|
Ask the Expert
Q: Is it ok to take over-thecounter (otc) medicines, such as decongestants, now that I’m on hypertension medication?
A: No. Never take any other drugs — OTC or prescription — without asking your doctor first. This especially includes medications used for:
- appetite control
- asthma
- colds
- coughs
- allergies
- sinus problems.
Any of these drugs can dangerously increase your blood pressure.
Rich Alter, R.Ph.
Manager, Meridian Pharmacy |
Q: How can I help prevent incontinence after prostate surgery?
A: Nearly 90% of men have temporary trouble with urine leaking, or incontinence, immediately after certain types of prostate cancer surgery. However, the same exercises that women can use to regain urine control also may help men. In one study, patients practiced Kegel exercises — also called pelvic floor exercises (PFEs) — before and after prostate surgery. Most of the men regained urine control four weeks earlier than did men who did not practice PFEs.
The goal of PFEs is to strengthen the pelvic muscles. These are the muscles you use when you try to stop the flow of urine midstream. To perform PFEs, tighten the muscles for 10 seconds, then relax for 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times, three times a day.
Q: What is BMI and why is it important?
A: Experts look at several measurements to determine what a healthy weight is for you, including your Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is considered to be a good gauge of weight’s affect on health, as it is a simple weight to height ratio.
To calculate your BMI, follow these steps:
- Multiply your weight in pounds by 703.
- Divide that number by your height in inches.
- Divide by your height again.
- Underweight: under 19
- Healthy: between 19 and 24.9
- Overweight: between 25 and 29.9
- Obese: over 30
Waist to hip ratio is another helpful wellness tool, because it takes into account where fat is distributed in the body. For example, fat stored in the abdominal area as opposed to the extremities increases your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic disorders. To calculate your weight to hip ratio, simply divide your waist circumference by your hip circumference in inches. If the result is greater than 0.95 for men, or 0.85 for women, an individual would be considered high-risk and should consult a professional about a weight loss regimen.
Karen Kavanagh
Director, Fitness for Meridian Health |
Q: What should I do if I’m losing my sense of smell?
A: An estimated 14 million Americans older than age 55 have an impaired sense of smell. The risk for this problem rises with age, especially in men. Common culprits include colds, allergies, sinusitis, head injuries, some medications, and smoking.
If your smelling loss can’t be reversed, be sure to take these steps:
- Install and maintain smoke and natural-gas detectors.
- Have natural-gas appliances inspected regularly.
- Check the "use by" dates on perishable food items.
- Enhance the flavor of foods with herbs and spices.
Loss of smell occasionally is a signal of a serious condition, such as Parkinson’s disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or Alzheimer’s disease. So, see your doctor if your sense of smell isn’t what it used to be.
|
