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Strep Throat – It’s not just a regular sore throat

It’s Not Just A Regular Sore Throat

Ever had a sore throat so painful you thought it was on fire or being torn apart? If so, the chances are you had strep throat. While people often refer to any sore throat as “strep throat,” this term should only be used for throat infections caused by group A streptococcus, also known as strep bacteria. 

Most sore throats are caused by viruses such as the flu virus, cold virus, or COVID-19 virus. These are responsible for 25% to 45% of all sore throats, but they are not the same as “strep throat.” True strep throat is caused b y a group A bacterial infection and accounts for only 5% to 15% of sore throats in developed countries like Canada.

Who Gets Strep Throat?

Strep throat commonly infects children or teenagers; half of all cases occur in people younger than 18 years of age, but it can occur in older adults as well, though it isn’t as common. 

Strep bacteria are often spread from person to person, such as when people who are sick talk, cough, or breathe closely to another person. This could be why school-age children are more likely to get strep throat. Strep throat is also more common during colder seasons, when people are more likely to be indoors.

Identifying strep throat

Because there are many causes of a sore throat, it is often difficult to tell if a sore throat is caused by strep bacteria or by a virus like influenza, but there are a few key differences. Doctors often diagnose strep throat based on the patient’s description of the symptoms along with a physical examination of the throat. But sometimes the cause of the symptoms is not obvious.

Distinguishing Strep Throat from a Viral Infection
More likely strep throat	More likely viral infection
Fast onset of sore throat	Slow onset of sore throat
No stuffy nose, red eyes, or cough	Other typical virus symptoms, such as hoarse voice, red eyes, cough, and stuffy nose
Fever present (>38° C or >100.4° F)	Mild fever or normal temperature (37° C or 98.6° F)
Often have swollen tonsils with white patches on the back of the throat	Might have some white patches on the back of the throat, but often do not

Fortunately, there are tests that can accurately detect streptococcus bacteria to help diagnose strep throat. A throat swab sample can be collected by a doctor and sent to a lab with results coming back within a couple of days. Alternatively, new in-office devices can test throat swab samples accurately right on–site in a matter of minutes.

Complications and Prevention

If strep throat is suspected, it is important to get tested and receive antibiotic treatment as soon as possible after the diagnosis has been made. Strep throat can be very uncomfortable and if left untreated, it can be severe or even life-threatening. Children and some adults who don’t receive timely treatment may develop acute rheumatic fever, which can result in complications affecting the heart and joints.

Strep throat is highly contagious. Stay home if you are sick to avoid spreading it. Caregivers and household members should wash their hands often and avoid sharing personal items such as drinking glasses, cutlery, or towels. It is also important to disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as countertops and doorknobs.

Treatment

A simple ten-day course of targeted antibiotics is usually very effective in curing strep throat. Starting antibiotics quickly can help many people feel better in as little as one day. Once antibiotics are started, it is less likely to spread the bacteria after 24 hours of treatment.

It is important to use antibiotics only when they are needed and to finish all doses that are prescribed. Antibiotics will not work for sore throats caused by viruses such as those that cause cold and flu symptoms, they can cause unpleasant side effects, and they can lead to the development of resistant bacteria that are harder to treat.

Get Help When You Need It

If you or a loved one are suffering from a very sore throat, visit your pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible. They can recommend or prescribe throat sprays, lozenges, or pain relievers to provide comfort from the symptoms. If a strep throat infection is suspected, a throat swab test can be conducted to confirm the diagnosis, and antibiotics can be prescribed. Testing can be done at a doctor’s office or at select London Drugs locations with instore throat swab testing. Testing onsite is convenient and enables a quick and accurate diagnosis of strep throat within minutes, so antibiotics can be started right away if required. For more information, ask your pharmacist.

How to Build a Sick-Day & Medical Kit for College Students

Be ready for colds, injuries, and “I don’t feel good” – even when far from home

Moving out or living away from home for the first time is exciting. So much freedom and adulting to look forward to! But what happens when your child is not feeling well, and you can’t come to the rescue? Help your young adult prepare for inevitable sick days and minor injuries with essentials to provide comfort and relief, giving both them and you, peace of mind.

This guide will help you and your child gather some essential items. Spend some time together working on the kit to customize their preferences.

Sick day essentials

When feeling unwell, it’s nice to have a few essential items on hand to assess your health and provide comfort.

Thermometer – A simple-to-use digital thermometer that signals a fever with a colour change or beep and displays temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Hot/Cold pack – Versatile to use hot or cold for muscle aches, headaches, menstrual cramps. It can be stored in a freezer or heated in a microwave. Always wrap the pack in a towel or thin fabric to protect the skin and limit use to about 15 minutes at a time.
COVID rapid tests – at-home nasal swab tests for quick screening
Surgical masks – to help prevent spreading germs when sick or doing group work
Hand sanitizer – carry a small bottle to use when handwashing is not convenient
Electrolyte tablets/powder – for rehydration during illness or after exercise
Eye drops for dry eye – soothing relief after long hours on screens and late nights
Favourite blanket or comfort item – feels like home (even big kids need stuffies)

Basic medicine cabinet

Include medications for common illnesses. Having easy access to medicines – day or night – can help manage minor complaints promptly. Most schools have medical clinics and pharmacies nearby for any additional or more serious health needs.

Review the instructions and dosing for each item and make sure they are aware of the ingredients to avoid duplication when combining products. Advise them to check expiration dates and avoid using any medication past its expiry to ensure safety and effectiveness.

A pharmacist can help you select products that are safe and easy to use and will inform you of any potential side effects or interactions with other medications. Remind your child that they can call any pharmacist for free if they have questions – there’s no such thing as a silly question!

Pain and fever relievers – ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Cold and flu medicines
- Day/night combo pack for colds can be helpful, but keep in mind:
  - Daytime formulas may contain decongestants like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, which can be stimulating and may increase heart rate, blood pressure, or restlessness in some people
  - Nighttime formulas often contain antihistamines like chlorpheniramine or diphenhydramine which can cause drowsiness
- Cough or sore throat lozenges
- Cough syrup – if it’s something you commonly use at home for relief. Otherwise, it can be purchased as needed at a local pharmacy.
Acne treatments – hydrocolloid patches, spot treatments, or prescription products
Allergy medication
- For seasonal allergies or unexpected reactions to new foods or insect bites.
- Use 24 hour non-drowsy formulas containing cetirizine, loratadine, or desloratadine.
- EpiPen – if prescribed for severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis; replace if expired. They should teach roommates how to use it in case of emergency.
Anti-itch cream – mild corticosteroids like hydrocortisone are helpful for minor rashes, insect bites or other itchy spots
Anti-fungal cream – if prone to athletes foot or jock itch
Anti-nausea or motion-sickness medication
- Ginger tablets can help with mild nausea and do not have side-effects
- Dimenhydrinate can relieve nausea and vomiting but may cause drowsiness
Antacid for indigestion or upset stomach
- Basic chewable formulas are effective for most situations
Anti-diarrhea medication – useful for individuals with sensitive digestion

First Aid Basics

Be ready for minor cuts, scrapes, and blisters with a basic first aid kit.

Bandages – variety of sizes
Antibiotic ointment – apply to cuts and scrapes, after washing with soap and water, and before applying the bandage
Tweezers – to remove splinters, disinfect before use
Alcohol wipes – to disinfect skin, tools, or hard surfaces

Important medical documents and contacts

Load a list of important contacts and images of medical documents in their phone, so they are easily accessible if they need to visit a pharmacy, dentist, medical clinic, or hospital.

Health insurance cards – front and back image
- Provincial health card (a BC Services Card can be combined with a driver’s license)
- Private insurance plan cards
Copies of prescriptions and drug information handouts
List of medical conditions and allergies, plus any treatment plans
Download London Drugs pharmacy app and link to their prescription profile so they can easily view their list of medications with images, read drug information, or order refills
Contact info for doctor, pharmacy, dentist, and on-campus medical services

Vaccines

Review your child’s vaccination record with a pharmacist or doctor to ensure they are protected against contagious diseases such as measles and meningitis – especially important if they are living in residence or other shared housing. Encourage them to sign up for flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics on campus in the fall.

Prepare for a healthy school year

With a bit of preparation in the days leading up to moving out, your child will feel confident handling their basic medical needs or minor illnesses away from home. Remind them that a chat from home is just a phone call away – and so is a pharmacist. Encourage them to phone a pharmacist or visit a pharmacy if they need advice about their health, medications, or treatment for a minor illness.

Most pharmacies in Canada offer prescribing services for contraception and minor illnesses such as urinary tract infections, acne, pink eye, allergies, muscle aches, indigestion, and more. Many pharmacists in Alberta can also prescribe treatments for additional conditions including strep throat, asthma, diabetes, and others. To learn more about London Drugs prescribing services by province, visit Pharmacist Prescribing Services – London Drugs Pharmacy.

We’re here to support you through every stage of life – providing convenient and trusted care whenever you need it. Call or visit a London Drugs pharmacist to discover how we can help.

Summer ailments: Pain from over exercising

Strains and sprains are some of the most common injuries, especially after physical activity or accidents.

Muscles are attached to bones by tendons; ligaments connect bone to bone. A strain is an overstretched or torn muscle or tendon. A sprain involves damage to a ligament, usually in the ankle, wrist, or knee. Both types of injuries can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving. While many cases of muscle strain or sprain are minor, knowing when to treat at home and when to seek help is key. Your pharmacist can assess the injury—and in many provinces, can prescribe medication when appropriate.

Something you can try at home for comfort is either ice or heat. Knowing when to use each is important to your recovery.

A common approach for treating strains and sprains is RICE therapy: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This is most useful for the first 72 hours (3 days) after injury.

R – Rest the injured area for the first 24 hours then gradually increase movement.
I – Ice for up to 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times per day for the first 48 to 72 hours (2-3 days). Do not apply ice directly to the skin, wrap ice in a thin towel to prevent frostbite.
C – Compression with an elastic bandage for the first 24 hours minimizes swelling. Make sure the bandage is not too tight and does not cut off circulation.
E – Elevation above heart level to reduce fluid build up and swelling at the site.

Heat therapy can be useful after 48 hours (2 days). Apply a heating pad, or heat pack wrapped in a thin towel, to the area for 20 to 30 minutes every 2 to 4 hours, as needed. Do not combine with pain relieving gels or creams as it can injure the skin.

Q: I went kayaking all weekend and now I have sharp pain in my shoulder and lower back. I think I pulled a muscle. Can a pharmacist help?
A: Yes. This sounds like a common muscle strain, or pulled muscle, from overuse. Your pharmacist can assess the injury and, if appropriate, prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or recommend non-prescription medications. They may also recommend a topical pain relief gel, light movement exercises, and advice on when to switch from ice to heat.

Q: I twisted my ankle hiking yesterday—it’s swollen but I can still walk. Should I go to the walk-in clinic or start with my pharmacist?
A: Start with your pharmacist. It might save you a trip to the doctor or long waits at an urgent care center or emergency room. Your pharmacist can assess the severity of the sprain, recommend compression wraps, reusable ice packs, oral or topical treatments, and monitor your recovery. If needed, they may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications. They may refer you to a doctor if needed for further assessment.

Q: I fell off my bike today and my wrist really hurts. It’s swollen and painful. Do I have to go sit in the emergency department at the hospital all day?
A: Maybe not. If you suspect it is broken, then yes, go to the hospital. However, if you are not sure stop at the pharmacy first. Your pharmacist can evaluate your injury for signs of a fracture, such as swelling, deformity, or difficulty moving the wrist. They’ll provide pain relief suggestions like ice packs, recommend supportive braces or wraps, and may prescribe medications or suggest non-prescription treatments for pain relief and swelling. If a break is suspected, they’ll recommend urgent medical care for further assessment and a possible x-ray.

Your pharmacist can provide:

Assessment of your injury
Pain relief: prescription or non-prescription treatments
Compression wraps, braces, ice/heat packs
Expert advice on recovery and when to seek further care

Injured? Start with your London Drugs pharmacist! Call ahead or drop-in to your local London Drugs for convenient, effective care and treatment.

Food and Water Safety While Travelling

Contaminated food and water cause a wide variety of illnesses worldwide, the most prevalent of which is traveller’s diarrhea. It is important to remember that many countries do not have a safe supply of water for drinking or washing like we do in Canada, and it is up to all travellers to educate themselves on how to reduce their risk. A good place to start is with a basic hygiene routine that includes washing hands with soap and water prior to preparing or eating food and after using the washroom. If water is not available, the use of alcohol-based sanitizers is a suitable alternative. Use a palmful of sanitizer and rub all surfaces of the hands, including between fingers and under nails.

BOIL IT, COOK IT, PEEL IT, OR FORGET IT!

This saying reminds us of the basic safe practices and principles for eating while travelling. Unsafe food and beverages may be contaminated with bacteria, parasites, or viruses.
Tips for food safety:
• Try to eat hot, fresh, well-cooked food and avoid food left out at room temperature.
• Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, fish, or seafood.
• Fresh fruit and vegetables should be washed in safe water, or you should peel them yourself.
• Avoid salads if you are unsure about whether they were cleaned in a produce wash with safe water.
• If you are unsure about what foods might be safe when on the go, carry store-bought packaged snacks with you.
Tips for water safety:
• Commercially sealed beverages—such as water, soda, alcohol, etc.—are considered safe.
• Tap or other fresh water should be purified with chemicals, UV light, filtration, or boiling for one minute before using.
• Beverages are not the only unsafe water source, as lakes, rivers, and streams can also be contaminated and can cause serious illness if ingested through the mouth or nose, even while swimming.
Despite the above measures, there are still risks of becoming sick. This is where vaccines can help. They reduce that risk and protect you from getting ill. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, traveller’s diarrhea, a gastrointestinal illness, is the most common travel-related illness, affecting 30% to 70% of travellers, depending on destination and season. It is most often caused by food and beverages contaminated with bacteria. It can happen anywhere, but it is most common in the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and parts of Africa. The biggest risk with traveller’s diarrhea is dehydration, especially in children.
Symptoms of traveller’s diarrhea include:
• loose, watery stools
• nausea
• stomach cramps
• fever, which is usually mild and resolves within a couple of days
Prevention strategies include washing hands often, choosing safe foods and beverages, brushing teeth with bottled water, and receiving a vaccine if desired. Dukoral® is a vaccine formulated to protect against for two types of severe diarrhea; a specific type of E. coli bacteria (LT-producing ETEC) responsible for most traveller’s diarrhea and Vibrio cholerae the bacteria that causes cholera. Cholera is a severe diarrhea infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and that is prevalent in areas with contaminated water supplies and inadequate sanitation. Two doses of the vaccine are needed to provide protection of three to six months of protection from ETEC and up to two years for cholera. The first dose should be taken at least 14 days prior to travel and the second dose a week later. Future trips may only require a single booster dose depending on how long ago the previous dose was.
If you do happen to experience traveller’s diarrhea, treatment usually consists of:
• drinking safe beverages or oral rehydration salts (examples: Gastrolyte®, Hydralyte®, Pedialyte®)
• taking anti-diarrheal medication such as loperamide (Imodium®) or it’s a generic)s) version for long bus, car, or plane rides where you will not have access to a bathroom
• in severe cases, antibiotics can be prescribed by a healthcare provider
If you are planning to visit an area known for traveller’s diarrhea, consider asking your pharmacist or doctor for a prescription of antibiotics so you have the medication with you if you need to take it. It is important to be aware that some antibiotics can cause side effects such as sun sensitivity. Your pharmacist will review all side effects and precautions with you.

SAFETY FIRST

If you are planning a trip, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider who specializes in travel medicine, or speak to your physician. It is best to schedule an appointment at least four to six weeks prior to travel, as some vaccines need multiple doses for maximum protection. Travellers with shorter timelines are still encouraged to contact a healthcare provider to discuss options.
All our pharmacists can provide general travel tips such as non-prescription medications and products to include in your travel first aid kit. They can also offer guidance on any prescribed medications and vaccines. If you want to purchase Dukoral® vaccine to prevent traveller’s diarrhea, it is often available to purchase without a prescription at the pharmacy counter after a short consultation with a pharmacist. However, insurance claims may require a doctor’s prescription for coverage.

For specialized travel health recommendations, schedule an appointment at one of our Travel Clinics at select London Drugs pharmacy locations. Our London Drugs Travel Clinic Pharmacists have completed additional training and have obtained their Certificate in Travel Health™ from the International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM). During your appointment they can will provide you with comprehensive travel advice tailored to your specific itinerary as well as vaccines and medicines to help keep you safe and healthy on your trip. Visit LDTravelClinics.ca for more information about this service our London Drugs Travel Clinics and for a list of our Travel Clinic locations. We want to help you enjoy a safe and healthy vacation.

Be Summer-Ready: Your Essential First Aid Guide from the Pharmacy

Summer provides many opportunities to get outside and have fun, but that fun can be spoiled by summer health hazards. Sunburns, bug bites, allergies, injuries, and infections can all play a role in how much you get to enjoy your summer. If you want more fun and less pain, it is important to take preventive measures to protect yourself and your family. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent these problems and relieve the discomfort they can cause. One of the best steps is to consult your pharmacist about preventing and treating potential problems. Remember, some pharmacists can even prescribe medications to treat minor ailments such as insect bites and stings, rashes, sunburn, and muscle sprains and strains.

One of the ways you can prepare to deal with summer health hazards is to create a summer health kit so you will have the items you will need if a problem does occur. Your London Drugs pharmacist can help you customize your kit, but the chart below outlines some of the products that you should consider having in your kit.

Problem	Helpful Products	Tips
Itching & Allergies	· Topical anti-itch creams (e.g., hydrocortisone, calamine) soothe bites and mild rashes. · Oral antihistamines (e.g., loratadine, cetirizine) reduce swelling, itching, and allergic reactions from bites, stings, or seasonal allergens.	Always ask a pharmacist before combining oral and topical antihistamines. Note: Pharmacists can prescribe treatments for allergy symptoms or persistent insect bites.
Pain from Sprains & Strains	· Analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen help manage pain and reduce inflammation from overexertion, minor injuries, or sun headaches. · Topical analgesics (e.g., diclofenac gel) provide targeted muscle and joint pain relief. · Hot/cold packs · Athletic wraps and supports	Pharmacists can assess and prescribe medicines for muscle sprains/strains, helping you recover faster without a clinic visit.
Skin Rash & Minor Infections	· Antibiotic ointment/cream · Sterile saline for wound cleansing · Sterile gauze pads and bandages · Antifungal cream	Keep in mind that heat, sweat, and sun can cause rashes or minor skin infections. Pharmacists can assess and prescribe treatment for skin rashes, mild fungal infections, or eczema flare-ups, preventing the need for a doctor’s visit in many cases.
Sunburn	· Aloe vera gel offers cooling relief and supports skin healing. · Sterile saline water can be used to clean blisters or soothe inflamed skin. · Non-scented moisturizers help restore moisture and reduce peeling.	Apply SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen—pharmacist-recommended options are available. Don’t forget lips, ears, scalp, hands, and tops of feet.
Tick Removal & Insect Protection	· Insect repellents containing DEET or icaridin. · A tick removal kit that includes fine-tipped tweezers, antiseptic, and a sealable bag for tick storage.	Wear long sleeves when hiking and do daily tick checks. Reminder: Pharmacists can offer advice on removal and risk of Lyme disease. They may also prescribe treatment for mild tick bites or related skin reactions.

It is also important to have a well-stocked basic first aid kit handy plus a travel-sized kit to take with you when you are away from home. Your pharmacist can advise you on what items you should include in your kit to customize it for your personal needs, but among the items to consider are those listed in the chart above plus:

Adhesive tape
Antiseptic wipes
Roller bandages to hold dressings in place or to make an arm sling
Blister pads
Burn cream
Disposable non-latex gloves
Small sealable bag for tick storage
Sterile gauze pads in several sizes
Tweezers and scissors

Having a summer-ready first aid kit saves times, prevents complications, and supports a fun, worry-free season. Whether you’re hitting the trails, beach, or backyard, your pharmacy is a trusted resource for your health products and advice, and it should be your first stop for smart summer health.

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 impairment

Memory difficulties:

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

Dementia

Memory 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 Dementia	Typical Symptoms
Alzheimer’s disease	Problems with short-term memory, paying bills, preparing meals, remembering appointments, getting lost in familiar places
Fronto-temporal dementia	Difficulty planning or organizing activities, having trouble communicating with others, acting inappropriately in social or work situations
Lewy body dementia	Memory loss, problems with movement or balance (such as stiffness or trembling), daytime sleepiness, confusion, sleep disturbances, staring spells, visual hallucinations
Mixed dementia	Several types of dementia can affect a person at the same time, and this can affect which symptoms the person will experience
Vascular dementia	Symptoms 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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Strep Throat – It’s not just a regular sore throat

It’s Not Just A Regular Sore Throat

Who Gets Strep Throat?

Identifying strep throat

Complications and Prevention

Treatment

Get Help When You Need It

How to Build a Sick-Day & Medical Kit for College Students

Be ready for colds, injuries, and “I don’t feel good” – even when far from home

Sick day essentials

Basic medicine cabinet

First Aid Basics

Important medical documents and contacts

Vaccines

Summer ailments: Pain from over exercising

Food and Water Safety While Travelling

BOIL IT, COOK IT, PEEL IT, OR FORGET IT!

SAFETY FIRST

Be Summer-Ready: Your Essential First Aid Guide from the Pharmacy

Normal memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s?

Signs that memory impairment may be more significant include:

MEMORY LOSS

Memory Impairment

WHAT IS DEMENTIA?

WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA

Dementia Symptoms

TREATING DEMENTIA

Why sunscreen is important year-round

What to Do If You Get Sunburned

Cool the Skin

Moisturize

Stay Hydrated

Avoid Further Sun Exposure

Consider a Pain Reliever if Needed

When to See a Doctor

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Strep Throat – It’s not just a regular sore throat

It’s Not Just A Regular Sore Throat

Who Gets Strep Throat?

Identifying strep throat

Complications and Prevention

Treatment

Get Help When You Need It

How to Build a Sick-Day & Medical Kit for College Students

Be ready for colds, injuries, and “I don’t feel good” – even when far from home

Sick day essentials

Basic medicine cabinet

First Aid Basics

Important medical documents and contacts

Vaccines

Summer ailments: Pain from over exercising

Food and Water Safety While Travelling

BOIL IT, COOK IT, PEEL IT, OR FORGET IT!

SAFETY FIRST

Be Summer-Ready: Your Essential First Aid Guide from the Pharmacy

Normal memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s?

Signs that memory impairment may be more significant include:

MEMORY LOSS

Memory Impairment

WHAT IS DEMENTIA?

WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA

Dementia Symptoms

TREATING DEMENTIA

Why sunscreen is important year-round

What to Do If You Get Sunburned

Cool the Skin

Moisturize

Stay Hydrated

Avoid Further Sun Exposure

Consider a Pain Reliever if Needed

When to See a Doctor

Archive

Categories

Pages

Newsletter

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