Publications

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Shingles
Ruth, a 79-year-old woman, said her shingles caused so much pain she couldn't bear to put on her clothes or have the sheets touch her skin. Ruth was sick for several months. Her friend, Sarah, had it easier. Shingles made Sarah feel sick for a few days, and she had some discomfort. But she was back to her old self in a few weeks.
Spanish Version
Keywords: Immunizations, Pain, Shingles, Shots
Shots For Safety
There are many shots, or vaccinations, that may keep you from getting sick. Some of these shots may also protect you from getting a serious form of an illness. Here is a list of shots that may keep you healthy. Talk to your doctor about which ones you need.
Spanish Version
Keywords: Immunizations, Prevention, Shots
Skin Care and Aging
Cynthia had always been proud of her skin, especially her summer tan. But as she grew older, she saw she was getting more fine lines and wrinkles. She began to worry about what other skin problems she may have. What were those brown spots on her hands and arms?
Spanish Version
Keywords: Cancer, Prevention, Skin
Smell and Taste: Spice of Life
Sally looked forward to Thanksgiving dinner at her daughter's house. But, when she ate the holiday food, she felt let down. It wasn't as tasty as she remembered. Sally knew her daughter was a good cook. What was wrong? Maybe Sally's sense of smell was the real problem. Your Sense Of Smell Smell is an important sense. Certain smells can help you recall your dad's cologne or alert you to danger, like smoke from a fire. When you can't smell things you enjoy like morning coffee or flowers, part of life may seem very dull.

Keywords: Cancer, Nutrition, Sensory Impairment, Smell, Taste
Smoking: It's Never Too Late to Stop
“I’ve smoked two packs of cigarettes a day for 40 years—what’s the use of quitting now?” No matter your age, quitting smoking improves your health. If you quit smoking, you are likely to add years to your life, breathe more easily, and save money.
Spanish Version
Keywords: Cancer, Heart Attack, Lungs and Breathing, Smoking
Stroke
Luis and Inez were playing cards one night when Luis asked Inez a question. She tried to answer but couldn't speak. Luis knew something was very wrong. Could it be a stroke? Without waiting, he called 911. The ambulance took Inez to the hospital. Emergency doctors said it was a stroke — Luis was right. Because Luis called for help quickly, Inez got the medical care she needed without delay. She started getting well, her speech came back, and once again she's having long talks with Luis.
Spanish Version
Keywords: Brain and Nerves, Cardiovascular, Stroke
Taking Care of Your Teeth and Mouth
Max is shocked. His dentist told him that he has a tooth that needs to come out. The 63-year-old had been sure he would keep his teeth forever. Max is going to work with his dentist on taking better care of his remaining teeth. Healthy teeth and gums make it easy for you to eat well and enjoy good food. There are a number of problems that can affect the health of your mouth, but good care should keep your teeth and gums strong.

Keywords: Eating, Gum Disease, Teeth and Mouth
Understanding Lung Problems—Make Each Breath Healthy
Lupe has smoked for over 45 years. This year she started having trouble keeping up with her 3-year-old grandson without gasping for air. She can no longer work in her garden without having coughing fits. Sometimes Lupe feels out of breath strolling through the market. Yet, Lupe was surprised when her doctor said she had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Every day you breathe in and out nearly 20,000 times. That’s a lot of work for your lungs. Over time your likelihood of having a serious lung problem increases, especially if you smoke.

Keywords: Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Lungs and Breathing, Pneumonia, Smoking
Urinary Incontinence
Sarah loves to spend time with her friends talking about her grandchildren and going to exercise classes with neighbors. But she’s started to have a problem that keeps her from getting out. It’s embarrassing, but lately Sarah hasn’t been able to get to the bathroom before she wets her pants. She doesn’t know what’s happening, but the problem is keeping Sarah at home.
Spanish Version
Keywords: Bladder Control, Incontinence, Kidneys and Urinary System