BLOG

Capsule moments

HEART ATTACK AND STROKE SIGNS:

Although this type of information is available everywhere, I thought I’d include it with this late December column because a lot of heart attacks and strokes occur at this time of the year.  And the mention of denial is appropriate because we have all heard stories of people showing some of the signs but talk themselves into ignoring them saying, “it will pass”.  Ironically, in some cases, they do pass…..away! 

PHARMACISTS AS AN RELIABLE INFORMATION SOURCE;

Before the Internet, I remember using Martindale as my “go to” reference for queries about drugs not available in Canada and books by Varro Tyler when asked about the validity of herbal claims.  This information is now available to everyone just at a click of the computer mouse.  Of course, the bottom line is whether the information is reliable or not.  With our educational background and ability to read the scientific literature, pharmacists can decide whether information is sound or lacking in credibility.  Doctors are finding that their patients often have “googled” their symptoms prior to their visit.  But again, the source of the information is important and often can be suspect.

SHINGRIX SIDE EFFECTS:

I did mention Shingrix in my August 8 column this year but didn’t touch on the side effects.  One of my friends did get the two shots and had quite severe flu-like side-effects both times.  Intense headache, muscle-ache and fever were very uncomfortable for her but she is still glad she is now protected against shingles in the future.  We have all talked to people with active cases of shingles and it sure isn’t fun and it seems to last forever.  A few days of discomfort getting the shots is a pretty good trade-off.  It’s good to remind people of these side effects in case they are one of the minority that do suffer a bit.  And if they don’t feel any of these side effects, it’s a bonus.

SMILES:

When you’re walking down the sidewalk, you may notice very few smiles.  People are occupied, talking on their phones or are just unhappy about something.  A smile is infectious and by passing one on in the street may just give a person a boost they need at that particular time.  I do remember a young girl who walked down a sidewalk on a busy Kelowna road every day.  And as she was striding along, she had the most beautiful smile on her face and I can tell you it made me feel good.  She seemed happy to be alive and I can tell you that her smile set me up for a positive day in the pharmacy.