The wife of a California Congressman died last year after ingesting White Mulberry – a plant that is used as an herbal remedy for a variety of conditions including diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol according to Kaiser Health News (https://khn.org/news/article/tom-lori-mcclintock-death-herbal-remedy-diabetes-weight-loss-white-mulberry/)  How can something “natural” and available over-the-counter be harmful? Because they’re not regulated by the … Continue reading "“Natural” Doesn’t Mean Good For You –Potential Risks of “Dietary Supplements”" ...

When you’re scrambling to make a burn feel better or stop bleeding, knowing what to do can make a big difference.  There are many myths about First Aid, some of which can actually can do more harm than good.  Should you put butter on a burn?  Apply a cold steak to a black eye?  Myth … Continue reading "Debunking First Aid Myths" ...

Many people have questions about the new COVID vaccine boosters.  Keep reading for answers to some of the most common ones here. What’s new in this latest round of COVID vaccine boosters?  The original COVID vaccines were effective at preventing infection and very successful in preventing complications from the Alpha and Delta strains.  But they … Continue reading "New COVID Boosters" ...

I have to admit, I’m tired of the whole issue of COVID vaccines.  That does not mean I’ve not had mine – I have.  I had my two shot initial series and BOTH boosters.  But it’s hard to keep up with all the recommendations.  And it’s frustrating the vaccine doesn’t give us long term immunity.  … Continue reading "COVID Vaccine Boosters" ...

Because it’s so new, we don’t know very much at this point. · Is it more infectious/transmissible? · Does it cause less severe disease? · Can you be asymptomatic like the other variants? · Will the vaccines be effective against Omicron? Since we don’t know very much, I thought we should look at where the … Continue reading "Omicron: What’s In A Name?" ...

I frequently get questions about the home COVID tests that are now available at local pharmacies. I’ll answer the most common questions below. PCR tests are the “gold standard” for COVID testing, typically are run through a lab, and produce results in 1-3 days. One is now available for home testing!! Lucira Check It COVID-19 … Continue reading "Home COVID Tests FAQ" ...

The first flu cases are arriving, and Influenza A (H3N2) is the dominant strain so far. Although flu symptoms are similar no matter the strain, Influenza A (H3N2) seasons tend to be more severe. See What You Should Know About H3N2 Flu – https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-you-should-know-about-h3n2-flu-770301 The early flu activity is currently most common in young adults … Continue reading "Influenza is here – will it be more severe?" ...

Healthcare workers on the front lines have had a front row seat for the worst pandemic in 100 years.  Although I’m not on the front lines in the hospital anymore, I can tell you it’s taking its toll.  Healthcare workers are compassionate and empathetic people by nature.  Each death hits us hard, regardless of the … Continue reading "Healthcare Worker Burnout from COVID-19" ...

A common misconception is that COVID-19 is mild, its “just a flu”.  Although many cases of COVID are mild or asymptomatic, serious disease and death do happen in higher numbers than many realize. First of all, Influenza is actually quite serious and can be deadly.  Anyone who has had it will tell you they feel … Continue reading "COVID-19 Not “Just The Flu”" ...