There are a few tick varieties in Canada, but Lyme disease is carried by the black-legged tick which transfers Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium through its bite. Not every black-legged tick carries the bacteria which causes Lyme disease, but some areas of Canada are considered higher risk. Ticks migrate by attaching to wildlife and birds, so they
Most people don’t worry about what they eat. However, food allergies are serious and potentially life-threatening. Allergic reactions to food can occur without warning, are alarming and uncomfortable. Allergic reactions can range from mild reactions to anaphylactic shock which can lead to death. Even trace exposure to these food allergens may be fatal. Food
Contact dermatitis is when you touch something that causes redness or rash to appear on your skin. It can be itchy, irritating, tender or blister, but isn’t contagious nor a serious condition. It is caused by contact with something (an allergen or irritant) that your body thinks is bad. Common allergens include perfume, plants, jewelry,
No – don’t eat there! Are there places you know to avoid, certain cooks, restaurants or food? Ever wonder why it only bothers you and not others? Do you have a sensitive gut and need to run to the loo? Perhaps your sensitivity has a label, irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects
Are you prepared for combat? Immunization is the way to fortify your personal defenses. As with any battle, knowing your enemy is your best defense. It is no different when it comes to our bodies. It is as natural as breastfeeding when a mother passes important antibodies to the baby. After infancy, we can produce
Pharmacy has come a long way. From the practice of providing herbs and compounding remedies, to assessing medication use and providing injections. The focus from medicine in pharmacy now has expanded to work with other health practitioners, to ensure efficient access for you to pursue wellness, health care, and services. The education of pharmacists
Our eyes are generally pretty good at taking care of themselves. However, eye care should be part of your regular routine. Vision will decline with age, but we can prevent damage and slow the decline. Take time to perform daily care for your eyes, and continue to take in the wonders that sight can bring.
Feeling miserable with a cold? Has someone in your family struck down with the cold? You can’t cure the common cold, but when should you seek professional advice? Symptoms of a cold generally improve after 3 days, but some symptoms such as congestion and coughing may persist much longer. Generally, a cold will resolve
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression. With winter it’s not uncommon to feel a bit down. However, winter blues should be taken seriously if it affects your daily activities, or you feel depressed beyond a few days. Mood changes that are causing problems at home or work, feeling unusually tired, having depressive
Blanket of snow, it’s off to work we go. At some time during the season, you will have more snow than you can shovel in a mere few minutes. You know it all too well, it’s going to be a hurting day. Sore muscles may be perceived as a badge earned through hard work,
