Multi-Dose Packaging: What Is It and How Does It Work?

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While you may have a standard day-to-day schedule, each day can vary a little. The times you wake up, eat your meals, and go to bed may change each day. If medication is part of your routine, taking it at the right time can be difficult when your day isn’t always the same. 

Taking your medication as directed is an important part of your medical treatment. Multi-dose packaging may help. Keep reading to learn about multi-dose packaging, and how your local McAllen Pharmacy can help you on your medication journey. 

What Is Multi-Dose Packaging?

Multi-dose packaging combines pill or capsule medications into individual doses and organizes those doses into a blister or pouch package for easy access. The package may provide information such as the day and time to take the medications. 

Creams, inhalers, and other non-pill medications cannot be included in multi-dose packaging.

Benefits of Multi-Dose Packaging

Taking your medications properly can help with many health issues, but many patients struggle to remember when and how to take their medication. Multi-dose packaging has been proven to be helpful in keeping medications organized, especially for patients with many different prescriptions. Review the list below for a few examples of how multi-dose packaging may be beneficial to you. 

  • Easier to Remember – Multi-dose packaging combines different medications in one package, so patients are less likely to forget one of their medications. 
  • Reduces Pharmacy Trips – Since multiple medications are combined with multi-dose packaging, it requires fewer trips to the pharmacy for refills.
  • Provides a Safe Medication Schedule – Packaged prescriptions include instructions that can help reduce the number of missed or mistaken dosages. 

Who Can Benefit From Multi-Dose Packaging

Multi-dose packaging may not be a good fit for everyone, but it can make a big difference for those taking multiple medications a day. Patients who easily forget medications, struggle with opening pill bottles, or have trouble reading the small print on the pill bottle may also benefit greatly from multi-dose packaging. This service may also help caregivers provide safe and proper drug therapy. 

How To Set Up Multi-Dose Packaging

Contact your local pharmacist for assistance and to see if you qualify for multi-dose packaging. Enrollment is usually easy and free. Your local pharmacist will guide you through the process to complete the setup of your new multi-dose packaging service, including making sure all your prescription orders are on hand.

Set Up Multi-Dose Packaging With Assistance From Your McAllen Pharmacy

Multi-dose packaging is a good way to keep your medications organized for safe and convenient use. With the many benefits this service can provide, it may be just what you’re missing to improve your medication regimen. 

If you think you may benefit from this type of service, contact your local pharmacist at Saenz Pharmacy to see how we can help you get enrolled today! 

If you’re interested in setting up a multi-dose packaging service, contact your Saenz Pharmacy for help!

Synchronize Prescription Schedules With the Help of Your Pharmacist

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Picking up prescriptions can sometimes be a hassle for patients; some patients have to visit the pharmacy several times a month to pick up medication refills or wait around while the prescription is being filled. This may lead to prescription pick-ups not being completed, patients missing time-sensitive medication regimens, or failure to complete drug treatment.  

Some pharmacists have started a medication synchronization program to help patients adhere to prescription schedules and provide convenient services. If you have two or more medications that require regular refills, you may benefit from your local pharmacy setting up a prescription synchronizing schedule that can be modified to fit your needs. Keep reading to learn more about medication synchronization and how it can benefit you. 

How Does Medication Synchronization Work? 

Sometimes when you have two or more prescriptions, they don’t need to be refilled at the same time. Synchronizing your prescription refill schedule can make it easier and more convenient to get the treatment you need, when you need it. Your pharmacist will synchronize your medications so that you can pick up all of your prescription refills on one day.

Setting up a prescription synchronization schedule can help patients in many areas, including convenience and drug adherence. Some patients may find it difficult to visit the pharmacy several times a month, which can make it harder to follow treatment plans.

Medication synchronization allows for the convenience of one regular trip to the pharmacy for prescription pick-up. Prescription schedules help patients be consistent with medication regimens and ensure medications are not missed. Scheduled pick-up days provide convenience because they remove the need to request refills several times a month. Following medication schedules properly ensures the drug is being taken as directed, which can improve the patient’s health.

How To Set Up Prescription Synchronizing

Talk to your local pharmacist if you wish to set up a medication synchronization schedule. The pharmacist at your local drugstore can help you enroll in this process by reviewing the medication refills you need and selecting a pick-up day that works best for you. Some pharmacies may call a few days before pick-up to review any changes that may need to be addressed. 

On the scheduled pick-up day, you will be able to go into your local drugstore to pick up all the prescriptions you need in one convenient trip. This is a great time to ask the pharmacist any medication questions you have. This process is then repeated regularly to provide you convenience and ease in obtaining your prescription refills.

How Can Saenz Pharmacy Help You Manage Your Treatments

Studies have shown that patients who have completed prescription synchronizing schedules are two and a half times more likely to follow medication regimens. 21% of patients are also less likely to abandon their medication treatment. Adherence to medication schedules may improve your overall health and prevent future health concerns. 

If you have two or more medications that require consistent prescription refills, your local McAllen pharmacist at Saenz Pharmacy can help you by setting up a prescription schedule to improve your medication regimen and overall health. Reach out to us today to get started on the path of medication synchronization. 

To improve your prescription pick-up schedule and synchronize your medications, call the Saenz Pharmacy today!

Eight Essential Pieces of Medical Equipment For Seniors To Use At Home

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As we get older, sometimes our bodies don’t work like they used to. Thankfully, medical equipment for home use has become easily accessible, and the right at-home equipment can make life much easier as we age. 

Your local pharmacy has the equipment and expertise that you need to protect your health as you age. Check out this list of medical equipment for senior home care, and reach out to your pharmacy for help fining any of the tools that you may need.

1. Bathroom Equipment

The bathroom is one of the places where seniors frequently fall. Therefore, some medical equipment can assist seniors while in the bathroom. Bathroom equipment can include shower chairs, grab bars, and non-slip mats for the shower area. For around the toilet, raised seats, toilet frames, and handrails are available to aid in sitting down or standing back up.   

2. Alert Systems

Monitoring alert systems have developed with many different options available. Most of them can be worn on a person and send out a distress signal when needed with one button click. These are great for seniors living alone and at risk of falling.

3. Walking Equipment

Whether out and about or at home, some people may benefit from assisted walking equipment. These pieces of equipment can include walkers and canes. Walking aids are great to keep our seniors walking but offer extra support to keep them safe.

4. Power-Operated Vehicles

If you’re a senior and have difficulty getting around, it doesn’t mean you have to stay in one place. Power-operated vehicles are unique scooters and electric wheelchairs designed for people like you. Push a button and get moving around conveniently and safely.

5. Monitors

Medical home equipment monitors available to seniors are great for checking vitals and other important health aspects. A blood pressure monitor designed for the home is easy for seniors to use. 

Another kind of at-home monitor is a home glucometer. These are good for those with blood sugar issues. These aren’t necessarily fun to use, but it is necessary to check blood sugar levels regularly.    

6. Exercise Equipment

Just because you’re older, that doesn’t mean you stop working out. Exercise equipment for seniors to use at home includes dumbbells, resistance bands, and foot pedal exercisers. Regular exercise may improve your muscles to help you maintain balance and strength to continue to do your favorite activities. 

7. Compression Accessories

Compression socks are great for seniors. They can aid with pressure and swelling on the feet. Compression socks also help with blood flow, reducing the risk of blood clots.

8. Dressing Aids

Some seniors may find themselves having a difficult time getting dressed. However, there is a lot of medical equipment available to help elderly individuals get dressed: 

  • Shoehorns – Shoehorns are long sticks designed to extend your reach, aiding you in putting your shoes on. This dressing aid allows you not to bend over so much to reach your feet.
  • Sock Aids – Sock aids work similarly to a shoehorn. However, this tool has a slightly different design. You put the sock on the device, set it down on the floor, and slide your feet through it to put your socks on. Sock aids help reduce bending and reaching maneuvers which can be difficult for older people. 
  • Dressing Sticks – Dressing sticks are usually long poles with hooks at the end. They let you be able to grab your pants or shirt sleeve to help you dress. Dressing sticks are great for those with a limited range of motion or difficulty bending over.
  • Buttoners – Buttons can be so small sometimes that they become hard to grab and maneuver through the button hole. Buttoners help grab the button and slide it through the opening while you hold onto the handle. Buttoners can be beneficial for those with arthritis or other hand difficulties. 
  • Zipper pullers – Zipper pullers follow  the same concept as buttoners, just with a different design. Zippers help pinch zippers on jackets or pants to slide them up or down as needed.

Where Do You Find Equipment? A Drugstore Near You Can Help!

Have difficulty dressing alone, walking around, or showering yourself? Don’t let that stop you from getting out and enjoying your best life possible. Your Saenz Pharmacy has the equipment and expertise that you need to adjust to living life as you age. 

Need further assistance in finding the right medical equipment for you? Consult the Saenz Pharmacy to find out what is available today!

Keep Yourself Safe From 2022’s Late Flu Season

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When we think of the flu, we think of ways to avoid contracting this illness and feeling miserable. However, this year’s flu season is running later than usual. Luckily, it isn’t too late if you haven’t received your flu vaccination.

Learning more about this year’s flu is your first step in staying in tip-top shape. Keep reading for helpful information and tips on preventing the flu from your local drugstore.

Flu Season Is Running Late

In the United States, flu season typically runs through the fall and winter, usually peaking between December and February. According to an NBC News report, this current flu season is still peaking beyond the month of March, much longer than previous seasons but thankfully with a lower infection rate compared to pre-pandemic levels. Just like any flu season, however, avoiding infection is just as simple as it has been in the past.

Do I Have the Flu?

Some prevalent summertime illnesses have similar symptoms to the flu:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Sore Throat
  • Cough
  • Runny or Stufy Nose
  • Muscle or Body Aches
  • Fatigure
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting and Diarrhea

Consult your primary physician to determine if you have the flu. 

How Do You Prevent the Flu Before It Starts?

1. Avoid Those Who Are Sick – If possible, stay away from those who are sick. Limit the time spent in close contact as much as possible. 

2. Wash Your Hands – Whenever you go out or are around someone who may be sick, it’s ideal to wash your hands often throughout the day. If you aren’t in an area where you can wash your hands, hand sanitizer may do the trick.

3. Don’t Touch Your Face – Avoid touching your face when around potentially sick people as much as possible. Germs and other infectious viruses that come into contact with your eyes, nose, and mouth are how those illnesses enter your system. When you do need to touch your face, it is best to wash your hands first.

4. Disinfect High Contact Areas – Areas that come in contact with many people should be wiped down regularly with disinfectants. Counters, doorknobs, and light switches are some of the most high contact areas.

5. Stay Healthy – Prevent the flu by going outdoors frequently for fresh air, eating foods high in vitamins and minerals, and exercising regularly. Staying active can help the immune system fight off all those little germs that could cause infection. 

6. Get the Flu Shot – Stay up-to-date with your flu vaccine. Your local McAllen drugstore Saenz Pharmacy provides flu vaccines at your convenience. The CDC’s studies on flu vaccinations have shown that they aid in preventing the flu and in decreasing the severity of the illness.  

Get Your Flu Shot From Saenz Pharmacy 

The flu season is still upon us; take action to prevent the flu by following good healthy habits. If you have not received your flu vaccine, now is the time. Get your flu shot or medication to fight the flu by visiting Saenz Pharmacy today and pick up everything you need!

Don’t let the late flu season ruin your summer plans. Visit any of these locations today!

Medication Management: What Can It Do For You?

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Some of us only have one prescription, while others take 15-20 medications daily! Regardless of your medications, your local McAllen pharmacy has some tips for you for managing your medications.

Creating an organized regimen can help maintain your medications and your health.  Read on for tips on medication management and the medication management services available at your McAllen pharmacy!

Tips for a Healthy Medication Regimen

Nobody should have to stress about their medication all day long, but we also don’t want you to forget to take your medications while enjoying your best life. Whether you have a few prescriptions or several, these tips can help you maintain a healthy medication regimen!

1. Make It Routine

Make taking your medication a routine by taking it at the same time and place every day, if possible. If you have a prescription you need to take every morning before breakfast, set it on your nightstand with a bottle of water nearby. That way, your medication is right there as soon as you wake up. Routines can help form habits, making it easier to remember to take your medications!

2. Use a Pill Organizer

Keeping your medications organized will help you take the right amount each day. Even if you only have one or two medications, it can be easy to lose track of whether or not you’ve taken them yet. Pill boxes are a helpful way to remember if you have taken your pills already. Plus, some medicines don’t have to be taken at a specific time of day. When life gets busy, we can forget if we take our medications. Thankfully, pill boxes show the days of the week to help remind us what day to take specific medications. 

3. Set Reminders or Alarms

If you have a prescription that needs to be taken at specific times of the day, it may be helpful to have an alarm or reminder set on your phone. Or, if you have medications to take at lunchtime, it may be helpful to place a sticky note on your fridge to remind you to take them. 

4. Ask Your Loved Ones to Help

People around you can also help you maintain your medication regimen. Friends and loved ones living with you can check whether or not you’ve taken your daily medications. If there’s a prescription you keep forgetting to take, ask a family member or friend to call and remind you. If you have a home health nurse who frequently visits, ask them to check your pill organizer to make sure you’ve taken your medications. 

5. Store Medications Correctly

Most medications will include instructions on proper storage. Proper storage allows your medication to work correctly. Usually, medicine should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat and humidity. However, each medication is a little different, and some may need to be refrigerated. Be sure to ask your local pharmacist for proper storage instructions.

6. Get Refills Ahead of Time

Make sure you are staying ahead on refill times. Don’t wait until you have one or two days left to request a refill. The medication you need may be on backorder or out that day, with a shipment coming in the following day or even days later in rare cases. Getting your refills ahead of time will allow you not to miss any medication days, protecting your health. Your Saenz Pharmacy offers online refills to help you keep up-to-date. As soon as you are getting low, you can whip out your phone to place a convenient online refill order!

7. Take as Directed

Take your medications as directed by your primary physician or pharmacist. Your prescription may have some adverse side effects if you take too much or take the drug incorrectly. Ask your pharmacist about proper dosage and usage. Some medications are used on an as-needed basis, so you will need to make sure you don’t take more than the recommended amount. 

8. Make a Detailed List

Keep a detailed list of your medications, including dosages and the times you take them. Review this list each time you visit your provider and pharmacy. Your pharmacist may want to double-check your list to ensure you don’t have any medications that don’t mix well. This list will also help you remember which medications to take and when.

8. Find the Right Pharmacist

If possible, find one pharmacist that you can stick to regularly. Choosing a single pharmacist will help you save time and money on trips to multiple pharmacies. Also, some local pharmacies offer online refills and multi-month ordering to save you multiple pharmacy trips. Plus, free delivery services are available at some pharmacies if you would rather stay home and save your trips out and about for fun activities!

Saenz Pharmacy Offers Convenient Medication Management

Keeping a regular medication schedule doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you take a dozen medications or just one, your McAllen pharmacists at Saenz Pharmacy would be happy to help you create the perfect plan to manage your treatments and protect your health.

Seaenz Pharmacy offers convenient online services and medication management help to make sure our customers have access to the care they need. For any medication questions or further assistance, just give us a call! 

Interested in getting your medication managed and conveniently delivered? Call us today at Saenz Pharmacy to find out how we can help!

Seven Tips for Avoiding Heat Stroke and Exhaustion This Summer

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Summer is finally here! Summer plans are in full swing, and families just can’t wait to get outdoors! It’s a great time to experience the world around you, but, unfortunately, along with summer fun come the dangers of sun and heat exposure.

Heat stroke and exhaustion are definitely not something that you want to experience during your summer, and they’re sure to put a damper on any vacations you may take. You can enjoy the great outdoors and stay safe with these seven tips from your McAllen drugstore!

What Is Heat Stroke and Exhaustion?

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are not the same thing. Heat exhaustion can make you experience excessive sweating, weakness, and rapid heart rates and is usually related to excessive outdoor exercise or activities. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke.

Heat stroke is a condition in which your body is unable to control your internal temperature. Feeling confused, dizzy, and nauseous can all be symptoms of heat stroke. Long exposure to excessive heat can affect your body’s internal temperature in serious ways. 

Tips to Avoid Heat Stroke and Exhaustion 

1. Drink Plenty of Fluids

When you’re outside in the heat, your body depletes fluids through sweating. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Sports drinks that replenish electrolytes are also a good idea. However, make sure you are not just drinking sports drinks. Your body hydrates best when you drink water.

2. Wear Summer Clothing

When it is hot outside, wear clothes that will help you stay cool. Loose-fitting clothes allow air to circulate on your skin, helping sweat to evaporate. Moisture-wicking fabrics found in sportswear are also great for those hot summer days. We can all agree that wearing thick, itchy wool just does not sound pleasant in hot temperatures.

With that in mind, the color of your clothes can affect your body temperature, as well! Black likes to absorb heat, but light-colored clothes can help maintain your body’s proper tempurture.  

3. Check Your Medications

Some medications may warn of higher sun exposure risks. Diuretic medications combined with sweating in the heat may put you at higher risk for dehydration. Some medications increase sun sensitivity and put you at risk for sunburns. So, before going outdoors this summer, check your medications for any adverse effects, and consider speaking to your pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

4. Wear Sun Protection

Protect your body from those harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen to any exposed skin. Your face and head can be particularly vulnerable to sun exposure, so don’t forget to protect them! For extra protection on your head, wear a wide-brimmed hat that covers your ears. Sunglasses aren’t just fashionable, they’re also the perfec way to protect your eyes from the sun.

5. Go Out Earlier 

If your body isn’t used to the heat, or if you need to avoid the sun for any reason, it may be wise to go out earlier in the morning rather than the evening or afternoon. The hottest times of the day usually hit around three o’clock in the afternoon, so if you have plans to be outdoors for the day, try to start earlier in the day. That way, you can still enjoy summer, just at cooler temperatures!

6. Play With Water

Literally, go play in the water! Go swimming, run in a sprinkler, or start a water balloon fight. These fun summer activities are great ways to get outdoors, but they also help keep your body temperature down and skin hydrated! If you want to stay indoors, but the idea of cool water sounds amazing, take a cool bath or shower to give your body the same relaxing chill.

Remember, if you’re spending time on a body of water like a lake or river, greater exposure to the sun can cause your body to lose moisture more quickly, and your skin may be more sensitive. Be especially careful with your hydration and your sun protection when you’re out on the water.

7. Stop By Your Seanz Pharmacy

Drugstores and pharmacies are usually stocked with all sorts of summer goodies. Pick up your sunscreen, sunglasses, and all the other supplies you need to keep your body safe. 

And since you’re there, ask the team at your Saenz Pharmacy in McAllen about the medications you take that may have exposure risks!

Don’t let heat stroke and exhaustion stop you from enjoying the great outdoors this summer. Call your neighborhood McAllen drugstore today!

What Is Medication Compounding, and How Does It Work?

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Imagine living in a world without medication: no more ibuprofen to cure your headache or Pepto Bismol to relieve indigestion. While we often rely on pills and liquid medications to alleviate our slightest symptoms, some people have difficulty using these types of drugs. 

Nowadays, most medications are mass-produced by pharmaceutical companies with a focus on healing a large group of people. However, this can sometimes fail to account for the needs of each individual. If you need medication in a form or dose not provided by the manufacturer, medication compounding may be able to help you find relief. Read on to learn about what medication compounding is and who might benefit from it.

What is Medication Compounding?

Pharmacists trained in chemical compatibilities can create medications tailored to the specific dietary or medical needs or physical abilities of a patient. That customization is known as medication compounding. Based on the prescription provided by a doctor, pharmacists can customize drugs with particular ingredients, dosages, forms, and even flavors. 

Customizing medications allows more people to receive proper treatment without compromising their health or comfort.

Are Compound Medications Safe?

Compounding can’t be done by just anyone. Due to specific ingredients found in medications and the chemical compatibility of certain drugs, untrained compounding can be hazardous. If pharmacists have not stayed current with their training, they may lack knowledge of the latest information and techniques recommended to carry out this trade safely. 

If you need compounded medications, you should go to a qualified and trustworthy pharmacist like those on the team at Saenz Pharmacy. You can rely on these highly trained professionals to get you the treatment specifications you need.

Who Uses Compound Medications?

Most of us can take prescribed or over-the-counter medications without much trouble, but some patients may have negative reactions to specific components or forms of the drug they need, or they may not be able to receive the drug in its usual form. There are many different issues and concerns that may require a patient to seek medication compounding:

  • Allergies to certain ingredients found in commercial medicines
  • Specific dietary requirements
  • Capsule dimensions
  • High doses
  • Aversion to the taste of liquid medications

What Compounds Can My Saenz Pharmacist Make?

Your McAllen Pharmacists have the training, equipment, and hands-on experience to customize your treatment using medication compounding. You can trust our team to compound a variety of medications in the following forms:

  • Tablets
  • Capsules
  • Syrups
  • Transdermal Gels
  • Ointments
  • Powders
  • Topical Creams
  • Pastes
  • Suppositories
  • Inhalations
  • Mouthwash
  • Patch
  • Dissolvable

Are Compound Medications Covered Under My Insurance?

Your coverage depends on your insurance. Some insurance covers compound medications, but some insurance only covers compound medications in certain circumstances, and some don’t cover them at all. Even if your insurance covers compound drugs, it might not cover a specific drug found in the compound. If you’re compounded medication isn’t covered by your insurance, you may need to file a “universal claim form” to request reimbursement.

Get Your Compound Medication Safely Through Saenz Pharmacy

Compouunding medications is a complicated process that shouldn’t be done by untrained or inexperienced individuals. That’s why you should talk to your McAllen pharmacist if you need your medication compounded in a different dose, form, or flavor. 

Your McAllen pharmacists at Saenz are qualified to create compound medications to fit your unique needs. You may not need to compromise your comfort or your health to take your medication: compounding medication may be the solution you need.

Reach out to your McAllen pharmacist at Saenz Pharmacy today for all your compound medication needs.

Take a Peek at the Best Ways to Prevent Conjunctivitis, AKA Pink Eye!

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When you think of summer, your first thoughts are probably crashing waves, refreshing beverages, and spending time soaking up the sun! But while we’re relaxing and having fun, bacteria thrive in the heat, planning ways to ruin your summer. 

One of the most common summertime bacterial plagues is conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. Conjunctivitis is a prevalent infection caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants that make their way into the inner surface of the eye. Although this infection is common, that doesn’t make it any less annoying. That’s why your McAllen pharmacy would like to share tips to keep you and your loved ones safe from pink eye this summer.

Tips to Prevent Catching and Spreading Pink Eye

Pink eye is notorious for spreading like wildfire: one minute, you’re okay, and the next, your eyes are burning, producing disgusting discharge, and forming a crust around your eyelids. Here are a few ways to prevent pink eye and discomfort in your eyes this summer:

  • Wash your hands. This one’s important: regularly wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. 
  • Avoid touching your eyes. You wouldn’t believe the number of bacteria on your hands. 
  • Wash your pillowcases often. You use them for about 8 hours out of your day. You wouldn’t reuse underwear without washing them first.
  • Hot water and detergent. Whether it’s bed linens, towels, or PILLOWCASES, warm water is the best way to clean them.
  • They’re called PERSONAL eye care items for a reason. Avoid sharing eye care items and eye cosmetics.
  • A clear eyeglass is a clean eyeglass. Clean your glasses so good you forget you have them on.
  • Never reuse daily contact lenses. Daily disposable contact lenses; it’s kind of in the name.
  • Keep your contact lenses well maintained. Since we’re on the subject, there are instructions on cleaning, storing, and replacing contacts on the box. 
  • Avoid swimming pools. It’s a shared pool, so avoid sharing the infection by not taking part in splashing around. 
  • Visit your doctor. Your physician can determine what’s irritating and if it’s contagious.

Tips to Avoid Being Reinfected

Do you know what’s worse than catching pink eye once? Spreading pink eye to both eyes. Follow the tips below to avoid spreading your pink eye or contracting it more than once:

  • Bye-bye, eye shadow. Get rid of any makeup you used while you were infected.
  • Dump out the old solution. Do you know what’s floating around in that solution? Whatever it is, it’s not clean anymore, so get rid of it. 
  • Disposable contacts. While you’re at it, get rid of the disposable contact you used, too, just to be on the safe side. 
  • Extended eye-wear contacts and glasses. Properly clean extended eye-wear contacts and glasses as instructed by your doctor. 

Protect Yourself and Others From Pink Eye This Summer By Visiting a Drugstore Near You

As we mentioned earlier, conjunctivitis is highly contagious. Blink, and you just might catch it. This summer vacation, follow these tips provided by your McAllen Pharmacists to avoid catching pink eye and enjoy fun in the sun instead. 

While pink eye is typically just irritating and easy to treat in two weeks, it can lead to permanent vision damage on rare occasions. Visit Saenz pharmacy for over-the-counter medication to effectively treat conjunctivitis and avoid long-term effects. 

Protect yourself and the people around you from pink eye this summer by visiting Saenz Pharmacy for your personal eye care needs.

Keep Your Children Safe This Summer Vacation With Up-to-Date Immunizations!

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Move over spring, summer is just around the corner. Soon, we’ll be experiencing perfect beach weather days and warm summer nights full of barbeque and good times.  

When summer does come around, children of all ages leap with glee thinking about all the sweat, dirt, and fun they’ll soon be sharing with friends and family. But along with these things, they’ll also likely be sharing germs. 

Parents, however, can do plenty to protect their little ones, including visiting a McAllen pharmacy to catch up on immunizations. 

What Is a Vaccine? 

The COVID-19 vaccine has sparked a lot of debate on the necessity and safety of immunizations. The truth is, vaccinations are your strongest defense against harmful diseases. 

Immunizations are composed of weakened or dead forms of microbes found in a given disease or virus. This method trains your immune system to create antibodies that confront and eliminate these harmless germs, just as they would when you are exposed to the active disease. 

Immunizations are typically administered through injections, but can also be given orally or nasally. 

Why Should I Vaccinate My Child Before Summer?

When our environment and daily routine change, so do our bodies. One of the biggest shocks to a child’s body is the shift from school days to summer days. During the school year, children develop routines due to class, homework, and after-school activities.  

Summer vacation is where all heck breaks loose. 

Whether they’re attending camp, participating in out-of-school sports groups, or simply playing outside, children will find a way to get dirty from head to toe. Because their bodies may not be used to the amount of germs they’ll come across while playing outside all summer, it can be difficult for them to fight off all these microbes on their own. 

By vaccinating your children before summer starts, the immunizations will help to protect them throughout the summer, and will still be active by the time they return to school.

What Immunizations Should Your Children Have?

Here’s a list of 16 harmful and potentially deadly diseases that are completely vaccine-preventable.

  1. Hepatitis A
  2. Hepatitis B
  3. Diphtheria
  4. Tetanus
  5. Whooping Cough
  6. Haemophilus Influenzae Type B
  7. Polio
  8. Pneumococcal
  9. Rotavirus
  10. Influenza
  11. Chicken Pox
  12. Measles
  13. Mumps
  14. Rubella
  15. Meningococcal
  16. HPV

Protect your children from the germs found in the great outdoors (and other children) by keeping them up to date with immunizations. 

Protect Your Children This Summer Vacation by Visiting a Drugstore Near You

At Saenz Pharmacy, we recognize that your children are your top priority. You go out of your way to care for and protect them; so, protect them from microbes invisible to the naked eye. This summer vacation, visit your McAllen pharmacists at Saenz Pharmacy to stay up to date with vaccinations that can save lives.

To protect your children from harmful germs this coming summer, schedule an appointment with Saenz Pharmacy today!

Recovering From Joint Replacement Surgery With the Right Equipment

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Even for the healthiest individuals, joint replacement surgery generally takes a minimum of six weeks of recovery. For other patients, however, this period can be much longer.

While in the process of healing, there are a variety of ways that you can make getting around much easier. Whether it’s everyday household items that you may already have or tools that you can purchase for only a few dollars, there are lots of ways to find the support you will need. 

You can also find plenty of quality medical equipment when visiting your McAllen pharmacy, Saenz Pharmacy.  

Everyday Household Items To Use During Joint Replacement Surgery Recovery

Following joint replacement surgery, it’s essential that you take the appropriate amount of time to let your body heal. This means you might not be able to return to your daily routine all that quickly, and you may need to figure out ways to get around more easily. 

The fact of the matter is that you’ll probably need to develop strategies to make completing tasks easier for you during recovery, whether it’s moving from room to room or getting into the shower. While you might come across a few challenges, there are still plenty of resources available to you. 

For mobility and ease of access, for instance, valuable items that can support your needs include: 

  • A shoehorn with a long handle
  • A shower sponge attached to a long handle
  • A long-handled bath loofah
  • A hand-held showerhead
  • A reacher or grabber tool

There are plenty of utility tools that you can purchase to make everyday tasks like picking up items and getting dressed less of a challenge. Stop by your local pharmacy and ask about where to start.

Making Home Adjustments

You’ll probably be spending more time at home during your recovery process, so you’ll want to make a few adjustments around the house to make the experience easier for you.

If you can, it’s always a good idea to ask your friends and family for help if you’re struggling to complete a task, including adjusting your living space. In preparation for the recovery process, you may want to make the following adjustments to you home:

  • Stock up on easy to consume meals that require minimum effort to cook (ex. frozen meals and canned foods that do not require a can opener)
  • When possible, place important items in positions where they are easily accessible (a reacher tool can help in these situations, as well)
  • Consider placing your bed at a height that’s easier to get in and out of
  • If possible, you should try to find a place for sleeping on the same floor as your kitchen and a bathroom to limit stair climbing
  • Wear clothing that is easier to put on, like pants with elastic bands
  • Have professionals help with installing ramps or railings
  • Use light weights or exercise bands for physical activity (with physician approval)
  • Consider hiring a caregiver during the critical first couple weeks of the healing process

Using the Right Medical Equipment 

While there are plenty of household items and accommodations that can make life easier following joint replacement surgery, for the best results, we recommend using specially designed medical equipment. Equipment from pharmacies is specifically designed with patients in mind. During your recovery, you might want to invest in the following types of medical equipment: 

  • Crutches
  • A walker
  • A cane
  • A sock aide
  • A leg lifter for footrests
  • A small, non-slip step-up stool for reaching small cupboards
  • A medical bed or plenty of cushions

Medical Equipment for the Bathroom

One the activities that often becomes harder following joint replacement surgery is taking care of one’s personal needs in the bathroom. Unfortunately, individuals are often more prone to further injury when bathing or taking a shower following surgery.

Below, you can find a list of equipment to make manaevering in the bathroom easier. You can find these products at your McAllen pharmacy:

  • A raised toilet seat and safety frame that make getting on and off the toilet easier
  • Handlebars in the bathroom, around the toilet, shower, and bathtub
  • A tub chair that allows you to sit during a shower
  • A tub transfer chair that makes getting out of the shower and/or bath easier
  • A non-slip bath mat that can reduce the chances of slipping and falling

Find Your Joint Replacement Surgery Recovery Tools at Saenz Pharmacy!

Recovering from joint replacement surgery can take some adjustments. That’s why we recommend that you look for  specific supplies to make the recovery process easier and safer for you. This includes medical equipment from your local McAllen pharmacy.

Saenz Pharmacy is committed to providing high-quality medical equipment for our patients at great prices. If you want to get your home ready prior to your joint replacement surgery, contact us today with any questions about what equipment you should use. 

Contact Saenz Pharmacy today to learn more about the equipment we supply to make the joint replacement surgery recovery process easier.