Cary Spotlight | Issue #352

OTC Risks for Over 50, Brené Brown's Take on Human Connection, a New Health Collaboration

In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭Spotlight Hook Trivia

😀 Quote of the Day

📰 Over-the-Counter Medications That Pose Risks After 50

▶️ Brené Brown: The Power of Vulnerability in Human Connection

📰 WakeMed and Helix Join Forces for Population Health Genomics Program

😋🍴 Savor Cary: SAAP

☀️ Cary NC Weather

📅Lots Of Events This Week

🏛️ Support Cary Local Businesses

Question: Who was the Mexican-American physicist awarded the National Medal of Science in 1995?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

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These articles are for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.

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Over-the-Counter Medications That Pose Risks After 50

As we age, our bodies change in ways that can make common over-the-counter (OTC) medications riskier than we might realize. From painkillers to allergy treatments, what once seemed like harmless remedies can interact with other medications or exacerbate age-related conditions. A staggering number of adults over 65 take five or more prescription drugs daily, and when combined with OTC medications, the risk of side effects or harmful drug interactions rises.

Additionally, age-related shifts in how our organs function—like the kidneys and liver—further complicate how our bodies process these medicines. The following ten medications, commonly found in your local pharmacy, should be used with caution if you’re over 50.

  1. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and Naproxen (Aleve): NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen may provide quick relief for aches and pains, but they can cause stomach bleeding and ulcers in older adults, especially for those on blood thinners or with uncontrolled high blood pressure.

  2. Acetaminophen (Tylenol): While acetaminophen is considered safer than NSAIDs for older adults, overuse can lead to severe liver damage. Many cold medications contain acetaminophen, so it’s easy to accidentally take too much.

  3. Aspirin: Though commonly used for heart health, aspirin carries increased risks of bleeding for older adults. Recent guidelines suggest that daily low-dose aspirin is no longer recommended for those over 60 unless advised by a doctor due to prior heart issues.

  4. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): This antihistamine is found in many allergy and sleep aids but can cause drowsiness, confusion, and memory problems in older adults, increasing the risk of falls.

  5. Pseudoephedrine and Phenylephrine (Sudafed): Common decongestants can raise blood pressure and pose risks for those with high blood pressure or enlarged prostates. Safer alternatives like nasal sprays are recommended but should also be used cautiously.

  6. Fluticasone (Flonase) and Budesonide (Rhinocort): Steroid nasal sprays can help with allergies but may increase eye pressure, worsening glaucoma, and cause nosebleeds when improperly used.

  7. Omeprazole (Prilosec), Esomeprazole (Nexium), and Lansoprazole (Prevacid): These proton pump inhibitors, often used for heartburn, can weaken bones and increase the risk of infections when used long-term. They should be taken for short periods only.

  8. Magnesium Citrate, Milk of Magnesia: Magnesium citrate, often used as a laxative, can disrupt electrolyte levels and cause irregular heartbeats, while milk of magnesia, though milder, can still lead to issues with prolonged use in older adults.

  9. Oxybutynin (Oxytrol for Women): This bladder control medication, available OTC for women, can lead to dizziness and dry mouth and is associated with an increased risk of dementia in older adults.

  10. Dietary Supplements: Herbal supplements like St. John’s wort and valerian can interact with prescription medications, and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K can accumulate in the body, leading to toxicity. Always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.

Just curious…

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Brené Brown: The Power of Vulnerability in Human Connection

In her groundbreaking research on human connection, Brené Brown delves into what it means to empathize, belong, and love. At a TEDx event in Houston, Brown shared a personal journey that began with her quest to understand the complex emotions that bind people together. What she discovered led her not only to academic insights but to a deeper self-awareness, as she grappled with the vulnerabilities inherent in human connection.

Brown's work sheds light on the universal desire to feel accepted and understood, and how our capacity for connection is often shaped by our willingness to embrace vulnerability. The search for belonging, she found, is rooted in the courage to be open, even when it feels uncomfortable. This realization challenged her as both a researcher and a person, leading her to explore how shame and fear of rejection can inhibit authentic relationships.

The talk is an invitation to reflect on our own lives, to question the ways we protect ourselves from emotional risk, and to consider how opening ourselves to vulnerability may actually be the key to deeper, more meaningful connections with others. In blending humor and personal revelation, Brown's TEDx talk offers not only research-based insight but also a powerful call to courage in the face of human fragility.

How familiar are you with Brené Brown's work on vulnerability and human connection?

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WakeMed and Helix Join Forces for Population Health Genomics Program

WakeMed and Helix are collaborating on an innovative genetic health initiative designed to transform healthcare in Wake County. Over four years, they plan to enroll 100,000 participants in a program that will provide DNA-based health insights at no cost.

This initiative aims to improve preventive care by identifying genetic risks for diseases such as cancer and heart disease, allowing for early detection and personalized treatment. 

By analyzing genetic data on a large scale, WakeMed hopes to create more effective health programs for the local community. Helix’s cutting-edge genomics platform ensures participants’ genetic information can be continuously updated for future health insights, making this program a valuable long-term tool for both patients and healthcare providers. Read Full Report

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Savor Cary: SAAP

SAAP the restaurant chosen by the September winner of our Savor Cary Giveaway. If you had a chance to sample their food, feel free to share your opinion below. We will share the results of this reader poll in an upcoming issue.
Checkout their website (reservations required): SAAP

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Cary Spotlight introduced the “Savor Cary” giveaway, a new initiative designed to highlight Cary's vibrant dining scene. Subscribers can enter to win a VIP dining experience by referring new readers to our newsletter.

You can choose from a selection of dining experiences valued at $100 (gift voucher), with new options introduced monthly to keep the contest engaging and fresh. First drawing: 24 Oct 2024.

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The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question👇👇👇

Dr. Richard Tapia, a Mexican-American physicist and mathematician, was awarded the National Medal of Science in 1995 for his pioneering contributions to mathematics and science education.

Known for his work in computational and applied mathematics, Dr. Tapia has been a tireless advocate for diversity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). His efforts have helped open doors for underrepresented minorities in these fields, making him a leading voice in education reform and diversity advocacy.

For more information about Dr. Richard Tapia and his achievements, you can visit the National Science Foundation’s page on Richard Tapia.