N E W S

Vol 14, No. 3       LINCARE is a National Supplier of Home
Fall '01                Oxygen and Respiratory Therapy Services

Do's and Dont's (cont.)

Don't:

- Do not cook with salts such as garlic, onion, or seasoned salts and meats such as bacon, ham or salt pork.

- Do not buy convenience foods such as prepared or skillet dinners, deli foods, cold cuts, hot dogs, or canned soups. These items are frequently high in sodium

- Do not use condiments such as ketchup, child sauces, or relishes. Instead, season with herbs, spices or juices.

- Do not use salad dressings made with cheese

- Do not use salt substitutes unless they are approved by a physician.

HELPFUL TIPS FOR LIVING WITH COPD AND MANAGING MEDICATIONS:

1. If you have to take pills, try using a pillbox with a separate compartment for each day of the week. However, if you are taking many pills, it may be better to lay out a day's supply each morning.
2. Whenever you get a new medicine or refill from the pharmacy, figure how long it will last and mark on the calendar the time to reorder. This will prevent you from running out of medication in the middle of the night or on a holiday weekend
3. Remember to check with your doctor about getting a yearly flu shot vaccination

- American Lung Association of Eastern Missouri

WORRIED AMERICANS

According to recent Washington Post Survey, Americans' top 10 worries for the future include:

• Insurance companies making decision about medical care that should be made by doctors and patients (66%).
• Elderly Americans' not being able to afford the prescription drugs they need (66%)
• A reduction or elimination of current medical benefits (55%)
• Worsening of pollution and other environmental problems (51%).

- The Washington Post

1. Are you a loud, habitual snorer?

2. Do you feel tired and groggy on awakening?

3. Are you often sleeping during waking hours?

4. Are you overweight?

5. Have you been observed to choke, gasp, or hold your breath during sleep?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you should discuss your symptoms with a physician or sleep specialist.

- American Sleep Association

WHAT DOES A POLLEN COUNT TELL ME?

Q: What does a pollen count mean?

A: A pollen count is the measure of the amount of pollen in the air. Pollen counts are commonly included in local weather reports. The counts are usually reported for mold spores and three types of pollen: grasses, trees and weeds.

The count is reported as grains of pollen per square meter of air collected over 24 hours. This number represents the concentration of all the pollen in the air in a certain area at a specific time. The pollen count is translated into a corresponding level: absent, low, medium or high.

In general, a "low" pollen count means that only people extremely sensitive to pollen will experience symptoms. A "medium" count means many people who are sensitive to pollen will react and a "high" count means most people with any sensitivity to pollen will be affected.

Although the pollen count is approximate and fluctuates, it is useful as a general guide when you are trying to determine whether you should stay indoors to avoid pollen contact.

- WebMd

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