Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Spring Potpourri



Tips for Sweeter Sleep
We all lose an hour of sleep when we turn our clocks forward. Did you know that adults need seven to eight hours of sleep nightly? There is truth to the phrase, “Sleep on it.” Studies show that people learn better when they sleep well. An adequate amount of sleep is beneficial for your cardiovascular health as demonstrated by nighttime dips in blood pressure. Sleep can also lower your risk of depression. How can we get the best sleep? Avoid alcohol, lights and caffeine (it can take as long as six to eight hours for the effects of caffeine to wear off completely); environments that are too hot or too cold; and sleeping with pets—all can disrupt your sleep:(


Medication Safety Tips
What is the best way to get rid of expired medication? Mix with cat litter or coffee grinds, and then bag them. Never flush unused medication down the toilet, where they could make their way into the water supply. You can also ask your pharmacist if he or she will dispose of them for you. Where is the best place to store your medication? Not in the bathroom medicine cabinet! Heat and humidity in the bathroom can destroy your medication. Instead, store in a cool, dry place. If you have children or pets in your home, please store your medication in a safe place.

Problems with Pollen?
A time of rebirth, blooming plants, trees and . . . pollen. What is pollen?  Pollen is a fine, powdery substance that comes from the male part of flowers, and often causes people to suffer an allergic reaction. Pollen allergy symptoms include sneezing, watery eyes, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy throat and cough. How does pollen get into your home? Clothing! Change your clothing when you come indoors. Shower–washing your hair first.  Pets can bring in pollen on their fur.  Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen. Use air conditioning instead of fans. Pollen is higher in the morning between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. When in the car, keep windows closed and set the air conditioner to use re-circulated air.

Happy Springtime!!

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