Do these modern triggers make you hypertensive?

May 06, 2025


 
Here’s what you can do to keep your BP down according to MakatiMed

Isn’t it ironic how the modern conveniences that make our lives so much fun and easier—cars, smartphones, the internet—are the very things that can have a negative impact on our health? Who hasn’t stressed over the horrific crimes that make up the headlines on the evening news, stewed impatiently while sitting for hours in snail’s-pace traffic, or cried in frustration over the nasty comments of bashers on social media?

Harboring such intense feelings doesn’t just affect your mental health, says Dr. Kristina Ozaeta-Lorilla, MD a cardiologist at a top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “It can weaken your immune system, trigger digestive issues like hyperacidity or diarrhea, give you tension headaches and backaches.”

It can also elevate blood pressure. Defined as the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries, blood pressure consists of two numbers: systolic (or the top number, which represents when your heart contracts) and diastolic (or the bottom number, which stands for your heart at rest).

“The goal is to keep your systolic BP at less than 120 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 80mmHg. A systolic of 130 and up and or diastolic of 90 or higher means you have hypertension, and without proper management, you could be at risk for a heart attack or stroke,” Dr. Ozaeta-Lorilla explains.

Though poor lifestyle choices like a diet high in sodium and processed foods, smoking and alcohol consumption, and no exercise are often to blame for hypertension, even heightened emotions like anger and depression can bring your BP up. “When you’re stressed, you produce the fight-or-flight hormone adrenaline, which increases heart rate, narrows blood vessels, and temporarily elevates blood pressure,” Dr. Ozaeta-Lorilla points out. “As for depression, feeling down may lead you to pick up bad habits like smoking, drinking, or binging on calorie-rich food—all of them are risk factors for hypertension.”

The bottom line? “Make modern conveniences work for, not against you,” says Dr. Ozaeta-Lorilla. “When you manage your emotions and use of these modern conveniences, you manage your BP.”

Social media. It connects you with family and friends, keeps you abreast of breaking news, and makes you laugh with its funny memes and reels. But cyberbullying, mean comments, and fake news can really stress you out. “Stop yourself from replying to hurtful or malicious comments. Instead, log off and spend time with people who truly care for you. You can also read a book, go for a walk, or exercise. That’s time well spent compared to hours of mindless scrolling,” says Dr. Ozaeta-Lorilla.

National elections. Especially in the Philippines, discussions about the elections (and politics in general) are typically heated and go nowhere. “You’ll never win in a talk about politics, so don’t engage or encourage it,” says Dr. Ozaeta-Lorilla. And when the candidates you voted for don’t win? “I know people who considered leaving the country when the public servants they campaigned hard for lost. But life goes on. Feel bad for a few days if you must, then resolve to do what your candidate would have done if they won: Be kind and helpful to your community.”

The news. From the rising prices of goods to senseless crimes and deaths: These days, there’s rarely any good news in the news. “You can still stay informed by choosing reliable sources, and not these dubious sites that peddle fake news and negativity,” Dr. Ozaeta-Lorilla assures. “Also, check your mood before watching or reading the news: Are you tired? Anxious or sad over something? If so, then skip the news for the moment and come back to it when your mind and mood are better.”

Heavy traffic. Not only do Filipinos waste so much time on congested roads (117 hours annually, the equivalent of five days, says Dutch navigation company TomTom), they’re slowly killing themselves from the air pollution caused by vehicles. “According to a scientist from the Manila Observatory, at least 100 of every 100,000 Filipinos die annually because of air pollution,” shares Dr. Ozaeta-Lorilla. “Air pollution exposure has also been known to increase blood pressure. If you can swing it, ask your boss if a work-from-home arrangement is possible. But if you need to be in the office, wearing a facemask when you commute lessens your exposure to smog. In the car, you can also listen to music that you like and take slow, deep breaths to ease your anxiety from the traffic.”

Work. And speaking of work, much of Filipinos’ stress and anxiety are traced to their jobs—from worrying about earning enough to support their families to fearing their boss and finding no fulfillment in what they do. “Unless you really don’t like your job and it’s affecting your health, I wouldn’t suggest quitting because it’s hard to be unemployed,” says Dr. Ozaeta-Lorilla. “For the moment, try to release that stress through exercise (sign up at the gym or form a running or walking group with coworkers) or talk to someone who can listen and offer words of comfort. Working up a sweat and opening up to a confidant are not only uplifting, they’re good for the blood pressure too.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

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Beyond Flowers: Help Mom Feel Her Best with Digestive Health Support This Mother’s Day

May 05, 2025


With Mother's Day approaching, it's the best time to celebrate the women who hold our homes and hearts together. This special day honors mothers who navigate life’s many demands with strength, grace, and resilience, often putting the needs of their families before their own. But as they continue to give so much of themselves, it’s equally important to remind them—and ourselves—that they deserve just as much care, too. One of the most meaningful ways we can show that love? By investing in their health, starting from the gut.

Mothers are the unsung heroes, tirelessly balancing demanding careers with the never-ending responsibilities of family life. A recent Milieu Insight survey reveals just how heavy this load can be, with 66% of working mothers in the Philippines struggling to manage both duties. And even as more Filipino women are becoming proactive about their health, particularly during pregnancy and postnatal recovery, nutritional deficiencies remain a widespread concern. This has driven a demand for high-quality supplements that provide reliable, long-term support.

While it's true that moms often power through discomfort or stress, they shouldn’t have to. Simple daily practices, like supporting gut health, can make a significant difference in their well-being. Often called the “second brain,” the gut is central to overall well-being. It plays a crucial role in regulating mood, supporting cognitive function, boosting immune defense, and managing stress. For women, hormonal shifts during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can disrupt gut health, leading to issues like bloating, fatigue, and constipation. A balanced gut can help ease these fluctuations, promote clearer skin, and improve nutrient absorption. But when it’s out of balance, the gut often sends subtle yet disruptive signals, like indigestion, nausea, or heartburn. Many people normalize these symptoms, brushing them off as minor inconveniences, even though they can be early signs of deeper imbalances. Consequently, supporting gut health isn’t just about digestion; it’s vital for emotional resilience, hormonal balance, and long-term wellness. Ignoring these signals means overlooking a vital foundation for overall health.

Recognizing the importance of gut health, especially for moms managing the demands of daily life, LAC Philippines offers two simple yet powerful solutions: LAC GastroRX® Digest Enzymes and LAC Women’s Probiotic Complex. These products are designed to support digestive health and overall wellness, making them the perfect Mother’s Day gift to ensure they don’t have to sacrifice their well-being while caring for everyone else.

LAC GastroRX® Digest Enzymes is a plant-based formula made from fruit and vegetable extracts rich in natural enzymes. It helps break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins in food, promoting better nutrient absorption and easing common digestive concerns like bloating and gas. It’s ideal for those dealing with stress- or age-related indigestion and comes in a convenient daily stick format. Simply take 1–2 sticks daily for adults or 1 stick for children above six, either on its own or with water.

Meanwhile, LAC Women's Probiotic Complex provides 10 clinically researched strains of beneficial gut bacteria, delivering 30 billion CFUs to promote gastrointestinal, urinary, and immune health. This potent blend helps maintain healthy gut bacteria levels, which diet, stress, antibiotics, and food contamination can disrupt. Fortified with cranberry fruit extract, it helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by inhibiting harmful bacteria growth. This formula promotes better digestion, eases bloating and constipation, supports skin health by reducing toxins, and strengthens immune health. Taken daily with food, it’s an essential part of any wellness routine.




Let’s give our mothers more than just a gesture this Mother’s Day. Let’s offer lasting, everyday support that helps them feel stronger, brighter, and more balanced. With thoughtful digestive care, we empower the women in our lives to continue doing what they do best: loving unconditionally and nurturing endlessly. Let’s celebrate them not just for everything they’ve done, but for who they are—remarkable women who deserve the very best, inside and out.
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Skincare Must-Haves for Women in Their Forties: Unlock Your Most Radiant Glow Yet

April 28, 2025


Turning 40 is a milestone worth celebrating — and your skincare routine should evolve to match the wisdom and beauty you’ve earned. As our skin matures, it needs extra love, hydration, and protection to stay healthy, supple, and luminous. If you're wondering what products deserve a permanent spot on your shelf, here’s a guide to the ultimate skincare must-haves for women in their forties.

1. Gentle, Hydrating Cleanser

In your forties, it’s all about treating your skin with kindness. Ditch harsh cleansers that strip natural oils and opt for a gentle, hydrating formula instead. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides that cleanse while maintaining your skin's moisture barrier. A soft, creamy cleanser ensures your skin feels fresh and comfortable — not tight and dry.

2. Powerful Antioxidant Serum

Antioxidants are non-negotiable. They combat environmental stressors like pollution and UV damage that accelerate aging. Vitamin C serums are a superstar choice — they brighten, even out skin tone, and support collagen production. Layering a potent antioxidant serum in the morning gives your skin the defense it needs to stay youthful and resilient.

3. Targeted Eye Cream

The delicate skin around your eyes often shows the first signs of aging. Fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles can become more prominent in your forties. A targeted eye cream packed with peptides, caffeine, and retinol can help firm, smooth, and refresh tired-looking eyes. Consistency is key — think of it as a mini-treatment twice a day.

4. Moisturizer With Peptides or Retinoids

A richer, more nourishing moisturizer is a must to keep your skin plump and radiant. Peptides support skin structure, while retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) help renew skin cells, reduce fine lines, and boost elasticity. If you're new to retinoids, start with a gentle formula and build up gradually to minimize irritation.

5. Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

Sunscreen isn't just for the beach — it's your best daily anti-aging tool. UV rays can accelerate collagen loss and cause hyperpigmentation. Choose a lightweight, broad-spectrum SPF 50 or higher that fits seamlessly into your morning routine. Mineral formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are great for sensitive skin types.

6. Exfoliating Treatment (But Gently!)

As skin cell turnover slows down in your forties, regular gentle exfoliation becomes crucial. Skip the rough scrubs and opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) instead. These promote smoother, more radiant skin without causing micro-tears. Aim for once or twice a week depending on your skin’s tolerance.

7. Nourishing Night Cream or Facial Oil

At night, your skin goes into repair mode. A nourishing night cream or a luxurious facial oil can deeply hydrate and replenish your skin while you sleep. Look for formulas rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and reparative ingredients like squalane, argan oil, or bakuchiol (a gentler alternative to retinol).

Skincare in your forties isn’t about chasing youth — it’s about embracing your beauty with smart, supportive products. By investing in high-quality, targeted skincare must-haves, you can unlock a glow that radiates confidence, wisdom, and vitality.

Ready to revamp your skincare routine? Start with these essentials and enjoy the journey of loving the skin you’re in — at every age.



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10 Most Popular Dream Destinations Among Retired Couples

April 26, 2025

Popular Dream Destinations Among Retired Couples

Retirement is the perfect time to explore the world, ticking off dream destinations without the constraints of work schedules. For many retired couples, travel becomes a cherished way to celebrate their newfound freedom, rekindle romance, and make unforgettable memories together. Whether seeking relaxation, culture, or adventure, these ten destinations are consistently favorites among retirees.

1. Tuscany, Italy

Known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and world-class wine, Tuscany is a dream destination for many couples. Retirees love the region’s relaxed pace, vineyard tours, historic architecture, and the chance to savor some of the world’s best cuisine under the Italian sun.

2. Maui, Hawaii, USA

Maui offers a perfect blend of beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and easygoing island life. Many retired couples choose Maui for its breathtaking sunsets, scenic drives like the Road to Hana, and opportunities for whale watching and snorkeling.

3. Provence, France

With its lavender fields, medieval towns, and sun-drenched cafes, Provence is a romantic retreat. Couples enjoy wandering through local markets, visiting vineyards, and taking leisurely bike rides through picturesque countryside.

4. Kyoto, Japan

For retirees interested in culture and history, Kyoto is a serene choice. The city is home to over a thousand temples, traditional tea houses, and stunning gardens. In spring, cherry blossoms create a fairytale-like setting perfect for slow strolls.

5. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The dramatic cliffs and colorful villages of the Amalfi Coast offer a breathtaking backdrop for romance. Retired couples love cruising along the coastline, exploring towns like Positano and Ravello, and indulging in fresh seafood while overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

6. Santorini, Greece

Famous for its whitewashed buildings and sapphire-blue waters, Santorini is often seen as the epitome of a romantic getaway. Many couples relish watching the iconic sunsets in Oia, tasting local wines, and enjoying the laid-back island atmosphere.

7. Banff, Alberta, Canada

For retirees seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and tranquility, Banff is a top pick. Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers crystal-clear lakes, hot springs, and breathtaking mountain scenery ideal for nature walks and photography.

8. Seville, Spain

Seville’s passionate flamenco, historic charm, and sun-drenched plazas make it a favorite among retired couples. The city’s walkable streets, historic cathedrals, and delicious tapas create a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for slow, immersive travel.

9. Queenstown, New Zealand

Known as the "adventure capital" of New Zealand, Queenstown offers more than just adrenaline-pumping activities. Retirees enjoy scenic lake cruises, wine tasting tours, and peaceful strolls with majestic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.

10. Charleston, South Carolina, USA

Charming, historic, and full of Southern hospitality, Charleston is a gem for retired travelers. Couples can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, waterfront walks, and exploring beautifully preserved antebellum architecture.

Travel after retirement offers an opportunity to reconnect, explore new cultures, and savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether you dream of a sun-soaked beach, a historic European town, or a scenic mountain escape, the world is full of romantic destinations waiting to be discovered. Wherever you choose to go, the journey is sure to be as wonderful as the destination itself.
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3 reasons why an operating room is the best place to get circumcised

April 19, 2025

best place to get circumcised

MakatiMed says the sterile environment ensures privacy and professionalism

Having your son circumcised in a hospital—complete with a surgeon and anesthesiologist—sounds a bit extra, right? Especially when circumcisions or “tuli” in Tagalog (that is, the removal of the foreskin of the penis) are conducted every summer for free in barangays.

Performed without anesthesia by a “manunuli,” or person with no formal training in medicine, a traditional circumcision typically has a boy chewing guava leaves (noted for their antibacterial and wound-healing properties) while the “manunuli” uses a sharp knife to slice the upper skin of his young patient’s penis, exposing the glans. The chewed guava leaves are then applied onto the fresh cut that is wrapped in a bandage, and the boy is sent off, with instructions to wash the wound in the nearby river.

Considered a rite of passage into manhood for boys usually between 8 and 12, the approach comes with potential health risks, says Dennis M. Galimpin, MD from top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). As such, there’s a good reason why MakatiMed regards a hospital operating room as the best place to get circumcised.

It’s a sterile environment. Circumcisions performed outside of a medical setting may not adhere to the same standards of hygiene, pain management, technique, and postoperative care as those performed by qualified medical professionals in a sterile environment.

“From sterilized surgical instruments to oxygen on standby, a hospital operating room has everything needed and more, even for a routine and safe procedure,” shares Dr. Galimpin. “Should any complications arise, like excess bleeding, they can be addressed immediately.”

It’s managed by medical experts. Board-certified pediatricians and general surgeons are in the roster of MakatiMed’s specialists. “They have the knowledge, skills, and experience to perform the procedure using precise techniques that minimize complications like infections and improper healing,” notes Dr. Galimpin. “They can recommend what’s best for the age of your son and overall health condition, answer your questions regarding the procedure and its aftercare, and make sure your boy’s okay before he’s allowed to go home.”

It’s private. Community circumcisions are conducted en masse. Meaning, he’ll also be within earshot of the screams of fellow patients. While some are unaffected by this kind of environment, others may find the experience overwhelming, especially if they’re about to enter puberty.

“If your son isn’t used to this kind of scenario, he will definitely feel uncomfortable,” says Dr. Galimpin. “Having him circumcised in a hospital operating room ensures that his procedure will be done with utmost privacy and professionalism, reducing his discomfort and anxiety.”

MakatiMed recommends discussing the procedure with your son first, instead of simply deciding on his behalf. While community circumcisions may be a cultural tradition for some Filipino families, it’s crucial to prioritize your son’s well-being and personal preferences.

“Since it’s his body, ask your son to decide how he wants to go about it,” suggests Dr. Galimpin. “Speaking up, taking charge of his health, and understanding the pros and cons of his decision are the true signs of manhood.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.
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Prioritize Your Heart: Essential Heart Health Tips for Women at Every Age

March 13, 2025


Women often focus on different health concerns as they age. In their 20s, they worry about acne and dysmenorrhea; in their 30s, reproductive health takes center stage; by their 40s, they schedule their first mammogram; and in their 50s, they seek ways to manage perimenopause. However, one critical health issue that often goes unnoticed is heart health.

Why Women Should Prioritize Heart Health

Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, affecting both men and women. Risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking are common to all, but women have additional risks linked to hormonal changes during perimenopause and pregnancy.

“Estrogen, which declines during perimenopause and menopause, plays a crucial role in keeping blood vessels relaxed and maintaining healthy blood pressure,” explains Jasmin Melissa B. Bernardo, MD, of the Department of Cardiology at Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed, www.makatimed.net.ph) and current president of the Philippine Society of Vascular Medicine. “Additionally, complications like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes can increase a woman’s risk of future heart problems.”

4 Essential Heart Health Tips for Women

To maintain a healthy heart, MakatiMed recommends these four simple but effective lifestyle changes:

1. Know Your Numbers

One major reason stroke is the second leading cause of death in the Philippines is that many Filipinos are unaware of their blood pressure levels. “Aim for a blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg or less,” advises Dr. Bernardo.

Monitoring your cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight regularly is essential. Make it a habit to check these numbers during your company’s annual health checkup or schedule an appointment with a physician at least once a year.

2. Recognize the Symptoms

Heart attack symptoms in women may differ from those in men. While chest pain is common, women also experience jaw or back pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness in the arms, and flu-like symptoms.

“If you feel unwell, don’t ignore the signs,” warns Dr. Bernardo. “Check your blood pressure and heart rate, and if something feels off, seek medical attention immediately.”

3. Eat Smart, Move More

Fast food may be convenient, but it’s not heart-friendly. Instead, opt for meals rich in vegetables, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates.

Dr. Bernardo also recommends 40–60 minutes of exercise at least four times a week. “Exercise lowers blood pressure and blood sugar, helps maintain a healthy weight, and releases endorphins—your body’s natural ‘happy hormones,’” she adds.

Simple daily activities can also contribute to better heart health:

  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
  • Park further away from your destination.
  • Engage in household chores.
  • Do light exercises like squats, stretches, or jumping jacks.
  • Use a fitness tracker to monitor your steps and stay motivated.

4. Manage Stress Effectively

Women juggle multiple roles—whether as single professionals, wives, mothers, or career-driven individuals. Stress can take a toll on heart health, making it crucial to take breaks.

“Take a leave from work, spend time with friends, meditate, exercise, and get enough sleep,” suggests Dr. Bernardo. “If stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.”

The Bottom Line: Take Charge of Your Heart Health

“Women can do it all, but they also need to remember that they are not immune to heart disease,” emphasizes Dr. Bernardo. “Simple lifestyle changes and a proactive approach to heart health can keep you healthy and happy for years to come.”

Taking care of your heart today ensures a longer, healthier future. Start prioritizing your heart health now!
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The ‘ruff’ stuff: What to do when your dog or cat bites or scratches your child

February 28, 2025


Move fast, says MakatiMed ER doc, even if your pet has been vaccinated

If you own a dog or a cat, you’re most likely reaping the benefits of having a pet in your family. Fur babies have been credited for improving people’s mental health—they’re happier, more relaxed, and less lonely in the company of their kittycats and pooches.

The perks of having a pet extend to your children, too. Growing up with a dog or a cat at home develops your little one’s sense of compassion, patience, and unconditional love. Assign them the task of feeding the pet or cleaning up after it, and you teach them how to be responsible for a living thing at an early age.

And yet, even as you treat them as a member of your family, your beloved dog or cat is still an animal, prone to certain moods and behavior. Forcing pets to do something they don’t want to do or even patting them innocently on the head when they’re asleep, eating, or cranky may elicit scratches or bites—accidents parents shouldn’t take lightly, even when their pets are vaccinated.

“When your child is bitten or scratched by a pet, time is of the essence,” says Amado A. Flores III, MD of the Emergency Department of top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Wash the wound with soap and clean running water for 10-15 minutes, apply an antiseptic on the wound, cover it with a sterile bandage. Bring your child to the ER immediately if the wound is swollen, doesn’t stop bleeding, and is so severe, it shows bones, muscles, and tendons. Otherwise, make sure you’re at the hospital no more than eight hours after the bite. The longer you wait, the more you put your child at risk for infection and possible complications.”

At the hospital, be prepared to answer questions about the animal that scratched or bit your child. “Has the pet had its rabies shots, or is its vaccination status unknown? Was it behaving strangely?” enumerates Dr. Flores. “Ideally, you’ll have to quarantine the animal to observe it for 10 days. Whether the dog or cat becomes ill or not, we strongly recommend a series of anti-rabies shots on your child.”

Post-exposure shots consist of four rabies vaccine doses given on days 0, 3, 7, and 14 (plus a fifth dose on Day 28 if the patient is immunocompromised), and a single dose of human rabies immune globulin (HRIG). The HRIG is administered as soon as possible after exposure to provide immediate, passive immunity, while the vaccine stimulates the body to produce its own antibodies that protect against the rabies virus. For subsequent exposures, those who have been previously vaccinated do not need HRIG and would typically receive two booster doses of the rabies vaccine, one on Day 0 and one on Day 3.

A critical issue in the Philippines, rabies cases numbered 354 from January to September 2024, a 23-percent jump from the previous year, according to the Department of Health. “Rabies is a fatal disease. But it’s also very preventable,” shares Dr. Flores. “Keep your pets’ vaccinations up to date, and teach your kids to respect dogs and cats, and all kinds of animals. Don’t bother them when they’re eating or sleeping, don’t run away or toward an unfamiliar dog or cat, never reach for a dog or cat from a gate or fence, and keep your child away from an animal once it starts to show signs of aggression.”

A pet with complete shots doesn’t necessarily mean your child is in the clear. “Dog and cat bites and scratches can transmit bacteria to the wound,” warns Dr. Flores. “Capnocytophaga and Pasteurella multocida from dog bites can lead to fever, diarrhea, swollen joints, and blisters or pus on the wound. The same symptoms have also been observed in Pasteurella multocida, Staphylococcus aureus, and Campylobacteriosis—bacteria found in the saliva of cats. Treatment for such conditions include antibiotics or a tetanus shot.”

A child who grows up with pets will surely have countless memories (and pictures!) of bonding with a furry, four-legged family member. “When you spend time in close contact with dogs or cats, scratches and bites are both avoidable and inevitable,” says Dr. Flores. “Be steps ahead: Have your pets vaccinated regularly, remind your children to be gentle with a dog or cat, and act quickly in the event of a scratch or bite.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.
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