Install a carbon monoxide alarm in every sleeping area of your home. Keep appliances, furnaces, fireplaces, and wood-burning stoves in good repair. Carbon monoxide poisoning is especially dangerous for the fetus.
Only take medicines approved by your health care provider. Whether it's prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, herbals, botanicals, or supplements, always consult with your healthcare professional first.
Discuss whether you should be screened for lead poisoning with your healthcare provider.
If your home requires renovations, do your research: learn beforehand if there is lead in the paint or plaster.
Avoid antique cribs and toys that may contain lead, or which otherwise fail to meet current safety standards.
Discuss food safety with your healthcare provider:
Avoid fish with high levels of mercury.
Avoid soft cheeses and deli meats that could be contaminated with Listeria.
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Poison Prevention Week was established in 1961 to promote public awareness about how to prevent and respond to poison incidents. You can prevent most unintentional poisonings, but when you need it, expert help is just a click or call away.
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Kombucha tea is a slightly effervescent, slightly alcoholic liquid for which many health claims are made. Home-brewed kombucha tea has been associated with several adverse health events. There are no scientific studies to support the many health claims made for kombucha tea, though it has a long history of use.
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Eliquis (apixaban) is an oral medication that reduces the risk of forming blood clots. The most common side effect is bleeding/bruising. Do not take more than prescribed as it puts you at higher risk for bleeding. Follow up with your healthcare provider regularly if you are prescribed this medication.
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Aspirin is an over-the-counter medication used as an anti-inflammatory agent and for pain or fever relief. Low dose aspirin is used to prevent heart attacks and strokes in people with existing heart disease, and sometimes in pregnancy to prevent preeclampsia. Normal side effects include stomach upset and indigestion. Aspirin overdose can be life-threatening.
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Morning sickness is common during pregnancy and can lead to severe complications for some women. Fortunately, there are multiple treatment options available, including both prescription and non-prescription medications.
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Pills used for medication abortions are generally safe and effective; however, they should not be given in some circumstances and must be used with appropriate supervision in case of complications.
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Water from a private well can be threatened by numerous contaminants, either naturally or due to human activities. Many contaminants can have detrimental health effects. While the Safe Drinking Water Act ensures the safety of public water supply systems, the responsibility for ensuring the quality and safety of private well water falls on the owner.
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Zinc is a natural mineral found in food. It has recently gained popularity as an immune supplement for COVID-19 but has also been explored as a preventative or therapeutic option for acne and colds. Zinc is generally safe and can typically be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding, but it can be toxic in high amounts. In addition, zinc can interact with some medications.
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“Morning after” pills such as Plan B One-Step® can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or after other contraception methods have failed. These pills are generally safe and effective, but it is important to know how to use them correctly and when to seek medical care. The use of emergency contraceptive medications like Plan B One-Step® is not abortion.
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Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterial species that causes foodborne illness in humans. Listeria infection can occur after consumption of contaminated meats, dairy products, and produce. Pregnant women, children, and people with compromised immune systems are at high risk for severe complications of Listeria infection.
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