Presbyterian | Your Story | Centennial Care | Spring 2021

www.phs.org/centennialcare 3 Think handwashing is a no-brainer? How to wash the right way Washing your hands often is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick. But you have to do it right to get the most benefit. Here’s a refresher on the right technique: 1. Wet your hands with running water and turn off the tap. 2. Apply soap and rub your hands together to make a lather. 3. Scrub for at least 20 seconds. Be sure to wash the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails. 4. Rinse your hands well. 5. Use a clean towel or air-dry your hands. Know when to wash Wash your hands often, especially at times like these: • After using the restroom • Before handling food or eating • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing • Before and after caring for someone who is sick • After touching any surface that might have germs Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention The warmer weather you’ve been waiting for is finally here! But spring can also bring something you don’t want: seasonal allergies. As plants release tiny grains of pollen into the air, your body may react with: ● A runny or stuffy nose ● A scratchy throat ● Persistent sneezing ● Red, watery, or swollen eyes What can you do? Simple steps like these may help you feel better: 1. Watch the pollen count. Weather reports often mention this during allergy season. On days when the pollen count is high, try to stay inside more. 2. Keep windows closed. Open windows can let pollen drift in and settle on carpets and furniture. 3. Dress for defense. When you’re outside, wear a hat and sunglasses to help keep pollen out of your hair and eyes. 4. Wash pollen away. Take a shower, wash your hair, and change your clothes if you’ve been playing or working outside. Check in with your doctor If tips like these don’t help, talk with your doctor about your options. Some medicines can help you manage symptoms. Or you might want to try allergy shots. They can make you less sensitive to pollen. Source: Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America Spring allergies: Four ways to find relief