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    Consumer Health: Long-distance caregiving

an older man and woman smiling and listening together to a cell phoneCaregiving: Tips for long-distance caregivers
National Family Caregivers Month, celebrated each November, is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers. Long-distance caregiving poses unique challenges. From coordinating services to managing finances to checking in by regular phone calls or video chats, there are a number of ways you can aid a loved one from afar. Give these tips a try.

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Also in today's tips ...

Flu shot during pregnancy: Is it safe?
If you'll be pregnant during flu season, be sure to get a flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that all women who are pregnant during flu season get a flu shot, regardless of their trimester. The vaccine protects both you and your baby. Learn more from Dr. Yvonne Butler Tobah, a Mayo Clinic OB-GYN.

Slideshow: Aquatic exercises
Aquatic exercise is a low-impact activity that takes the pressure off your bones, joints and muscles. Water also offers natural resistance, which can strengthen your muscles. Aquatic exercise can have several health benefits, including improved heart health, reduced stress, and improved muscle endurance and strength. Check out this slideshow for examples of how exercising in the water can be a great way to include physical activity in your life.

Mood disorders
If you have a mood disorder, your general emotional state or mood is distorted or inconsistent with your circumstances. And it interferes with your ability to function. You may be extremely sad, empty or irritable (depressed), or you may have periods of depression alternating with being excessively happy (mania). Anxiety disorders often occur along with depression and also can affect your mood. Mood disorders may increase your risk of suicide. Learn more about mood disorders and when you need to seek medical care

Narrow stools: Should I be concerned?
The occasional narrow stool probably is harmless. However, in some cases, narrow stools — especially if pencil thin — may be a sign of narrowing or obstruction of the colon due to colon cancer. Irritable bowel syndrome is another condition that may cause changes in the size of your stools. Learn more from Dr. Michael Picco, a Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist.

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