BASIC HUMAN NEEDS

 Hygiene measures
 Skin care

Common skin problem

 Acne

 One of the most widespread skin conditions, acne comes in many forms.
 Pustules are the common red pimples that have pus at their tips.
 Papules are the raised red bumps caused by infected hair follicles.
 Nodules are the painful lumps that lie underneath the surface of the skin.
 Cysts are the typically larger painful, pus-filled infections that lie beneath the skin.

Hives are itchy welts that are raised up from the normal layer of the skin. They may be caused by an allergic
reaction in the body or outside factors, such as stress, illnesses, or even tight clothes. Hives are treated with
antihistamines and preventive practices.

 Common warts typically grow on the hands, feet, and joints, though they can appear anywhere. They often go
away on their own, though unsightly warts can be treated with liquid nitrogen or medicated creams.
 Haemangioma

 Hemangiomas are most common on the neck, head, or face of infants. They begin as small red scratches or
bumps which eventually begin to bulge out and turn into large growths.

Although hemangiomas are easily discovered on the skin, they can actually be found on various organs of the
body, and are commonly discovered on the liver. They usually disappear on their own by the age of 10, though
some may need removal.
 Measles

 A highly infectious airborne viral illness. Children and pregnant women are most vulnerable to the illness, but it
can happen to anyone.

 One symptom of measles is a red or brown rash that spreads down the body. Other symptoms include fever,
runny eyes and nose, cough, and small reddish spots inside the mouth. Measles tend to go away after 7-10 days,
but symptoms may still be treated.
NURSING INTERVENTION

 In athletes foot make sure the feet clean and dry

 clean or wash the skin with anti-microbial soap
 provide adequate supply of nutrients especially protein for faster healing
 apply

GUIDELINES FOR SKIN CARE

 Apply sunscreen every day before you go outdoors.

Sunscreen is the closest thing we have to a fountain of youth. It really can slow down skin aging. It can also help prevent
skin cancer. Look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 (or higher), and water resistance.

Wash your face when waking, before bed, and after sweating.

 Washing when you wake up removes the dirt and bacteria that settle on your face while sleeping.
Before bed, you want to remove makeup and grime, such as smog, smoke, or dirt, which may have
landed on your skin.
Gently wash your face.
Gentle cleansing helps skin look its best. To gently cleanse your face, wet it with lukewarm water. Then
apply a mild cleanser, gently applying the cleanser in a circular motion with your fingertips. Finish by
completely rinsing off the cleanser and gently patting your face dry with a clean towel.

Stress less.
Finding healthy ways to manage stress can help your skin, too. Some skin diseases like psoriasis and
atopic dermatitis (eczema) often appear for the first time when someone feels really stressed. Stress can
also cause flare-ups of many skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.

See a dermatologist if you dislike something about your skin.

When it comes to our skin, dermatologists are the experts. These doctors diagnose and treat thousands
of different skin diseases. They also have the expertise needed to help people safely rejuvenate and care
for their skin.
Types of skin lesions

Primary lesions

 Bulla—a vesicle (see definition below) greater than 5 mm in diameter

 Cyst—an elevated, circumscribed area of the skin filled with liquid or semisolid fluid
 Macule—a flat, circumscribed area; can be brown, red, white, or tan
 Nodule—an elevated, firm, circumscribed, and palpable area greater than 5 mm in diameter; can involve all skin
layers
 Papule—an elevated, palpable, firm, circumscribed area generally less than 5 mm in diameter
 Plaque—an elevated, flat-topped, firm, rough, superficial papule greater than 2 cm in diameter; papules can
coalesce to form plaques
 Pustule—an elevated, superficial area that is similar to a vesicle but filled with pus
 Vesicle—an elevated, circumscribed, superficial, fluid-filled blister less than 5 mm in diameter
 Wheal—an elevated, irregularly shaped area of cutaneous edema; wheals are solid, transient, and changeable,
with a variable diameter; can be red, pale pink, or white.
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 Secondary lesions

 Crust—a slightly elevated area of variable size; consists of dried serum, blood, or purulent exudate
 Excoriation—linear scratches that may or may not be denuded
 Lichenification—rough, thickened epidermis; accentuated skin markings caused by rubbing or scratching (eg,
chronic eczema and lichen simplex)
 Scale—heaped-up keratinized cells; flakey exfoliation; irregular; thick or thin; dry or oily; variable size; can be
white or tan.
2. PERENEAL CARE

PERENIAL CARE IN MALE:

 Procedure
 Equipment needed: gloves, washbasin, soap, washcloths, bath towel, waterproof pad, and bag for soiled laundry

 Perform hand hygiene and put on gloves.
 Explain the procedure to the patient and ask for his assistance in following directions. Provide privacy.
 Fill a basin with warm water. Ensure the water is a comfortable temperature.
 Raise the bed to a comfortable working height.
 Gently clean around the perineal area, including the inner thighs and the scrotum.
 Rinse the entire area with a clean washcloth. Pat dry with a bath towel.
 If the resident is uncircumcised, retract the foreskin to expose the tip of the penis.
 Using a circular motion, begin washing at the tip and work down and around the shaft of the penis until you
reach the base. Use a clean section of the washcloth for each stroke.
 Rinse and dry the penis in the same pattern.
 If present, return the foreskin to its original position.
 Assist the resident onto his side to expose the buttocks.
 Wash the buttocks and the anal area. Rinse and pat dry.
 If needed, change the linens and/or place a clean waterproof pad underneath the patient.
 Assist the resident into a comfortable position and lower the bed.
 Place all used washcloths, towels, and linens into a bag for soiled laundry.
 Dispose of the water and clean the washbasin.
 Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene.
 Document the procedure in the patient’s chart and report any changes in the patient’s condition to the nurse.
 Important Information
Perineal care should be performed during a bath, after using the bedpan, and/or after incontinence. Special care
should be used when performing perineal care on an uncircumcised male. Failure to retract and wash the area
under the foreskin can result in infection. Failure to return the foreskin to its normal position can result in
paraphimosis. This condition causes discomfort, swelling, and possible necrosis of the tip of the penis
  PERINEAL CARE IN FEMALE

Perineal Care Procedure

Equipment needed: gloves, washbasin, soap, washcloths, bath towel, waterproof pad, and soiled laundry bag.

Perform hand hygiene and put on gloves.

Explain the procedure to the patient and ask for their assistance in following directions. Provide privacy.

Raise the bed to a comfortable working height.

Fill a basin with warm water. Ensure the water is a comfortable temperature.

Assist the resident in spreading her legs.

Gently clean around the perineal area, including the inner thighs and outside the labia.

With one hand, separate the labia.

With the other hand, wipe down the center of the inner labia with a soapy washcloth. Only wipe in a front to back
motion.

Using a clean area of the washcloth for each stroke, wipe from front to back on both sides of the vulva.

Rinse the entire area with a clean washcloth. Pat dry with a bath towel.

Assist the patient onto her side to expose the buttocks.

Wash the buttocks and the anal area using the same front to back technique. Rinse and pat dry.

If needed, change the linens and/or place a clean waterproof pad underneath the patient.

Assist the resident into a comfortable position and lower the bed.

Place all used washcloths, towels, and linens into a soiled laundry bag.

Dispose of the water and clean the washbasin.

Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene.

Document the procedure in the patient’s chart and report any changes in the patient’s condition to the nurse.

Important Information

Perineal care should be performed during a bath, after using the bedpan, and/or after incontinence. Proper technique is
important for maintaining hygiene, preventing infection, and avoiding skin breakdown. Because of the close proximity
between a woman’s urethra, vagina, and anus, it is essential to only wipe in a front to back motion. Wiping in the
opposite direction is associated with a greater risk for developing a urinary tract infection [1].

It is important to be respectful and professional when providing this care. Many patients find this procedure awkward
and uncomfortable. If a patient is able to perform this care independently, then allow them to do so and provide them
with privacy.
PURPOSE OF PERINEAL CARE:

Perineal care means

- cleaning genital and anal area;

- assist for ask if person will self-clean

Perineal care purpose

- prevent infection, odor and promote control

- prevent microbes from growing where warm, moist and dark

Perineal care important to those who

- have a urinary catheter

- have given birth

- had rectal or genital surgery

- are urinary or fecal incontinent

- are menstruating

- are uncircumcised (foreskin is covering head of penis)

Perineal care procedures

- When standard precautions, medical asepsis, BBP standard and work from clean to dirty

- use warm water, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry

- explain how you protect person's privacy & steps

NURSING INTERVENTION OF PERINEAL CARE:

 Assess for the any irritation, excoriation, inflammation or swelling

 Assess for any excessive discharge
 Assess for any odor
 Assess for any pain or discomfort
 Ask patient if there is any urinary or fecal incontinence
 Notice if the patient has a catheter in place
 If the patient has had recent perineal or rectal surgery
 Determine their perineal-genital hygiene practices
 When cleansing this area remember to clean from front to back. Another way to remember is to wash or wipe
from “clean to dirty”
3. FOOT CARE GUIDELINES:

 Diabetes can be dangerous to your feet—even a small cut can produce serious consequences. Diabetes
may cause nerve damage that takes away the feeling in your feet. Diabetes may also reduce blood flow
to the feet, making it harder to heal an injury or resist infection. Because of these problems, you may
not notice a foreign object in your shoe. As a result, you could develop a blister or a sore. This could lead
to an infection or a no healing wound that could put you at risk for an amputation.
 To avoid serious foot problems that could result in losing a toe, foot or leg, follow these guidelines.
Inspect your feet daily. Check for cuts, blisters, redness, and swelling or nail problems. Use a magnifying hand
mirror to look at the bottom of your feet. Call your doctor if you notice anything.

 Bathe feet in lukewarm, never hot, water. Keep your feet clean by washing them daily. Use only
lukewarm water—the temperature you would use on a newborn baby.

 Be gentle when bathing your feet. Wash them using a soft washcloth or sponge. Dry by blotting or patting and
carefully dry between the toes.

 Moisturize your feet but not between your toes. Use a moisturizer daily to keep dry skin from itching or
cracking. But don't moisturize between the toes—that could encourage a fungal infection.
 Cut nails carefully. Cut them straight across and file the edges. Don’t cut nails too short, as this could lead to
ingrown toenails. If you have concerns about your nails, consult your doctor.
 Never treat corns or calluses yourself. No “bathroom surgery” or medicated pads. Visit your doctor for
appropriate treatment.

Wear clean, dry socks. Change them daily.

 Consider socks made specifically for patients living with diabetes. These socks have extra cushioning, do not
have elastic tops, are higher than the ankle and are made from fibres that wick moisture away from the skin.
 Wear socks to bed. If your feet get cold at night, wear socks. Never use a heating pad or a hot water bottle.
 Shake out your shoes and feel the inside before wearing. Remember, your feet may not be able to feel a pebble
or other foreign object, so always inspect your shoes before putting them on.
 Keep your feet warm and dry. Don’t let your feet get wet in snow or rain. Wear warm socks and shoes in winter.
 Consider using an antiperspirant on the soles of your feet. This is helpful if you have excessive sweating of the
feet.
 Never walk barefoot. Not even at home! Always wear shoes or slippers. You could step on something and get a
scratch or cut.
 Take care of your diabetes. Keep your blood sugar levels under control.
 Do not smoke. Smoking restricts blood flow in your feet.
COMMON FOOT PROBLEMS:

 Fungal Nail Infection

 Tiny fungi can get inside your nail through a crack or break, causing an infection that can make
nails thick, discoloured, and brittle. The fungus, which thrives in warm, wet places, can spread to
people who swim a lot or who have sweaty feet. An infection won't go away on its own, and it
can be hard to treat. Creams you put on your nail may help mild cases. Antifungal pills or surgery
to remove the nail offer the best chance of clearing up a severe infection.
 Corns and Calluses
 Friction or pressure causes these thick, hard, dead areas of skin. Corns look cone-shaped and
point into the skin, usually forming on pressure points from poorly fitted shoes or a bone spur.
Calluses tend to spread out more and can appear anywhere something rubs on your skin.
Moleskin pads can help relieve a corn. Your doctor can trim calluses or correct them with
surgery. You can also wear patches with medication that can remove calluses.
 Gout
 It's a form of arthritis that causes sudden pain, redness, swelling, and stiffness. It usually affects
the large joint of the big toe, but it also can flare in the foot, ankle, or knees. Gout comes from
too much uric acid (UA) in your body, which can form needle-like crystals in joints. Attacks can
last days or weeks. You can treat it with drugs that fight inflammation (pain, redness, and
swelling) or UA-lowering medication. Some diet changes help break down uric acid, too.
 Plantar Warts
 These tough growths form on the soles of the feet. You get them when a virus enters your body
through broken skin. They can spread through skin-to-skin contact or on surfaces in places like
public pools and showers. The warts are harmless, so you don't have to treat them. In many
cases they're too painful to ignore, though. You can apply salicylic acid to help get rid of them.
But burning, freezing, laser therapy and surgery to remove them work best for more severe
cases.
 Athlete's Foot
 This fungal infection can cause peeling, redness, itching, burning, and sometimes blisters and
sores. It's mildly contagious, spreading to others by direct contact or by walking barefoot in
places like locker rooms or near pools. The fungi then grow in shoes, especially tight ones
without air flow. Treatments usually include fungus-fighting lotions, or pills for more severe
cases.
 Hammertoe
 When toe muscles around the joints get out of balance, they can cause painful problems.
Hammertoe generally makes the second, third, or fourth toes bend downward at the middle
joint. The condition sometimes runs in families. Other risks include tight footwear or an old
injury to a toe. Well-fitted shoes with the right amount of space in the toe box, shoe supports,
and surgery may offer relief.
 Ingrown Toenail
 It's just how it sounds -- a toenail that has grown into the skin. The problem can cause pain,
redness, swelling, and infection. You can get them from cutting your nails too short or not
straight across, injuring a toenail, and wearing tight shoes. For mild cases, soak your foot in
warm water, keep it clean, and wedge a small piece of cotton under the corner of the ingrown
nail to lift it off the skin. Minor surgery can remove all or part of the nail.
4. NAIL CARE:

1. Keep your hands very clean.

Before you do anything, it's important to make sure your nails and the skin around them are thoroughly dirt-free. Then
remove all traces of your last color with an acetone-free remover (anything else unnecessarily dries out your nail). Dr.
Ava Shamban, author of Heal Your Skin, recommends applying soap to a toothbrush, then gently scrubbing your nails
and skin. This will remove dirt and exfoliate any dead skin without the need for harsh, drying chemicals or expensive
scrubs.

2. Be gentle on your nails.

Your nails are delicate, and scrubbing them too roughly can actually expose you to infection. Another no-no: Using metal
nail tools under the nail, as too much digging under the nail plate will cause it to separate from the skin, leading to an
irregular white arching nail tip explains N.Y.C. dermatologist Dr. Janet Prystowsky.

3. Clip your nails regularly.

Regular trims are as important to your nails as they are to your hair, says Dr. Prystowsky. So set aside time to clip them
every two weeks, adjusting to more or less often once you see how your nails respond.

4. Prioritize health over length.

Long nails are beautiful, but if you're someone who has struggled with snags or breakage, Dr. Shamban recommends
that you keep your nails short — at least to start out with. A shorter style with a rounded edge tends to be easier to
manage and looks neater, so you can focus on building strength without worrying about anything else. As long as each
nail is uniform in shape and matches its nine neighbors, you won't miss the added length.

5. Always keep an emery board on hand.

If you're someone whose work or gym routine causes a lot of wear and tear, Dr. Prystowsky suggests keeping a nail file
handy to smooth away any rough edges that happen on the spot. The best way to do it? Work in one direction with the
grain of your nail for a smoother finish.

6. Leave your cuticles alone.

The cuticle has a very important purpose to serve: It seals the area at the base of the nail. So when you cut or remove
the cuticle, it breaks that seal of protection, leaving you vulnerable to bacteria and the possibility of infection. The better
you are at leaving cuticles alone, the more your nails will thank you. But if you're dead set on messing with them, Dr.
Debbie Palmer, dermatologist and creator of Replere, recommends gently pushing back the cuticle once a week with a
wooden orange stick after getting out of the shower, then massaging them with a cuticle cream or thick, creamy lotion.
6. MOUTH CARE

 IN CONSCIOUS PATIENT
 Why Mouth Care is Important for Conscious Patients?
Oral health care is an essential component of daily hygiene for hospitalized patients and a clean
mouth and properly functioning teeth are essential for physical and mental well-being. Due to
the lack of energy, unconsciousness or physical disability, most of the times patients are not
able to perform personal care activities. Nurses have an important role in helping patients
maintain an acceptable level of oral health. So, they have to maintain the mouth care procedure
properly.

Mouth Care Process for Conscious Patients:

Following are the mouth care procedure for routine mouth care for a hospitalized patient, who able to help himself and
require some assistance.

Arrange all equipment on the bedside cabinet or on an over bed table.

Set the patient bed in a comfortable position.

Explain the procedure to the patient that you are going to clean his mouth.

Close door or put screen.

Remove any partial or full plates or dentures and keep in denture soaking solution.

Wash hand to prevent cross infection.

Put on gloves.

Put the patient in a comfortable position. (Fully upright position to prevent aspiration during mouth cleaning).

Place a towel under the chin.

Place mackintosh around the patient’s position.

Use gauze and a flash light to inspect oral cavity.

Prepare brush with toothpaste and brush the teeth and tongue with a soft-bristle toothbrush or mouth swab.

Instruct the patient how to brush teeth properly.

If patient cannot tolerate tooth brush, can use cotton ball

Gently brushes the inner and outer surfaces of the teeth, including the gum line.

Use tongue depressor to open the patient’s mouth.

Hold kidney tray in position and instruct patient to gurgle with water.

Give mouth wash to patient for gurgle to kill the germ.

Wipe lips and face with towel

Apply Boro- glycerin or lip balm on cracked lips to keep them soft and moist.

Put the patient in a comfortable position.

Remove all articles, clean and keep in place.

Keep all dirty material in paper bag and dispose properly

 Mouth care for unconscious patient

 Importance of Oral Care in Nursing:
Oral care or mouth care is one of the most basic nursing activities. Keeping the mouth and teeth clean
will protect patient’s oral health and allow quicker recovery by preventing infections. The patient is
unconscious, oral care will be needed more frequently. Unconscious patients usually breathe through
the mouth, causing secretions to dry. It is vital aspect of patient care that needs to be carried out
consistently by a nurse. Nurse plays an important role in providing effective oral care and promoting oral
hygiene of an unconscious patient. Nurses should be aware of risk factors associated with poor oral
health and be able to assess and help patients maintain oral hygiene. In another article i have shared an
article about.
 Oral care procedures are used for patients who are unconscious or who are not able to eat or
drink.

 Arrange all equipment on the bedside cabinet or on an over bed table.
 Set the patient bed in a comfortable position and lower one side rail.
 Place a bulb syringe or suction machine with suction machine nearby.
 Place client in side-lying position and raise the level of the bed on one side so that the patient is
in partial sitting position.
 Rinse your hands properly with antiseptic soap and lukewarm water.
 Wear gloves after drying hands.
 Place towel or waterproof pad under client’s chin and Wrap the patient’s chest
 Keep kidney tray under patient’s cheek or remove secretions from mouth by suction catheter.
 Use padded tongue blade to open teeth gently. Never put your fingers in an unconscious
patient’s mouth.
 Turn the head of the patient towards you in a very gentle manner.
 Clean mouth, gums, teeth and tongue with toothbrush and toothpaste.
 Use an Aseptic syringe or irrigating bulb without needle to rinse oral cavity. Swab or use oral
suction to remove pooled secretions
 Clean immediately after brushing and Suction the saliva and toothpaste from the mouth of the
patient.
 Wipe out the extra water on the mouth with a clean small towel.
 Removes basin, dries face and mouth and applies water-soluble lip moisturizer.
 Bring the patient back to the comfortable position.
 Raise side rail and lower bed position.
 Dispose of gloves in paper bag and wash hands properly.
 Report & documents oral findings and procedure.
NURSING INTERVENTION IN MOUTH CARE:

 GARGLE WITH ANTI MICROBIAL MOUTH WASH

 MAKE SURE THE FOODS EATEN BY THE PATIENT IS CLEAN
 PAIN MANAGEMENT IF THERE IS INFLAMATION

COMMON MOUTH PROBEM

 Cold Sores
Also called fever blisters, you don't get cold sores from fevers or colds but they can be triggered by them. The
virus that causes cold sores is usually passed via a kiss, shared utensils, or other close contact. Over-the-counter
creams and ointments may help discomfort and speed healing. Frequent sores may require a prescription. Cold
sores are a top mouth problem. Other problems include canker sores, TMJ, bad breath, and mouth cancer.

 Thrush
Caused by candida yeast, thrush is most common in older adults or babies. But a weakened immune system,
antibiotics, diabetes, or certain medications -- such as inhaled corticosteroids -- can give candida a chance to
grow wild. Wiping away the patches will cause soreness. See a doctor for a firm diagnosis.

 Canker Sores
No one knows what causes these small, painful blisters inside your mouth. Triggers include
hypersensitivity, infection, hormones, stress, and not getting enough of some vitamins. Also called
aphthous ulcers, canker sores can show up on the tongue, cheek, even your gums. They usually last a
week or two. Persistent, severe canker sores can be treated with numbing creams, prescription drugs, or
dental lasers.
 Gum Disease
When periodontal (gum) disease develops, bacteria in plaque accumulate along the gum line. Gingivitis
is the first stage of gum disease. Symptoms include red, puffy, and bleeding gums. Proper oral hygiene
can help prevent periodontal disease. Smoking, poor diet, and stress can make it worse.
 Bad Breath
Unbrushed teeth have food particles around them that promote bacteria and cause bad breath.
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth may be from continuous breathing through your
mouth, dry mouth, tooth decay, a sign of gum disease, or even diabetes. Fight bad breath by brushing
your teeth and tongue, flossing and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash daily, drinking water, and
avoiding food triggers. See your dentist if bad breath

 Canker Sores
No one knows what causes these small, painful blisters inside your mouth. Triggers include
hypersensitivity, infection, hormones, stress, and not getting enough of some vitamins. Also called
aphthous ulcers, canker sores can show up on the tongue, cheek, even your gums. They usually last a
week or two. Persistent, severe canker sores can be treated with numbing creams, prescription drugs, or
dental lasers.
7. HAIR CARE:

 a. General
 A patient’s hair should be combed daily. In addition, other care is necessary to enhance morale,
stimulate circulation of the scalp, and prevent tangled, matted hair.
 . Daily Care.

 Encourage the patient to rub his scalp with fingertips to stimulate circulation. Comb hair in a
becoming style. To assist a patient to comb matted and tangled hair, first comb the ends and
progress toward the scalp. Hold the lock of hair being combed between the scalp and the comb
to avoid pulling. Brush the hair as necessary
 Shampoo.

 The patient confined to bed will require a cleansing shampoo at least every two weeks. With the
approval of the medical officer, plan the shampoo for a time when the patient feels rested and
has no conflicting treatments or appointments. If the patient can be moved to a stretcher, do so
and take him to a convenient sink. If this is not possible, do the shampoo in bed.

NURSING INTERVENTION:

 Clean and brush hair

 Apply shampoo every day or hot oil


COMMON HAIR SCALP:

 DRY SCALP

If your scalp is feeling tight and irritated, there’s a good chance you’re suffering from dry scalp. Find out what’s
causing it and how to treat it.

 ITCHY SCALP

Discover the causes, symptoms and treatment for itchy scalp with our experts’ guide with tips and tricks to help you
eliminate itching.

 SENSITIVE SCALP

See what causes sensitive scalp and how to treat it with our tips from choosing the right shampoo to making a few
simple changes to your hair care routine.
8. EYE CARE:

Vision care

 Everyone should have a regular dilated exam every year or two, and a dilated exam annually after age 60,
according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). Between routine visits, you can take these essential
steps which may maintain or improve your vision:
 Eat at least 5 servings daily of fruits and vegetables.
 Don’t smoke.
 Take regular breaks while doing computer work and other tasks that mostly involve your eyes.
 Wear your glasses. This sounds obvious, but many people with low to moderate vision loss leave them at home
or tucked in a pocket or purse because of vanity or forgetfulness.
 Wear sunglasses when out of doors. Wear sunglasses that protect your eyes from UVA and UVB rays. Wear
them even on cloudy days.

 Closely follow the recommended schedule for cleaning and wearing contact lenses.

 Know your family's eye history and share this information with your healthcare providers.

 If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, make sure these conditions are under control.
What to do

 Itchy, burning or red eyes. These symptoms can result from dry eye conditions common after age 50, or from
high mucous production in allergy-prone contact lens wearers. Using artificial tears may help with dry eye. Some
allergy sufferers can get some help from switching to disposable or daily wear lenses. Contact lens wearers and
adults older than 50 with these symptoms should consult an eye care professional for appropriate treatment.

 Trouble with glare. If night-time headlight glare is an on-going problem or if you work in visually demanding
situations, ask your eye care professional about antireflection-coated lenses. These can help reduce glare and
reflections both day and night. Remember, for older adults, an increased sense of glare may be a symptom of
beginning cataracts and a reason to get an eye exam.

 Reduced vision in aging eyes. In addition to a new eyeglass lens prescription, a helpful measure for older eyes is
to place more lamps in the home and install task lighting. Choose high-output fluorescent bulbs to increase light
output while decreasing energy usage. Eliminate glare with indirect lighting.

 Problems with new glasses. If, after a few days of wearing new lenses, you continue to have blurred vision,
double vision, or other problems, sees your eye care professional. The problem may be solved by an adjustment
to either the frame or the prescription.

 Annoying spots in front of your eyes. Generally, seeing spots or floaters is a common, harmless experience of
aging. Seeing flashes, or, in some cases "floaters," however, may signal something more serious like diabetic
retinopathy, carotid artery disease, or early-stage retinal detachment. Call your healthcare professional if you
have symptoms.
8 EAR CARE:

 Get regular check-ups

 Ask your primary care physician to incorporate hearing screenings into your regular check-ups. Because
hearing loss develops gradually, it’s also recommended that you have annual hearing consultations with
a hearing healthcare professional. That way, you’ll be more likely to recognize signs of hearing loss and
take action as soon as you do.

 Taking action is important because untreated hearing loss, besides detracting from quality of life and the
strength of relationships, has been linked to other health concerns like depression, dementia, and heart
disease.

 KEEP YOUR EARS DRY

 Excess moisture can allow bacteria to enter and attack the ear canal. This can cause swimmer's ear or
other types of ear infections, which can be dangerous for your hearing ability. Be sure you gently towel-
dry your ears after bathing or swimming. If you can feel water in the ear, tilt your head to the side and
tug lightly on the ear lobe to coax the water out.
 Stop using cotton swabs in your ears
 It’s common for people to use cotton swabs to clean wax out of their ear canal, but this is definitely not
advisable. A little bit of wax in your ears is not only normal, but it’s also important. The ears are self-
cleaning organs, and wax stops dust and other harmful particles from entering the canal. Plus, inserting
anything inside your ear canals risks damaging sensitive organs like your ear drum.
 Give your ears time to recover
 If you are exposed to loud noises for a prolonged period of time, like at a concert or a bar, your ears
need time to recover. If you can, step outside for five minutes every so often in order to let them rest.

 What’s more, researchers have found that your ears need an average of 16 hours of quiet to recover
from one loud night out.

 Use earplugs around loud noises

 Clubs, concerts, lawnmowers, chainsaws, and any other noises that force you to shout so the person
next to you can hear your voice all create dangerous levels of sound. Earplugs are convenient and easy
to obtain. You can even have a pair custom fitted for your ears by your local hearing healthcare
provider.

 Musicians' earplugs are custom earplugs with filters that allow a person to hear conversations and music
but still reduce harmful sound levels while maintaining the quality of the original sound as closely as
possible.