IN Greensburg Salem Winter 2018 | Page 17

occupational and recreational noises, some medications, and some illnesses may cause either partial or full hearing loss, but there are ways to treat hearing loss. Treatment can include surgical procedures, hearing aids, or cochlear implants. Preventive measures can also be taken to protect against noise-induced hearing loss and to avoid age-related hearing loss. Be sure to wear protective earmuffs if you work in a loud environment or are hunting, going to concerts or doing other loud activities for an extended period of time. It is also important to have your hearing tested on a regular basis. Early detection is key to preventing complete hearing loss. THE AREA’S PREMIERE EYE CARE PROFESSIONALS SERVING ALL YOUR VISUAL & EYE HEALTH NEEDS ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT GREENSBURG LOCATION MURRYSVILLE LOCATION NOW OPEN Mouth Health Your mouth can tell a lot about your overall health. Investing in your oral health is also investing in your general health. There are several conditions that are linked to oral health including endocarditis and cardiovascular disease. When bacteria from your mouth—or other parts of your body—spread through your bloodstream, they can attach to your heart, causing an infection in the inner lining called endocarditis. Research suggests that poor oral health is linked to clogged arteries and stroke as well. Keeping tabs on your oral health is critical for warding off bad breath and poor health. It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss, eat a healthy diet, replace your toothbrush every three to four months, and avoid tobacco use to maintain a healthy mouth. Visiting your dentist for regular cleanings can also ensure that oral hygiene is at its best. 724-387-9344 4566 WILLIAM PENN HIGHWAY, MURRYSVILLE PA VILLAGE OF MURRYSVILLE SHOPPING CENTER CHAD E. GREEN, OD FAAO KAITLIN B. HURNEY, OD 724-836-0802 6048 ROUTE 30, GREENSBURG PA SHALINI KATYAL VILSACK, OD FAAO JENNIFER L. SOMMER, OD FAAO eyecaregreengate.com Heart Health We are all aware that it is important to eat healthy and stay fit for heart health. A diet rich in plant foods and low in processed food and animal products lends itself to a happy heart. Paired with cardiovascular exercise, you’ve got it made for a healthy body. But have you ever thought of staying positive as a way to keep your heart healthy? A research study at the University of Illinois shows that people with optimistic attitudes have higher odds of having ideal cardiovascular health when compared to pessimistic people. The study analyzed “the mental health, levels of optimism, and physical health of 5,100 adults ranging from 45 to 84 years of age. Heart health scores—based on American Heart Association-approved metrics, including blood pressure and body mass index—increased right alongside optimism levels.” So when you’re feeling down, remember that staying positive affects more than just your day, so keep your head up and your heart happy. Digestion Digestive issues affect all of us at one time or another. From upset stomach, gas, and heartburn, to constipation and diarrhea, digestive problems are painful and embarrassing. Some of the most common are: • Food Intolerance – Often confused with food allergy, food intolerance likely allows you to eat a small amount of an offending food without any issues (while a food allergy could be life-threatening). Causes of intolerance include celiac disease, sensitivity to food additives, food toxins, and absence of an enzyme needed to fully digest a food. Continued on next page > GREENSBURG SALEM ❘ WINTER 2018 15