Bowmanville Health Centre

🇨🇦 Honouring Labour Day in Canada: A day of history and significance 🇨🇦

Did you know Labour Day in Canada dates back to the 1870s? It all began with the Toronto Typographical Union's strike of 1872, fighting for a nine-hour workday. Workers faced harsh conditions, long hours, and little protection at the time. The strike began a broader movement for workers' rights and helped inspire the Labour Day we celebrate today.

By 1894, Labour Day became a national holiday, officially recognizing workers' contributions nationwide. This day not only honours the achievements of the labour movement but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the dignity of work.

As we celebrate Labour Day today, let’s remember the courage and determination of those who fought for the rights we enjoy now, and let’s continue the work to ensure fairness and justice for all workers in the future. ✊🏼📜

Overdose kills thousands the world over.

It isn't easy to think or talk about, but there are many deaths, often by accident, sometimes not. Today is International Overdose Awareness Day to remind ourselves of those we have lost and to share the grief of friends and family who remember them with fondness.

Whether it is alcohol, depressants, opioids, psychoactive stimulants or crystal methamphetamine, misadventure can lead to fatalities. If you would like to learn more about detecting signs of overdose, what you should do if you suspect it, or how you might save a life, please visit www.overdoseday.com

If you wish to learn how to use naloxone to reverse an opioid overdose, contact Bowmanville Clinic Pharmacy at 905.623.7611 for advice and information. They may also be able to provide naloxone to help someone at risk of overdose. Also, check out this Government of Canada website at https://tinyurl.com/3j9s8dvh to learn more.

Protect yourself from the burning rays of the sun.

There’s still plenty of sunshine left as summer winds down. Sunscreen protects your skin from sunburn, sun-damaging rays, and cancer. Use SPF 30 or higher, and wear a wide-brimmed hat to defend yourself. Don't forget to cover your ears, too. Look for oil-free and non-comedogenic products (meaning they won’t block your pores). Know your skin type to make the best selection. Sunscreen helps your skin look young, too.

It’s your skin, so don’t skimp on a quality product. Look for a broad-spectrum product that protects against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning). If you wear makeup, sunscreen goes on first. 😎 ☀️

Bowmanville Health Centre was built in 1969.

Some of you were born here and are raising your own families. We're excited to celebrate our 55th year in wonderful Bowmanville, offering the best possible care for you, your families, and their families. We keep evolving and growing to meet and exceed the changes in our community.

Do you need a prescription filled?

When you are at Bowmanville Health Centre, drop by Bowmanville Clinic Pharmacy, now in its 55th year. Throughout the week, if you have parked here and filled that prescription, they will give you a free voucher to drive out of the lot. Weekday and holiday parking is free.

If you require a special compound created just for you, want help using a medical device, get advice about diabetes, or get your medications checked for safe interactions, they are here to help. They will also deliver to the local community for free. Who could ask for anything more?

The dedicated staff at Bowmanville Clinic Pharmacy is committed to providing exceptional service and treating you like family. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Are you GLA:D?

More than 4.4 million Canadians live with osteoarthritis. GLA:D is an 8-week education and exercise program for people with knee and hip osteoarthritis symptoms delivered by certified therapists. The CMCC program includes two education classes on Osteoarthritis and 12 exercise sessions (2 times a week for six weeks). Your outcomes are measured to monitor your improvement. The program aims to reduce your symptoms so you can do what you want!

No referral is required. Please call (905) 419-2622. Appointments are available six days a week.

🖐️ Do any of your fingers bend uncontrollably sideways or toward your palm?

🖐️ Dupuytren contracture causes the fingers (typically ring or pinky) to curl inward over time due to the thickening, tightening, and hardening of tissue under the skin at its base. This condition can affect both hands and, rarely, the feet. It can make ordinary tasks—shaking hands, wearing gloves, keyboarding, and golfing—challenging. Left untreated, it worsens over time. While the cause is unknown, there are risk factors:

* Age: Most common after age 50.
* Gender: More male than female; worse symptoms; faster progress.
* Ancestry: More common in people of northern European or Scandinavian descent.
* Family: Heredity is a factor.
* Occupation: Potential connection with those who use vibrating tools (jackhammers, chainsaws, hammer drills, grinders, rock drills, sanders, etc.)
* Seizure medication: Linked to medicine to treat epilepsy.
* Diabetes: Greater risk.
* Smoking: Increased chances.

🖐️ No known cure exists, and it isn’t dangerous, but various treatments are available depending on your condition and age: steroid shots, radiation therapy, enzyme injection, and needle aponeurotomy. Your doctor will discuss your options. Surgery is the most common solution because it offers complete and lasting relief.

🖐️ For more information, visit the Canadian Dupuytren Society: https://www.dupuytrencanada.ca.

In any crisis, healthcare workers are often the first and only link to essential health services for vulnerable communities.

They travel to remote areas to provide medical services. They stay behind to care for people in conflict zones. They help out in camps, hospitals, and clinics. On , we thank healthcare workers who support people in their most difficult times because

Learn more about today at worldhumanitarianday.org 🧑🏾‍⚕️👨🏿‍⚕️👩🏼‍⚕️🧑🏼‍⚕️👨🏻‍⚕️🧑🏽‍⚕️

🦠☀️ Unfortunately, Ontario is experiencing a summer wave of COVID-19. ☀️🦠

At the same time, Ontario is dropping wastewater testing, so an important safeguard and early warning system to monitor virus levels will no longer be available. What you might think is a "summer cold" could be COVID. You could be susceptible if it's been six months since your last vaccination. Vaccines don't prevent you from getting infected, but a robust immune system can reduce the severity and duration, especially for senior and immuno-compromised populations. As always, staying vigilant and protecting yourself and your community is essential. Here's what you need to know:

🌟 The current situation:

There is an increase in COVID-19 cases across the province.
There is a slight uptick in hospital admissions, though most cases are generally not severe.
Continued monitoring of emerging variants and their impact.

🌟 Follow these health measures:

Wear masks in crowded indoor spaces and public transportation.
Get your booster shots if eligible to enhance protection.
Test regularly if you have symptoms or have been exposed to an infected person.
Maintain good hand hygiene and use sanitizer frequently.
Keep a safe distance in crowded areas.

🌟 How to stay safer this summer:

Opt for outdoor gatherings and activities when possible.
Follow updates from health officials and adhere to guidelines.
Check in on friends, family, and neighbours, especially those at higher risk.
Eat well, stay hydrated, and get enough rest to boost your immunity.

The Public Health Agency of Canada is developing vaccines against circulating virus variants, such as the KP.2 and JN.1 strains.

Let's work together to keep Ontario safe and enjoy a healthy summer. Your actions matter. Share this post to spread awareness and help protect our community! 🔗 For more information, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/covid-19-coronavirus.

As summer unofficially winds down, why not enjoy a relaxing stroll along the waterfront?

Durham Region and Bowmanville have many beautiful spots along the water. It's a little bit of exercise and good for the soul.

It's International Youth Day 2024—From clicks to progress: Youth digital pathways for sustainable development.

Half the Earth's population is 30 or younger, and that number will reach 57% in six years. They are critical voices, believing in a better future. They drive the adoption and adaptation of new digital technologies, a cornerstone of a sustainable tomorrow. Mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence are key to advancing sustainable development goals with decreasing costs.

Find out more by visiting https://tinyurl.com/4auscxw2.

Whooping cough isn't confined to kids.

It's called "whooping cough" because of the sound people make trying to catch their breath. Adults can also suffer from the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, which causes pertussis or whooping cough. Left untreated, it can get severe, leading to pneumonia, malnutrition, seizures, and lung and heart failure.

Whooping cough is highly contagious and can be easily transmitted by people of all ages, some of whom may not even be aware that they are infected. Vaccines are available and recommended to protect the vulnerable, such as pregnant women, babies, younger children, and adults who were not previously vaccinated as children. The vaccine also offers protection against tetanus and diphtheria. Booster shots are suggested every ten years.

Early indications:
• cold symptoms like runny nose or congestion
• sneezing
• mild cough
• mild fever

Developing symptoms:
• worsening cough due to thickening mucus
• more frequent and violent coughing
• vomiting
• persistence for weeks or months
• nighttime cough that disrupts sleep
• difficulty breathing
• exhaustion

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing whooping cough. If you suspect you may have the condition, it's important to consult a doctor promptly for appropriate treatment. As always, with this and other respiratory diseases, please wear a mask and maintain distance when around other people.

Watermelon keeps you hydrated in hot weather.

We get about 20% of the water we need from food, and watermelon is 92% water with every bite. But some foods contain even more water than that!

1. Cucumbers are 96% water. Yes, you, too, can be cool as a cucumber.
2. Iceberg lettuce is also 96%.
3. Celery: 95%.
4. Radishes: 95%.
5. Romaine lettuce: 95%.
6. Tomatoes: 94%.
7. Zucchini: 94%.

Matching watermelon for water content are strawberries, asparagus, bell peppers, cabbage, cauliflower, mushrooms, and spinach. 🍉

Enjoy the Civic Holiday, also known as Simcoe Day in Ontario.⁠

John Graves Simcoe, Upper Canada's first lieutenant governor, abolished slavery in Canada. Toronto City Council established the civic holiday in honour of Simcoe in 1869.
⁠
It's always a pleasure to have a long weekend and take a moment to reflect on the freedom that we all cherish, a value that the Civic Holiday celebrates.

Check out this drone video of Bowmanville and catch your favourite neighbourhood from a new angle: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=4-1JEEdBIu8.

LIVE WELL tailors your workout and nutrition goals for your specific health issues.

They dedicate time to you when you first join LIVE WELL to make sure they truly understand where you are with your health and create a customized plan with you. Starting with a Baseline Assessment, they establish your fitness level and then design a customized exercise program tailored to your personal health needs and fitness goals.

They are a warm, caring community full of heart, grit, and perseverance. You will be motivated and inspired by those around you. Their program fosters a sense of belonging for members through supervised exercise sessions and special events, like Circuit, Relaxation and Dance Days.

Ready to take the first step towards a healthier you? Try it on for size at no cost or obligation to you. Be their guest and enjoy a one-hour customized, tailored exercise session in the LIVE WELL Exercise Clinic! Some insurance plans will cover Kinesiologists; their services can be claimed as a medical expense on your taxes.

If you have questions about coverage, please contact your insurance provider.

It's enough to make you sick to your stomach.

Gastroparesis is when the stomach does not empty itself into the small intestine in a timely fashion. The muscles that contract to move food along do not do so correctly. This can result in vomiting, nausea, fullness after only a few bites, acid reflux, bloating, pain, weight loss or gain, and tooth decay. Ignoring this issue can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, the inability to digest food, fluctuating blood sugar levels, and more.

Your vagus nerve, which connects your brain to your stomach, might not work correctly. If this sounds familiar, contact your health care professional immediately for testing, diagnosis, and treatment.

Risk factors:
• diabetes
• abdominal or esophageal surgery
• an infection or a virus
• narcotic pain medications
• scleroderma
• Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or other nervous system diseases
• hypothyroidism
• women more than men

The website, Living with Gastroparesis might prove helpful: http://livingwithgastroparesis.com

At some point this summer, you may face down a wasp.

They're fascinating creatures, but they pack a nasty sting...literally, and they can be a real nuisance around food and drink. Unlike bees, they retain their stingers so they can attack again. If you get stung, try to leave it alone so it won't feel threatened and strike again. Beat a hasty but calm retreat from the area.

You won't know if you're allergic if you've never been stung. You may suffer minor pain and redness or have a severe reaction. Watch for trouble breathing, swelling of your face or throat, nausea, vomiting, hives, or itching, especially away from the sting site. Take no chances and get medical attention at the first sign of an adverse reaction.

If you have a more typical mild response, wash the sting site with soap and water and apply ice or a cold compress to suppress mild swelling. You can also take an antihistamine, apply an anti-itch cream, and take non-prescription pain relief.

Are you ever "hangry?"

That's when you get angry because you are hungry. But is it a thing? It turns out it's just not an excuse for a bad mood. A recent study of (only) 64 people allowed them to track their emotional state through an app and identify their hunger levels. Bingo. When participants in this group craved food, they said they were 34% angrier, 37% more irritable, and took 38% less pleasure in whatever they were doing while they had hunger pangs. Impatience also increases with a rumbly tumbly.

Blood sugar levels can decrease so much if you haven't eaten for a while that it triggers hormones like cortisol (stress) and adrenaline (fight or flight). This can increase aggression. Poor impulse control coupled with hunger can increase the chance of lashing out. Going hungry can stress you even more if you're not in the best of health. Researchers point out that it's a good idea to avoid these situations as much as possible because your "hanger" can hang around for days and change your overall attitude even when you get back to normal eating.

PS: This was the first study in IRL vs. a lab.

Today is the annual International Self-Care Day.

We've had quite a ride the past few years. Now, more than ever, it is essential to embrace a healthy lifestyle. A tailored self-care program is a cornerstone for personal wellness. You benefit from quality self-care 24 hours daily, every day for life.

There are seven pillars of self-care:

1. continuous learning as knowledge and health literacy help you make wise health decisions;
2. mental well-being and self-awareness to address stress and listening to your body;
3. regularly participating in the appropriate level of physical activity;
4. eating a nutritious and balanced diet;
5. stopping harmful habits like smoking, excessive alcohol, putting off vaccination, unsafe s*x, avoiding sunscreens;
6. practicing good hygiene like washing your hands thoroughly and often and brushing your teeth;
7. responsibly using medical products as directed.

Remember, self-care isn't selfish. It's a necessary part of maintaining your health and well-being.

Today is the annual International Self-Care Day.⁠
⁠
We've had quite a ride the past few years. Now, more than ever, it is essential to embrace a healthy lifestyle. A tailored self-care program is a cornerstone for personal wellness. You benefit from quality self-care 24 hours daily, every day for life.⁠
⁠
There are seven pillars of self-care:⁠
⁠
1. continuous learning as knowledge and health literacy help you make wise health decisions;⁠
2. mental well-being and self-awareness to address stress and listening to your body;⁠
3. regularly participating in the appropriate level of physical activity;⁠
4. eating a nutritious and balanced diet;⁠
5. stopping harmful habits like smoking, excessive alcohol, putting off vaccination, unsafe s*x, avoiding sunscreens;⁠
6. practicing good hygiene like washing your hands thoroughly and often and brushing your teeth;⁠
7. responsibly using medical products as directed.⁠
⁠
Remember, self-care isn't selfish. It's a necessary part of maintaining your health and well-being.

Have you ever wondered who joins the LIVE WELL Exercise Clinic?

Their members are concerned about their health and want to take advantage of the numerous health benefits of regular exercise. From reducing cholesterol to lowering blood pressure, revitalizing their heart and lungs, and managing their weight, exercise is proven to help prevent and manage chronic disease and various other health conditions. However, the most significant benefit of training is the vitality, mobility, and confidence it gives everyone to LIVE WELL as they age.

Exciting news! You can try LIVE WELL Exercise Clinic for free and claim your complimentary 1-hour exercise session. This is a great opportunity to experience the benefits of their program firsthand. Call 289.276.1415 for more information and to book your session today.

Is your family on the holiday road this summer?

Broadening your horizons is good for the soul. But remember, the key to a stress-free journey is in your hands. Pre-planning and preparation are your secret weapons, giving you the confidence and control you need for a successful trip.

1. Clean the car to make more room and remove the stuff you don't need.
2. Check the oil, fill up, check tires and pressure, and pack your emergency kit.
3. Speaking of kits, snacks are essential, too: sandwiches, fruit, energy bars, and drinks packed in a small cooler.
4. Bring wipes, facial tissue, hand sanitizer, and towels.
5. Charge all your tech in advance and make sure everything is up to date, including navigation.
6. Let the small ones pack their items to keep at hand for their amusement.
7. If you forget something, don't worry. You can replace it or substitute it.
8. Drive safely and rest when you need it.

Enjoy every minute, and don't let frustrations take over. You'll get there.

It's the season to get out and get active.

Experts recommend 150 minutes of low-grade or 75 minutes of strenuous exercise weekly for 18 to 64-year-olds. It's understandable that finding time in a busy week can be a challenge, but remember, staying active is crucial. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and more. So, let's commit to staying active for our health.

A brisk 30-minute walk five days a week or a 75-minute jog on the weekend? The impact appears to be the same, so choose what works best for you to maintain an active lifestyle.

Specific smells trigger strong memories.

Scientists think that human anatomy (proximity) enables quick transmission of odours to the brain. The associations are often stored in long-term memory, making them vivid when they recur. It also might be infrequently smelled, triggering those strong memories when reappearing. Sometimes, a person will relive the circumstances of the original smell, which forms the backdrop for person, place, or emotion. Experiments bear this out. The recall may not be factually accurate, but the feelings are powerful.

We can learn to associate specific smells with everyday activities. If you end the day with a relaxing bubble bath, that scent can relax you in another context. You might need clarification on whether it's the same as your grandmother's lavender perfume (there's no evidence of that)!

Interestingly, no published studies have examined what happens to memory if the sense of smell disappears. This is a fascinating area that warrants further exploration. Maybe there are some smells you don't want to remember anyway.

What aromas bring back fond memories for you?

Join OPG for Tuesdays on the Trail, starting today and running until August 20.

Ontario Power Generation hosts fun family outings in Pickering and Clarington on select Tuesdays in July and August. These outings blend science, art, crafts, explorations of biodiversity, and so much more.

Find the schedule and register at https://www.opg.com/events/tuesdays-on-the-trail/

When you need legal help, look no further than Davidson Cahill Morrison LLP (DCM) in Bowmanville Health Centre.

They were awarded Top Personal Injury Boutique in 2022 and listed among the best law firms in 2022, according to Statista and Report on Business Magazine. Counsel Ron Strike was further recognized in 2024 by Best Lawyers in Canada magazine. DCM specializes in personal injury law and insurance litigation, offering legal advice and support that clients can trust. Davidson Cahill Morrison LLP is there for you when you need them.

Davidson Cahill Morrison LLP is located on the second floor of the east wing. Enter from the parking lot through the east wing doors and walk up the stairs. Turn the corner to the right and head down the hall about halfway. You can also enter the east wing through the ground floor doors from King Street, take the elevator or stairs to the second floor, then head down the hallway and find it on the left.

Visit https://tinyurl.com/45ffzaps for directions and to discover where to find Davidson Cahill Morrison LLP in the building.

How's your gut health?

Think of probiotics as the superheroes of your gut. They're like a team of good bacteria working hard to digest your food. But here's the catch—they have a specific taste and need their favourite foods to stay healthy and do their job effectively.

The foods that they like so much are called prebiotics. They can be found in vegetables 🧄 (asparagus, bananas, garlic, artichokes, leeks, onions, tomatoes, and chicory root), grains 🥖 (barley, rye, and whole grains), and some dairy 🥛 like yogurt and kefir!

By ensuring our diets contain prebiotics and probiotics, we can provide our gut with the goodness it needs to do its best work!

🚑🌟 Watch out! Today marks the 8th National Injury Prevention Day in Canada, a crucial reminder of the urgent need to act and to be safe out there! 🌟🚑

Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability (number one in Canada for people aged 1 to 44), but many are preventable through education, awareness, avoidance, and proactive measures. Injury costs the Canadian economy $29.4 billion a year. Let's work together to reduce risks and protect our communities. 💙

🌟 Focus areas for injury prevention:

🩼 Road safety: Wear seatbelts, follow speed limits, and never drive under the influence.
🩼 Prevent falls: Ensure homes are safe for all ages, especially seniors and children.
🩼 Water safety: Practice safe swimming, wear life jackets, and supervise children around water.
🩼 Sports safety: Use proper gear, warm up, and follow the rules to prevent sports-related injuries.
🩼 Poison prevention: Keep hazardous substances out of reach of children and follow proper usage guidelines.

Please share how you make a difference in injury prevention and inspire your friends to join the movement! 🚦🏡🚴‍♂️🏊‍♀️

🎣🐟 Discover Ontario's Learn to Fish program! 🐟🎣

Ever wanted to try fishing but didn't know where to start? This fantastic initiative offers free, hands-on fishing workshops for all ages, making it easy and fun to learn the basics. Whether you're a complete beginner or need a refresher, expert instructors will guide you every step of the way. 🌊

🌟 What you'll learn:

Fishing gear basics: How to use rods, reels, and tackle.
Casting techniques: Master the art of casting.
Identify fish: Learn about local fish species.
Fish safely: Stay safe and responsible while fishing.
Conservation tips: Protect our natural resources.

🌟 Workshop details:

Locations: There are several fixed locations, as well as mobile ones. Find out all about both and register at https://www.ontario.ca/page/learn-fish -0.
Duration: 2-hour sessions.
Equipment: All fishing gear provided.
Get outside, enjoy nature, and catch some memories with family and friends! 🏞️🐠

If you can't make it in person, you can learn online too at https://www.ontario.ca/page/learn-fish-digital.

Don't cast about for things to do this summer. Reel in some fun with your whole family! Tell us about your fishing experiences or what you're excited to learn in the comments below! 🎣 🐟 💙