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Practicing preventative health is critical to detecting health issues early on, when they are more treatable, and lowering your risk of developing conditions that are otherwise avoidable.

Prioritize Your Health with Preventative Care

If you’ve ever waited until you’re sick to see a doctor, you’re not alone. Many adults in the U.S. put off routine doctor’s appointments — sometimes even when they don’t feel well. 

These delays can be serious: according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, up to 40% of all fatalities linked to the five leading causes of death in the U.S. — heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory diseases, stroke, and unintentional injuries — could have been prevented. Untreated blood pressure or cholesterol and unhealthy lifestyle habits factors heavily into many of these cases.

Practicing preventative health is critical to detecting health issues early on, when they are more treatable, and lowering your risk of developing conditions that are otherwise avoidable. Preventative care involves a combination of annual check-ups, vaccinations, screenings, and healthy lifestyle habits. 

If you haven’t been to the doctor in a while, don’t get discouraged. The important thing is to get back in the habit. Below is an overview of preventative care for both men and women, with recommendations from our pharmacists for how to ensure you’re prioritizing your health.

There are several important numbers that help your doctor understand your risk for health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes: your body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.

Being overweight or obese increases your risk for many different health conditions, including high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. 

Body mass index (BMI) is a screening tool that doctors use for obesity. A healthy BMI is typically between 18.5 to 24.9, while a BMI between 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight and a BMI of 30 or higher is obese.

Keep in mind that while a BMI does help doctors understand your general risk for the chronic conditions mentioned above, it is merely a snapshot of your health and doesn’t account for other important health factors including age and genetics. Your healthcare provider can help you understand your overall priorities with preventative care beyond any single number, which is another important reason to stay up to date with doctor’s appointments.

Your blood pressure numbers are one of several factors that can help your doctor predict your risk for heart disease and cardiac events like a heart attack or stroke. There are five different blood pressure ranges recognized by the American Heart Association:

If your blood pressure is in the normal range, you should get screened at least once per year. If your blood pressure is in a higher range, consult with your doctor about recommended screening frequency.

Read our previous blog to learn more about managing blood pressure.

A cholesterol blood test, also called a lipid profile or lipid panel, gives results for several different readings: HDL (good) cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides, and total blood (or serum) cholesterol. Your total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol levels are particularly important in helping your doctor identify if you are at risk for a heart attack or stroke.

A healthy range for total cholesterol is considered to be less than 200 mg/dL

A healthy range for HDL cholesterol is considered to be higher than 40 mg/dL for men and higher than 50 mg/dL for women

A healthy range for LDL cholesterol is considered to be less than 100 mg/dL

These targets are intended to be general guidelines, and each individual’s health needs are different. Having type 2 diabetes, smoking, being overweight, and not getting enough physical activity can affect your cholesterol levels. Your healthcare provider can help you determine your personal targets.

If your total cholesterol is under 200 mg/dL, you can have your cholesterol checked every 4-6 years. If you are at higher risk for heart disease and stroke, consult your doctor about recommended screening frequency.

Your blood glucose numbers can help your doctor determine if you have diabetes or are at risk for developing it. A blood sugar level under 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L) is typical considered healthy, while a reading between 140 and 199 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L and 11.0 mmol/L) may indicate prediabetes and a reading over 200 mg/dL may indicate diabetes. A discussion of these numbers with your healthcare provider is required for an official diagnosis of diabetes.

Generally speaking, if your blood glucose numbers are under 140 mg/dL, you should get screened at least every three years. If you have prediabetes you will need more frequent screening.

If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider can help you develop individualized targets for healthy blood sugar levels, which may be different from the numbers above. Try not to worry about what “normal” looks like for other people, and focus instead on taking simple actions to control your diabetes and live your healthiest life, like staying active and quitting unhealthy habits.

You should have an annual check-up once per calendar year. This appointment is the foundation of preventative care: since each individual’s risk for specific preventable health conditions may vary, discussing your personal health history and vital signs with your doctor will help you determine which preventative measures to prioritize.

In addition to checking with your physician about which vaccines, screenings, and medical tests you need, ask if your family history indicates an increased risk for any health conditions.

Prevention and screening become more important as you age. Regular colorectal cancer screening is recommended for everyone 50 and over. If you have risk factors like an immediate family member with colorectal cancer, your doctor may suggest earlier screening.

The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for all women between 45 and 54. Some women begin screening for breast cancer as early as age 40 depending on their risk and family history. Women 55 and older can continue with yearly mammograms or switch to every two years. Your doctor can help you determine the right screening frequency for your individual needs. 

Preventative health doesn’t just happen in your doctor’s office. Everyday choices like what you eat and how often you exercise can protect your health for years to come.

Staying active is one of the most important things you can do to prevent cardiovascular disease and maintain a healthy weight. If you’re just starting to figure out your ideal exercise routine, know that you don’t have to exert yourself too hard to reap the benefits of physical activity. Even just 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week can help strengthen your heart.

Everyone should do their best to limit their intake of the following foods, but it’s especially important if you face a greater risk for heart disease or diabetes:

Saturated and trans fats, which can raise your cholesterol

Sodium, which may increase your blood pressure

Sweets and sugar-sweetened beverages, which have been linked to both type 2 diabetes and an increased risk for heart disease

Other things you can do to stay healthy? Chronic stress can elevate your blood pressure, putting you at a greater risk for heart attack and stroke, so try to manage stress in heart-healthy ways like getting enough sleep, maintaining a fulfilling social life, and practicing mindfulness and gratitude. And it’s never a bad time to cut back on your alcohol consumption and quit smoking, if you currently smoke.

Prioritizing your physical and mental well-being today can help you prevent health issues in the future. We’re here to help make that as simple as possible.

At Alto, a pharmacist is your partner in health. If you take medication, we will work with your doctor, your insurance (if applicable), and any third party savings programs that you may qualify for to make your medications as affordable as possible. And our team of patient care pharmacists is available to chat whenever questions come up. Reach out through our in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

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.

Hypercoagulation, or excessive blood clotting, can be treated with anticoagulants — a class of medications that reduce the blood’s ability to form new clots and prevent existing clots from growing.

How Anticoagulants Prevent Blood Clots From Forming

Blood clotting to stop bleeding, or coagulation, is a normal part of the body’s healing process after a cut or other type of injury. However, excessive blood clotting, or hypercoagulation, may occur when clots form too easily while blood moves normally through the body. Hypercoagulation can be serious: when a blood clot develops in the arteries, it may lead to a stroke, heart attack, leg pain, or other serious health complications.

Some people are born with a tendency to form blood clots, while in other cases the condition may develop as a result of surgery, trauma, a medical condition, or prescription medication usage.

Medical conditions that may lead to hypercoagulation include:

Atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rate condition 

Heart attack, congestive heart failure, stroke, and other illnesses that lead to less physical activity

Antiphospholipid syndrome, a condition in which the immune system mistakenly creates antibodies that make your blood more likely to clot

Previous history of deep vein thrombosis — typically a blood clot in the deep veins in your legs — or pulmonary embolism — a blood clot in the arteries in your lungs

Bone marrow and blood diseases including polycythemia vera, a blood cancer that thickens your blood, and essential thrombocytosis, a rare disorder in which your body produces too many platelets

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, a rare blood condition in which your immune system attacks red blood cells

Nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder in which the urine contains too much protein

Medications that may lead to hypercoagulation include:

Supplemental estrogen, including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy

Certain cancer medications such as tamoxifen, a breast cancer medication that activates estrogen in bone and liver cells; bevacizumab, a medication used to treat a variety of cancers and which blocks a protein responsible for blood vessel production; thalidomide, a medication used to treat a variety of cancers of which blood clots are a known side effect, particularly for patients 65 and older; and lenalidomide, a medication used to treat certain blood cancers of which blood clots are a known side effect

With many of these medications, the risk of developing blood clots is low, but individuals with a previous history of blood clots or an underlying condition linked to hypercoagulation face a greater risk. 

If you are prescribed one of these medications, be sure to inform your doctor of your medical history, including any other medications you currently take, and ask about the potential benefits and risks of using them. And if you experience any of the primary signs of a blood clot — shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg pain or swelling — contact your doctor immediately.

Hypercoagulation can be treated with anticoagulants, a class of medications that reduce the blood’s ability to form new clots and prevent existing clots from growing. These medications are primarily prescribed when a blood clot develops in a vein or artery or as a preventative measure for people who face a higher risk for blood clots due to an underlying medical condition. They work by interrupting the body’s natural blood clotting process.

There are three main types of anticoagulant medications that act on different parts of the blood clotting process to prevent irregular blood clots: vitamin K antagonists, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), and low-molecular weight heparins.

Vitamin K, commonly found in green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach, helps your blood clot. Warfarin (brand name options include Coumadin® and Jantoven®) — one of the most common treatments for blood clotting disorders — is a vitamin K antagonist that prevents your liver from processing vitamin K into “factors,” or proteins that control your bleeding and help form blood clots. It is taken orally as tablets.

Warfarin is so commonly prescribed because of its proven effectiveness: it has been in use longer than other anticoagulants and reduces the rate of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation by 60%. It is also easier than other anticoagulants to reverse if you experience sudden bleeding from an injury or during surgery.

Because warfarin is so effective at preventing blood clotting, one of the main side effects is bleeding. The risk of serious bleeding is low, but you may bleed or bruise more easily after even small injuries. Difficulty stopping a nosebleed is also common.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy bleeding or bruising, including heavier than normal menstrual bleeding, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Joint pain, discomfort or swelling, especially after an injury

Bruising that develops without an injury you remember

You will need to get frequent blood tests when taking warfarin to evaluate blood clotting and the medication’s effectiveness. Your doctor may choose to adjust your dosage based on your test results, which is why it's important to stay up to date with lab appointments.

Here are additional tips to avoid side effects and complications while taking warfarin:

Wear a medical ID bracelet to ensure that you receive proper medical care in an emergency situation.

Anticoagulants can interact with other medications. Speak to your doctor before taking any other medication, including over-the-counter medications or supplements.

Warfarin is not safe to take during pregnancy. If you are planning to become pregnant, speak with your doctor about switching to an alternate medication.

Consult with your doctor about dietary recommendations, as certain foods, particularly those that are high in vitamin K, can affect how warfarin works.

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like apixaban (Eliquis®), betrixaban (Bevyxxa®), dabigatran (Pradaxa®), edoxaban (Savaysa®), and rivaroxaban (Xarelto®) directly block the blood’s ability to form clots. They are the newest class of anticoagulants, having been first introduced into the market in 2010.

These medications offer some advantages in contrast to other anticoagulants. Unlike warfarin, they do not require regular lab work. They are also less likely to interact with food, so there aren’t any dietary restrictions. There are FDA-approved antidotes for dabigatran, apixaban, and rivaroxaban to stop excessive bleeding in the event of trauma or emergency surgery.

On the other hand, DOACs are shorter-acting than vitamin K antagonists, so missing even one dose can make you vulnerable to blood clot formation.

The most serious side effect to watch for is uncontrolled bleeding, though it is rare. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy or unusual bleeding or bruising.

Some studies also suggest that DOACs may be unsafe to take while pregnant. If you are planning on getting pregnant, speak with your healthcare provider about alternate medications.

Avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen while taking a DOAC, and wear a medical ID bracelet to ensure proper medical treatment in the event of an emergency.

This medication class, which includes dalteparin (Fragmin®) and enoxaparin (Lovenox®), is primarily used for short periods of time to treat or prevent a deep vein thrombosis — a blood clot in the body’s deep veins, often in the legs. It can also reduce your risk of pulmonary embolism, a blockage in your lung arteries as the result of a blood clot.

In contrast to other anticoagulants, LMWHs are often used as a bridge to longer-term use of another anticoagulant such as warfarin, though some people take LMWHs for longer periods of time. They can be administered via IV drip in hospitals or doctors’ offices or through subcutaneous injections at home once or twice a day. No blood tests are required.

Redness, irritation, and bruising at the site of infection

Consult your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking an LMWH, and make sure they are aware of any other medications you take. In particular, NSAIDs can increase your risk of bleeding while taking LMWHs.

Choose a reliable and flexible pharmacy partner

Alto makes it as simple as possible to follow the treatment your doctor recommends. We offer same-day delivery and medication management tools like dose reminders and auto refills in our app. Our team of patient care pharmacists is also available to walk you through dosage instructions and answer your questions. Reach out by phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging to get started.

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.

While there is no cure for pulmonary fibrosis, a combination of medications, oxygen therapy, and active lifestyle choices can slow the progression of the disease and reduce discomfort.

Pulmonary Fibrosis: What to Know About Symptoms and Treatment

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive, long-term lung disease in which the lungs become scarred, making it difficult to breathe. Though less common than other lung diseases, pulmonary fibrosis can lead to serious complications like pulmonary hypertension, respiratory failure, and lung cancer, so early detection and proactive monitoring of symptoms is critical.

While there is no cure for pulmonary fibrosis, a combination of medications, oxygen therapy, and active lifestyle choices can slow the progression of the disease and reduce discomfort. Read on to learn more about pulmonary fibrosis, including how to recognize and treat pulmonary fibrosis symptoms.

Pulmonary fibrosis scars and thickens the connecting tissue in the lungs and alveoli, which are delicate air sacs that transport oxygen into your bloodstream. Over time, the lung tissues grow thicker and it becomes more difficult for the alveoli to deliver oxygen into the body, making it increasingly challenging to breathe. As the disease progresses, you may experience shortness of breath more frequently during everyday activities.

The development of pulmonary fibrosis varies significantly in individuals. For some people, symptoms arise very quickly. For others, they may take years to develop.

While the severity of pulmonary fibrosis symptoms vary from one person to another, there are some common symptoms:

Widening and rounding of the tips of the fingers or toes

Some people with pulmonary fibrosis experience acute flare-ups in which symptoms such as shortness of breath intensify for several days up to several weeks. Medications including antibiotics and corticosteroids, which ease swelling and inflammation, may be used to treat these sudden spikes. Some people may also be placed on a ventilator during these flare-ups to assist with breathing.

As with COPD, smoking increases your risk of developing pulmonary fibrosis, but so do other factors like long-term exposure to pollutants and toxins, certain medical conditions and medications, and radiation therapy. Below are the most common risk factors for pulmonary fibrosis.

The aging of the lungs has been linked to higher susceptibility for respiratory diseases. While pulmonary fibrosis can affect infants and children, it primarily occurs in middle-aged and older adults. Most people with the condition develop it between ages 50 and 70.

While it’s possible for a non-smoker to develop the condition, pulmonary fibrosis is far more common in smokers. It may occur in people who also have emphysema, a lung disease that falls under the umbrella of COPD.

Jobs in mining, farming, and construction often involve long-term exposure to toxins such as silica dust, asbestos fibers, hard metal dusts, coal dust, and bird and animal droppings that damage the lungs. If you work in these fields, you may have a greater risk of developing pulmonary fibrosis.

While pulmonary fibrosis cases in women have increased in recent years, it continues to affect more men than women overall. This may be due in part to the fact that men are more likely than women to smoke and to work in the professional fields linked to pulmonary fibrosis.

Radiation treatments for lung cancer and breast cancer and certain chemotherapy drugs, including methotrexate and cyclophosphamide, may increase your risk of developing pulmonary fibrosis.

The extent of the damage to the lungs during radiation treatments depends on the following factors:

How much of the lung was exposed to radiation

In rare cases, other medications have been linked to pulmonary fibrosis, including heart medications like amiodarone, antibiotics like nitrofurantoin and ethambutol, and anti-inflammatory medications like rituximab and sulfasalazine. If you take any of these medications and have concerns, consult with your healthcare provider about potential risks. Be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations, as abruptly stopping the use of a medication can be dangerous.

Researchers believe that there may be a genetic component to certain types of pulmonary fibrosis, as a small percentage of people living with the condition have at least one other affected relative. Research into possible genetic influences is ongoing. If someone in your family has had pulmonary fibrosis, speak with your doctor about your risk. They may refer you to a genetic counselor.

To determine if you have pulmonary fibrosis, your healthcare provider will ask about your medical history and conduct a physical exam to evaluate symptoms. They may use a stethoscope to listen for abnormal sounds such as crackling when you breathe.

It can be challenging to diagnose pulmonary fibrosis since symptoms overlap with those of other lung diseases. Your doctor may order additional tests, such as blood and imaging tests, pulmonary function tests, and, in some cases, a biopsy to rule out other illnesses and confirm a pulmonary fibrosis diagnosis.

There are a variety of treatment options to alleviate your pulmonary fibrosis symptoms and help you maintain a healthy and active life. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following common treatments.

There are two primary medications that slow the progression of lung scarring and preserve lung function: pirfenidone (Esbriet®) and nintedanib (OFEV®). Both medications are similarly effective at treating symptoms and improving lung capacity.

Common side effects of pirfenidone include:

Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

Common side effects of nintedanib include:

Consult with your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of treating pulmonary fibrosis with pirfenidone or nintedanib, and make sure they are aware of any other medications you take.

Oxygen therapy transports more oxygen into your lungs, increasing your tolerance for physical activity and helping you stay active. It can be administered in a hospital during flare-ups or at home. If you have a home oxygen delivery system, your doctor will likely also prescribe a portable device to use when you are on the go. There are different devices for oxygen therapy. Your doctor will recommend one based on several factors including lung function and lifestyle.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program of education and exercise classes, typically in a group setting, aimed at improving lung function and reducing symptoms. In these programs, nurses and respiratory therapists share important information about managing pulmonary fibrosis and teach you how to conserve your energy and increase your level of fitness.

A lung transplant, in which a damaged lung is replaced with a healthy lung from a donor, is a treatment option for some individuals with pulmonary fibrosis. While it can improve your breathing capacity and tolerance for physical activity, a lung transplant is a major procedure with risks of complications. 

In determining if you are eligible for a lung transplant, your healthcare provider will consider multiple factors such as whether you are in overall good physical health aside from your pulmonary fibrosis and if you have any other life-threatening conditions.

Pulmonary fibrosis can make it difficult to recover from other infections, so it’s important to take steps to boost your immunity and avoid getting sick. In addition to practicing good hygiene and maintaining a healthy distance from anyone who’s sick, stay current on your annual pneumonia and flu vaccinations, and practice healthy habits like staying active, eating well, and avoiding cigarette smoke.

How Alto can support your pulmonary fibrosis treatment

We make it as easy as possible to follow the treatment your doctor has recommended through free hand-delivery of your medication, automatic savings investigations, and easy medication management tools through our website and app. And our team of pharmacists is always here to answer your questions by phone or in-app messaging.

Reach out via phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging to learn how Alto can support your pulmonary fibrosis treatment plan.

Despite the initial challenges of a type 1 diagnosis, managing your child’s diabetes does get easier. Here’s an overview of the information you need to manage your child’s diagnosis.

How to Manage Your Child’s Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis

Your child’s type 1 diabetes diagnosis affects the entire family. As a parent, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed as you get up to speed on their treatment plan, including insulin therapy,  blood glucose testing, and coordinating with your insurance provider.

“There’s so much information thrown at you right away, and we didn’t know what we didn’t know,” shared Lucinda, a Partnership Manager at Alto whose 5-year-old son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes last year. “Insurance coverage is particularly complicated with diabetes, even for someone who works in healthcare like me, because you’re dealing with so many medications and supplies that aren’t commonly prescribed.”

Despite the initial challenges of a type 1 diagnosis, managing your child’s diabetes does get easier. By staying on top of daily blood sugar management and surrounding your family with a strong support system, your child will be able to have a healthy, active life — and you will be able to find some peace of mind. Here’s an overview of the information you need to manage your child’s type 1 diabetes diagnosis

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body mistakenly destroys the pancreas’s insulin-producing cells. Your body needs insulin to properly convert a simple sugar known as glucose into energy. Without insulin, blood sugar levels rise in people with type 1 diabetes, which can cause life-threatening health complications if untreated.

While type 1 diabetes can be diagnosed in adults, the majority of cases develop during childhood (the condition was once referred to as juvenile diabetes). In some cases, symptoms appear in children less than a year old.

Blood sugar levels typically rise very quickly as the condition develops. Some of the common initial symptoms of type 1 diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, weight loss, and fatigue. Your child may feel very sick within two to three weeks following the onset of the condition.

Insulin therapy is the cornerstone of treatment for type 1 diabetes. Since individuals with type 1 diabetes don’t produce any insulin at all, they need to take insulin every day to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Insulin is most commonly administered with a syringe, but additional methods of delivery include insulin pumps and pens. There are five main types of insulin categorized by how quickly they work and how long they last: rapid-acting, regular or short-acting, intermediate-acting, long-acting, and ultra long-acting. 

It’s important to work with your child’s healthcare provider to find the right insulin dosage, as taking too much or too little can cause rapid changes in blood glucose levels. Many people with diabetes need to take a combination of rapid or short-acting and long-acting insulins throughout the day. This best replicates the natural actions of a normally functioning pancreas, which releases a continual supply of insulin with additional bursts when you eat.

Read our previous blog to learn more about getting started with insulin therapy.

The goal of insulin therapy is to keep your child’s blood sugar in a healthy range. For people without diabetes, a typical blood sugar range is 70 to 125 mg/dL when fasting. People with diabetes should typically try to stay between 70 to 180 mg/dL. 

Your child’s healthcare provider will let you know what your child’s blood sugar target range is. Individual blood sugar targets will vary depending on factors like age, physical activity, and the severity of the condition. It will likely change as your child grows.

Daily testing is the only way to ensure that your child’s blood sugar is within their target range. It will also offer insight into how food and physical activity affect your child’s blood sugar levels throughout the day.

As with insulin therapy, checking your child’s blood sugar using a blood glucose meter will become routine. You will likely need to check and record your child’s blood sugar several times throughout the day, including before meals and snacks, before and after exercise, and before bed. Logging results from blood sugar tests is very important for noticing patterns and determining if any adjustments to your child’s treatment are necessary. Apps like Glucose and mySugr are helpful tools that allow you to identify trends over time.

Your doctor will advise you on your child’s individual needs with blood sugar monitoring. You may have to check their blood sugar levels more frequently when they are sick, if their routine changes, or if they start a new medication. A continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device, which measures blood sugar every few minutes through a temporary or implanted sensor inserted under the skin, is helpful for individuals who need to monitor blood sugar levels more closely. Consult with your child’s healthcare provider about whether or not a CGM device is appropriate.

Carbohydrates increase blood sugar levels more than any other nutrient, so monitoring how many carbs your child consumes every day is another important aspect of blood sugar management.

Advanced meal planning is important, as your child’s daily insulin dosage is based on their insulin-to-carb ratio. They should be able to eat a variety of foods so long as you carefully plan out meals and spread their carb intake throughout the day.

Your child’s healthcare provider can help you determine your child’s target carb ratio. While this is a healthy baseline to aim for, blood sugar naturally fluctuates throughout the day. There may be times when additional carbs are needed to treat low blood sugar, or when extra insulin is required to bring high blood sugar levels down.

By no means should a type 1 diabetes diagnosis prevent your child from staying active. In fact, exercise offers individuals with type 1 diabetes additional benefits like lowering blood sugar and improving insulin sensitivity. 

However, exercise may sometimes cause a drop in blood sugar levels, so it’s important to check blood sugar levels beforehand. Stock up on carbohydrate-rich snacks such as dried fruits, trail mix, or granola bars to treat low blood sugar, keeping in mind that physical activity is often more unplanned and spontaneous with children and adolescents than it is with adults. 

The American Diabetes Association recommends giving 5-15 grams of carbs, depending on your child’s age and weight, for every 30 minutes of sustained physical activity in tandem with frequent monitoring of blood sugar levels.

Low blood sugar is also known as hypoglycemia. For many individuals with diabetes, hypoglycemia occurs when their blood sugar is less than 70 mg/dL. However, diabetes treatment plans are individualized, and your child may have a different blood sugar target range, so be sure to consult with your child’s physician.

There are many reasons why blood sugar may fall, including not eating enough, exercising too much, taking too much insulin, or not taking insulin at the right time. Initial signs of hypoglycemia include feeling sweaty, shaky, and hungry. As blood sugar drops further, additional symptoms include feeling weak, having difficulty walking or seeing clearly, getting disoriented, and having seizures.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, check their blood sugar and treat immediately with fast-acting sources of glucose, including fruit snacks, juice boxes, glucose tabs, or glucose gels. In cases of severe hypoglycemia — 55 mg/dL or less for many individuals with diabetes — glucagon can be used to restore blood sugar.

On the other end of the spectrum, a blood sugar of 180 mg/dL or higher is usually considered hyperglycemia or high blood sugar. It frequently occurs when too little insulin is taken for the amount of carbs consumed, but factors like illness, stress, and hormonal changes can also lead to hyperglycemia. Common signs include extreme thirst, frequent urination, or increased hunger.

If you notice any of these hyperglycemia symptoms in your child, check their blood sugar levels and follow the treatment plan your doctor has recommended, which may include a dose of rapid acting insulin, water, or other carbohydrate-free beverages.

A crucial step to preparing for emergency hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia is informing your child’s school of their type 1 diabetes diagnosis. View the JDRF’s back to school checklist for more on what your child’s teachers should know.

You never have to be alone on this journey. In addition to your child’s clinical team, other parents of children with diabetes, who know exactly what you’re going through, are a powerful resource. And for Lucinda and her family, growing a strong support network has been invaluable.

“Your child’s diabetes diagnosis changes everything in your life, and that’s the part that people don’t always get to discuss at the doctor’s office,” she said. “I wish I had known to connect with other parents of children with type 1 diabetes immediately.”

Visit the caregiving section of the American Diabetes Association’s online Support Community to start building your own network of parents who are also managing their children’s diabetes.

It’s also important to have a pharmacy that will advocate for your child’s care, as the condition involves a steep learning curve with medications and supplies.

“I never felt supported by a pharmacy until I used Alto for my son’s diabetes medications,” Lucinda said. “Questions about insurance coverage are handled seamlessly, and as a busy working mom, it’s so helpful to be able to quickly schedule a delivery in the app.”

She added, “With diabetes, any pharmacy missteps like improper medication packaging or storage can be life-threatening. It brings me so much peace of mind to know that I never have to worry about that with Alto.”

A diabetes pharmacy partner you can rely on

Alto is with you every step of the way in managing your child’s diabetes. We make it simple to follow the treatment plan your child’s doctor recommends, with proper packaging of temperature-controlled medications and free same-day delivery right to your doorstep.

We also offer extra support to address the challenges that are specific to managing diabetes, like getting started with insulin therapy. Our pharmacists are available to walk you through your child’s first insulin doses and discuss any symptoms or side effects to determine if an adjustment is needed.

And since a diabetes diagnosis brings lots of new insurance terminology related to your child’s medications and supplies, we compiled a guide that breaks down the key insurance terms you’re likely to encounter. We’ll tackle the administrative legwork, too, coordinating with your doctor’s office and submitting any necessary paperwork, so that you can focus on your child’s care instead of phone calls with your insurance provider.

Get started or learn more about Alto by reaching out at any time via phone at 1-800-874-5881 or in-app messaging.

We answer common questions about insurance coverage for prescription medications, including how we go above and beyond to ensure that you’re receiving your medications on time and at the lowest price possible.

How does Alto Pharmacy work with insurance?

Getting the medication you need often involves more than just receiving a prescription from your doctor and filling it at a pharmacy. And navigating the complexities of insurance coverage, from copays and deductibles to formularies and medication tiers, can be a particularly big source of stress.

A great pharmacy partner makes sure you’re never alone in working through the details of your insurance plan’s pharmacy benefits. At Alto, we tackle all of the insurance-related legwork for you and give you the information you need to understand the process.

Below, we’ve answered some common questions about insurance coverage for prescription medications, including how we go above and beyond to ensure that you’re receiving your medications on time and at the lowest price possible.

How do I know how much my medication will cost at Alto?

When you get started with Alto, we’ll automatically pull in any insurance information we can find. If you have additional coverage, just let us know and we’ll add it to your profile. For each prescription, we’ll check with your primary (and secondary) insurance plan to pull your copay amount — the amount you owe out of pocket for your medications — including any possible savings. (More about that below!)

Sometimes paying cash for your medications, separate from insurance benefits, will be cheaper than your copay. If that’s the case, we’ll let you know the different pricing options so you can make an informed choice.

By checking every available savings option, automatically, every time! Unlike traditional pharmacies, Alto is proactive about applying potential sources of savings like manufacturer coupons, patient assistant programs, and copay cards wherever applicable. We’ll automatically start looking for these opportunities the minute we receive your prescription, and we’ll keep you informed of any savings options that require you to apply directly with the program or manufacturer.

Learn more about how Alto saves you money on your prescriptions.

Here’s another way we’re different from traditional pharmacies: we’ll continue searching for less expensive medication options even after we’ve researched savings opportunities.  You’re in the driver’s seat, and if you would like support in identifying other medication options that may be covered by your insurance at better rates, we’ll work with your doctor to evaluate those choices.

Insurance companies categorize medications into tiers based on various factors such as whether the medications are generic or brand-name and how frequently they are prescribed. Medications in higher tiers generally include non-preferred brands and specialty medications for rare conditions, and these typically cost more than medications from a lower formulary tier.

Keep in mind that generic medications use the same active ingredients as their brand-name counterparts, and they must meet the same standards for safety, quality, and results in order to get FDA approval.

I’ve heard of an insurance “formulary.” What does that mean?

Every health insurance plan has a list of covered generic and brand-name medications, called a formulary, which you can locate online or by calling your plan. It includes the tiers mentioned above, indicating which medications are preferred by your insurer and therefore offered at a lower out-of-pocket cost.

When deciding whether to renew your current health insurance coverage or select a different plan for the new year, you may want to check the formularies to determine if your current medications will be covered. Read our previous blog to learn more about what to consider when reviewing insurance coverage options every year.

What if my insurance denies coverage of my medication?

If a medication isn’t on the formulary at all, you may have the option of submitting a prior authorization to prove the medical necessity of the medication and gain coverage from your insurance plan.

If a prior authorization is needed, we can work with your doctor to submit the necessary paperwork. We’ll keep both you and your doctor in the loop throughout the process so you know the current status of the request until your insurance provider has made a decision. If your prior authorization request is denied, we will work with your doctor to either process an appeal or find a different treatment option.

Read our previous post, ‘What is a Prior Authorization?’ to learn more about how Alto can help you navigate this process.

A pharmacy partner 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.

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

How Does Alto Pharmacy Work with Health Insurance? We Answer Your Top Questions.

How Alto Pharmacy works with health insurance

How does Alto Pharmacy work with insurance? We answer your top questions.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its guidelines for PrEP, a medication that can lower risk of sexual transmission of HIV by 99% when taken daily. The new guidelines — which will inform local healthcare policies and doctors’ decision-making processes — recommend that healthcare providers share information about PrEP with any patient who is sexually active, and that they prescribe PrEP for any patient who requests it. Here’s what to expect from the changes.

How Updated CDC Guidelines Can Expand PrEP Access

PrEP usage has historically been low despite the medication’s effectiveness. In 2020, just 25% of those who could benefit from PrEP were taking it.

Under the former guidelines, many doctors only shared information about PrEP with patients who presently have multiple partners or a partner who is HIV-positive or unsure of their HIV status. In reality, more people could benefit from PrEP, including those who are single and sexually active.

Under the new guidelines, anyone who is sexually active should receive PrEP information from their healthcare provider, including adolescents. Given that many traditional sex education programs in schools throughout the U.S. aren’t providing LGBTQIA+ youth with the resources they need to stay safe and healthy, the new guidelines are also an important step toward more inclusive sexual education.

Opening up the conversation about HIV prevention to more individuals aligns with what Dr. Lisa Sterman, MD, MPH, shared during a conversation with Alto in October 2020.

“A lot of people may think, ‘I’m not at risk’ or, ‘that’s not my group of people,’” Sterman said. “The way I teach it is: if you’ve ever had sex, you’re at risk for HIV. If you’ve ever shared drug needles, you’re at risk for HIV. Everyone should know their status.”

Addressing fear of discrimination or stigma at the doctor’s office

Previously, many individuals were asked to disclose personal information about their sexual health or drug use in order to receive a PrEP prescription. However, many people at risk of contracting HIV don’t feel like they can speak openly with their healthcare providers, particularly LGBTQIA+ people of color, who face multiple forms of discrimination. This barrier to PrEP access has kept many individuals from starting the medication and contributed to racial disparities in HIV rates: according to 2016 CDC data, white individuals accounted for 69% of PrEP use, while Latinx and Black individuals accounted for 13% and 11%, respectively.

The new guidelines aim to make PrEP more accessible for those who may be reluctant to share information about potentially stigmatized behavior with their healthcare providers. While conversations between doctors and patients about PrEP may initially cover a patient’s sexual health history, the CDC has recommended that anyone should receive a prescription for PrEP if requested.

There are more FDA-approved medication options for PrEP than ever before: Truvada®, Descovy®, and a generic for Truvada, which became available in October 2020. The following resources can connect you with a provider who will prescribe PrEP for you:

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