Spring is a great season to go outdoors and enjoy the recreational activities that might have been put on hold over the winter. But there are certain health concerns that might inhibit you from getting out there and marveling at the world as it comes back to life.
South Florida Baptist Hosptial is a great resource for springing forward to improvements in your health, right here in town. Whether through classes or the personal care of its physicians, the hospital likely can offer exactly the help you might need.
One of the most prominent health concerns this season is pollen allergies. If you are affected by these allergies, the hospital’s website offers some tips for lessening your symptoms.
Wear clothing made of natural fibers, such as cotton. Synthetic fabrics are more likely to rub together and create a static charge that will attract pollen.
If you run, bike, walk or participate in other forms of outdoor exercise, do these activities when pollen counts are lowest: before dawn or in the early evening. If you are exercising or gardening, or if there is another reason you will be outside for an extended length of time, take a non-drowsy antihistamine about half an hour in advance.
After spending time outside, do not touch your eyes or face. Wash your hands as soon as you return inside. Vacuum regularly, shower often and leave your shoes by the door to limit indoor allergens’ effects this time of year.
If your allergy medications do not seem to be effective, you might want to consider allergy shots. Though there are not currently any residential allergy specialists at South Florida Baptist Hospital, they are available at other BayCare institutions. Go to baycare.org/find-a-doctor.
South Florida Baptist Hospital also offers a variety of programs every month, covering topics, such as weight loss, blood pressure, CPR and steps toward quitting smoking, for free.
Let the hospital help you take control of your health this spring, and find joy in knowing that a healthier you is just around the corner.
— Catherine Sinclair
SPRING INTO A NEW YOU
All events are at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St., unless otherwise noted.
Blood Pressure Checks
Date: 1 to 2 p.m., Tuesdays
Cost: Free
Details: No appointment is necessary. This event recurs every Tuesday.
Cholesterol Screenings
Date: 2 to 3 p.m., every fourth Tuesday
Cost: $30
Details: No appointment is necessary.
CPR BLS Recertification
Date: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, May 4
Cost: $40
Details: This class provides basic life support recertification for health care workers. To receive a new card, students must pass a written test at the end of the course.
Smoking Cessation
Date: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 7
Location: SFBH Cancer Resource Center, 1708 Palmetto Ave.
Cost: Free
Details: This class offers valuable tools to help attendees quit the use of tobacco, and includes four free weeks of patches, gum or lozenges.
Weight Loss Surgery Info Session
Date: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 11
Location: Medical Arts Center main lobby, 1601 W. Timberlane Drive
Cost: Free
Details: Guests will meet a surgeon and be able to ask questions about their options for weight loss surgery.
Safe Sitter
Date: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 16
Cost: $55
Details: Current and future babysitters can learn how to handle casual to life-threatening situations such as choking, general safety and even entertainment.