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The time to prepare for seasonal allergies is earlier than you might expect, as taking medications before everything is in bloom can help significantly to control symptoms. This year, you may want to consider ramping up your prevention efforts even earlier than usual: one consequence of climate change and rising temperatures worldwide is a longer growing season and higher levels of pollen in the air.

Why It’s Never Too Early to Prepare for Seasonal Allergies

The commonly used over-the-counter (OTC) medications below can help make allergy season more manageable — and many are available for purchase at the Essentials Store in our app! To browse the selection, tap the "Store" icon along the bottom of the Alto mobile app or the "Store" icon in your account on desktop.

Over-the-counter allergy medications to take preventatively

Nasal corticosteroid sprays prevent inflammation to reduce allergy symptoms such as stuffiness, sneezing, and a runny nose. Common OTC options include:

When taken in advance, these medications can potentially prevent the onset of allergy symptoms altogether. Many health experts suggest taking them about four weeks before the official start of allergy season, the specific timing of which depends on where you live.

For many people who experience seasonal allergies, symptoms typically first appear when trees start to release pollen in late winter and early spring. However, this pattern is changing as winter temperatures rise, and the timing of pollination also varies by region. To make the best plan, check local pollen levels and consult with your provider.

These medications block histamine, a chemical that your immune system releases during an allergic reaction. You may take them up to two weeks before the start of allergy season, as a preventative measure, but they can also be taken on an as-needed basis if you experience symptoms. They offer fast relief, taking anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours to go into effect.

Some antihistamines, including Benadryl® (diphenhydramine), can cause drowsiness and are not recommended to take before driving or other activities that require your attention.

The following antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness:

Not all allergy medications can be taken preventatively. While decongestants like Afrin® (oxymetazoline) and Sudafed® (pseudoephedrine) are effective at relieving congestion, they should only be taken on a short-term basis. Longer-term use may worsen allergy symptoms.

When to see a specialist for allergy symptoms

Remember that it may take time and a bit of trial and error to find the best relief for your allergies. If you experience regular symptoms after exploring a few options, work with your provider to find the best solution for your needs.

You may benefit from consulting a specialist such as an allergist or immunologist. These healthcare professionals can help identify more specific allergy triggers. They can also facilitate even more treatment options, including a preventative treatment called immunotherapy, which exposes you to allergens so that you become less sensitive to them. Immunotherapy comes in the form of both allergy shots and sublingual tablets placed beneath the tongue.

Stock up on allergy medications at the Alto Essentials Store

Purchase allergy season essentials like Claritin, Flonase, Zyrtec, Allegra and more right from your Alto account! You can order Essentials products whenever you need them, or add them to your next prescription delivery.

If your allergy symptoms persist even after preventative steps and exploring OTC options, we can support your treatment plan. We’ll coordinate with your doctor and insurance to offer your medications at the best price we can find, and our expert pharmacists are available via in-app messaging to answer any questions you may have about symptoms or side effects.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

Each year, February marks American Heart Month, an important reminder that heart disease is both prevalent and preventable.

Heart disease plays a role in 1 in 3 deaths in the United States every year. While several key risk factors aren’t controllable, including age and family history, your actions and habits can significantly affect your heart health. And since heart disease typically develops gradually, over the course of many years, prevention is important at every stage of life.

Small Changes for a Healthier Heart

Each year, February marks American Heart Month, an important reminder that heart disease is both prevalent and preventable.

Heart disease plays a role in 1 in 3 deaths in the United States every year. While several key risk factors aren’t controllable, including age and family history, your actions and habits can significantly affect your heart health. And since heart disease typically develops gradually, over the course of many years, prevention is important at every stage of life.

You’re probably already familiar with the importance of staying physically active — the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week — and smoke-free. Other habits can strengthen your heart, and many of them can easily fit into your day. The daily practices below can keep you on the path to a heart-healthy lifestyle for years to come.   

There are some well-documented heart-healthy food choices, like cutting down on saturated fats and trans fats.* But it isn’t just what you eat that matters — the timing of your meals may influence heart health, too.

Several research studies have found a link between good heart health and eating breakfast every day. Those who skip out on a morning meal may be more likely to have diabetes, heart disease, or high cholesterol.

When planning your breakfasts, prioritize heart-healthy staples like fruits, veggies, protein, and whole grains. Pro tip: add some almonds to your morning smoothie — consuming a daily serving of nuts like almonds, peanuts, and walnuts can help lower your cholesterol.

*Common sources of saturated fats include red meat and full-fat dairy products. To find out if a food contains trans fats, check the nutrition label for partially hydrogenated oils.

Here’s yet another reason to brush and floss every day. Good oral hygiene has the potential to lower your risk for cardiovascular disease, as numerous studies have found a link between oral health and heart health.

The underlying cause of this connection isn’t entirely understood, but some experts believe it may have to do with inflammation. Whatever the reason, be sure to brush with a fluoride paste for two minutes twice daily, and don’t forget to clean between the teeth with some diligent flossing!

Gratitude gets a lot of buzz these days — for good reason. Its effects go beyond mental health and into cardiovascular territory.

Negative thinking can lead to depression and inflammation, both of which have been linked to poor heart health. Regularly practicing gratitude can direct your thoughts into heart-healthier territory. Challenge yourself to write down 3-5 things you’re grateful for at the end of the day.

Warming up with a good soak in the tub isn’t just relaxing, it can also give your heart health a boost. One research study found that people who took a bath almost every day had a lower risk for overall heart health issues and strokes.

The reasoning? In dilating your blood vessels, high temperatures can help lower your blood pressure. Plus, hot baths can relieve stress, another common factor in the development of heart disease.

Heart-healthy living also includes staying well-rested. Numerous studies have identified a link between an individual’s sleep habits and their risk for heart disease. The reason? A state of deep sleep gives your heart a chance to recover from how hard it works every day. Your blood pressure drops and your heart rate slows when you enter a state of deep sleep.

Unfortunately, getting the CDC’s recommended seven hours of shuteye each night can be easier said than done. More than a third of adults report that they don’t sleep enough. The good news is that you can take small steps to improve your sleep hygiene.

As a starting point, try to separate screen time from bedtime. It’s best to step away from cell phones, tablets, and computers for at least 30 minutes before you hit the pillow. Not only do these devices stimulate your brain, they emit blue light, which can affect production of the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin.

At Alto, we make it easier to manage your risk for heart health issues like coronary artery disease, and to stay on top of cholesterol-lowering or blood pressure management medications. 

We will work with your doctor, your insurance (if applicable), and any third party savings programs that you may qualify for to offer your medications at the best price we can. And our team of pharmacists is available to chat whenever questions come up.

Reach out any time by phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging.

Many of us are familiar with heartburn, a burning sensation in the throat frequently triggered by what we eat. While occasional heartburn can often be prevented or managed with lifestyle adjustments and over-the-counter medications, more frequent or severe cases may indicate an underlying condition that requires additional treatment.

Here’s what to know about the causes and triggers of heartburn and treatment options.

How to Prevent or Treat Heartburn

Many of us are familiar with heartburn, a burning sensation in the throat frequently triggered by what we eat. While occasional heartburn can often be prevented or managed with lifestyle adjustments and over-the-counter medications, more frequent or severe cases may indicate an underlying condition that requires additional treatment.

Here’s what to know about the causes and triggers of heartburn and treatment options.

The burning sensation that characterizes heartburn is caused by reflux, an issue with the digestive process. Normally, a valve at the bottom of your esophagus called the esophageal sphincter allows food to enter your stomach, where acids help digest what you’ve eaten.

Reflux occurs when the esophageal sphincter doesn’t close as it should, allowing acid to pass from the stomach into the esophagus. While your stomach is equipped to handle this acidic mixture, your esophagus is more sensitive, and reflux results in the discomfort of heartburn.

There are several potential causes of heartburn, including the following:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Severe, recurring heartburn may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or chronic acid reflux.

Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and the pressure of your growing baby during pregnancy may affect esophageal function.

Eating habits: Dietary choices, the size of your meals, and eating close to bedtime frequently factor into heartburn.

Lifestyle habits: Acid reflux has also been linked to smoking and high levels of stress.

Medications: Certain medications — including over-the-counter pain relief medications such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) and aspirin; tricyclic antidepressants; and some blood pressure and heart medications — are known to irritate the esophagus, resulting in heartburn or increasing the severity of GERD.

Food and drinks that are known to trigger heartburn include:

Citrus fruits like oranges, limes, and lemons

Many people are able to manage mild or occasional heartburn with small changes to their routine or habits. Here are some steps to take as a starting point.

Many health experts suggest eating at least three to four hours before going to bed so that your stomach has time to empty.

Eating smaller portions or having multiple smaller meals throughout the day rather than a few larger ones may help prevent heartburn.

In addition to avoiding triggers like onions, tomatoes, and spicy or acidic foods, eating certain foods may help you manage heartburn discomfort. Oatmeal and whole grains can absorb and reduce acid. Replacing full-fat dairy products with low-fat ones is often another effective preventative measure.

Some people find that belts and tight clothing can trigger their acid reflux.

Slouching may put additional pressure on your abdomen, which can in turn cause acid to enter the esophagus. Try to sit straight and maintain an upright position.

If you frequently experience heartburn, lying flat on your back likely isn’t the best sleep position. For relief, elevate your upper body as much as possible with a wedge pillow or by adjusting the settings on your bed, if possible.

Over-the-counter medications for heartburn

Along with the above changes to lifestyle habits, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help manage mild cases of heartburn. Three types of OTCs are frequently used to treat heartburn: antacids, acid blockers, and proton pump inhibitors.

OTC antacids including Tums®, Rolaids®, Maalox®, and Gaviscon® relieve heartburn by reducing the amount of acid in your stomach.

In some cases, these medications may cause side effects such as constipation, diarrhea, or stomach cramps. They aren’t recommended for those with symptoms of appendicitis or bowel inflammation. Consult with your doctor in advance about the best way to take these medications.

OTC acid blockers including Pepcid AC® and Tagamet HB® block production of stomach acid to relieve heartburn and other digestive issues.

Your provider may advise you to take antacids when you first begin to take an acid blocker. Antacids are faster-acting and can help relieve heartburn discomfort while acid blocker effects begin. Always follow your doctor’s directions. In most cases, an antacid is taken an hour before or an hour after taking an acid blocker. 

Stronger acid blockers are available by prescription only.

Proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec® also block production of stomach acid.

Purchase pharmacy essentials like Tums and Prilosec through the Alto Essentials store in our mobile app!

If OTC medications don’t ease your heartburn, your provider may prescribe you a medication. There are two main classes of prescription medications for heartburn.

Prescription-strength acid blockers including Pepcid, Tagamet, and Zantac® offer a higher dose than their OTC counterparts to relieve more severe heartburn and treat GERD.

Prescription-strength proton pump inhibitors including Aciphex®, Nexium®, Prevacid®, Prilosec, and Protonix® are highly effective at blocking production of stomach acid.

When should I speak to a doctor about heartburn?

It typically isn’t advised to use any OTC heartburn medication for longer than two weeks without speaking to your doctor.

You should also speak to your doctor about your heartburn if your stool is darker than usual or you’re experiencing vomiting in addition to other symptoms.

Some heartburn medications including Tums and Prilosec are available for purchase in the Essentials Store in the Alto app. You can also add these products to your order when scheduling your medication delivery.

If your treatment plan includes a prescription medication, we’ll make it as simple as possible to manage, with free-same day delivery and support with insurance and savings opportunities.

Reach out with any questions by phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging.

The lungs are one of our most essential organs — and one of the easiest to take for granted. If you aren’t living with respiratory problems or at risk of developing them, you might not give your lungs too much attention.

Why Everyone Should Be Thinking About Lung Health

But the truth is that anyone should keep lung health top of mind, for several reasons. First, your lungs become weaker as you age, like many other parts of the body, and the actions you take today can help you breathe easier for years to come. Secondly, while most of us are aware that smoking damages your lungs, we don’t always think about other risk factors for lung disease, many of which are all around us.

Fortunately, small actions can make a big impact when it comes to lung health — including many healthy habits that fit easily into your day. Here are some important steps to take.

Okay, you probably expected this one, but there’s a reason it’s at the top of our list. Cigarette smoking is the primary cause of both lung cancer — the leading cause of cancer death among U.S. adults — and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Cigarette smoke harms the lungs in several ways. It narrows the airways, causes swelling and inflammation, and gradually damages lung tissue over time.

Smoking cessation is the most important thing you can do to maintain good lung health, and it is never too late (or too early) to quit. If you’re living with COPD, quitting smoking can slow the progression of the condition. Research has found that many people with early-stage COPD are able to regain near-normal lung function after quitting tobacco use.

If you’re having difficulty quitting, don’t be discouraged. It often takes multiple attempts. Ask your doctor for smoking cessation resources, like nicotine replacement therapy, to support your efforts.

2. Avoid exposure to indoor and outdoor pollutants

Avoid secondhand smoke and other indoor pollutants as much as possible. Radon, a naturally occurring gas that can get trapped in houses and buildings, is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Many homes and office buildings have unsafe levels of radon. Testing is necessary to determine radon levels. Testing kits are available online and at many hardware stores.

In addition, be mindful of potential exposure to asbestos and other carcinogens including uranium, diesel exhaust, and workplace chemicals.

Read How to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home for more tips

Many pollutants are found in outdoor air, and climate change continues to negatively impact outdoor air quality. There are resources that share information about local daily air quality. Stay up to date and avoid outdoor exercise when air quality is poor.

The benefits of regular physical activity include not only stronger muscles, but also stronger lungs. This is because exercise forces your lungs to work harder to provide your body with additional oxygen. Over time, your lungs will get into better shape as they become more efficient at this task.

While there’s a common misconception that COPD prevents exercise, physical activity is an essential part of managing the condition. Check in with your doctor about which activities are appropriate for your lung function and stage of COPD.

Bonus tip: in addition to aerobic exercise, practice breathing exercises that also boost lung health. Diaphragmatic breathing, which involves inhaling more deeply, can increase your lung capacity. (The technique is practiced by many professional singers precisely for this reason.) To give it a try, place your hands on your stomach and chest, and slowly inhale through your nose while your stomach expands.

A strong immune system and typical flu season precautions can protect against lung infection. To stay healthy, practice good hygiene, like frequently washing hands with soap and warm water and sanitizing high-touch surfaces.

Staying up to date with vaccines is another crucial step. Health experts recommend getting the flu shot every year, ideally by the end of October. This is especially important for those who are 65 or older and/or living with COPD.

5. Attend regular doctor’s appointments

Lung diseases are often detected after they have progressed to a more advanced stage. Attend regular physicals so that your provider can listen to your breathing and address any concerns you may have about your lung health.

Depending on your health history, your prevention efforts may include getting a lung cancer screening, which can detect 80% of lung cancer cases at an early stage. These screenings are typically reserved for individuals at a high risk of lung cancer, including those who:

Ask your doctor if lung cancer screening is recommended for you.

The pharmacy that’s always on your side

At Alto, we go above and beyond to help you stay on track with your doctor’s recommendations, getting you the medication you need at the best price possible. And our pharmacists are here to chat whenever questions come up.

Switch to a better pharmacy for free same-day delivery and support with insurance and savings opportunities. Reach out any time through in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

Why Everyone Should Be Thinking About Lung Health 

Pneumonia is a lung infection in which the air sacs in both or one of the lungs are inflamed, leading to difficulty breathing and other symptoms including a cough, fever, and chills. There is a wide spectrum of severity of pneumonia cases — symptoms can range from mild to much more critical. Infants, young children, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems are among the most vulnerable to complications.

Read on for a closer look at symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

What to Know About Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection in which the air sacs in both or one of the lungs are inflamed, leading to difficulty breathing and other symptoms including a cough, fever, and chills. There is a wide spectrum of severity of pneumonia cases — symptoms can range from mild to much more critical. Infants, young children, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems are among the most vulnerable to complications.

Read on for a closer look at symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

There are several types of pneumonia, categorized by cause. The three main types are bacterial pneumonia, viral pneumonia, and mycoplasma pneumonia.

Bacterial pneumonia is the most common — and often the most serious — type of pneumonia. It may be caused by various bacteria, most commonly Streptococcus pneumoniae. It typically develops when the body has been weakened by illness, age, or impaired immune system functioning, which allows the bacteria to enter your lungs.

The following factors can increase a person’s risk for bacterial pneumonia:

Having an existing respiratory disease or viral infection

Viral pneumonia accounts for about a third of all pneumonia cases. It may be caused by various viruses, including the flu.

This less common form of pneumonia — also referred to as atypical pneumonia or walking pneumonia — is caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacterium. Symptoms are typically mild.

Symptoms vary by pneumonia type. Bacterial pneumonia is typically the most severe and requires medical care more frequently than viral pneumonia. Common symptoms may include:

Rapidly increased breathing and heart rate

Bluish lips or nail beds due to low oxygen in the blood

These symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly.

Viral pneumonia symptoms typically develop over the course of several days. Initial symptoms often resemble those of the flu, including:

These symptoms often intensify within several days. Later symptoms may include:

If you suspect that you or your child may have pneumonia, it’s important to seek medical care right away rather than waiting for symptoms to become more noticeable. If you are in one of the more vulnerable groups — over 65 or immunocompromised, for example — seeking medical attention is even more critical due to the possibility of complications.

A doctor may be able to diagnose pneumonia based on your health history and a physical exam. The diagnosis process can also include one or more of the following tests:

A chest X-ray, which shows the severity of inflammation in the lungs

Blood tests, which can confirm the infection and identify the underlying cause

A sputum culture, or a mucus sample, which also helps identify the cause of the infection

A pulse oximetry, which measures how much oxygen is in your blood

A chest CT scan, which shows a better view of the lungs and can identify potential complications. This is most commonly used for individuals who may be more vulnerable to complications.

A bronchoscopy, a procedure that offers a view into the airways of the lungs. It is often reserved for more severe or treatment-resistant cases.

Pneumonia treatment can help end the infection and prevent related health complications. The specific course of treatment your doctor recommends will depend on which type of pneumonia you have, the severity of your symptoms, and your personal health history.

Bacterial pneumonia is treated with antibiotics. These medications cure bacteria-caused infections by either killing the bacteria or keeping the bacteria from growing.

The most effective antibiotic to treat bacterial pneumonia depends on your age and health history. These are some of the most commonly prescribed:

Amoxicillin and clavulanate (Augmentin®)

If you are prescribed an antibiotic, it’s important to take it for the full duration. Though you may feel better within a few days of treatment, stopping the medication prematurely can cause the infection to return.

If your pneumonia was caused by a virus, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu®), zanamivir (Relenza®), or peramivir (Rapivab®). These medications help your body fight off the virus, reducing symptoms and shortening the duration of the infection.

Not all cases of viral pneumonia require antiviral treatment, however, and symptoms can often be managed by:

Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) to control a fever

Consuming an adequate amount of fluids to loosen phlegm

Drinking warm beverages and using a humidifier to help open the airways in your lungs

In addition, allow your body to get as much rest as possible and avoid any form of cigarette smoke, including secondhand smoke.

Always consult your doctor before taking cough medicines to treat pneumonia symptoms, as coughing helps your body clear the infection. If your cough is interfering with your sleep, your doctor can recommend appropriate ways to manage it.

More severe cases of pneumonia, especially bacterial pneumonia, may require hospitalization. If you are hospitalized for pneumonia, you may receive oxygen therapy or intravenous medications, including antibiotics. Your treatment may also include breathing exercises that can loosen the fluids in your lungs.

Individuals with heart conditions or respiratory conditions.

Staying on track with immunizations is one of the most impactful steps you can take to prevent pneumonia. Since the flu is a common cause of viral pneumonia, getting your annual flu shot can also protect your lungs from infection.

The pneumococcal vaccine offers protection against a common type of bacterial pneumonia. This vaccine is especially important for children under the age of five, adults ages 65 and older, and people with certain health conditions that increase the risk of pneumonia complications such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

Check with your doctor about which vaccines you need.

Our pharmacists can answer any questions you may have about your medications, and we offer free same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app.

To learn more, reach out any time through secure in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

 Stress doesn’t simply spill into our personal lives, it affects the body in many ways. And it isn’t only short-term ailments like tension headaches or muscle pain to be mindful of — ongoing stress can take a heavy toll on your long-term heart health. In recent years, numerous research studies have found that stress can increase a person’s risk for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.

Understanding the Stress-Heart Health Connection

While many people know that high blood pressure, high cholesterol, genetics, and smoking are all key heart disease risk factors, stress isn’t always included in conversations about heart health. As you prioritize a heart-healthy lifestyle, regularly evaluate your stress levels, taking steps to reduce stress and manage it positively when it does arise.

Here’s more on the stress-heart health connection, including coping strategies that will benefit your heart as much as your mind.

Stress triggers physiological changes in the body that can influence heart health. It all starts in the brain. When you encounter a stressful trigger, the amygdala — a portion of the brain responsible for emotional processing — communicates that you are in distress, activating your nervous system.

As part of this process, the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol are released, which can temporarily increase blood pressure and insulin resistance. Sometimes the body’s experience of stress also leads to inflammation in the arteries. Over time this can affect the function of your blood vessels, potentially resulting in atherosclerosis, or the accumulation of plaque in the walls of your arteries.

Less directly, stress has a ripple effect on lifestyle factors related to heart health. Everyone responds to stress in different ways. For some, exercise might be a positive outlet during challenging times. But for others, stress makes it difficult to fit in consistent exercise. (The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.) And stress frequently goes hand in hand with unhealthy behaviors like smoking and heavy alcohol consumption or other substance use.

There is also the link between stress and sleep, another less discussed heart health risk factor. The overactive nervous system created by chronic stress — and its continuous output of hormones — can create a vicious cycle of anxiety-fueled insomnia and insomnia-fueled anxiety.

Stress presents differently from one person to another. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, talk to your doctor about stress management techniques and other resources.

Stress relief doesn’t have to be a big endeavor. Look for small opportunities, like the following, to engage the body and mind in your daily or weekly routine. (Your heart will thank you!)

Exercise is fundamental to heart-healthy living, and it also happens to be a powerful source of stress relief.

Like the stress-heart health connection itself, the soothing effects of physical activity are grounded in hormones. Exercise is known to lower your levels of adrenaline and cortisol while stimulating production of endorphins, the body’s feel-good chemicals.

Longer blocks of regular exercise are important for your long-term heart health, but in moments of high pressure you’ll feel some stress-relieving benefits from even a quick burst of movement.

As you get moving, find ways to calm the mind. Many practices fall under the umbrella of mindfulness, the cultivation of present moment awareness and shift away from reactivity. Try meditation, yoga, tai chi, walking, or even bringing a bit more attention to your morning coffee or cup of tea.

With so many options for living more mindfully, focus on finding the habits and routines that work for you, and which fit easily into your day.

Deep breathing, a proven tactic for lowering stress hormone levels, is an accessible entry point. You may also benefit from the following resources:

Insight Timer, which offers a variety of free guided meditations

What’s Up?, which uses a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach to managing stress and negative thoughts

Healthy stress management isn’t just about using positive coping mechanisms in the moment. You may be able to stop stress before it happens — without getting too far into the future, of course.

Researchers have linked workplace stress, which many U.S. adults experience, to negative heart health. One Swedish study connected a poor experience of a manager to the risk of heart attack.

There are tangible ways to make the demands of a job or responsibilities at home feel more manageable (saying no when it’s necessary for starters). Stress management is personal, so consider what you need and don’t be afraid to ask for it.

At Alto, we make it as simple as possible to manage your risk for heart health issues and follow the treatment plan your doctor recommends. We will work with your doctor, your insurance (if applicable), and any third party savings programs that you may qualify for to ensure your medications are as affordable as possible. And our team of pharmacists is available to chat whenever questions come up about side effects or how to take your medication properly.

Reach out any time through in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

Despite the misconception of HIV as an illness that primarily affects young people, nearly half of all those with HIV in the U.S. are age 50 and older. This is both a testament to the effectiveness of treatment, as many of these individuals were diagnosed at an earlier age, and a reminder that people of all ages can receive an HIV diagnosis.

HIV and Aging: What to Know

As the HIV population ages, management of the condition continues to evolve, with different health challenges to navigate. Below, we highlight several important health considerations to be mindful of.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been the frontline treatment for HIV since 1995. It is a combination of medications that keep HIV from replicating, stopping the progression of the virus and preventing transmission.

When all medications are taken every day as prescribed, ART can help those with HIV maintain an undetectable viral load. As a result, more than half of all individuals living with HIV in the U.S. are not at risk of transmitting the virus to others.

Regular attendance at doctor’s appointments is an important part of proactively managing HIV. Your provider needs to monitor your body’s response to your individual ART protocol, testing bone, kidney, metabolic, cardiovascular, cognitive, and liver function. (Thanks to the variety of medication options, it is easy to make adjustments as needed if you experience side effects or don’t achieve the desired results.)

For older adults with HIV, ongoing monitoring and testing is especially important, as there is a greater possibility of side effects such as impaired cognitive function and bone health issues.

It is also important to closely monitor how ART interacts with other medications. As you age, you are more likely to be prescribed multiple medications to manage several conditions.

People of all ages should be regularly tested for HIV, since a diagnosis is possible at any age. Older individuals are less likely to be tested — and more likely to receive a late diagnosis — due to the following factors:

The misconception of HIV as exclusively a young person’s illness

The overlap between HIV symptoms and typical signs of aging

Remember that getting tested is the only way to know your HIV status. Continue to stay proactive about regular testing every year. Search for an HIV testing site near you.

Older adults with HIV are more likely to also have health conditions associated with aging, including:

Here’s a quick look at how HIV intersects with several of these health issues.

The ongoing immune system activity and inflammation caused by HIV can contribute to plaque accumulation in blood vessels, a leading factor in the development of cardiovascular disease. Statins, a type of cholesterol-lowering medication, have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease in individuals with HIV.

To protect your heart health while living with HIV, stay on track with preventative care. Your provider should regularly check your cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar. Additionally, maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle, with healthy habits like exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and refraining from smoking.

HIV has been linked to a greater risk of cancers including liver cancer, lung cancer, cervical cancer, and Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Ask your doctor about the recommended frequency of screenings for these types of cancer as well as others that are not related to HIV and AIDS.

The gradual loss of bone mass is a normal part of aging. For those with osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, the changes are more pronounced. HIV can increase a person's risk of developing osteoporosis. (While osteoporosis disproportionately affects women, both men and women with HIV face an increased risk.)

A simple bone mineral density test, sometimes referred to as a DEXA scan, can identify bone health issues. This screening is recommended for all women over the age of 65 and all men over the age of 70. If you have HIV, you may need earlier and/or more frequent screening. Consult with your doctor about recommended frequency.

Aging brings a risk of cognitive decline for anyone, regardless of health history. HIV has been linked to a faster decline in cognitive function. Though older individuals with HIV were once thought to have an elevated risk of dementia, the evolution of ART has helped lessen this possibility. However, a milder form of cognitive impairment called HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) remains a health concern for older those with HIV.

Blog

Why It’s Never Too Early to Prepare for Seasonal Allergies

Small Changes for a Healthier Heart

How to Prevent or Treat Heartburn

Why Everyone Should Be Thinking About Lung Health

What to Know About Pneumonia

Understanding the Stress-Heart Health Connection

HIV and Aging: What to Know

Common Treatments for Allergic Rashes

How to Manage an Overactive or Underactive Thyroid

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Treatment and Prevention of Asthma Attacks

Psoriasis, Explained

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