Relief for Common Concerns About Prescription Meds

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From balancing your mood and preventing infection to improving joint health and even aiding in weight loss, prescription medications can have a tremendous effect on your overall health. However, studies suggest that over 50% of patients do not take medication as directed by their healthcare provider with one in five patients never even filling the prescription. While lots of factors can impact medication adherence, these reasons top the list.

No Longer Needed or Not Working

Sometimes medication can help you feel better right away and other times you may not notice a difference at all. Some medications, like antibiotics, may provide relief in a day or two, but you need to continue treating the illness with the medication to fully clear it from your system. For many conditions that usually don’t have symptoms to begin with, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, you likely won’t notice a change in how you feel, but you will notice a difference in your blood pressure or blood test results. Other medications, like antidepressants, require a buildup of the drug in your system to be effective, so even if you do feel better right away, it may take up to six weeks to realize the full effect of the medication. All medications work differently so it’s a good idea to ask your provider or pharmacist what to expect.

Side Effects or Fear of Side Effects

If you’ve seen or heard an advertisement for a prescription medication, you’ve experienced the long list of possible side effects and interactions. While it’s important to understand the risks and benefits of using prescription medication, keep in mind that U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations require drug manufacturers to include not only the most common reactions but also the most serious reactions to the medication despite how rarely they occur.

Actual side effects will vary, but if your reaction to the prescribed medication causes discomfort or other symptoms that impact your day-to-day life, it may be worth researching other options.

Cost

Prescription medication can be expensive, and in some cases, you may have to prioritize investing in your health over other non-essential expenses. However, if the cost of your medication means you’re skipping doses, not taking it at all, or forgoing basic needs – it’s important to find a cheaper option. Sometimes, you can cut costs by requesting a prescription for a 90-day supply, considering generic medication or another type of drug, or exploring discount cards and programs like GoodRX (free discount program open to anyone) or NOAH’s Discount Program (must meet eligibility requirements for income and family size).

Next Steps

If you’re worried that your medication isn’t working, are concerned about side effects, or can’t afford your prescription, talk to your pharmacist or prescribing provider about your concerns.

NOAH’s integrated pharmacy helps our providers and pharmacists to improve prescription medication adherence through increased communication, prescription tracking, and coordinated outreach to patients.

If you are interested in learning more about NOAH’s Cholla Pharmacy, ask your provider, call 480-903-3560, or stop by Cholla Health Center. Pharmacy services are open to everyone, including NOAH patients! We look forward to serving you.

Community Care Day Event

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NOAH and Molina Healthcare present Community Care Day on Saturday, July 26, at Cholla Health Center. This event is open to all patients and community members and offers free supplies and essential health information.

Event Details:

Resources Offered:

  • Diapers and Wipes
  • School Supplies
  • Groceries and Food Boxes
  • Haircuts
  • Health Resource Information
  • Application Assistance for SNAP, AHCCCS, Marketplace, and more

Mark your calendar and feel free to share this information with friends, family, and anyone else who might benefit from these resources. All items are limited to stock on hand – arrive early for the best selection!

Special thanks to Jaburg Wilk Law Firm and Delta Dental of Arizona for making this event possible by contributing supplies and providing volunteers. Learn how you can help support Community Care Day by participating as an event sponsor.

5 Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

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Physical and mental changes are a regular part of aging but can sometimes be a sign of something more serious. It’s always a good idea to discuss with your primary care provider at your next visit if you experience anything out of the ordinary. However, there are some symptoms that shouldn’t wait.

1. Musculoskeletal Issues

It’s normal to experience some aches and pains in your joints and bones as you age but severe or ongoing discomfort should be evaluated by your primary care provider. This type of pain is often accompanied by weakness, stiffness, balance issues, or even reduced mobility like difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or other movement. Pain and mobility issues may be associated with osteoporosis, arthritis, or other conditions that can be treated with medication, lifestyle changes, or other solutions.  

2. Unexplained Weight Loss

While most people are thrilled at the idea of losing a few pounds without trying, sudden unintentional weight loss (more than 5% of your body weight in 6-12 months) can be concerning. For example, a person weighing 150 pounds should schedule a visit with their primary care physician for unintentional weight loss of more than 7.5 pounds. 

3. Changes in Bladder or Bowel Habits

Going to the bathroom more or less than usual, regularly feeling as though you may not make it to the toilet on time, or a significant change in the appearance of urine or stool may indicate an infection or other health issue.

4. Breathing Difficulties or Shortness of Breath

Ongoing or regularly occurring breathing issues can be a sign of heart problems, respiratory disorders, or even anxiety. If you have trouble breathing or become out of breath with little to no physical activity, it’s a good idea to get checked out.

5. Cognitive Decline

Forgetfulness or trouble concentrating can be a normal part of daily life at any age. However, if new episodes of confusion, memory loss, or irritability occur there could be an underlying cause. Reporting symptoms early can identify conditions like Alzheimer’s that can be slowed with medication. Tracking symptoms over time can also help guide safety decisions such as independent living or driving a car.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss how you’re feeling. Our Family and Internal Medicine providers can help determine if there’s cause for concern. If you need guidance, you can speak to a NOAH nurse by calling 480-882-4545 and requesting our Nurse Triage line, however, if your symptoms are severe, consider heading to the hospital or urgent care.

When to Worry About Memory Loss

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People forget things all the time; and the older you get, the more it happens. So how do you know when memory loss is something more serious?

Warning Signs

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are 10 warning signs to look for:

  1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
  2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
  3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks
  4. Confusion with time or place
  5. Trouble understanding visual images and special relationships
  6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
  7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
  8. Decreased or poor judgment
  9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
  10. Changes in mood and personality

Abnormal vs. Normal Behavior

Here’s a helpful chart from the Alzheimer’s Association to determine what’s normal and what’s not:

Signs of Alzheimer’s/DementiaTypical Age-Related Changes
Poor judgement and decision markingMaking a bad decision once in a while
Inability to manage a budgetMissing a monthly payment
Losing track of the date or the seasonForgetting which day it is and remembering later
Difficulty having a conversationSometimes forgetting which word to use
Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find themLosing things from time to time

For more tips on identifying the signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia, refer to “Is it Alzheimer’s or Just Signs of Aging” from the Alzheimer’s Association.

Getting Support

If you think your loved one is showing signs of dementia, the CDC recommends the following steps:

  • Talk with your loved one about your concerns.
  • Identify what activities might be unsafe for your loved one; like driving, managing finances, or remembering to take daily medication.
  • Schedule an appointment for your loved one with a medical provider you trust and attend the appointment with them to share your concerns.
  • Set-up a family meeting to discuss next steps; and ask the hard questions, including advanced medical directives and estate plans.

As with any disease, early detection is key to slowing or stopping the progression of the illness. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s but there are medications that will slow progression and reduce symptoms of the disease.

To discuss symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment, begin by scheduling an appointment with your primary care provider. Visit our provider profiles to learn more about NOAH family medicine and internal medicine providers or call us at 480-882-4545.

What is a Well-Child Check?

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Well-child checks or visits are important for healthy development. These specific health exams are designed to monitor growth, development, and overall well-being and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months followed by yearly visits through age 21. Even if your child has seen the doctor for an illness or follow-up during the recommended timeframe, they need to be seen for a well-child check too. These preventive visits are usually not combined with another type of visit to allow plenty of time for reviewing topics including:

Growth and Development

Your healthcare provider will asses your child’s physical growth, motor skills, cognitive development, and language abilities. By tracking these milestones, doctors can identify any issues early on.

Vaccinations and Immunizations

Vaccines and immunizations are often administered during these appointments, to ensure your child is up-to-date and protected from preventable diseases.

Nutritional Guidance

Your provider may also offer guidance on nutrition practices, such as the introduction of solid foods and maintaining a balanced diet.

Behavioral and Emotional Well-Being

Your healthcare provider will inquire about your child’s behavior, emotions, and social interactions.

Parental Guidance and Education

Well-child checks provide an opportunity for parents to ask questions, seek guidance, and receive education on how to best support the growth of their child.

Why Well-Child Checks Matter

Well-child visits ensure everything is on track and help discover any potential health or developmental concerns early on, allowing for intervention and treatment. Additionally, these routine examinations build a relationship between the child, parents, and healthcare provider, establishing a medical home that provides consistent care.

Keeping vaccinations current and addressing health and developmental issues help to diminish the risk of specific diseases and illness. Lastly, parents benefit from valuable support and education, empowering them to make well-informed decisions regarding their child’s health and well-being.

Any of our NOAH pediatric and most family medicine providers can see your child for a well-child check. Call our scheduling team at 480-882-4545 to find a provider that fits your needs or request an appointment online.

Get Fresh at Your Local Farmers Market

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There are many ways we can properly fuel our body, and a good way to start is by being surrounded by nutritious foods such as the ones you can find at the farmers market. Around the valley, you can find a variety of farmers markets with local vendors and farmers year-round. You can find fresh produce, delicious food, and even homemade products. It’s a great way to try new things you wouldn’t typically find in stores.

Reasons to attend a local farmer’s market:

  • Enjoy seasonal produce – the produce is as fresh as it gets and usually at its peak in flavor.
  • Support your local farmers – this helps the local economy by supporting small businesses and creating more jobs.
  • Cheaper prices – you can typically find great deals on conventional and organic produce.
  • Less carbon footprint – farm to table is much closer when you’re shopping at your local farmer’s market a few miles away from home.
  • Physical activity – you’ll do plenty of walking while traveling between vendors and getting some fresh air is always a great decision.
  • Variety – you’ll find a variety of vendors selling pasta, bread, and fruits and vegetables among many other edible and non-edible items.

Tips for the farmer’s market:

  • Get there early – you want to increase your chances of finding the most variety before the crowd arrives.
  • Bring your own bags – most booths don’t offer any and you can help save some plastic.
  • Bring the family, pets are welcomed too – this is a great way to involve children by allowing them to choose their fruits and vegetables.
  • Talk to the farmers – they love sharing about their farming practices and will share some tips and tricks on food preparation.
  • Shop the color of the rainbow – For a well-balanced diet, pick fruits and vegetables of all different colors for a variety of vitamins and minerals.
  • Sample before you buy – this allows you to try different products without having to buy them first.
  • Shop the deals – walk around once writing down prices or produce and come around a second time shopping for the best prices. If you find a great deal, buy extra to freeze, or make into large batches for leftovers.  

On WIC, SNAP, or 60 years and older? Keep reading.

If you are on WIC or are a qualifying senior, you may be eligible for $80 (per family member) to $100 toward your purchase of locally grown produce at a participating farmer’s market. Collect coupons from February 15 to September 30 at these participating locations: Locations – Arizona Farmers Market Nutrition Program (azfmnp.org).

SNAP Recipients:

Do you have a SNAP/EBT card with an active balance? For every $1 you spend, you receive an additional $1 to spend on fruits and veggies, dried beans, and edible plants and seeds – there is no daily limit on how much you can double.

Click here for participating locations: Locations — Double Up Food Bucks Arizona (doubleupaz.org)

If you have any questions regarding nutrition related concerns, request an appointment online or call 480-882-4545 to schedule with one of NOAH’s registered dietitians.

Go Green for Your Health

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When it comes to nutrition, adding more leafy greens to your plate is one of the easiest ways to boost your health. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, greens can support digestion, strengthen your immune system, and even improve heart health.

Why Greens Matter

Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, arugula, and romaine lettuce are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. These vegetables also contain fiber, which promotes gut health and keeps your digestive system running smoothly.

Easy Ways to Eat More Greens

Not sure how to include more greens in your diet? Here are some simple ways to get started:

  • Blend into a smoothie – Add a handful of spinach or kale to your morning smoothie for an extra nutrient boost.
  • Toss into a salad – Mix different greens for a variety of textures and flavors. Top with nuts, seeds, and a healthy dressing.
  • Sneak into meals – Stir greens into soups, stews, or pasta sauces to add nutrients without changing the taste.
  • Try lettuce wraps – Swap out tortillas or sandwich bread for romaine or butter lettuce wraps for a fresh, low-carb alternative.

A Small Change with Big Benefits

Incorporating more greens into your diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re blending them into a smoothie, tossing them in a salad, or adding them to your favorite dishes, these simple changes can make a big impact on your overall health. Looking for more personalized nutrition advice? Schedule an appointment with a NOAH Registered Dietitian Nutritionist to discuss how you can go green to give your body the nutrition it needs!

Easy Egg Substitutes That Won’t Cost You The Farm

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People can’t stop talking about the price and availability of eggs and we don’t blame them. 

According to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average price for a dozen eggs increased by 53% over the last year and doesn’t show signs of coming down anytime soon.  

Luckily, if we’ve learned anything through supply shortages and rising costs in recent years, it’s how to let go of everyday staples and learn to get by with alternatives.  

Finding an alternative to eggs might be easier than you think.  

Aside from being fried, scrambled, poached, deviled, and chopped – a great source of flavor and protein – eggs are most often used as a recipe ingredient to help baked goods rise, thicken sauces and soups, bind dry ingredients together, and add moisture. 

Egg Alternatives – Replaces one egg in a traditional recipe.

Leavening (helps baked goods rise) 

  • ¼ cup of diet soda, seltzer, or carbonated water 
  • 2 tbsp. water, 1 tbsp. vegetable oil, and 2 tsp. baking powder 
  • 1 tsp. baking soda and 1 tbsp. vinegar 

Thickening 

  • 1 tbsp. plain gelatin dissolved in 1 tbsp. cold water, then add 2 tbsp. of boiling water 
  • ¼ cup mashed white or sweet potatoes 
  • 1 tbsp. ground flaxseeds (or chia seeds) and 3 tbsp. water 
  • 3 tbsp. aquafaba (liquid from canned/cooked beans) 

Binding and Moistening  

  • ½ cup bananas, mashed 
  • ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (replaces eggs, butter, and oil in traditional baking recipes or box mixes) 
  • ¼ cup canned pumpkin or squash 
  • 2 tbsp. tomato paste 
  • ¼ cup soft tofu (pureed)  
  • ¼ cup plain yogurt 
  • 3 tbsp. creamy nut butter 
  • ¼ cup buttermilk 

Take inventory of which of these ingredients are floating around in your pantry or fridge, pair them up with savory or sweet recipes, and see how these egg alternatives measure up to the real thing. It might take some trial and error to find what flavor and texture works in your favorite recipes, but it sure beats the price of eggs. 

Keep in mind that while these substitutions for eggs might make a recipe turn out the same, the nutritional value may differ. Eggs are a great source of protein which is essential to your diet. If you have questions about creating or maintaining a balanced diet, schedule an appointment with one of NOAH’s registered dietitians today. 

Swinging into Spring – How to Keep Your Allergies in Check

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Spring is here, and in Arizona, that means it’s not just spring training season – it’s also the peak of allergy season! As the desert comes to life again, pollen levels soar, and allergy sufferers find themselves sneezing and sniffling more than usual. With these tips, we’re helping to keep your allergies in check so that you can enjoy everything this beautiful season has to offer – both on and off the field.

Know Your Opponent

From February to June, allergy sufferers in Arizona face their toughest opponent: high pollen counts and windy conditions. The biggest rivals? Trees like ash, mesquite, mulberry, cottonwood, oak, olive, and various grasses. These sneeze-inducing elements can be tough opponents during springtime, but with the right game plan, you can step up to the plate and hit a home run against them.

Defensive Plays

Preventing allergies is all about defense. Here are some key strategies to keep those pesky allergens at bay:

  • Keep windows and doors closed – limiting outdoor air can significantly reduce pollen exposure indoors.
  • Use air purifiers – these devices help trap allergens, making the air cleaner and safer to breathe.
  • Wash bedding and clothing regularly – pollen can cling to fabrics, so frequent washing can help to remove potential allergens.
  • Vacuum and dust often – dusting and vacuuming regularly can prevent allergens from settling in your home.
  • Take off your shoes and socks – leave your shoes and socks at the door to prevent tracking pollen throughout your home.
  • Pollen Forecast – websites like Pollen.com can help allergy sufferers stay updated on the daily pollen forecast in their area.

Offensive Strategies

When allergies strike, it’s time to go on the offensive. Prevention medications and strategies that are often used to alleviate allergy symptoms are:

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines – these medications can help relieve sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion.
  • Nasal corticosteroids – nasal sprays help to reduce inflammation and provide long-term relief from allergy symptoms.
  • Decongestants – decongestant medications can help to alleviate nasal congestion and sinus pressure.
  • Eye drops – if your allergies affect your eyes, over-the-counter eye drops can provide relief from itching and redness.
  • Natural remedies – some people find relief from allergies through natural remedies like saline nasal rinses or herbal supplements. 

All-Star Treatment

If you suspect you or your loved one is suffering from allergies, schedule an appointment with your NOAH medical provider. Our team can help identify the issue, provide relief, and refer you to an allergist if necessary.

How Loving Yourself Leads to Better Health

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Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, but it’s also a great reminder to show your heart some love—literally! Your heart is at the center of your health, and taking care of it benefits you and the people you love most. This February, let’s focus on how love, health, and self-care go hand in hand.

The Science of Love and Health

Did you know that feeling loved and connected can improve your physical health? Research has shown that people in supportive relationships often have lower blood pressure, reduced stress levels, and even a decreased risk of heart disease. Acts of love—whether it’s a heartfelt conversation, a hug, or a thoughtful gesture—can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone that helps lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and promotes heart health.

But love isn’t just about relationships with others. Self-love and caring for your own health are equally important. Making time for regular check-ups, eating heart-healthy foods, and staying active are acts of love toward yourself that pay off for a lifetime.

Tips for a Healthy and Loving Life

  1. Share a Healthy Meal: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with heart-healthy foods like salmon, leafy greens, and dark chocolate (in moderation!).
  2. Get Moving Together: Take a walk, dance, or do an activity you both enjoy—it’s good for your heart and a great way to bond.
  3. Set Healthy Boundaries: Protect your emotional and physical well-being by setting boundaries in your personal and work life. Saying “no” when needed and prioritizing time for self-care can reduce stress and improve your overall health.
  4. Show Gratitude: Expressing appreciation can improve your emotional well-being and strengthen your relationships.
  5. Practice Self-Care: Whether it’s quiet meditation, reading, or relaxing in nature, find moments that nurture your soul.

Take Action for Your Heart

This Valentine’s Day, make a commitment to prioritize your health. Your NOAH provider is here to support you in every stage of your wellness journey. Whether you need a heart health check-up, nutrition advice, or mental health support, we’re here to help you take care of your whole self. Schedule an appointment today and show your heart some love—you deserve it!