February 17, 2010
Understanding Blood Thinners
Jessica K. O’Donnell, PharmD, CACP, CRPh, Pharmacotherapy Specialist in Ambulatory Care, Tampa General Hospital

Warfarin, a blood thinner, more commonly known by the brand name Coumadin®, is an anticoagulant medication used to help prevent clots from forming in the blood. Blood thinners are commonly used to treat some types of heart disease. Warfarin may be prescribed if the body is making blood clots or if someone has a medical condition known to promote blood clots. It is often prescribed for patients with atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm), pulmonary embolism, or after artificial heart valve surgery or orthopedic procedures. There are other blood thinners that may be given for a short amount of time including heparin, Lovenox®or Fragmin®. This program will explain the different types of blood thinners, how they should be taken, what precautions to take, and when you should call your doctor.

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February 24, 2010
Prevention & Treatment for Osteoporosis
Shelly Holmstrom, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of OB/GYN, USF College of Medicine

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. If not prevented, or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks.
These broken bones, also known as fractures, occur typically in the hip, spine, and wrist. Any bone can be affected, but of special concern are fractures of the hip and spine. A hip
fracture almost always requires hospitalization and major surgery. Even though osteoporosis can affect both men and women, it is most common among postmenopausal women. Join us to learn how to prevent osteoporosis from occurring and how to treat it if it happens to you.

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March 3, 2010
The Importance of Flexibility As We Age
Suzan Mekler, CHE, AHFS (Advanced Health & Fitness Specialist),
PRCS (Post-Rehabilitation Conditioning Specialist), CPT (Certified Personal Trainer), Diabetes educator, certified Pilates instructor

Is it getting harder to move around like you used too? Are you feeling stiffer and slower? Stretching is a valuable component of exercise that keeps us agile as we age and can be done just about anywhere. Join us to learn valuable techniques and guidelines to keep you flexible and feeling great. Participants should wear comfortable clothes.

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March 10, 2010
Maintaining & Treating Your Blood Pressure
Joyce Thomas, MD, Tampa General Hospital

According to the American Heart Association, about one in three U.S. adults has high blood pressure, but because there are no symptoms, nearly one-third don’t know they have it. Often called the “silent killer”, uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure or kidney failure. The only way to identify high blood pressure is to have your blood pressure checked. You can reduce your risks for heart attack and stroke with proper monitoring by a healthcare provider and simple lifestyle changes. Join us to get the facts about high blood pressure and how to live a heart-healthier life.

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March 17, 2010
Hearing Loss: What Should I Do?
K. Paul Boyev, MD, Associate Professor, Division of Otology/Neurotology, Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery

The onset of hearing loss is usually very gradual and can take place over 25-30 years. It can happen more rapidly if you are exposed to loud noises at work or through hobbies. Because hearing loss usually occurs over time, most people are not aware they have a problem until someone else brings it to their attention. Once hearing loss is identified, a hearing aid may be recommended. Join us to learn more about hearing loss, hearing aids and how to deal with this common health issue.

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March 24, 2010
Age Related Eye Disorders
Lisa Gamell, MD, FACS, USF Eye Institute, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, Glaucoma & Anterior Segment Service

Glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy can sneak up on you during your senior years, threatening your vision. People 65 and older are at higher risk for these diseases but careful monitoring of your eye health and regular eye examinations can help you see well into old age. Join us to learn how you can help preserve your eyesight by being aware of some common age-related eye diseases and how to recognize their often-subtle symptoms.

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