HEALTH BLOG

HEALTH BLOG

January 18, 2017

Tips for Safe Winter Recreation

Tips for Safe Winter Recreation

It is no secret that we live in an area known for its year-round recreation. You may often find trailheads and local lakes and rivers just as busy in January as you do in August. Hiking, backpacking, fishing, skiing, snowshoeing — whatever your activity of choice — safety should be carefully considered, as a number of risks are associated with snow and cold weather. Here are a few tips that will help you stay safe, no matter where your feet take you this winter.

Before You Leave
It is best to hike in groups, but if you’re hiking solo, alert someone of your route and estimated time of return. Days are much shorter now, so start your hike earlier than you would in the summer and always check for avalanche danger.

Extra Supplies
Your winter pack will often be a lot fuller than your summer pack. It should include supplies such as: a light source with extra Lithium batteries (better performance in the cold), a heat source, such as a small stove or a way to start a fire, and extra layers (more on that later). Don’t forget an extra pack of hand warmers!

Clothing Layers
Forgetting to insulate can quickly lead to hypothermia, especially if the weather changes. Everyone hiking in snow-conditions should have the following layers either already on them, or in their pack:

Wicking layer.
The layer of clothing touching your skin should be a synthetic long-underwear, such as Under Armour, that will wick your sweat away from your body. Without this layer, sweat will sit on your skin, soak through your clothes and chill you very quickly.

Insulating layer.
Insulation is usually a fleece or down layer, meant to retain your body heat. If you get too warm, this is usually the first layer to go, but store it somewhere dry; you will often need to retrieve it even during short snack breaks.

Shell layer.
This layer protects you from wind, rain, snow — whatever happens to be falling from the sky. It should be waterproof (NOT resistant) and slightly larger than your regular jacket-size so it fits over other layers.

Navigation
It is VERY easy to get disoriented in a snow-scape, even if it’s a trail you’ve hiked a million times. When snow-hiking, you are relying on already-broken trail for orientation but poor lighting or a unexpected snowstorm can quickly erase these tracks. In this case, a map and compass is going to be far more reliable, useful without a signal or power source.

Traction
Traction, especially with added gear weight, is tricky in the winter, posing deep snow, dangerous slopes and icy trails turning an intermediate trail treacherous without the proper grip. Snowshoes, hiking poles or Yaktrax (chains for your boots) can make your hike more enjoyable and safe.

Hypothermia
Frostbite and hypothermia are a huge risk, especially here in Southwest Montana. Because our high elevation poses drier conditions, it is much harder to tell when you are suffering from frostbite.

Signs of frostbite.
Cold, painful prickling, then numbness. Grayish or blue-colored skin that is waxy in texture. As soon as you feel that initial prickling (known as “frostnip”), find a way to warm the affected area as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to recover as the cold spreads deeper into your tissue layers(1). A good way to avoid frostbite is to pack hand warmers and mittens to layer over your gloves. Also, layer your feet the same way you do your body, with wool socks over a synthetic wicking sock. If they get wet, separate the wet layer from your skin with plastic bags.

Signs of hypothermia.
Shivering, dizziness, fatigue and disorientation are crucial signs of hypothermia. They are your cue to do something — and quick; hypothermia is deadly and moves in fast. As your body’s core temperature continues to drop, shivering will stop and instead your pulse will drop and you will feel suddenly very warm (2). Although prevention is better then attempting to recover, if you do start experiencing symptoms, ensure you are properly hydrated and fed. Hiking in the snow can burn nearly 600 calories an hour (3) as your body works harder to regulate its temperature against elements. Remove any wet clothing and attempt to rewarm yourself by finding shelter — and building a small fire if absolutely necessary.

Outdoor activities in the wintertime offer the opportunity for a changed landscape and quieter trails. However, they requires a lot more planning and caution in order to avoid element-related injuries. Practice these tips even on short outings and check Price Rite’s new pharmacy for any items you may need. We carry a variety of nutrition, first aid and medicinal products that may help better equip your winter pack!


January 12, 2017

American Red Cross bloodmobile coming to Price Rite 02/16/17!!

American Red Cross bloodmobile coming to Price Rite 02/16/17!!



THE RED CROSS BLOODMOBILE WILL BE IN THE PRICE RITE DRUG PARKING LOT ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16TH 2017 FROM 12:00 PM - 4:15 PM.  



Every 8 minutes the American Red Cross responds to someone in crisis, and every two seconds someone in the US needs a blood transfusion. The Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage with an emergency need for donors. Severe winter weather has forced cancellations of 215 blood drives in two dozen states, leaving more than 7,500 blood and platelet donations uncollected. The American Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nations blood.
Who can donate?


Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.




Eligible blood donors are urged to schedule a donation today by using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767). Invite a friend, family member, or co-worker to help even more! 
You can cut down your time spent at the blood drive by up to 15 minutes if you complete your questionnaire in advance using the RapidPass. Here is how it works: 


  1. Visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass
  2. Read the information
  3. Answer the questions
  4. Print the pass or email it to yourself
The RapidPass must be completed the same day you are signed up to donate. Be sure to bring either a printed copy of your pass, or have an image of it on a mobile device or you will be asked to complete the questionnaire again. The RapidPass does not schedule your appointment, be sure to schedule by 

visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767). 


THE RED CROSS BLOODMOBILE WILL BE IN THE PRICE RITE DRUG PARKING LOT ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16TH 2017 FROM 12:00 PM - 4:15 PM.  


 
January 4, 2017

Pet First Aid on the Trail

Pet First Aid on the Trail

If you’re an avid outdoorsperson, you’ve probably compiled a small first aid kit for yourself that you keep in your daypack. But, have you considered the safety of your four-legged hiking partner? Because so many of us hike with our dogs, reconsider your kit with pet-related ailments in mind. In fact, many of the human first aid products you can find at Price Rite can be utilized in a situation where your dog becomes injured on the trail. Here are a few ideas to restock your pack with:

Gauze and tape
— Dog fur and skin are sensitive to the adhesive on traditional bandaids. Instead, use a roll of gauze secured with some medical tape.

Small sock
— An infant or dog-sized sock will keep a paw injury covered and a bandage extra secure for the hike out.

Benadryl
— You can administer 1mg of over-the-counter allergy medicine such as Benadryl for insect bites, poison ivy, or other minor, non-life-threatening allergic reactions.

Scissors
— A small pair of scissors can be used to clear longer hair away from a small wound so that you can administer antiseptic and cover it easily.

Antiseptic
— You can clean a wound initially with low-percentage alcohol, then treat it with Neosporin or similar ointment before wrapping to optimize healing.

Vaseline
— Winter hikes can sometimes result in a chapped nose or paws. To soothe irritated skin, rub some Vaseline (or chapstick, in a pinch) on the affected area.

Along with these essentials, you can include the contact information of your nearest 24-hour emergency vet, in case that’s where you need to drive after safely reaching the trailhead. You can find all of these products here in our new pharmacy!





December 21, 2016

Tips For Preventing Ski Injuries This Winter

Tips For Preventing Ski Injuries This Winter

Whether you’re a regular at Bridger Bowl, an expert at Big Sky or trying on your first pair of skis this winter, preparing yourself for ski season in Bozeman is a serious business — especially if you’re looking to avoid injury. Some common injuries downhill skiers experience revolve around the knee area, usually in the form of an MCL (medial collateral ligament) or ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear. These injuries often occur by an imbalance of weight, landing from a jump in poor form, or a skier trying to stand in hopes of preventing a fall. Aside from being painful, these mistakes can result in surgery and prevent you from hitting the slopes for a long time — if ever again. Here are some easy steps you can take to best prepare and preserve your body for a successful ski season —
  • Skiing, particularly downhill, is an extreme mountain sport and conditioning your body for not only the ride, but the altitude is crucial. There are a lot of personal training facilities here in Bozeman who offer ski conditioning courses to get you started, but basically a healthy amount of cardio and building your quads, hamstrings and other muscles around your knees is good preparation.
  • Preparing for your ride involves choosing the right equipment. If you’ve never skied before, many retailers can help you find the gear. Whether your style is alpine, all-mountain, freestyle, back country or downhill there are different curvatures, waists, lengths — even different styles for men and women.
  • Like any high-intensity sport, you need to warm your muscles — especially in our cold, mountain climate. You are much more likely to obtain an injury with cold, stiff and inflexible joints. Do some simple stretches while you’re warming up the car, such as squats, side plank and hip flexors.
  • While on the mountain, always maintain good form. While this practice may come naturally for those who live and breathe powder, if you took a couple seasons off, or are unsure of your skill level after a long summer, it might be a good time to work on your ski form on a bunny slope or with a refresher class.
  • While basking in the euphoria of a great day on the mountain, remember that your body needs time and energy to recover. Stretching again or using a foam roller on your muscles can help the recovery process. Keep a snack and extra bottle of water in your car to remind yourself to stay hydrated on your ride home.
Whether you are nursing a recent injury or trying to prevent a new one, Price Rite’s Pharmacy staff would be happy to help you find knee braces, ace bandages, hot or cold packs and other supplies to ensure you have a happy and healthy ski season this year.



December 14, 2016

Healthy Holidays for You!

The holidays may be a source of many special memories…. And also temptation, stress, and oversize expectations may throw you a curve ball or two. How can you possibly maintain your balance through it all, let alone stay healthy?


Check out these 7 tips for a healthier holiday:


1. Beat the bugs.
Add “flu shot” to your to-do list, unless of course you’ve already gotten it done. Also, wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds. Lots of germs can easily “leap” from hands to nose and mouth—not to mention from you to other people.


When you fly or ride a bus or train, use a disinfectant wipe on armrests, tray table and latch, air vent, and seatbelt buckle. Also, drink plenty of fluids while traveling—try for 8 ounces of water each hour. Moist airways are less susceptible to viruses and bacteria(1, 2).


2. Stay active.
And by active we don’t mean just shopping or wrapping presents! At the very least, put on some holiday music and dance! This may not be the best time of year to start a new exercise routine, but don’t let exercise go by the wayside. And when flying, be sure to move around the cabin every 60 to 90 minutes(1).


3. Chill.
Don’t let holiday hysteria overwhelm you. Try a 15-minute chair massage at your local salon or airport or shopping mall massage kiosk. Along with relaxing muscles, massages may lower levels of stress hormones and boost white blood cells, which can protect against infections(1).


What else calms you….? Relaxing music? Meditation? Walks in the park? Be sure to prioritize YOU in the midst of this busy time. And, it goes without saying: get plenty of sleep, which can stave off sickness. One study found that people who sleep at least eight hours a night are three times less likely to catch a cold than those who sleep less than seven(1).


4. Handle food wisely.
Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs away from ready-to-eat foods. Make sure to cook foods to the right temperature and don’t leave perishables out for more than two hours(2).


5. Head ‘em off at the pass.
Are temptations lurking around every corner? Pack healthy snacks, such as fruit, nuts, or low-fat string cheese. And provide healthier options such as vegetable dishes at holiday gatherings. Granted, these foods may not have the same appeal as mom’s pecan pie or candied potatoes, but they may keep you from overindulging. Whatever you do, don’t “save up” your calories for big parties and family meals. That can simply lead to overeating(3).


If you are cooking for family and friends consider having a diabetic or low sodium friendly item. It’s just another way to ensure everyone can rave about your cooking.


6. Ease up.
Sure, we know ‘tis the season to imbibe. But that doesn’t mean you have to go overboard. Before drinking any alcohol, be sure to have something to eat. Alcohol may react negatively to your medications. Consider serving juice or flavored water for a healthy alternative.


7. Check your meds—and vitamins.
Check your supply of prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and vitamins. Make sure you have what you need before traveling. Remember to order refills at your Bozeman Pharmacy before you run out. We wish you a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.


Nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, or is a substitute for professional advice.  You should always seek the advice of your physician or other medical professional if you have questions or concerns about a medical condition.



Sources

(1) 10 Ways to Stay Healthy During the Holidays 
(2) Holiday Health and Safety Tips
December 9, 2016

Price Rite Drug Now Offering Flu Vaccinations!!

Price Rite Drug Now Offering Flu Vaccinations!!

Do you know the risks of getting the Flu and the possible complications it can cause? 
According to the CDC:
Over a period of 31 seasons between 1976 and 2007, estimates
of flu-associated deaths in the United States range from a low of about 3,000
to a high of about 49,000 people. During recent flu seasons, between 80% and
90% of flu related deaths have occurred in people 65 years and older. "Flu
season" in the United States can begin as early as October and last as
late as May. During this time, flu viruses are circulating at higher levels in
the U.S. population.

 An annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to reduce
the chances that you will get seasonal flu and spread it to others. When more
people get vaccinated against the flu, less flu can spread through that
community. In Montana 433 hospitalizations and 33 deaths were
attributed to influenza last season.  
DPHHS confirmed the first influenza cases of the season on 10/14/16.


People with flu can spread it to others up to about 6
feet away. Most experts think that flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets
made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. 
To avoid this, people should stay away from sick
people and stay home if sick. It also is important to wash hands often with
soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand
rub. 


Most healthy adults may be able to infect
other people beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick. Children may pass the
virus for longer than 7 days. Symptoms start 1 to 4 days after the virus enters
the body. That means that you may be able to
pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while
you are sick
. Some people can be infected with the flu virus
but have no symptoms. During this time, those persons may still spread the
virus to others.

Flu symptoms may include: Fever or feeling feverish/chills, Cough, Sore Throat, Runny or stuffy nose, Muscle or body aches, Headaches, Fatigue or tiredness, Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more
common in children than adults. 


While anyone can get sick with flu and
become severely ill, some people are more likely to experience severe flu
illness. Young children, adults aged 65 years and older, pregnant women, and
people with certain chronic medical conditions are among those groups of people
who are at high
risk of serious flu complications
, possibly requiring
hospitalization and sometimes resulting in death. For example, people with
chronic lung disease are at higher risk of developing severe pneumonia.

Protect yourself and the ones you love and get vaccinated at Price Rite Drug today!


December 7, 2016

Price Rite Drug Offers Compounding in Bozeman

Price Rite Drug Offers Compounding in Bozeman

When it comes to medications, Price Rite Drug Pharmacy understands that not every drug is one size fits all, which is why we offer the most up-to-date compounding services in Bozeman and all of Gallatin County. Compounding is the science of creating prescriptions crafted especially for the needs of each individual and has been a well-practiced skill since the 1900s. Compounding allows us to remove ingredients a patient may be allergic to, add additional ingredients that may help them consume the drug, such as flavoring, or turn the prescription into an other form, such as a pill into a topical solution or a liquid into a solid. This practice ensures all patient needs are considered and catered to in order to improve their quality of life.



Our State-of-the-Art Compounding Services


With our recent store remodel, we now have an advanced compounding station run by PCCA-certified (Professional Compounding Centers of America) pharmacists. In compliance with 2018 standards, our facility is equipped with a negative airflow HEPA filtration system and we are the only compounding pharmacy in Bozeman who will work with your insurance provider.



“It works amazingly well,” says Compounding Pharmacist, Erin Goody Smith. “The nice thing about compounding is that you can make each medication for an individual person. So, if a medication isn't available without an allergen, we can make one right here."



Compounding is a technology which benefits both humans and animals alike; Price Rite has formulated apple-flavored sugarless medication for a particularly picky horse. They can also add flavoring for children, alter consistency, customize dosage, create a more effective wound care topical and much, much more.



If you have questions about how compounding can help you or a family member, contact us! One of our pharmacy technicians will be happy to answer your questions.





November 23, 2016

Our New Pharmacy is Open for Business! Please join us for the Grand Opening of our new Pharmacy on Friday, December, 2nd

Our New Pharmacy is Open for Business! Please join us for the Grand Opening of our new Pharmacy on Friday, December, 2nd

We are proud to announce the completion of our new pharmacy. Since Ed Harrington opened our doors back in 1972 and expanded from Belgrade to Bozeman in 1985, Price Rite Drug and Medical Equipment has maintained residence in the shopping center on North 7th Ave, expanding to our own entryway with a remodel in 2002. After a few more changes that came with the closure of the IGA grocery store in 2012, we are pleased to officially occupy their former storefront next to Universal Athletics in a newly remodeled 4600-square-foot space.

This expansion allows our staff to provide the best pharmaceutical services in the Gallatin Valley, with two drop off, two pick up and one consulting station, a blood pressure monitor, and a much larger product inventory, including beer and wine. We provide vaccination services with three certified pharmacists on staff to make sure your immunizations are up-to-date. Our ScriptPro200 robot is behind the pharmacy partition, helping our staff of more than 50 to quickly count, fill and label your prescriptions. We also have state-of-the-art compounding facilities and services, allowing us to serve patients with medications customized and compounded for their specific needs.

Our Grand Opening this Friday will include raffle drawings for a Kindle Fire and FitBit as well as beverages and cupcakes from Cupcake Mountain! We are so excited to finally unveil this new cutting-edge facility, as it allows us to continue doing what we’ve been doing for years: providing Bozeman and Gallatin County residents with the best and most comprehensive pharmaceutical and medical equipment care in the state.




November 4, 2016

NOVEMBER IS AMERICAN DIABETES MONTH

NOVEMBER IS AMERICAN DIABETES MONTH



One in 11 Americans have diabetes — that’s more than 29 million people. And another 86 million adults in the United States are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

There’s no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed. Unmanaged diabetes increases the risk of blindness, nerve damage, kidney disease, heart disease and stroke.


What is diabetes?



Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or cannot respond appropriately to insulin. Insulin is a hormone that the body needs to absorb and use glucose (sugar) as fuel for the body’s cells. Without a properly functioning insulin signaling system, blood glucose levels become elevated and other metabolic abnormalities occur, leading to the development of serious, disabling complications.





Many forms of diabetes exist. The 3 common types are:

  • * Type 2 diabetes, which results from a combination of resistance to the action of insulin and insufficient insulin production.
  • * Type 1 diabetes, which results when the body loses its ability to produce insulin.
  • *Gestational diabetes, is a common complication of pregnancy. Gestational diabetes can lead to perinatal complications in mother and child and substantially increases the likelihood of cesarean section. Gestational diabetes is also a risk factor for the mother and, later in life, the child's subsequent development of type 2 diabetes after the affected pregnancy.




What are the signs of diabetes?

Many people with diabetes don’t know they have it. Some signs of diabetes include: being very thirsty or very hungry, feeling tired for no reason, urinating (going to the bathroom) more than usual, losing weight for no reason, having cuts or bruises that are slow to heal, having trouble seeing (blurry vision), losing feeling or having tingling in your hands or feet.

Not everyone who has diabetes has these signs. If you have any of these signs or think you may be at risk, talk with your doctor about getting tested for diabetes. 

Are you at risk of Type 2 diabetes? Take this test: http://www.diabetes.org/are-you-at-risk/diabetes-risk-test/.


People who are at high risk for type 2 diabetes can lower their risk by more than half if they make healthy changes. These changes include: 

* Eating healthy

Be sure to get the number of calories that's right for you (not eating too much or too little),  vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients – and limiting unhealthy foods and drinks. For some healthy recipes visit: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/wecan/eat-right/fun-family-recipes.htm.

* Increasing physical activity

Start at a comfortable level, once you get the hang of it add a little more activity each time. Then try getting active more often.


To get all the health benefits of physical activity, do a combination of aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.




Aim for 2 hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity, like walking fast or biking. 

 * Losing weight-  

To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you eat. A healthy balance between diet and exercise can help you lose weight. 


Get involved with American Diabetes Month and share your story, photo, or video on social media
using
#ThisIsDiabetes.


For more information about diabetes visit our referenced pages at:

http://www.diabetes.org/

https://healthfinder.gov/nho/Novembertoolkit.aspx#badges






February 26, 2016

Price Rite Medical Equipment is pleased to announce that we now carry Medela breastpumps.

Price Rite Medical Equipment is pleased to announce that we now carry Medela breastpumps.

Price Rite Medical Equipment will work with you and your insurance company to see if a breast pump is a benefit of your policy.