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Game On!

Polk Senior Games Return This Year With Outdoor Activities by CATHERINE CERVONE This year marks the 29th year of the annual Polk Senior Games, the largest of the 20 local senior games held in Florida. Participants who are turning at least 50 years old in 2022 can participate in a variety of…
Pop Quiz: Heart attack or Panic Attack: Which Is It?

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., so it’s no wonder that a heart attack—a result of coronary artery disease, which is one of the forms of heart disease—is a concern. While the most common symptoms of a heart attack are often recognizable, the symptoms of another common health condition—a panic…
Are You Talking to Me?

Recognizing and Neutralizing Negative Self-Talk by TERESA SCHIFFER As the new year gets underway, there’s always a lot of talk about resolutions. Healthy lifestyles, fewer expletives, diets and procrastination rank up there with the most common goals. This year, how about a different kind of resolution? One that could have a lasting effect on…

Aortic Dissection: Diagnosis and Management

In the June article, we discussed aortic dissection, its symptoms, and its classification. Let’s discuss other aspects now. Aortic dissection is most commonly diagnosed when the patient presents with tearing chest or back pain that is unrelenting and associated with severely elevated blood pressure. Other signs indicative of various important organs not getting enough oxygen/blood…
Hindsight Is 20/20, so Prioritize Eye Safety Now

by TERRANCE HAFNER, O.D. The eyes are one of the most important organs in our body, allowing us to see and experience the world around us. It is crucial to prioritize eye safety to prevent any potential injuries or long-term damage. In this article, we will explore various safety measures and practices that can help…
Aortic Dissection: Rare and Potentially Deadly

Aortic dissection is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, the main blood vessel branching off from the heart. An acute aortic dissection is a medical emergency and presents with excruciating chest or upper back pain that radiates to the neck or back. Other symptoms include sudden loss of consciousness and shortness of…