The Search for Covid-19 Vaccine

scientist looking thru microscope for vaccineAbout Coronaviruses

Corona viruses (of which there are over 100 types) infect birds and mammals with varied degrees to damage to the respiratory and other systems.  When these viruses are transmitted to people the consequences are potentially fatal. This is true of the two serious coronaviruses we have seen in the past: severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Continue reading “The Search for Covid-19 Vaccine”

Mild Allergies + Eye Fatigue Cause Itchy Eyes

rubbing dry eyesRed, itchy, watery eyes are common in the spring, when allergies and hay fever strike. Sometimes we wake in the morning and what we notice most is that our eyes are itchy and sore.  This may be due to a combination of seasonal allergen sensitivity and tired eyes from computer eye fatigue.

Why are the eyes affected? What can you do about the effects of allergies on the eyes in the spring? Any why does eye fatigue worsen the feeling of itchy eyes?

Continue reading “Mild Allergies + Eye Fatigue Cause Itchy Eyes”

The Search for Covid-19 Treatment

The hunt is on for effective treatment for COVID-19 (SAR-CoV-2). The New York Times reports that there are over 254 therapies being explored. Medical professionals have, even in these few months, been adapting their treatments as they learn more about the nature of the virus. The fact that COVID-19 can affect people in a wide variety of ways requires almost individually tailored treatments.  Furthermore, the symptoms of COVID-19 vary widely, sometimes limited to red eyes (conjunctivitis), painful toes, slight fever, mild cough, or general aches and pains, depending on where in the body the virus lodges or begins its attack, how strong the existing immune system is, and how healthy the individual is before being exposed. Continue reading “The Search for Covid-19 Treatment”

Why Should You Reduce Your Sugar Intake?

sugar cake or appleYou have heard that our diets have too much sugar. What does this mean? How does sugar affect our health, short-term and long-term? A large body of research shows the detrimental effects of excessive sugar, from tooth decay to diabetes. High-fructose corn syrup is especially villainized. And sugar is even blamed for hurting immunity. Continue reading “Why Should You Reduce Your Sugar Intake?”

Exercise and Immunity

Exercise, a Key Element to Robust Immune System

Researchers have repeatedly found that regular exercise improves health and immunity. They see reduced risk of cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive problems, vision conditions, weight management issues, hormonal imbalances, and those who get regular moderate exercise have stronger immune system. Depending on our personal likes and dislikes, this exercise can be moderate or intense, but regular modest exercise has been shown again and again to have a beneficial effect on the immune system. Continue reading “Exercise and Immunity”

Dark Chocolate for Fatigue

Chronic Fatigue

box of xhocolates
image via FDA.gov

When you’re feeling low, some chocolate can often perk you up.

If you are someone who suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome, the flavonoids in chocolate may actually help alleviate your symptoms.

A study published in Nutrition Journal describes how dark chocolate that is rich in polyphenols was more effective in helping subjects manage their chronic fatigue symptoms over eight week periods than those taking “regular” chocolate.[1. https://www.nutritionj.com/content/9/1/55.] Continue reading “Dark Chocolate for Fatigue”

Preventive Eye Care for Aging Eyes

senior walkerMaintaining a healthy lifestyle is instrumental in preventing or even putting a stop to a loss of vision due to age. Especially when senior citizens are presented with debilitating eye conditions. They may suffer from depression, anxiety and fear. They notice that they no longer have a sense of balance and face the possibility of falling. Many are unaware that they can circumvent these conditions.

Following the tips will help pave the way toward a better quality of life: Continue reading “Preventive Eye Care for Aging Eyes”

How to Fight Viruses During Flu Season

SARS-CoV-2_49531042877During flu season, what are the best ways to avoid catching a virus?

The Centers for Disease Control tell us to wash our hands frequently and thoroughly. Wash for 20 seconds with soap and running water. Avoid touching your face, eyes , nose or mouth with unwashed hands. If your doctor recommends a flu shot, listen to their advice, particularly relevant for elders and people with immunity concerns

Eat a healthy diet, rich in fruits and vegetables. Various nutrients in food help your immune system fight off pathogens. Continue reading “How to Fight Viruses During Flu Season”

Exercise & the Immune System

Exercise, a Key Element to Robust Immune System

walking in the parkResearchers have repeatedly found that regular exercise improves health and immunity.  They see reduced risk of cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive problems, vision conditions, weight management issues, hormonal imbalances, and those who get regular moderate exercise have stronger immune system.  Depending on our personal likes and dislikes, this exercise can be moderate or intense, but regular modest exercise has been shown again and again to have a beneficial effect on the immune system. Continue reading “Exercise & the Immune System”

The Eye Exam: A New Look by Dr. Grossman – 2020 Vision

eye exam of a senior citizenGetting a thorough eye exam has always been about more than reading letters off an eye chart. That is even truer today. One reason: We are harder on our eyes than ever before. Many of us spend hours each day staring and squinting at screens, developing digital eyestrain, and exposing our eyes to potentially damaging blue light.

But the typical tests offered during a standard eye exam may not go far enough to find problems as early as possible. Even a basic dilated eye exam may not be enough. Continue reading “The Eye Exam: A New Look by Dr. Grossman – 2020 Vision”