We all know that we can’t be the best parents when we’re not feeling our best. As moms, it’s so important for us to stay on top of our preventive healthcare — it helps keep us healthy in the short term and long term. There are a number of things busy moms should always make time for, like doctor’s appointments, blood tests, and vaccinations. And don’t just take our word for it: Bonnie Hui-Callahan, a pharmacist and mom, is here to offer her health guidance.
Bonnie explains, "As mothers, we have to value our health because we know the important role we play in the family and we need to be on top of our game so that we can be there for our families.”
Keep Your Medicine Cabinet Stocked
When you’re a parent, it’s important to keep certain healthcare items on hand. Make sure you have the basics, like a thermometer, adhesive bandages, hydrogen peroxide, gauze, antibiotic ointment, eye drops, nail clippers, and scissors. Of course, you’ll also want to have medications like pain relievers, fever reducers, allergy medications, decongestants, cough drops, and antacids (make sure to buy both adult and kid varieties). Bonnie’s advice? “Don’t forget to read the label on over-the-counter products. Most children’s medicines are weight-based so be sure you are giving your child the right dose. Ask your pharmacist if you aren’t sure of the appropriate amount of medicine to give your child.”
Make Doctor’s Appointments
Make sure to stay on top of your doctor’s appointments, including your primary care doctor, your gynecologist, your dentist, and any other specialists you see. “Set up calendar reminders on your phone to remind yourself when to schedule your next appointments,” Bonnie advises. “Try to get the first appointment of the day or the first appointment after lunch to cut down on time spent in the waiting room. Make a list of questions ahead of time to ask your healthcare provider, including asking for a copy of updated immunization records and any paperwork you might need for your kids’ school or for your work.”
Schedule Health Screenings
In addition to making your annual appointments, make sure to get regular tests for things like diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol. “Don’t forget that pharmacists are trained to provide these screenings as well,” Bonnie explains. “Call your local pharmacy to see if they offer these services. Just think — you may be able to get screened for diabetes at your local grocery store pharmacy and get your groceries all in one trip! Your workplace may offer free health screenings throughout the year too.” You should also stay on top of your cancer screenings, breast exams, pap smears, and more.
Catch Up On Vaccinations
Adults need a number of vaccinations, including the Tdap booster, the flu vaccine, and the hepatitis B vaccine. Nowadays, most kids are vaccinated against hepatitis B at birth, but people born before 1991 may be living unprotected. Now you can catch up to your kids in just 1 month with HEPLISAV-B® [Hepatitis B Vaccine (Recombinant), Adjuvanted]. We know making time for your health can be a challenge with a busy schedule, which is why moms should know that HEPLISAV-B is the only adult option that's just 2 doses, 1 month, done! To find a pharmacy near you that can help protect you against hepatitis B with just two doses in one month, visit HepBcatchup.com. Other adult hepatitis B vaccines require at least 3 doses and take 6 months to complete. Here’s some helpful advice from Bonnie: “Completing all doses of a vaccine series like hepatitis B vaccine is the best way to get yourself fully protected against the virus. If your immune system can’t fight off the hepatitis B virus, it can linger in your body and lead to serious illnesses such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. Since there is currently no cure for hepatitis B, protecting yourself through vaccination is key.”
INDICATION
HEPLISAV-B is indicated for the prevention of infection caused by the hepatitis B virus in adults 18 years of age and older.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
If you have a history of severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of any hepatitis B vaccine, or to any ingredient of HEPLISAV-B, including yeast, do not take HEPLISAV-B.
HEPLISAV-B must be given by a medical professional, who will monitor you afterwards to check for allergic reaction.
If you are immunocompromised, or receiving immunosuppressant therapy, you may have less of an immune response to HEPLISAV-B.
Some people have hepatitis B infection without being aware of it or showing any symptoms. If you already have hepatitis B present in your body, HEPLISAV-B may not prevent hepatitis B infection.
The most common side effects reported by patients within 7 days of vaccination with HEPLISAV-B were pain at the site of injection (23%-39%), tiredness (11%-17%), and headache (8%-17%).
Please see full Prescribing Information.
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*Disclaimer: The advice on CafeMom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
