Normal memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s?

Normal memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s?As we grow older, all parts of our bodies experience changes, including our brains. Forgetfulness is a common part of aging, and everyone experiences mild memory lapses from time to time. For example, we forget where we left things, people’s names, or even appointments. These are typically a normal part of aging. However, if memory problems become more frequent or severe, a doctor should be consulted for evaluation. If symptoms progress to dementia, it can make it difficult to live independently and manage daily activities.

Signs that memory impairment may be more significant include:

  • Asking the same questions over and over.
  • Becoming increasingly confused about time, people, and places.
  • Getting lost in places you used to know well.
  • Having trouble following directions.
  • Not caring for yourself properly—for example, not bathing regularly, eating poorly, and acting in an unsafe manner.

 

Everyone ages differently. How we age is affected by our genetic factors, which we cannot change, but also by things we have more control over, such as our lifestyle and the environment we live in. Eating a healthy diet, being physically active, and maintaining good social relationships can help us lead a healthy life and decrease our risk of developing conditions (including mental impairment) as we age. So, how do you distinguish between normal memory changes and dementia? And where does Alzheimer’s disease fit in?

 

MEMORY LOSS

Memory loss can progress through different stages, from age-related memory impairment and mild cognitive impairment to dementia. The chart below explains the differences between these distinctions.

Memory Impairment

Age-associated memory

impairment (considered a

normal part of aging)

Memory difficulties:

  • Are not serious enough to disrupt daily routines
  • Do not affect the ability to complete tasks as usual
  • Cause some difficulty learning and remembering new things
  • Are not caused by an underlying medical condition
Mild cognitive impairmentMemory difficulties:

  • Are not serious enough to disrupt daily routines
  • May include other symptoms such as disorientation and difficulty speaking
DementiaMemory difficulties:

  • Are significant enough to disrupt daily routines
  • Make learning new things more challenging
  • Make it hard to complete tasks that were once familiar
  • Cause others to notice changes in behaviours or abilities

 

WHAT IS DEMENTIA?

Dementia is not a single disease. It is a general term that describes a group of symptoms associated with various underlying conditions. These symptoms cause changes in thinking, memory, and reasoning skills that are serious enough to affect daily life, the ability to function independently, plus behaviours, feelings, and relationships. Some forms of dementia can be reversed; others are irreversible.

The brain is comprised of distinct regions, each of which is responsible for different functions (such as memory, judgment, and movements). When cells in a certain region are damaged, that region cannot carry out its functions properly.

 

WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

Although many people think dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are the same thing, they are not. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of all dementia cases. Increasing age is the greatest known risk factor for this type of dementia. When it affects people younger than 65 years of age, it is known as younger-onset Alzheimer’s or early-onset Alzheimer’s.

 

Alzheimer’s changes typically begin in the brain region that affects learning, and the most common early symptom is difficulty remembering newly-learned information. However, many people experience trouble remembering things sometimes, so having this symptom is does not confirm that a person has Alzheimer’s disease.

Important components of Alzheimer’s are two abnormal structures that can form in the brain, called plaques and tangles. Although most people develop some plaques and tangles as they age, people with Alzheimer’s develop far more and they develop in a predictable pattern. While scientists don’t know exactly how plaques and tangles play a role in Alzheimer’s disease, they do believe that they act by blocking communication among nerve cells.

 

SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA

The symptoms of dementia vary depending on the type of dementia a person has. The table below explains the symptoms associated with various types of dementia.

 

Dementia Symptoms

Type of DementiaTypical Symptoms
Alzheimer’s diseaseProblems with short-term memory, paying bills, preparing meals, remembering appointments, getting lost in familiar places
Fronto-temporal dementiaDifficulty planning or organizing activities, having trouble communicating with others, acting inappropriately in social or work situations
Lewy body dementiaMemory loss, problems with movement or balance (such as stiffness or trembling), daytime sleepiness, confusion, sleep disturbances, staring spells, visual hallucinations
Mixed dementiaSeveral types of dementia can affect a person at the same time, and this can affect which symptoms the person will experience
Vascular dementiaSymptoms vary depending on the part of the brain that is affected, and they may overlap with symptoms of other types of dementia.

 

TREATING DEMENTIA

Currently, there are no treatments that can reverse cognitive decline and cure irreversible types of dementia. However, there are treatments that can help manage challenging symptoms and help maintain the quality of life for individuals living with dementia. Medications that have been approved in Canada for the treatment of dementia include donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine, which improve communication between brain cells, and memantine which helps protect brain cells and improve their function. The medications selected for each patient will depend on the type of dementia the person has, how severe the symptoms are, and how quickly the disease is progressing.

Advances in the treatment of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease continue to evolve, offering reasons for optimism about the future of prevention and treatment. For instance, two newer biologic medicines, lecanemab and donanemab are currently under review by Health Canada with the goal of slowing cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Additional treatments like these are expected to emerge in the coming years.

If you have any questions or concerns about any of the symptoms mentioned that you or a loved one may be experiencing, it is important to speak with your healthcare team. Early intervention may help reduce the progression of the disease and improve the person’s individual’s quality of life. If medications are prescribed, your pharmacist can provide guidance on how to take them and help you manage any potential side effects. They can also organize your medicines into blister packs to help with memory concerns and reduce your chances of missed doses or errors. Speak to your pharmacist to learn how we can help support your needs.

Why sunscreen is important year-round

Why sunscreen is important year-round

When the sun shines brightly in Western Canada, many people flock outdoors to bask in its warmth. However, what often goes overlooked is the crucial role sunscreen plays in protecting our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunscreen is not just a summer accessory; it is an important part of a daily skincare routine, regardless of the season. Understanding its benefits can help you embrace a healthier lifestyle while enjoying your time outdoors.

Sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin from damage caused by UV radiation. Its primary benefit is shielding the skin from UVA and UVB rays – the two main types of ultraviolet radiation.  UVA rays contribute to premature skin aging and tanning while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn. Both can increase the risk of skin cancer.

The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to ensure protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Before going outdoors apply on all exposed skin including the lips and reapply every 2 hours or more frequently if sweating heavily or swimming. For a list of CDA recognized products visit Sunscreen – Canadian Dermatology Association.

Regular use of sunscreen doesn’t just prevent burns – it can also prevent signs of premature aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. Dermatological studies show that a daily application of sunscreen can slow down the skin’s aging process, helping maintain a more youthful appearance.

Even with the best intentions, sometimes a sunburn happens. Sunburns occur when the skin is overexposed to UV radiation, leading to inflammation, redness and irritation. If you find yourself suffering from a sunburn, take immediate steps to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

What to Do If You Get Sunburned

  1. Cool the Skin

Apply a cool compress or take a cool bath to lower skin temperature and reduce swelling. Avoid hot showers, as they can intensify the burning sensation and irritation.

  1. Moisturize

Once skin is cooled, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe the affected areas. Ingredients like chamomile or calendula can also offer calming effects.

  1. Stay Hydrated

Sunburn draws moisture to the skin’s surface, increasing your risk of dehydration. Drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body.  You can also try mineral water sprays from brands like Avene or La Roche-Posay help to hydrate your skin and cool the skin externally for immediate relief.

  1. Avoid Further Sun Exposure

Protect sunburned skin by keeping it covered and staying out of direct sunlight until it is fully healed. Continued exposure can worsen damage and delay recovery.

  1. Consider a Pain Reliever if Needed

If sunburn pain is not tolerable or interferes with sleep, non-prescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Always consult your pharmacist or doctor to ensure that the product is safe for you to take and does not conflict with your other medications or medical conditions.

  1. When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention If a sunburn is severe – especially if symptoms do not improve after a few days or seem to be getting worse. Warning signs include blistering over a large area, swelling, or signs of infection such as pus, oozing blisters, or increased redness and warmth.  Get immediate help if there are signs of a heat-related illness, including severe headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, or fever.  Be extra cautious with babies, young children, and older adults as they are more vulnerable to sunburn and its complications.

Choosing the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming, with so many brands, SPF levels, and other features to consider. If you are unsure which sunscreen is best for your skin type or needs, ask your London Drugs pharmacist or beauty advisor for advice. We’re happy to help you find the best products to keep your skin protected and healthy – this summer and all year long too.

Tackling Toenail Fungus in the Sunshine Season

Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is a common, contagious condition that may be the cause of up to half of all nail problems. A severe case of nail fungus may be painful and can also cause permanent damage to your nails or other serious infections that spread beyond your feet. Early detection and treatment increase your chance of preventing long-term nail damage and other issues.

Warm, moist conditions make summer the perfect time for developing toenail fungus. This season also increases the risk of spreading fungal infections, as many walk barefoot at home, on pool decks, or in locker rooms. While wearing shoes offers some protection, sweaty feet and socks can create the perfect environment for fungus to grow.

Contributing risk factors that encourage toenail fungal infections include:

  • Older age
  • Having had athlete’s foot in the past
  • Having a minor skin or nail injury
  • Having a skin condition such as psoriasis, which can affect the nails
  • Having a weakened immune system, diabetes, or blood flow problems

 

Prevention

Follow these foot hygiene tips to help prevent toenail fungus and stop its spread.

  • Wash your feet regularly, including between your toes, and wash your hands after touching infected nails.
  • Regularly clean showers and other surfaces your bare feet contact.
  • Avoid going barefoot in public areas; wear sandals, even in public showers.
  • Consider using an antifungal foot powder to keep feet dry.
  • Don’t share socks, shoes, towels, or nail tools with other people.
  • Keep toenails clean, dry, and trimmed straight across
  • Disinfect clippers and files after each use with rubbing alcohol, especially between infected and healthy nails.
  • Choose nail salons that sterilize manicure and pedicure tools for each customer.
  • Wear breathable shoes to reduce sweating.
  • Discard old shoes or treat them with antifungal powders or disinfectants.
  • Rotate shoes daily to allow drying between wears.
  • Wear absorbent socks and change them as needed throughout the day.

 

Do You Have Nail Fungus?

Common signs of a nail infection include nails that are:

  • Brittle
  • Crumbly
  • Discoloured
  • Misshapen
  • Ragged
  • Separated from the nail bed
  • Smelly
  • Thickened

 

Treatment Options

Toenail fungus can be treated with oral medicines, topical treatments, laser therapy, or physical removal. Sometimes methods are combined for better results.

  • Topical antifungals – Medicated creams or nail lacquers can be applied directly to the affected nails and surrounding area.
  • Oral antifungals – Pills or liquid medicines treat fungal infections from the inside out, travelling through the blood stream to the nails. These are preferred for more serious infections but might affect your liver or interact with other medications. They often require regular blood testing during treatment.
  • Nail removal – Sometimes a doctor or podiatrist (foot specialist) may remove part or all of a nail to help treatments work better.
  • Laser treatment – Focused light (lasers) can be used to heat and destroy fungal cells on and around the nail without harming the surrounding skin. There are minimal side effects, but multiple sessions may be needed and it might not cure the infection on its own.

 

Treating toenail fungus takes patience. The nail won’t look significantly better until the damaged part grows out. This can take 12 to 18 months. While you are waiting for your new nail to grow, you can help improve the appearance of infected nails by carefully trimming them as they grow or by visiting a podiatrist to help clean away damaged areas. Do not apply regular nail polish or nail stickers, as they can trap the infection on the nail or interfere with treatments.

 

A Happy Ending

A happy ending starts with a smart beginning—and that means keeping prevention and early treatment top of mind.

If you think you have a toenail infection, you can start by asking your pharmacist for advice. Drop in to your local London Drugs pharmacy or book a convenient appointment time.  In many provinces, pharmacists can assess suspected toenail fungus, recommend treatment, and if appropriate they may prescribe medication to treat your nails. They can also give advice on how to prevent the infection from spreading to your other nails or to people you live with.  If your symptoms are not typical or are more serious, your pharmacist may refer you to a doctor for further care.

Don’t wait if you think you have a fungal nail infection. Early treatment can help you get back to healthy nails faster. Speak to a pharmacist or your physician to learn about your treatment options.

Anti-Aging Skin Routine for Summer

Adjusting your skin routine for the summerIt’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays from the sun year-round, not just during summer. UV rays are present even on cloudy days and can penetrate windows. Using sunscreen regularly helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and reduces the risk of skin cancer. Snow reflects UV rays, increasing exposure during winter activities. Regular use of sunscreen maintains healthier, youthful skin by protecting against collagen breakdown. Incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine ensures comprehensive protection from cumulative UV damage, keeping your skin safe and vibrant throughout the year.

Summer skin care

As the weather transitions from our cold winter months of Western Canada to the warm, sunny days of summer, your skin’s needs change significantly. The increased exposure to sunlight, higher temperatures, and humidity can affect your skin in various ways. Adjusting your skincare routine to better suit these conditions is essential for maintaining healthy, youthful skin throughout the summer. Sunlight can have both beneficial and detrimental effects on your skin. While it provides essential vitamin D, excessive exposure can lead to premature aging, dehydration, and increased oil production. Unlike winter, when the skin tends to be dry and flaky, summer brings challenges such as sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and clogged pores.

Wrinkle Reduction

  • Use Antioxidants: Incorporate serums rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and E to combat free radicals generated by UV exposure. These antioxidants help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Lightweight Moisturizers: Switch to lightweight, hydrating moisturizers that won’t clog pores but will keep your skin supple and smooth.

Hydration

  • Hydrating Toners: Use hydrating toners with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture balance. This helps prevent dehydration caused by heat and sun exposure.
  • Water-Based Moisturizers: Opt for water-based moisturizers that provide hydration without feeling heavy on the skin.

Oily Skin

  • Oil-Free Products: Choose oil-free cleansers and moisturizers to control excess oil production. Look for products with salicylic acid to help keep pores clear.
  • Clay Masks: Incorporate clay masks into your routine to absorb excess oil and impurities, keeping your skin matte and fresh.

 

At London Drugs, our experts in pharmacy and cosmetics are here to help you find the best routine for your needs. Whether you’re looking to reduce wrinkles, maintain hydration, or manage oily skin, we offer personalized advice and products to ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant all summer long. Visit us for tailored recommendations and let us assist you in achieving your skincare goals.

Hypertension: Do you know your blood pressure?

Do you know your blood pressure? Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common health condition affecting about one in five adults in Canada. Alarmingly, around one-third of those with hypertension have uncontrolled blood pressure, and nearly one-fifth are unaware they have the condition. Because hypertension can lead to atherosclerosis – a major risk factor for premature death before age 65 – it is extremely important to be aware if your blood pressure is high and to take steps to manage it effectively.

Understanding the Risk Factors

If you are concerned that you or someone you care about may have hypertension, it is important to have your blood pressure measured and to also understand the risk factors. While your healthcare team can help assess your individual risk, common contributing factors include:

  • Family history (genetics): Hypertension often runs in families and is more common in some populations due to genetic and environmental factors.
  • Age: The risk of hypertension increases with age, particularly in women over the age of 55.
  • Dietary habits: Eating a diet high in sodium or low in potassium can significantly raise blood pressure
  • Excess body weight: Carrying extra body fat increases strain on the heart and blood vessels
  • Low physical activity: Regular movement is essential for heart health and for maintaining a healthy blood pressure.
  • Alcohol intake: Frequent or excessive alcohol consumption is linked to increased blood pressure.
  • Smoking: Tobacco use damages blood vessels and contributes to hypertension
  • Chronic stress: Ongoing stress can contribute to long-term elevated blood pressure.
  • Underlying health conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or sleep apnea are closely linked to hypertension.

If you identify with one or more of these risk factors, speak with a healthcare provider or your pharmacist to help you manage your individual risks.

What Is Your Blood Pressure?  

Blood pressure is measured using two numbers. For example, a reading of 120/80 mm Hg is considered healthy for most individuals. The systolic pressure (top number) indicates the pressure when your heart contracts and pushes blood into your arteries. The diastolic pressure (bottom number) reflects the pressure when your heart relaxes and fills with blood. If either number is higher than optimal, corrective steps should be taken.

High blood pressure causes damage to blood vessels over time, especially if left untreated. This can lead to complications such as stroke, heart attack, eye problems, dementia, kidney disease, heart failure, or erectile dysfunction.

The ideal blood pressure target varies depending on your personal health profile:

  • For most people: below 140/90 mm Hg
  • For individuals with diabetes: below 130/90 mm Hg
  • For some people who are at high risk for heart disease: below 120 mmHg systolic

Your healthcare provider will guide you on the target that is right for you.

Monitoring Your Blood Pressure

Measuring your blood pressure at home can help you keep track of how well its being managed. Hypertension Canada has compiled a list of validated home monitors that meet current accuracy standards including a wide variety of models of arm and wrist monitors. View the list at https://hypertension.ca/public/recommended-devices. Or while shopping in store, look for recommended models with Hypertension Canada’s logo on the package. If you need help, your London Drugs pharmacist can help you select a monitor that will meet your personal needs.

When to take measurements

  • Before taking your blood pressure medication
  • Before breakfast or at least two hours after a meal
  • After emptying your bladder and bowel if needed
  • One hour after drinking coffee or smoking
  • At least thirty minutes after exercise

How to measure blood pressure

  • Sit quietly for 5 minutes before testing
  • Sit upright with your back supported
  • Keep your legs uncrossed and your feet flat on the floor
  • Apply an appropriate sized blood pressure cuff on your bare arm, with lower edge of cuff 3 cm (1 inch) above the elbow
  • Support your arm on a surface with middle of the cuff at heart level
  • Avoid talking, moving, or distractions during the measurement and breathe normally
  • Take 2 readings, one minute apart

 

How Can We Help?

You can’t treat a problem if you don’t know you have it. Raising awareness is the first step.

This spring and summer, select London Drugs locations will host Hypertension Awareness Clinics in partnership with Hypertension Canada, to help you learn more and to check your blood pressure. As part of your appointment, you may also choose to share your anonymous results with a global hypertension study conducted by the International Society of Hypertension. To date more than 100 countries have participated and more than 6 million individuals have been screened.

Speak to your London Drugs Pharmacist for advice on how to test your blood pressure and interpret the results. To find an appointment at a London Drugs Hypertension Awareness Clinic in your area, visit https://pharmacy.londondrugs.com/health-clinics/hypertension-awareness-clinics or ask at the pharmacy counter.

GLAUCOMA: The Silent Thief of Sight

GLAUCOMA: The Silent Thief of SightIn 2020, the worldwide prevalence of glaucoma was estimated to be about 79.6 million people, yet many people do not understand this condition or how to identify the signs.

Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects the optic nerve. It most commonly occurs when pressure inside the eye is too high due to a backup of fluid, but it can also result from an injury or infection in the eye. Glaucoma can cause irreversible vision loss and blindness when intraocular pressure or IOP (pressure in the eye) builds up and damages the nerve in the back of the eye called the optic nerve. It is the optic nerve that sends visual information from your eye to your brain which is vital for good vision.

During the early stages of this disease, patients rarely ever have symptoms even as damage is occurring to the optic nerve, and this is why it is known as the silent thief of sight. As the disease progresses, vision loss starts with loss of the peripheral, or side vision, with patients reporting having some difficulty seeing things on one or both sides and if left untreated, leads to complete vision loss.

Buildup of Eye Pressure

There is a clear liquid inside the front part of the eye called aqueous humor which functions to provide nutrients to the eye as well as clear out waste. As new aqueous humor is produced and flows into your eye, the same amount should drain out through the trabecular meshwork (tiny canals that drain fluid from the eye). The area where the fluid drains out of the eye is called the drainage angle and is where the iris (coloured part of the eye) meets the cornea (transparent covering that lets light into the eye). This process of aqueous humor production and drainage keeps the intraocular pressure stable and keeps the eyes healthy and functioning normally. If there is an imbalance to this process, fluid can build up leading to increased pressure inside the eye. If the pressure is not brought under control, the optic nerve can be damaged and your vision permanently impaired.

Glaucoma Defined

There are two main types of glaucoma, open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma and is caused by a blockage in the drainage site of the eye. In this type of glaucoma, the buildup of intraocular pressure is gradual, and most times is symptomless. Angle-closure glaucoma less common but is considered a medical emergency. This type of glaucoma is characterized by a bulging of the iris which partially or completely narrows the angle of drainage formed between the iris and cornea. Symptoms may occur suddenly or gradually such as severe pain in the eye or forehead, decreased vision or blurred vision, headache, nausea and vomiting.

Risk Factors

To avoid irreversible vision loss, regular eye checks are recommended especially for people with underlying risk factors for glaucoma which include:

  • High Intraocular Pressure (IOP): Lowering eye pressure is the only modifiable risk factor of glaucoma.
  • Race: People of African ancestry have a greater risk of having glaucoma, its onset is earlier and disease progression is faster and more resistant to treatment.
  • Age: Prevalence increases with age.
  • Family history: Having a first degree relative (parent, sibling, child) with glaucoma is a risk factor for development of glaucoma.
  • Systemic diseases: People with diabetes have double the risk of developing glaucoma. Hypertension (high blood pressure) may also put patients at risk of glaucoma through the narrowing or blocking of small vessels, several of which are found in the eye.
  • Central cornea thickness: A thinner cornea (transparent part of the eye that covers the iris and pupil) may indicate less rigid support structures around the optic nerve head leading to an increased risk of damage.

Eye Tests For Glaucoma

Several eye tests can be performed by an eye specialist to help diagnose glaucoma.

  • Tonometry: a measurement of eye pressure.
  • Visual Field Test: to tell if there is any loss to the patient’s field of vision from glaucoma and how much have been lost. It helps the doctor determine the rate of disease progression and to tailor the treatment to the stage of glaucoma.
  • Glaucoma Imaging Test: a photograph of the optic nerve with a digital camera to map and document the health of the optic nerve.
  • Cornea Thickness Test: a measurement of the central cornea thickness. Patients with abnormally thin central cornea have been found to have more damage to the optic nerve.
  • Angle Test: a measurement of the angle where the iris meets the cornea leading to a diagnosis of “open-angle” glaucoma or “closed-angle” glaucoma.

Treatment

The primary goal of glaucoma treatment is to reduce the intraocular pressure (IOP) thereby reducing the progression to vision loss. Medicated eye drops are the treatment of choice and there are various types available depending on the patient’s causes of their increased eye pressure. Combination products are also available. If the eye drops are unsuccessful or not tolerated by the patient, laser or surgical procedures can be considered.

  1. Prostaglandin Analogues (Examples: latanoprost, bimatoprost, travoprost)
    Increase aqueous humor drainage and are considered first-line treatment.
  2. Beta-blockers (Examples: betaxolol, timolol)
    Decrease aqueous humor production and are the second most effective class of medications after the prostaglandin analogues.
  3. Alpha Adrenergic Agonists (Example: brimonidine)
    Increase drainage and decrease production of aqueous humor.
  4. Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (Examples: brinzolamide, dorzolamide)
    Decrease aqueous humor production.
  5. Cholinergic Agonists (Example: pilocarpine):
    Increase aqueous humor drainage.

Conclusion

While there is no cure for glaucoma, early treatment can stop optic nerve damage and protect a patient’s vision. For this reason, regular comprehensive eye exams are recommended for patients, especially those with risk factors of glaucoma so treatment can be started early. Even for patients who are not in the glaucoma high-risk group, regular comprehensive eye exams are recommended from the age of 40 as this can help to detect other age-related eye diseases that may occur, such as cataract, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. If you have questions about glaucoma or its treatment, speak to your doctor, eye care specialist, or pharmacist for more information.

What Is Your Mouth Saying About Your Health?

What is your mouth saying about your body?Oral health plays an important role in your overall wellness. Not only will a healthy mouth allow you to eat, speak, and smile in comfort, it will also help you feel well and prevent problems in other parts of your body.

Poor oral health can lead to inflammation, pain, or changes in your appearance, while also affecting your sleep and making it difficult to eat or enjoy food. It can also affect your self-confidence and your relationships with other people.

How Your Mouth Affects Your Overall Health

Our mouths are home to many germs and provide a way for these germs to enter our bloodstream, digestive tract, and respiratory system, where they can start their journey through our body. Prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment of oral diseases can stop unhealthy bacteria from going any further.

Without good oral hygiene, the germs can reach levels that lead to infections, tooth decay, and gum diseases. The saliva in our mouths helps by washing away food and keeping the acids made by germs in balance, and it can help prevent bacteria from spreading and causing disease. In addition to lack of good oral hygiene practices, some common medications can lower the amount of saliva in our mouth, making our mouth feel dry. These drugs include antidepressants, antihistamines, decongestants, diuretics (water pills), and painkillers. Your pharmacist can assess your medications and can recommend gums, lozenges, and sprays that can help improve oral moisture. Also, make sure your dentist is aware of all the medications you take and that your saliva level is assessed at your next dental check-up.

Connected Conditions

The state of your oral health can play a role in the development of diseases including:

  • Endocarditis, an infection in parts of the heart
  • Heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke
  • Pneumonia and other respiratory diseases
  • Pregnancy and birth complications

 

And the reverse is true as well; some health conditions can affect oral health, such as:

  • Alzheimer’s disease, which can lead to the worsening of oral health as the mental decline progresses and affects oral hygiene practices
  • Diabetes, which makes it harder for the body to fight infections
  • HIV/AIDS, which can lead to painful mouth sores
  • Sjogren’s syndrome and other diseases that cause dry mouth
  • Some types of cancer have been linked to gum disease

Protect Your Mouth

A good daily oral hygiene routine can help you protect your oral health. Your routine should include the following steps.

  • Brush your teeth and your tongue, too, at least twice a day for two minutes at a time.
  • Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
  • Clean the spaces between your teeth daily with dental floss or a water flosser.
  • Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are worn out.
  • Eat a healthy diet that limits sugary foods and beverages.
  • Do not use tobacco products.
  • Limit the amount of alcohol you consume.
  • See a dentist at least once a year for a checkup or cleaning—or more often if your dentist recommends it.

How Your Pharmacist Can Help

Pharmacists can be a valuable resource for various oral health concerns ranging from dry mouth and selecting a mouth guard or toothpaste, to managing dental pain and treating minor oral ailments. Many pharmacists are authorized to assess and prescribe medications for canker sores, oral thrush, and cold sores. Selection varies in accordance with provincial regulations. Visit your pharmacist for convenient access to professional care and effective remedies. To learn which ailments pharmacists in your province can diagnose and treat, visit

Your London Drugs pharmacists will be happy to help you care for your oral health and safeguard your overall health. Have questions? We’re here to help!

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