Health Tips for November 5

Health Tip: Keep a Health Journal

When your doctor asks you about any illnesses, injuries or past procedures, there's no need to commit it all to memory if you keep a health journal. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests your journal include the following: Any injuries you've had or illnesses for which you've been treated. Any time you were hospitalized, including when and why. Any allergies you have to foods, medications, household items, pollens, etc. Any past surgeries or procedures. All prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins or supplements taken. Be sure to include the dose and how often you take them. Diseases, illnesses or health conditions that have affected immediate family members. Health Tip: Staying Healthy Your lifestyle choices really can make a difference in whether you're healthy or frequently sick, the American Academy of Family Physicians says. The academy offers these suggestions to help prevent chronic health problems: Avoid smoking and any other use of tobacco. Limit your alcohol intake. For women, that's no more than one drink per day, or no more than two drinks per day for men. Stick to a healthy diet, maintain a healthy body weight and get regular exercise. Protect your skin from the sun. Wear sunscreen, and avoid sunbathing and using tanning beds. Be safe when it comes to choosing sexual partners and having sex. Always use condoms and spermicide. Keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control. Make regular appointments for vaccinations and screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, cancer screenings and physical exams.