help moisten your nasal passages. Other options include decongestants and antihistamines. But talk with your healthcare provider first. Some of these medications have side effects, such as drowsiness, or should be used only for a limited time. And some shouldn’t be used at all by people with high blood pressure or heart disease. What you can do You can take steps on your own to feel better too. First, try to avoid allergens. Yard work can send pollen and mold into the air and up your nose. Ask someone else to mow the grass or rake up leaves. Keep an eye on pollen and mold levels. Stay indoors and keep windows closed when counts are high. Go to www.morehealth.org/ allergies for daily pollen and mold counts. Sources: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; U.S. Food and Drug Administration Clear your head of allergy symptoms How can I stay well as I get older?