CHS Pharmacy News

December 2025

Upcoming Holiday Hours

Christmas Eve: 9 AM – 3 PM *
Christmas Day: Closed *
New Year’s Eve: Normal business hours *
New Year’s Day: Closed *

Normal business hours are 9 AM – 5:30 PM M-F, and 9 AM – 3PM Saturday and Closed on Sunday
*Emergency services available 24/7/365

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): More Than the Winter Blues*

As daylight hours shorten, some people experience more than just the “winter blues.” Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most often beginning in late fall or early winter and improving in spring. Symptoms can include persistent sadness, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, and social withdrawal. While less common, some experience SAD during summer months. Effective treatments include light therapy, psychotherapy, and medication. If symptoms last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life, it is important to be evaluated.

What is RSV and Why It Matters This Season**

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can lead to serious illness in infants, young children, and older adults—sometimes requiring hospitalization. RSV season typically begins in the fall and peaks in December and January. The virus spreads through droplets from coughs or sneezes and by touching contaminated surfaces.

While most people recover in a week or two, RSV can cause bronchiolitis and pneumonia in vulnerable groups. The CDC recommends immunizations for infants, some young children, and adults at higher risk.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)***

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein deep inside your body, most often in the legs. While DVT itself isn’t always life-threatening, clots can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism—a serious and potentially fatal condition.

Common symptoms include leg pain, swelling, and discoloration, though some people may have no symptoms at all. Risk factors include prolonged immobility, surgery, certain medical conditions, and genetic predispositions.

Treatment may involve blood-thinning medications, compression stockings, and lifestyle changes. Prevention is key: stay active, hydrate, and follow medical advice during long travel or recovery periods.

To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold. Aristotle