“You should have your hearing tested every two years,” says Sherry Garjado. “Regardless of your perception of your hearing, monitoring your hearing will give you a solid understanding of the changes that will inevitably occur and you will be able to address those changes before they become problems.” Sherry explains that hearing loss can be directly linked to many health issues since your brain will compensate for the hearing loss by allocating more of its resources to hearing which in turn means there are less resources for other functions like memory and may lead to cognitive decline.

Whether you’re struggling with a disc bulge, stenosis, muscle strain, or even leg pain associated with a herniated disc, there are several ways you can wind down your discomfort and match your unique symptoms with the approach that is right for you. A good back specialist will ask very specific questions to interpret the triggers to zero in on a specific mechanism of pain. Once triggers are understood, the objective is to avoid them and adapt new ways to move – to sit, tie your shoes, sleep, brush your teeth, lift your children, walk, etc.

Despite the name, when you get painful blisters called cold sores they are caused by a virus, but not the kind that makes you sniffle and sneeze. They happen because of an infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). You can’t cure HSV or a cold sore, but you can alleviate the pain it causes by avoiding spicy or acidic foods, applying ice, and using over-the-counter remedies. Look for medicines that contain numbing agents such as phenol and menthol to reduce cracking and soften scabs. Talk to your Central Alberta Co-op pharmacist if you have questions.

– Use your CPAP all night, every night and while napping
– Use distilled water for your water chamber.
– Check your filter every other week — clean or replace if dirty.
– Replace your mask and accessories every 6 months.
– If you have any dryness in your nose or throat, try increasing the humidity.
– Keep in contact with your doctor and CPAP provider to ensure your success.

Saturdays, December 7-21, 10-4 p.m. The Christmas Craft and Market Sales let local craftspeople showcase their handmade crafts, art and foods. It’s a fantastic time to come out and purchase that unique, handmade gift you’re looking for this season. Admission is free, but a donation to the Red Deer Food Bank is appreciated.

It’s natural when our weather dips below zero we beeline indoors for our couch, blankets, and hot drinks. This hibernation creates a tendency for us to stop moving, reducing the fire that naturally burns within us when we move. Some of our favourite ways to stay active when it’s cold outside are skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking or walking, and downhill skiing or snowboarding. If exercising in the cold isn’t your thing, ask your physiotherapist or athletic therapist to design an indoor program to keep you healthy and active over the winter months.