Oct 16, 2024
Antimicrobial susceptibility tests are used to determine which specific antibiotics a particular bacteria or fungus is sensitive to.
By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire
October 13-19 is International Infection Prevention Week. And at a time when medical experts are becoming more and more concerned about anti-microbial resistance – in layman’s terms, when bacteria and viruses become immune to antibiotics and other drugs – it’s something we should all be paying attention to.
A survey published in medical journal The Lancet last month (September) claimed that from 1990-2021, more than a million people died from drug resistant infections. Every year. The research, carried out by the UK Department of Health and Social Care with the backing of the Wellcome Trust, looked at data from 204 countries and territories. And it went further – predicting that by 2050, another 39 million people around the world could succumb to antibiotic-resistant infections.
Clean and disinfect scrapes and cuts.
The thought of bugs that can’t be beaten by modern drugs is scary. But there are things we can do, while we wait for scientists to discover new antibiotics, to prevent ourselves from getting sick in the first place.
FIRST, WASH YOUR HANDS…
Yes, that old line. But one of the few good things to come out of Covid-19 was the fact that it made us all think, afresh, about the importance of good hygiene. And just because the hysteria has abated, it doesn’t mean we should abandon the healthy habits we learned during the pandemic.
Wash your hands frequently and make the process fun – or at least moderately enjoyable. (Remember: doing it properly requires 20 seconds of lathering and rinsing!) Pitch that cracked, old sliver of soap by the sink and replace it with a bottle of liquid soap like Method’s ‘Sweet Water’ foaming handwash – or a big luxurious bar (check out our Nesti Dante range) – to encourage family and visitors to go to town.
THE FIRST CUT IS THE DEEPEST…
Scientists still don’t understand, completely, how the immune system works. Mainly because It’s a system, not one single thing. But we do know that microbes enter our bodies through openings – our mouths, noses, and a few more you can probably think of. And they can also get in through wounds.
So, when you get a cut or a graze don’t shilly-shally. We have a whole range of disinfectants to treat minor wounds – Bactine Max not only does the job but numbs the pain, too. And if you do yourself a damage while you’re out and about, we have something for that, too. We stock packs of wound cleansing wipes and anti-bacterial hand wipes, so you can be prepared, wherever you are.
Practice good oral hygiene.
GIVE YOUR BODY A BOOST
There is a lot of talk about ways you can improve your immune system with vitamins or herbs or supplements. But bombarding your body with large amounts of a single vitamin or mineral is not a great idea. A healthy diet, involving plenty of fresh fruit and veg – like the ones you see displayed right outside our pharmacy – should give you everything you need, to keep your T-cells (the white blood cells that are the body’s small soldiers) in tip-top shape.
But if you know your diet is deficient in some way – if you hate vegetables, for instance; or find, now that you are older, that your appetite has dwindled – then taking a multi-vitamin can plug the gaps and give your body a helping hand. We have a great selection of multivitamins on offer, for all ages. Chewable (tasty) ones, from Olly, for those who don’t like swallowing pills. And specific ones for your time of life – children, pregnant women, men, seniors – to make sure you are ready to repel whatever germs come your way.
DON’T FORGET TO FLOSS
Remember that bit about places where germs can get in? Well, your mouth is a prime spot for invasion. Which is why oral hygiene is so important. Surveys show that flossing at least once a day (preferably right before you brush!) can help to prevent build-up of bacteria. Which gives your immune system a helping hand. Check out our range of flosses, tapes and flosspicks, in our dental health section.
Keep up to date with vaccinations.
GRAB A JAB…
Finally, keep up to date with vaccinations! Studies show that for people over 65, respiratory infections – like Flu and Covid-19 – are major killers. So, it’s really important to get those jabs when they are offered. Although we don’t offer vaccinations at our pharmacy, the Government does run a Flu Express program every autumn (dates announced soon on the Government website, gov.bm) under which seniors (65 and over) can get protected for free. Everyone else is $20 – a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you miss the Express, talk to your doctor, or call the Hamilton Health Centre on 278-6460 or 278-6461 to book an appointment.
Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.
Sep 17, 2024
By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire
September is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Bermuda and around the world. And these days, who isn’t aware of Alzheimer’s, and dementia in general?
In a tight-knit community like Bermuda, we all know someone who is a victim – personally. A friend, a neighbour, a family member. We also know the effect it can have on sufferers, and those who love and care for them.
Alzheimer’s is the most common kind of dementia (an umbrella term which covers a number of progressive diseases that affect memory, thinking and behaviour), afflicting more than half of all sufferers. Last year, dementia – including Alzheimer’s – was the single biggest cause of death in the UK. Here on the Island, local dementia experts NorthStar reckon that as many as 3,000 people may be living with dementia – most of them cared for by their families.
For some reason, which scientists still don’t understand, women are twice as likely to get it as men. The biggest contributing factor is age – and obviously we can’t stop the clock.
There is also evidence that some of us may be more genetically disposed to getting it – particularly the early onset varieties. And again, we can’t (yet) change our genes.
But there ARE some things we can do, to help us ward off the onset of this terrible disease, while research scientists – who are making progress all the time – come up with better drugs to slow its progress and, eventually, find a cure.
Exercise
Physical activity is not just good for your body, and your soul – there are signs that regular exercise may help to stave off the onset of dementia. It also helps to combat obesity (another trigger for dementia) as well as depression (ditto). Studies show that two and a half hours of moderate exercise, spread out over a week, can make a difference. Take a walk on the beach or along the railway trail. Do some energetic gardening. Or book a dance class – learning new steps will boost your fitness AND improve your memory.
Stop smoking
We know that smoking is bad for your lungs – but it may be bad for your brain, too. A 2019 survey found that smokers were 40 per cent more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than those who’d never lit up. If you’ve quit…dozens of times… and it just doesn’t stick, why not check out some of the remedies we have on offer? Nicotine Replacement Therapy treatments are available in many forms – including skin patches (Nicotinell), chewing gum and lozenges (Nicorette). Talk to one of our pharmacists if you are serious about kicking the habit.
Take a Vitamin D supplement
A deficiency of Vitamin D has been linked to increased likelihood of getting Alzheimer’s. Luckily, in Bermuda, most of us get enough of ‘the sunshine vitamin’ straight from source. But some people – older folks, and anyone with kidney or liver problems – may have lower levels. We stock a number of daily Vitamin D supplements, in pill, gummy and drops form, such as Sun Warrior Vitamin D3 and Now and Nature’s Truth brands for those who need a boost.
Look after your teeth and gums!
It may sound crazy, but medical studies have shown a link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s. The bacteria that cause periodontal disease can travel to, and affect, your brain. We have a whole range of products that can help keep your gums in the pink – ranging from traditional dental floss and wax to flossing sticks, interdental brushes and electric water picks. We also stock Gum Stimulators – rubber-tipped gadgets you can use to gently massage your gums.
If you want to learn more about Alzheimer’s, or suspect that someone you know and love may be affected, why not visit Action on Alzheimer’s and Dementia (aad.bm), their affiliates Alzheimer’s Disease International (alzint.org), and NorthStar Dementia (northstardementia.bm).
Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.
Aug 12, 2024
By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire
We are now, officially, in the dog days of summer: when you feel like a wilted lettuce leaf ten minutes after your morning shower. But don’t sweat it – help is at hand, in your Pharmacy Corner…
MIST OPPORTUNITIES…
Sometimes in August the mere thought of touching your skin is unwelcome.
So why not skip your regular lotion and try a lighter one instead? Many of your favourite brands offer lighter versions of your usual products, which will combat dry skin and leave you feeling fresh as the proverbial daisy.
For a quick pick-up, pop a spring water mister into your handbag or car. Spray over your face, to revive wilted makeup, and on pulse points like your throat and the inside of your wrists and elbows, for a refreshing cool-down. You can also find a witch hazel mist with rose petals by Thayer that would be very refreshing too.
A PRICKLY SUBJECT
High summer is when prickly heat strikes. For babies, this can be particularly vexing. Most health experts recommend keeping it simple for infants and their delicate skin. Apply a cool compress (a flannel dipped in cool water will do nicely) or give your little one a tepid bath to ease the pain.
If your child is scratching, you could try an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (ask your pharmacist for advice on this one).
And keep an eye on those irritated patches – if they remain inflamed, or start to spread, talk to your pharmacist or contact your doctor.
Grown-ups are not immune from prickly heat, either. If you’ve got it, a medicated powder like Ammen’s or Gold Bond can help. And, at the end of the day, treat yourself to a soothing bath – using a product containing oatmeal like Aveeno Bath Soak. Follow that with a skin calming lotion like Calamine, dabbed gently on trouble spots with cotton pads, to guarantee a good night’s sleep.
SMELLS LIKE TROUBLE
There’s nothing worse – well, not much – than catching a whiff of yourself and thinking: my anti-perspirant is not cutting it. August will put your regular brand to the test – and it may be found wanting. But don’t panic. We stock a number of ‘clinical strength’ anti-perspirants, including ones from Dove, Secret and Gillette which should help. Remember, though, if you feel like you are sweating excessively, speak to your pharmacist or your doctor, because it could be a sign of something else.
FEET FIRST
If smelly feet are the issue, try soaking them in a solution of Epsom salts (half a cup dissolved in warm water in a large bowl or washtub) with a few drops of Tea Tree Oil once a week for 10-20 minutes. It’s a great way to kill off the bacteria that can cause foot odour (so Grandma was right!). We stock a number of brands, including Dr. Teals.
And once your feet smell sweet, make sure your shoes don’t let the side down. Specialists Dr Scholl and Odor Eaters do a number of deodorant products to spray or shake into your footwear, to keep them, and your tootsies, smelling like roses.
ELECTROLYTES
Playing sports – or working outdoors – in August is a sweaty business. And when you sweat, you lose more than just water. You also lose electrolytes – like sodium, magnesium and potassium. An electrolyte imbalance can lead to dehydration, and in extreme cases trigger all sorts of scary things, ranging from nausea to heart palpitations.
Ideally, wait till it’s cooler for your workout – or do it somewhere air-conditioned. If that’s not an option (outdoor workers we salute you), then just drinking water is not going to cut it (and drinking too much may make the imbalance worse). You need to replenish those electrolytes. We stock a number of oral electrolyte solutions Pedialyte – ready to drink, as well as dissolvable tablets and powders like Dioralyte, Nuun (Sport Hydration or Daily Hydration) Super Fuel and Nature’s Truth Electrolytes, so you can get your body back in balance – and make the most of your summer.
Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.
Jul 18, 2024
By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire
Summer holidays are here – and so is the great summer getaway. Do you have everything you need to make your trip a success?! If not, a visit to our pharmacy will help fill in any gaps in your packing list.
KEEP IT SMALL
Despite tantalising talk of a change in security rules, most airports still insist that all liquids be in containers no bigger than 100ml/3.4 fl oz for carry-on luggage. If you’re travelling light, this means packing smaller versions of your products. We have fill-your-own containers if you want to decant your own products into something which will pass muster at the airport.
BE PREPARED
Nobody heads off on holiday anticipating trouble, but it makes sense to pack a few basic items, as part of a compact first-aid kit. Painkillers – an acetaminophen type like Tylenol or Paracetamol; plus an NSAID, such as Advil or Ibuprofen – are a must (and it’s easier to carry your own than have to hunt them down in a foreign pharmacy).
But allergy pills are a great idea, too; for everything from hay fever to bug bites. We stock a wide range of non-drowsy antihistamines over the counter such as Loratadine (Clarityn) and Fexofenadine (Allegra). If you’re on medication, or have an underlying medical condition such as glaucoma, check with one of our pharmacists to make sure you choose something which suits you.
BUZZ OFF!
Heading somewhere hot and humid? Don’t forget the insect repellent. The buzz word for bug sprays these days is ‘Picaridin’ – a substance related to black pepper which, unlike our old favourite, Deet (still extremely effective), isn’t oily and doesn’t smell. We have a number of different Picaridin based brands in our grocery. And if you DO get bitten or stung, you’ll be glad you packed a tube of Benadryl or Anthisan or hydrocortisone cream, to stop the itching. Use a 1% product for bites on the body or a 0.5% product for babies or bites on the face.
TUMMY TROUBLES
Vacation is a time to eat, drink and be merry. But all that merriment can lead to …indigestion. Take chewable antacids like Tums or Rolaids to provide immediate relief. Plus, maybe an acid reducer like Omeprazole, Lansoprazole or Famotidine, for longer-acting protection. And don’t forget the Imodium (Loperamide) in case the chef’s special is special in all the wrong ways.
FEET DON’T FAIL ME NOW
If your vacation involves lots of walking, or the unveiling of a new pair of summer sandals – or both – you’ll also want to carry blister plasters. Compeed and Scholl do great ranges of hydrocolloidal products (that’s gel-filled, to you and me) which will put some pep back in your step.
THE MOTION OF THE OCEAN
Is there a cruise in your future? Maybe some whale watching? Don’t let sea-sickness rock the boat. We stock motion sickness pills like Dramamine, Gravol or Stugeron. Patches containing scopolamine have unfortunately been unavailable from the manufacturer recently but we do have Sea-band which work by accupressure, so you can enjoy smooth sailing. Remember, though, to check with the pharmacist, because some of these remedies are not meant for children.
TAKE A LIST
If you’re on regular medication, you will obviously need to take your pills with you. But rules regarding prescription drugs vary from country to country, and state to state. So, it’s a smart idea to travel with a copy of your prescription(s), not just to show to the nice people in customs and immigration, if they ask. But in case (heaven forbid) of a medical emergency, when a list of your meds could save a lot of time and trouble. Talk to one of our pharmacists about getting the appropriate paperwork, so you can jet off with peace of mind.
Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.
Jun 12, 2024
By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire
JUNE is, officially, the month when summer starts. We bid goodbye to spring on the solstice – this year Thursday, June 20. It’s the longest day…and the shortest night, celebrated in Shakespeare’s comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream: a tale of magic, and star-crossed lovers drifting off (literally and metaphorically) in the woods.
For most of us, the dream would be just having a good night’s sleep – preferably without visions of fairies and men with donkey’s heads on their shoulders. But how to achieve it? Sleep experts have plenty of tips. Do some exercise – but not too late in the day. Avoid caffeine in the evening and try chamomile tea instead (check out our range of bedtime beverages from brands like Traditional Medicinals and Buddha Organic). And if you want to read something, make it a book, not an electronic device (the glare from the screen is the enemy of sleep). But there are a number of ‘sleep aids’ you can use, too, to help you drift off.
RELISH THE ROUTINE
All the experts agree that establishing a bedtime routine is important for a good night’s rest. Relax your mind and your body by taking a warm bath or shower before you turn in. We have an array of bath products to make your night-time ritual something you’ll really look forward to. Unwrap a bar of Dolce Vivere soap (handmade in Florence) and be whisked away to Rome, Sardinia, or Capri, depending on which scent you choose. Or try a silky liquid castile soap made with lavender – long recognised as having sleep-inducing properties. We stock ones from the Dr Woods Naturally range, and also Dr Bronner’s.
SCENTS AND SENSIBILITY
Lavender can also be used in the bedroom, as part of your sleep routine. A few drops of essential lavender oil by Aura Cacia, Now and Nature’s Truth, placed in a diffuser (look at our assortment of diffusers next to the essential oils) can turn your room into a relaxing haven. Or follow the example of Charles VI of France (known at the start of his reign in 1380 as ‘The Beloved’ before gaining the less welcome moniker of ‘The Mad’), who liked to sleep with lavender tucked inside his pillow. Put a drop or two of lavender oil on an old handkerchief and pop inside your pillowcase (not directly next to your skin…it could irritate). And sleep like a king.
MELATONIN
The hormone melatonin is nature’s sleep aid. Produced by the brain’s pineal gland in response to darkness, it regulates our sleep cycle. In the evening, when its levels are high, we feel drowsy. (Which is why it’s important to make sure that your bedroom really is pitch black after lights out…an eye mask can help with this.).
But when we are wrestling with insomnia, and losing, we might need more help. One option is to boost our own melatonin levels with a synthetic supplement. We have a number of brands available over the counter by Nature’s Bounty, Nature’s Truth, Now, and Sundown in tablet, liquid, and gummy formulations. Olly (purveyors of delicious chewable vitamins) make a Sleep gummy containing melatonin (sugar-free and Blackberry flavoured). Or try Boiron Sleep Calm, Goli Dreamy Sleep, Genexa Sleepology, or Neuriva Relax and Sleep. And many people swear by Valerian Root – we stock a wide range of supplements designed to aid sleep naturally like Kalms.
SILENCE IS GOLDEN
Just as light is the enemy of a good night’s sleep, so too is noise. Sometimes it’s the noise of your partner snoring – or you – that’s to blame. Luckily, we have a number of products to tackle the problem: from nasal strips like Breathe Right, which physically hold the airways open, to sprays like Snoreeze Nose or throat sprays designed to target snoring brought on by allergies or colds.
And if something else is disrupting your dreams – traffic, or the hum of machinery – why not consider soft foam earplugs. Old-fashioned but effective.
The solution to finding a good night’s sleep – and sweet dreams – could be waiting right in your pharmacy. But if your sleeplessness persists, then it’s time to consult your GP.
Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.
May 7, 2024
By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire
Traditionally, no Bermudian worth their salt would go swimming until May 24. Nowadays, folks have mellowed – or should that be, become braver? – about going overboard before then.
However, the long holiday weekend is still the official start of summer for many of us, with all that entails: whether it’s boating, a beach party, or just a barbecue in the backyard.
But are you ready?
HERE COMES THE SUN
We all know the importance of protecting our skin against harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays – no more basting and turning. Most dermatologists recommend you apply a product with at least an SPF of 30; and go higher (SPF 40 or 50) if you’ve not been in the sun for a while, have sensitive skin, or are going to be in or on the water, where reflection will increase your chances of burning. Children will also need stronger sun protection.
Check to make sure your old sunscreen is still fit for purpose. It should last for three years – good brands will have an expiration date somewhere on the packaging. Pitch anything that’s past that limit or arouses suspicion – is it a funny colour? Does it smell weird or look strange? – toss it to be safe.
Finally, make sure you’ve got enough. Experts recommend you use 1oz (that’s a shot glass full) of lotion or cream on your face and body with each application. And you will need to reapply, in many cases, after you’ve been in the water.
Speaking of which, if you’re going to be swimming, it makes sense to use a Reef Safe brand of sunscreen like Land Shark and Blue Lizard. Protect yourself – and protect our beautiful marine life, too.
Remember: don’t be afraid to ask our team of pharmacists to recommend a brand to suit you – and your needs.
FEEL THE BURN
So, you’ve used sunscreen but – for whatever reason – you’ve still got burnt. What to do?
If your sunburn is severe – if your skin is blistering, you feel shivery, have a headache, feel nauseous, or all of the above – you need to seek medical advice at once.
For a mild sunburn, though, the pharmacy can help. Doctors recommend taking frequent cool showers or baths to lessen the discomfort, before smoothing on a moisturiser containing aloe vera or soy. This will trap water and lessen the dryness (which speeds the recovery time) and will also soothe the pain. Two good brands to try are SolRx and Land Shark.
You might also want to apply a 1 per cent hydrocortisone cream (available without prescription) for a short time, to reduce swelling and redness. Again, check with our helpful pharmacists, who can suggest options.
WHAT’S THAT YOU SAY?
You’ve had a beautiful, Bermudaful May 24th. You applied your sunscreen dutifully, and after a day of swimming, or snorkelling, or water-skiing, you have that marvellous, sun-kissed glow. But, less marvellously, you’ve got salt water in your ears. Resist the urge to stick a cotton bud in your ear to clear it (while we do stock them, they are better served for other purposes, like applying or removing make-up). Instead, ask the Lindo’s pharmacy team for some alcohol-based eardrops, to help dry out your ear canal, safely. We stock several good brands including Swim Ear and Dri Ear. It’s worth having a bottle on hand if you’re going to be spending a lot of time at the beach or the pool this summer. Hear, hear to that!
Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.
