Health Tips for June 6

Health Tip: Dispose of Syringes Safely

Diabetics and others who use syringes and lancets shouldn't just toss those "sharps" into the trash. They can injure and expose others to blood-borne disease.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers these safe disposal suggestions, if you don't have an approved "sharps" container:

• Dispose of the syringes or other sharp objects in a plastic jug, bottle, or container that needles can't penetrate. Collect them until the container is full, then securely seal and wrap the lid and throw it in the garbage. Make sure the container is not made of glass or another breakable material.
• Look for a container that has a small opening with a lid that can be securely tightened and closed.
• Some good containers to consider are plastic bottles of bleach, liquid laundry detergent, plastic milk jugs or coffee cans.

Health Tip: Taking a Trip When You Have Diabetes

Diabetes doesn't have to keep you from traveling, but you still need some extra preparation before you begin your trip.

The American Diabetes Association offers these suggestions to help you plan before you leave:

• Make sure your diabetes is well-controlled. Before you leave for a long trip, a visit with your doctor to make sure you're healthy, and to get the immunizations you need, is a good idea.
• Pack extra medication, syringes and other supplies.
• Take a letter from your doctor that describes exactly what supplies you need, a list of your medications, and any allergies you have.
• Always wear your bracelet or necklace that identifies you as having diabetes.
• If traveling to a foreign country, learn how to say key phrases in the native tongue, such as "I have diabetes" and how to ask for sugar or orange juice.