Medicare is a federal health insurance program for Americans over the age of 65. It also covers some people under the age of 65 if they have specific disabilities. There are three parts of medicare: Part A which covers hospital stays, Part B which covers different doctor services, and Part D that covers the cost of prescription drugs and some vaccines. You can find out more about medicare and enroll in it through private healthcare companies such as Humana, or Blue Cross Blue Shield. Read on to find out more about what Medicare does not cover: 1. Routine eye exams Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover the cost of eye exams for eyeglasses or contact lenses. This means you have to pay 100% of the costs of a routine eye exam. However, if you have diabetes or are at high risk for glaucoma then Medicare will cover routine eye exams by a state-authorized doctor. Also, if you have certain chronic eye conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts Medicare may cover the cost of any surgeries, eyeglasses or contact lenses, or diagnostic eye exams. 2. Hearing aids Medicare does not cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids. Occasionally, Medicare will cover the cost of diagnostic hearing tests but only if it is recommended by your primary care doctor or another physician to see if you need treatment.

For someone with diabetes, in particular type 2 diabetes, it is essential to always have snacks prepared to keep glucose levels steady, preventing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It is valuable to consume food that is nutrient-rich, like fruits and vegetables, to make you full without causing a spike in blood sugar. Not only is being mindful of what you consume important, diabetics should also make sure to drink lots of water to help manage their blood sugar levels. Read on to learn about 8 foods that can help manage diabetes! 1. Still or sparkling water Hydration is a key component of managing blood sugar levels. Drinking water helps to reduce glucose levels by diluting the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. Quench your thirst and stabilize your glucose with an ice cold glass of water or pour yourself a refreshing glass of sparkling water. Make drinking water more fun with a zero calorie flavored sparkling water or flavor it yourself with a lemon slice and some fresh berries! 2. Hard-boiled eggs Hard-boiled eggs are a great snack for diabetics. This snack reigns above most due to its high contents of protein which are great for providing energy and keeping you full.

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that makes it challenging for individuals with it to stay awake during the day or for a long period of time, and they can even fall asleep suddenly. This can significantly impact and interfere with their daily life, activities, and routines. There are some medications that can assist with narcolepsy, such as Wakix, Lumryz, and Sunosi, and help fight daytime sleepiness. Although the exact cause of narcolepsy is unknown, a brain chemical called hypocretin may be to blame—here are 5 common causes: 1. Immune system issues Issues with the immune system cause antibodies to attack healthy tissue and cells. Individuals with narcolepsy have immune systems that produce antibodies against the protein trib 2, which is produced by the brain in the same area that hypocretin is produced. Ultimately, this results in a lack of hypocretin, the chemical that regulates sleep, thus impacting your sleep cycles and triggering narcolepsy. 2. Inherited narcolepsy Most cases of narcolepsy are sporadic, but it can occur in clusters of a family. About 10% of individuals with narcolepsy also report having a relative that suffers from the same disorder. 3. Severe stress and anxiety If you already experience daytime sleepiness or have a lack of hypocretin produced in your body, an added layer of stress or anxiety can make it much worse.

It’s no secret that respiratory illnesses suck. However, vaccines like the Novavax vaccine and Cic vaccine can be administered to protect against many of these respiratory issues, while Fluzone and Flublock can be used as treatment options for the flu. No matter which respiratory illness you have developed or are at risk of developing, there are a few traditional hot spots to be wary of. To protect yourself against respiratory illnesses and exercise proper caution, keep reading to see our list of 5 traditional hot spots: 1. Regions heavy with tobacco Respiratory illnesses are more common in areas with high tobacco rates, such as parts of Southeast Asia. The higher smoking rates in these parts result in higher rates of respiratory illnesses related to smoking, such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. 2. Polluted areas Urban areas with higher levels of polluted air can result in increased respiratory issues such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. The accumulation of fine particulate matter and smog in cities like Los Angeles and Beijing can be responsible for these issues. 3. Hospitals It’s no surprise that hospitals are a major hot spot for respiratory illnesses like pneumonia. However, this risk can be minimized by partaking in frequent and regular hand washing and sanitizing, as well as by wearing a mask when visiting your hospitalized loved one.

For individuals with diabetes, a well-functioning immune system is especially important. While it’s important to mention Flu shots, covid booster shots, and novavax vaccines as ways to boost immune system for the medication part of things, it’s also important to discuss key foods that diabetic people can work into their diet. Keep reading for 7 foods that individuals with diabetes can eat to help boost their immune system: 1. Garlic Useful for fighting viruses and bacteria due to its natural sulfur compounds, garlic adds great flavor to food and can be used in a variety of dishes. The natural sulfur compounds increase immune cell activity and production, such as antibodies and white blood cells. Thus, adding garlic to your meals can help boost immunity and deliciousness—oh, and it might even help repel some pesky vampires! 2. Seeds and nuts Various seeds and nuts contain different immune-boosting components. Sunflower seeds, for example, contain vitamin E that increases the production of immune cells in the body. On the other hand, the selenium in Brazil nuts increases white blood cells that work to destroy viruses in the body. Thus, incorporating a variety of seeds and nuts into your diet can reap great benefits for your immune system.