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There are many triggers that can lead to allergy symptoms, including certain over-the-counter and prescription medications. Like any type of allergic reaction, a drug allergy is the result of an immune response to a normally harmless substance — in this case, one or more ingredients in a medication.

Medication Allergies, Explained

Drug allergies range from mild to very severe. Generally speaking, the only way to prevent this type of allergic reaction is to avoid taking the medication in question. In some cases symptoms may require treatment with other medications. Make sure that all of your providers and your pharmacist are aware of any known or suspected medication allergies so that they can help you explore alternative options and prevent symptoms.

Below, we share how to recognize drug allergy symptoms and what steps to take if you experience them.

Drug allergies occur when your immune system mistakenly interprets a substance in a medication as an outside invader such as a virus or bacteria. As part of this reaction, your immune system produces antibodies that in turn release histamine, a chemical responsible for typical allergy symptoms.

You typically won’t experience symptoms the first time you take a medication you’re allergic to. This is because in order for an allergic reaction to occur, your immune system has to recognize a substance that it has previously identified as harmful.

Though drug allergy symptoms and medication side effects can sometimes overlap, there is an important distinction between the two, as ordinary side effects don’t involve an immune response.

Any medication can cause an allergic reaction, but certain medications are more frequently associated with them, including:

Antibiotics, particularly penicillin and sulfonamides such as sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (Septra® and Bactrim®) and erythromycin-sulfisoxazole (Pediazole®)

Seizure medications, particularly aromatic anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine (Tegretol®) and phenobarbital (Luminal®)

Over-the-counter pain relief medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) and naproxen sodium (Aleve®)

Penicillin is the most frequently reported medication allergy. If you believe you are allergic to penicillin, it is important to seek proper evaluation and diagnosis. (Penicillin is the only medication allergy that can be diagnosed by a simple skin test.) While many people are indeed allergic to this class of antibiotics — and in some cases, to similar alternatives as well — studies have found that penicillin allergies are overreported. A significant percentage of all those who believe they are allergic don’t have the true immune reaction that characterizes a drug allergy. This often results in the unnecessary use of alternative medications that may be less effective or more expensive.

Another reason proper testing is important is that it’s possible to outgrow a penicillin allergy over time. Of all those with a documented penicillin allergy, only an estimated 20% remain allergic after 10 years. If you were diagnosed with a penicillin allergy more than 10 years ago, consult with an allergist to determine if you’re still allergic.

Mild drug allergy cases often produce typical allergy symptoms, which may develop anywhere from hours to weeks after you take the medication. The most common symptoms are itching of the eyes or skin, minor rashes, and hives. Swelling and wheezing may also occur. While these symptoms typically don’t require emergency medical care, seek evaluation from your provider as soon as possible.

Symptoms of severe drug allergies such as anaphylaxis — a potentially life-threatening reaction that blocks breathing — tend to develop more quickly, often immediately after you take a medication or within an hour.

Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

Respiratory symptoms including wheezing and a persistent cough

Serious drug allergies require emergency medical care. Call 911 immediately if you experience the above signs of anaphylaxis or another severe reaction after taking a medication.

As noted above, penicillin is the only medication allergy that can be diagnosed by skin testing. This is a simple process conducted by an allergist in which your skin is exposed to a small amount of penicillin. A positive result is determined by a red, itchy bump.

It is also relatively easy to identify sensitivity to contrast dye — simply experiencing allergy symptoms after getting an x-ray is typically sufficient diagnostic criteria.

The process for diagnosing other drug allergies is often more complex, but a specialist called an allergist can help identify one through testing and an evaluation of your health history and symptoms.

Depending on the reaction you’re experiencing, your doctor may recommend treatment options to relieve discomfort and prevent your symptoms from worsening. Common treatments for drug allergy symptoms include:

Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), cetirizine (Zyrtec®), and loratadine (Claritin®) for mild symptoms such as rash, hives, and itchiness - purchase these OTC medications from the Essentials store in the Alto app! 

Corticosteroids such as prednisone for itching and inflammation

Epinephrine is used in emergencies to treat anaphylaxis and other severe reactions. It is administered by injection.

A process called desensitization can gradually improve your tolerance of a medication you’re allergic to. During this treatment, which must be performed by an allergist, you are administered increasingly higher doses of the trigger medication. It is typically reserved for cases where there is no appropriate alternative to prescribe. It is often done in a hospital so that immediate medical care is available in the event of complications or a negative reaction.

There is no cure for a medication allergy, though a penicillin allergy may resolve itself with time. In other cases, the only way to prevent an allergic reaction is by avoiding the specific medication. Sometimes it is also necessary to avoid similar medications — for example, if several medications contain the substance that triggered your symptoms.

Given this, make sure that your medical records are up to date — any healthcare provider who treats you should be aware of your full medical history including any drug allergies. You should also inform your pharmacist of allergic reactions to medications.

If you’ve experienced anaphylaxis, it’s critical to wear a medical alert bracelet with information about your allergies, including the trigger, or allergen.

Our expert pharmacists can answer any questions you have about medication allergies, interactions, side effects, or release right in the Alto app. We also offer same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills to help you stay on track with your treatment.

Reach out any time through secure in-app messaging.

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.

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Limiting your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a leading cause of skin cancer, is the most impactful way to protect your skin. This can be easier said than done — a number of misconceptions about UV rays make it difficult to take appropriate precautions and practice true sun safety.

Five Myths About UV Radiation

In honor of UV Safety Awareness Month, observed every July, take a closer look at how this type of radiation actually affects the skin — and one other very important organ, too! 

Before we debunk common misconceptions about UV rays, let’s review what they are.

Radiation refers to the emission of electromagnetic energy from any source. There are many types of radiation, with varying intensity, or frequencies. At one end of the spectrum are the high-energy x-rays and gamma rays. At the other are the long-wavelength, low-energy radio waves. Visible light is also a form of electromagnetic energy — the only one that humans can see — and different colors have different wavelengths.

UV radiation sits in the middle of the spectrum. Since UV rays don’t have enough energy to penetrate the body more deeply, they primarily affect the skin. These rays come from the sun as well as artificial sources like tanning beds. Similar to how there are many colors with distinct wavelengths within the medium-frequency category of visible light, there are different types of UV radiation with different amounts of energy.

UVA and UVB rays are the main types to be mindful of as you consider how to limit your UV exposure. 

Lower-energy UVA rays are primarily associated with skin damage like wrinkles but can also contribute to the development of skin cancer.

Higher-energy UVB rays are the main source of sunburns and skin cancer.

UVC rays exist as well, but they have so much energy that sun-emitted UVC radiation reacts with ozone before it can even reach the ground, let alone your skin. This is why they don’t often surface in conversations about sun protection. However, it’s still possible to be exposed to these UV rays from artificial sources including lamps and lasers.

Myth: You don’t have to worry about UV radiation on cold or cloudy days

You may feel the sun less when temperatures drop, but UV protection is a year-round effort. The sun’s heat comes from infrared rays — another important form of electromagnetic energy — which don’t harm the skin. Lower temperatures might result in less infrared radiation, but not less UV radiation, so any change in the sun’s output on colder days does not affect your risk for sunburn or skin damage. In fact, winter brings an additional risk for UV radiation exposure, as bright snow reflects UV rays, sending them back in your direction.

Meanwhile, cloudy days also require vigilant UV protection. Though it’s true that UV levels are highest on clear, cloudless days, these rays can still make their way to the ground even under gloomy weather.

Myth: UV radiation only damages fair skin

It’s true that skin tone is a factor in your risk for skin cancer, and people with light, fair skin generally face the highest risk. However, skin cancer can affect anyone regardless of age, race, gender, or ethnicity, and the relationship between melanin — the pigment that produces different skin tones — and UV radiation is nuanced.

Darker skin has higher amounts of melanin than lighter skin. Since melanin blocks a certain amount of UV rays, a person with darker skin is less likely to get sunburned. At the same time, having more melanin does not make a person immune to the harmful effects of UV radiation, which can increase the risk of skin cancer without causing a sunburn.

Myth: Regular sunscreen usage causes vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium, is essential for strong bone health. It can also boost immunity and support a healthy nervous system. Sunlight is a primary source of vitamin D production, along with vitamin D-rich foods such as trout, salmon, egg yolks, and vitamin-D fortified milk and cereal, and nutritional supplements.

While more sunshine may increase vitamin D production, UV protection doesn’t equal vitamin D deficiency. With other options for consuming this important nutrient, you can practice sun safety and get those vitamins in.

Myth: High-SPF sunscreen alone will protect your skin from UV rays

That number on every bottle of sunscreen is often misunderstood. SPF, which stands for sun protection factor, is a measure of UV exposure rather than the duration of protection. An SPF number indicates how much UV radiation it would take to burn your skin when using that product as opposed to if you were not wearing any sunscreen.

A higher SPF does provide more protection than lower ones, in terms of the percentage of UV rays you are exposed to. What it won’t do is protect your skin for a longer duration of time, and simply applying an SPF 50 sunscreen or higher does not make you immune to the risks of sun exposure. Other factors affect how much a sunscreen protects you, including when you’re out in the sun — solar energy fluctuates throughout the day, and an hour of UV exposure at 9 am equals 15 minutes at 1 pm — and skin type.

In fact, the false sense of security offered by a higher number can sometimes lead to a sunburn: because of the confusion surrounding sunscreen and SPF numbers, many people spend longer time outdoors when wearing a higher SPF. It’s recommended to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you go outside and again every two hours, or right after swimming.

One other consideration to be mindful of: standard sunscreen products — including some high SPF options — only protect you from UVB rays. To prevent the skin damage and premature aging caused by UVA rays, opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which offers protection against both types of UV radiation.

Myth: UV ray protection is limited to skincare

Skin isn’t the only organ harmed by UV rays — high exposure can also increase your risk of eye health issues, including cataracts, eye cancers, non-cancerous growths, and snow blindness. Sunglasses are a great defense, but be sure to purchase a pair that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, general sun safety practices like wearing a hat, carefully planning your outdoor time, and avoiding tanning beds will protect your eyes as well as your skin.

It takes a strategy bigger than sunscreen to protect yourself from UV radiation. Here’s what the experts recommend.

Apply sunscreen every day, regardless of temperature or weather conditions. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or higher. (Don’t forget to reapply every two hours no matter the SPF!)

Supplement sunscreen with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and sun protective-clothing like long-sleeved shirts with light fabrics. Also, some clothing offers even more effective sun protection — look for options with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) number.

Seek shade and try to stay out of direct sunlight between 10 am to 2 pm, when UV radiation peaks.

Opt for self-tanning products over tanning beds — when it comes to skin health, artificial UV radiation is no less harmful than the sun’s rays.

Be especially vigilant with both skin and eye protection when you’re near reflective surfaces like water, snow, and sand.

Delivering sun protection right to your doorstep

Get sun protection right from your Alto account! Purchase over-the-counter products including sunscreen from our Essentials Store at any time, or add them to your next prescription delivery.  

From strengthening your heart to promoting better sleep, regular exercise offers a number of physical and mental health benefits. But getting up and moving can be easier said than done. Here are some suggestions for building a fitness routine that sticks.

How to Start and Stick to a Fitness Routine

No one is immune to the physical and mental benefits of exercise. Beyond helping to manage a wide range of health conditions — from hypertension and diabetes to COPD and anxiety disorders — regular physical activity strengthens cardiovascular health, supports healthy sleep patterns, and lowers your risk for many preventable diseases.

But while there are many reasons to exercise, getting up and moving is often easier said than done. Less than 5% of US adults get 150 minutes of weekly exercise — the minimum suggested by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And up to 65% of all those who begin a fitness program don’t continue it beyond the 3-6 month window, according to the New York Times.

Whether you’re trying to get back in the swing of a fitness routine or struggling to carve out time for your favorite workout, use the suggestions below to build an exercise plan that sustains you for the long haul.

On those days when life gets in the way of sticking to your routine, it’s easier to stay committed if you have a clear reason to prioritize exercise.

While the benefits of physical activity are universal, motivation looks different for everyone. Perhaps you’re navigating a recent diagnosis of a chronic condition or proactively taking care of your mental health. Whatever your reason may be, keep it in the back of your mind. And if you haven’t found one yet, here are some additional exercise benefits to consider:

It can help slow aging-related changes like the loss of bone density or shifts in cognitive function.

It’s fundamental to practicing a heart-healthy lifestyle.

There are as many reasons to exercise as there are activities to choose from. And if you don’t consider yourself an “exercise person,” there’s a good chance you haven’t found your go-to workout just yet.

As you make your fitness plan, give some thought to how you really want to spend those 150 minutes each week. Research and experts both agree that people are more likely to stick to an exercise routine if they actually enjoy it, and your chosen workout often plays a role in the consistency of your habits.

Take your interests, strengths, and personality all into account. Are you most comfortable at a fast or slow pace? Inspired by nature? Enjoy a healthy dose of competition? More fond of team sports or solo challenges? You might be surprised by the amount of options.

When in doubt, think of activities you feel confident doing or skills you would like to continue to build. If certain types of exercise aren’t the right fit, there’s often an alternative to consider. For example, the rowing machine is a great alternative to swimming for anyone seeking a low-impact cardio workout.

Create a routine that sustains your goals.

Repetition and consistency will keep you going when motivation wanes, so build a routine that sustains your habits.

First and foremost, make sure there’s time in your schedule for exercise. Block off a half hour for a workout on your calendar, just as you would for a meeting or doctor’s appointment. Make sure to have a back-up plan, too — if your 7 am pilates class isn’t feasible one week, leave room for a midday walk or run around the neighborhood.

Life too busy? We have a couple of tips for those short on time:

High intensity interval training (HIIT), which alternates quick spurts of intense effort with brief rest, is a great way to fit aerobic exercise into a packed schedule.

Take a few shorter walks throughout the day instead of a 30-minute or hour-long stroll — you’ll still reap the benefits!

Goals are a key component of any exercise plan, but it’s important that they are achievable. Over-ambition is one of the biggest barriers to progress and consistency: if you aim too high right out of the gate, you may find yourself quickly discouraged and decide to throw in the towel altogether.

Be specific: Rather than setting out to “exercise more,” commit to exercising for a certain number of days a week.

Be flexible: Aiming for a range of 3-5 days each week can help you still feel accomplished if you need to slightly scale down during busy times.

Focus on the process: Many behavioral science experts suggest structuring your goals around the process or activity — for instance, how long you exercise — rather than an outcome, which is less within your control. It takes time to form a new habit — 18 to 254 days, to be precise — so simply showing up is a worthwhile goal to work toward.

Gradually build on your goals: Once you have a foundation in place, keep yourself motivated by expanding your goals. If you’re a runner, you might try to gradually increase the length or distance of your regular workout. Make sure to check with a doctor or fitness expert about finding an appropriate level of fitness intensity.

Eliminate obstacles through small actions.

Look for opportunities that make it easier to follow through with your fitness intentions. Having to choose an outfit for your morning workout might not seem like much effort, but packing a gym bag in advance or folding your workout clothes by your bed the night before removes an extra step from the process.

If you’re starting to work out in a gym, plan a specific workout in advance so that you can maximize your time once you’re there.

For an extra boost of motivation, make your fitness routine more social. Research has found a link between the success of a workout program and social accountability. So dig through your personal network to find a gym or yoga buddy, or search for a local running club. Not only will you benefit from the extra accountability — you’ll be offering it in return.

Navigating exercise with a chronic health condition

There’s often a misconception that certain conditions, including diabetes and COPD, prevent exercise. In actuality, regular physical activity is part of managing many chronic conditions. However, there may be additional considerations to account for when creating an exercise routine.

Here are some general guidelines to be mindful of when exercising with diabetes, COPD, asthma, osteoporosis, or arthritis. Always speak with your provider to discuss what activities are appropriate for your personal health history.

Maintaining healthy blood sugar is a crucial part of diabetes management. Exercise is a factor in your glucose levels, and some people experience decreased blood sugar during or after exercise. 

A variety of factors can affect your blood sugar response to exercise, including:

Your blood sugar levels prior to exercise

To exercise safely as a person with diabetes, check your blood sugar before, during, and after exercise, and be prepared to treat low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.

In strengthening your respiratory muscles and making it easier to breathe, regular physical activity is key to maintaining an active life while living with COPD. However, it’s important to practice gentle exercises that don’t overexert your lungs. Your provider can help you determine appropriate activities.

You may also benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation, an outpatient exercise and education program that helps those with COPD manage the condition.

As many as 90% of people with asthma experience respiratory symptoms during physical activity. For some, symptoms begin right at the start of exercising while others experience airflow obstruction after returning to a state of rest. In some cases, symptoms quickly resolve, but they may last up to 24 hours in others.

Rather than avoiding exercise to prevent an asthma flare-up, speak with your healthcare provider about your asthma treatment plan and look for forms of exercise with an appropriate level of intensity.

The weakening of the bones in osteoporosis increases the risk for fractures, so those with the condition should take precautions to avoid exercise-related injuries.

Here are some general guidelines for exercising with osteoporosis. Check with your provider about which activities are the best for you. 

Unless otherwise informed by your doctor, avoid high-impact exercises and activities that involve frequent bending or twisting, as they may increase your risk of fractures.

Explore weight-bearing aerobic activities to strengthen bones in your legs, hips, and lower spine.

Try simple balancing exercises or movement-based stability exercises such as tai chi to maintain good stability and balance.

Opt for gentle activities like water exercises, tai chi, yoga, and stretching, all of which reduce joint pressure and expand your joints’ range of motion.

Let Alto support your health and wellness

Staying on top of your health should be as simple as possible, and we’re here to support you with exceptional pharmacy care. We offer fast and reliable courier delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our mobile app.

IVF is often a rewarding journey, but it is also a physically and emotionally taxing experience. For many people, uncertainty can be one of the most difficult aspects of the process.

How to Prepare for Your IVF Cycle

Many factors shape each person’s experience of IVF. You have more control over some than others. Preparation includes both taking steps to increase your chance of success while also learning what challenges to anticipate and how to navigate them. Here’s more on what to expect.

It’s important to know upfront that the IVF journey can be longer than hoped or expected and multiple cycles are common. Of those who eventually conceive through the process, it takes an average of 2.7 cycles to become pregnant.

However, certain health and lifestyle factors can influence the likelihood of a successful cycle, and it is definitely worth doing everything you can to be at your healthiest when you begin treatment. Use the following suggestions below as a starting point — note that they also apply to physical preparation for an egg freezing cycle.

Research has found that weight can factor into the outcome of fertility treatment. Being underweight or overweight can both impact your body’s response to IVF medications. Having a healthy weight as you start your cycle may increase your chance of success.

Keep in mind that there are many factors in a person’s overall health, and being at a healthy weight looks different for everyone. Your provider is an important resource and can advise you on whether your weight may impact your fertility.

A well-balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and feel your best throughout your IVF journey. In general, load up on fruits and veggies, lean proteins like fish and poultry, and whole grains. Opt for healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, and seeds as much as possible. It’s recommended to limit your intake of red meat, sugar, and processed foods.

Most health experts advise against any significant changes to your diet before or during an IVF cycle.

Taking prenatal vitamins may improve the quality of your eggs — which is important for a successful embryo transfer during IVF — and prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy. 

Prenatal vitamins that include folic acid, coenzyme, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids like DHA are typically most beneficial, but check with your provider about the best option for your needs.

Some evidence suggests that healthy vitamin D levels can impact your IVF experience. Ask your provider if you would benefit from a vitamin D supplement.

Avoid unhealthy habits and lower your caffeine intake

You’re likely already aware of the dangers of smoking during pregnancy, but the reasons to avoid the habit while preparing for IVF go beyond the obvious.

While research on the link between IVF and smoking is ongoing, there’s strong evidence that smoking leads to lower success rates. More specifically, it can decrease the thickness of the endometrium, the layer of tissue lining the uterus. This can lower the chance of successful embryo implantation.

Research has also found a link between alcohol consumption during IVF and live birth rates.

Don’t be afraid to ask your provider for support if you are attempting to give up smoking or drinking in preparation for fertility treatment.

Experts haven’t yet determined specifically how caffeine impacts fertility, but several studies have found a link. It is recommended to limit your daily caffeine intake to 200 mg — approximately two 8-oz cups of coffee — during preconception and the first trimester of a pregnancy.

Not only will staying well rested improve your mental and emotional well-being during IVF, some studies have found a correlation between sleep quality and IVF success.

Of course, getting enough rest can be easier said than done: 1 in 3 U.S. adults report that they sleep less than the recommended minimum of seven hours per night. To improve the quality and duration of your sleep, try the following strategies:

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekends.

Avoid use of electronic devices close to your bedtime.

Get plenty of natural light and stay physically active during the day, but avoid exercising close to bedtime.

Avoid eating or drinking close to bedtime, particularly caffeine, alcohol, and high-sugar or high-fat foods.

Keep your bedroom dark and quiet and maintain a comfortable temperature.

Staying physically active is part of maintaining good health as you prepare for the IVF journey. Check with your doctor about your individual needs, but 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week is generally a good target to aim for.

High-impact cardiovascular exercise isn’t recommended during IVF, but low-impact exercise is typically safe. However, some clinics advise against exercising altogether during an IVF cycle. Your care team can provide individualized recommendations.

Remember that your partner’s health matters, too

If you are a woman attempting to conceive with a male partner, remember that, while you are the one undergoing the process of IVF, your partner’s health can also affect the outcome of treatment.

There are many factors in sperm quality, including sleep, exposure to chemicals and toxins, and lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol consumption.

Steps that a male partner should take before IVF include limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking or using other harmful substances, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a nutritious, balanced diet.

Review current medications with your doctor and make treatment adjustments if necessary

Some over-the-counter and prescription medications can impact your body’s response to fertility medications and the outcome of treatment. Make sure your doctor is informed of all medications and supplements you take. If any aren’t recommended to take during an IVF cycle, discuss how to safely taper off of them and whether to switch to an alternative medication.

Fertility treatment is a highly personal experience, and the process — including how stressful it is — looks different for each person. One thing that’s universal, however, is that information and support make the journey more manageable.

IVF is a significant financial investment, and the cost of treatment is a common source of stress. It isn’t always possible to predict the course of treatment, or how much it will cost, since there are so many variables, but doing preliminary research and mapping out your personal goals can help you prepare.

If you have health insurance, look into the details of your plan as a starting point. Coverage of fertility treatment varies significantly from one plan to another.

If your insurance plan covers IVF medications, that coverage may fall under the medical portion of your plan rather than the pharmacy one. We encourage you to contact your insurance carrier for an in-depth explanation of your fertility benefits. Additionally, some clinics have an insurance department, which can be another resource as you do your research.

As you prepare for the financial aspects of IVF, it is helpful to determine how many cycles you are willing or able to try. Keep in mind that there are many financial resources that can help you manage or lower the cost of IVF.

Beyond the emotionally taxing nature of fertility treatment, IVF can cause anxiety purely as an unfamiliar medical treatment. Take time to discuss the process with your clinical team. Some phases can cause additional stress, like the egg retrieval and embryo transfer. Knowing what to anticipate will likely help.

You should also prepare to make certain decisions, including how many embryos to transfer and what you will do with unused eggs or embryos. For some individuals and couples, the IVF process involves donor sperm or eggs. Discuss your options with your care team and give yourself time to determine what the right choice is for you.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with common side effects and make a plan for treating them. Injections can be particularly stressful to navigate, so take time reviewing the techniques. As an Alto customer, you’ll have personalized videos for each injectable medication in your protocol in the app.

Reducing stress and building a support system

Be mindful of your emotional and mental well-being throughout your fertility journey and make a plan for reducing stress. Don’t hesitate to lean on your friends and family for support — especially those who have gone through the IVF journey themselves — but remember, too, that sharing your decision to pursue IVF is a personal choice.

A pharmacy partner for your fertility journey

Fertility treatment can be a challenging journey, but Alto is with you every step of the way. We offer same-day hand delivery of your medications and fertility resources like personalized injection guide videos and access to fertility-trained pharmacists.

Interested in learning more about how Alto can support your treatment? Request a price quote online or reach out through secure in-app messaging.

Every year, June marks Men’s Health Month, a reminder of the importance of prevention and healthy lifestyle habits. This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps. Read more!

How to Honor Men’s Health Month | Alto Pharmacy

Every year, June marks Men’s Health Month, a reminder of the importance of prevention and healthy lifestyle habits. U.S. men have a shorter life expectancy than women and are less likely to go to the doctor. Many leading men’s health issues are preventable, and even small actions can have a big impact.

This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps.

And if you haven’t been to the doctor in a while, you’re far from alone, so try not to feel discouraged. The important thing is to move forward on healthier footing — there’s no time like the present to make some positive changes.

Heart disease is one of the most prevalent health issues in the country and a leading preventable cause of death for U.S. men. The condition develops gradually as plaque accumulates in the arteries, hardening these important blood vessels and impairing blood flow to the heart.

The good news? Many common heart disease risk factors are manageable, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, physical inactivity, and smoking. The first step to better heart health is to understand your personal risk factors. And that starts with — you guessed it — making that doctor’s appointment and staying up to date with screenings.

Your provider can advise you on the recommended frequency of key screenings based on your health history. In general, without accounting for other health factors, blood pressure screening is typically recommended at least once every 3 to 5 years for those under 39 and at least once a year for those 40 and older. Similarly, the CDC recommends cholesterol screenings at least once every 4 to 6 years as a baseline, but more frequent screenings may be necessary for those with additional heart health risks, like diabetes or obesity.

For more on heart-healthy living and heart disease prevention, read How to Prevent Heart Disease at Any Age.

While cancer mortality rates continue to decline among U.S. men, it remains a leading cause of death. Below are some of the most common cancers in men. In nearly all cases, early detection can allow for the most effective treatment approach and vastly improve prognosis, which is another reason to prioritize your health and build a relationship with a trusted provider.

Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in U.S. men. Your chances of developing it increase with age, and the majority of men with prostate cancer are over the age of 65. Other key risk factors include:

Race/ethnicity: Black men are more likely to both develop prostate cancer and to face more aggressive forms of it than men of other races.

Family history: Having an immediate relative who has had prostate cancer more than doubles your risk of developing it. The risk is higher if your relatives had it at a younger age.

With early detection, the survival rate of prostate cancer is high, so learn your risk and make informed decisions about screening. The American Cancer Society recommends discussing prostate cancer screening options with your provider at age 50 if you have an average risk and at age 45 if you have a high risk.

Colorectal cancer, which starts in the colon or rectum, is a common cancer in both men and women and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. Screening is recommended for all adults from ages 45 to 75. There are a variety of screening options, including stool tests and several types of colonoscopies. Speak with your provider about your options and the recommended frequency of screenings based on your personal and family health history. 

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in U.S. men and the leading cause of cancer deaths in the country. Delayed diagnoses factor heavily into the high mortality rate — the five-year survival rate is about 60% when the disease is confined to one lung, but the majority of cases are diagnosed after it has spread to both lungs or other organs.

Lung cancer screening is recommended for anyone with a high risk, including individuals with a history of heavy smoking who are between the ages of 50-80.

While smoking contributes to the majority of lung cancer cases, there are additional risk factors to be mindful of, such as exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, asbestos, or other carcinogens.

Men are both more likely to develop melanoma — the most serious type of skin cancer — and more likely to die from it than women. Fortunately, there are many ways to limit your exposure to UV rays and lower your risk of skin cancer.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 every day you spend outside. If you plan to be in the sun for long stretches of time, opt for an SPF of 30 or higher. Make sure you’re using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Additionally, check your skin regularly for potential issues. If you see anything new, changing, or unusual, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible. Here are common signs of skin cancer to watch for:

A skin growth that increases in size and appears pearly, transparent, tan, brown, black, or multicolored

A mole, birthmark, or brown spot that increases in size or thickness, changes color or texture, or is bigger than a pencil eraser

A spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab, or bleed

An open sore that does not heal within three weeks

Even if you don’t see any new or unusual skin growths, be sure to visit the dermatologist at least once a year as part of your preventative care. 

As you prioritize your overall wellness, remember to account for your mental health, too. It’s estimated that more than 6 million men in the U.S. experience depression. While the condition affects all genders, men are less likely than women to acknowledge symptoms and seek treatment.

Mental health disorders like depression are medical conditions. Not only is there no shame in getting the support you need to feel your best, it takes strength to speak openly with a provider about your mental health.

Here are some common symptoms of depression to watch for: 

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

Feelings of low self-worth, guilt, or hopelessness

This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps. Read more!

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