Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office or are too embarrassed to ask? The experts at Samaritan Health Services are here to help. June / July
Q: We can’t wait to get back in the water this summer! What would you say are the most important safety tips we should go over with our kids again?
A: Summer is definitely a great time in our region of Oregon, with the lakes and rivers nearby, as well as plenty of indoor and outdoor swimming pools. I’m glad you asked about safety tips, because it’s too easy for something to happen without any notice.
First, don’t let your kids swim alone. Always keep an eye on them and make it a requirement that they wear a life jacket in a lake or river. No exceptions. And if you have a pool, make sure you have a locking cover on it to avoid accidental drownings.
Second, don’t dive into water. Always go in feet first. You never know when a rock or branch is near the surface but not visible. You also don’t know when someone might swim right underneath you, and a diving accident can have life-changing consequences.
Don’t jump into the water to save someone who is struggling. I know that’s your first instinct, but now you’re in danger too. Make sure you have something nearby that you can toss to them, so you can pull them to safety. And make sure you have a phone nearby as well to call for help if you need it.
It’s also important to make sure your kids know how to swim. There are plenty of options for swim lessons in our region, so get your kids signed up. Not only will swimming skills help keep your kids safe, swimming is also a great aerobic exercise and competitive sport. Once your kids know how to swim, there’s no telling how far they’ll go with it!
Besides water safety, remember sun safety as well. Make sure you’re applying sunscreen every four hours, or wear UV-filtering clothing while you’re in the sun.
— Shelli Russell-Skerski, MD, Samaritan Health Center – Newport
Q: I’m beginning to notice that fine lines around my face are becoming more defined. When should I start considering treatment like Botox?
A: Botox or other injectables are a less invasive alternative to surgery that can temporarily smooth unwanted wrinkles and creases for a more youthful appearance.
When you start considering fillers and injectables such as Botox, it’s a personal decision. Once you begin to notice permanent wrinkles such as frown lines or crow’s feet, they can be treated with an injectable to eliminate or keep them from becoming deeper.
Botox is recommended for people ages 18 to 65 to eliminate frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet for up to four months. Fillers such as Restylane, Juvederm and Voluma are used to restore overall volume and fullness using hyaluronic acid, a substance that already exists in your body, to provide results for up to a year or longer.
There are several injectable options, and your provider will address your skin’s unique needs. Schedule a complimentary appointment by calling 541-768-4370.
— Karin Olszewski, RN, Samaritan Plastic, Reconstructive & Hand Surgery
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Call Samaritan Health Services Find a Doctor line at 800-863-5241 to find a provider who is right for you.