Medically Inclined

Lipitor Recall Recently Announced due to Foul Odor

2010-10-31T02:20:00.002+08:00

A recall on 38,000 bottles of Lipitor, a cholesterol drug, was announced on Friday by its drugmaker, Pfizer Inc. This recent recall was triggered by reports of unpleasant odor from the drug's bottles. This is the third recall of Lipitor this year.

Although there are reports of an uncharacteristic odor related to the bottles, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says that the odor has no 'adverse health consequences'.

The Lipitor bottles are made by a company in Puerto Rico.

More information can be found at the Huffington Post. For recent drug recalls, visit the FDA.

[Top of Page]

Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-01T21:38:00.002+08:00

Support! Wear the Pink Ribbon!

We are supporting
the Breast Cancer
Awareness
Month!

October is here, and it only means one thing! That is, wearing pink ribbon or anything pink in support of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Despite of the increasing worldwide awareness, many still succumb to the disease. Breast cancer kills almost 8 million people worldwide and most of these deaths are from the low and medium income countries, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says cancer of the breast is one of the most common cancer affecting women.

Although it commonly affects women, men can have breast cancer too!

Like most cancers, breast cancer can be successfully treated when found early and prompt treatment is immediately administered.

We should all do our part in learning more about the condition and let our loved ones be informed about breast cancer. In addition, we should involve the whole family in following a healthy lifestyle, such as eating more fruits and vegetables and being physically active.

[Top of Page]

Hair Loss, Baldness, or Alopecia Causes & Treatment

2010-09-28T22:43:00.002+08:00

Baldness may be referred to as hair loss by some people, but this may not always be the case. Fact is, all people experience some kind of hair loss. However, when loss of hair from your scalp becomes too excessive, this is referred to as baldness. The medical term for such condition is alopecia.

Sometimes, your having too much hair loss may be the result of you inheriting it. In some cases, certain medications that you take or another health problem may be causing your baldness.

The most common form of baldness is pattern baldness, also called androgenetic or androgenic alopecia. In men the condition is also called male-pattern baldness, while in women it is called female-pattern baldness.

In male androgenetic alopecia, hair is lost in a well-defined pattern, starting at your temples. Your hairline eventually recedes to form an "M" shape, which is characteristic of the condition. Hair may also thin out near the top of your head that may progress to partial or complete baldness.

Female-pattern baldness does not always lead to total baldness. The pattern of hair loss in females is different from that of males. Women with the condition usually have thinning of their hair all over their head. However, the usual receding hairline seen in males is not often experienced by women with female-pattern baldness.

Pattern baldness or hereditary hair loss affects about 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Causes

Normally, people lose about 50 to 100 hairs a day. This is because old hairs are being replaced by growing hair. In male- and female-pattern baldness, hairs lost far exceed new hair growth.

Heredity plays a big role in the occurrence of pattern baldness. Having a family history of the condition increases your risk of developing baldness. Sometimes, environmental factors may also play a part.

Other forms of baldness may result from a medical condition, medication use, malnutrition, hormonal changes and hair treatments.

It is important that you see a specialist when you have sudden excessive hair loss as this may be caused by an underlying health problem.

Treatment

Some people may undergo treatment for baldness if they feel uncomfortable with their appearance. Common drugs used to treat pattern baldness are minoxidil and finasteride.

Minoxidil is an over-the-counter medication, which means it can be bought without prescription that can be applied onto your scalp. You should follow the directions of application carefully.
Finasteride is a prescription drug that comes in a pill form prescribed by doctors to treat male-pattern baldness.

Ask your doctor which medication or treatment is best for you.

For some people, disguising their baldness by changing their hairstyles, using hairpieces or caps/hats may just be enough. Besides, it is a cheaper alternative way and usually, the safest.

Hair transplantation may also be an option for treating hair loss. If you choose this option, make sure that the doctor who’s going to do the hair transplant is a board-certified dermatologists, plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgeon.

Sources:
Genetics Home Reference. Androgenetic Alopecia http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/androgenetic-alopecia. Accessed on September 28, 2010.

Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine. Male pattern baldness . Accessed on September 28, 2010.

Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine. Male pattern baldness < http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003246.htm>. Accessed on September 28, 2010.

Medline Plus. Minoxidil Topical . Accessed on September 28, 2010.

[Top of Page]

What is Supposed to Be a Government Hospital in the Philippines, Mr. President?

2010-09-27T01:48:00.001+08:00

I hope the title question above would be appropriate to ask our dear elected President of the Philippines.

Another question is: Should we be producing more health care providers because other countries need such or should we produce more of the same because we are lacking?

To You, my dear readers, "What is the current situation of the healthcare system in your country?" You share your thoughts below in the comments section. Thanks!

[Top of Page]

Avandia Restriction in US, Suspension in Europe, Philipines Just Wait?

2010-09-25T00:26:00.002+08:00

In recent developments, GlaxoSmithKline's Avandia (rosiglitazone)—a widely used diabetes drug—the U.S. Food and Drug Administration had announced on Thursday that it will 'significantly restrict the use of the drug Avandia to patients with Type 2 diabetes who cannot control their diabetes on other medications.'

The FDA's action is related to a data that suggests an elevated risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, in patients treated with Avandia.

Meanwhile, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has recommended that Avandia along with other anti-diabetes drugs including Avandamet and Avaglim be suspended. The EMA says, "The availability of recent studies has added to the knowledge about rosiglitazone and overall, the accumulated data support an increased cardiovascular risk of rosiglitazone."

In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) or the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) now known as FDA has not yet announced today Friday about its position on these recent developments (As always!?).

[Top of Page]

Abbot's Similac Formula Recall (2010)

2010-09-24T03:43:00.002+08:00

Certain Similac Powder Infant Formulas are being Recalled by Abbott Laboratories Because of Possible Beetle Contamination

Abbott Laboratories is voluntarily recalling some of its Similac-brand powder infant formulas in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam and some countries in the Caribbean because, according to a press release at the FDA website.

The recall is being done because of a "possibility of the presence of a small common beetle in the product. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has determined that while the formula containing these beetles poses no immediate health risk, there is a possibility that infants who consume formula containing the beetles or their larvae, could experience symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort and refusal to eat as a result of small insect parts irritating the GI tract," FDA says.

"The recall of these powder infant formulas includes certain Similac powder product lines offered in plastic containers, and certain Similac powder product lines offered in sizes such as 8-ounce, 12.4-ounce and 12.9-ounce cans. No Abbott liquid infant formulas are impacted," the FDA added.

The FDA says, "If symptoms are noted and persist for more than a few days, a physician should be consulted. Products with affected lot numbers should be returned to Abbott at no cost to the consumer. To immediately find out if the product in your possession is included in this recall, parents and caregivers should visit www.similac.com/recall , and type in their lot number to determine if their product is affected, or call (800) 986-8850."

FDA is encouraging consumers to check lot numbers on the bottom of formula containers against those being recalled. "Anyone who has a recalled container should stop using it immediately and return it to the manufacturer for a full refund," the FDA advises.

Source:
US Food and Drug Administration: Safety. Similac Powder Infant Formulas: Recall (9/23/2010) http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm226954.htm. Accessed on September 23, 2010.

[Top of Page]

Stink Bugs Stinkin' your House? How to Get Rid of it Quick!

2010-09-24T00:46:00.001+08:00

Tips on Getting Rid of these Little 'Buggies'

Stink bugs, also called brown marmorated stink bug, don't really harm people, thank goodness! But they can release an unpleasant odor, which is believed to be a part of their defense weapon against birds and lizards.

These bugs can invade your home when the weather starts to cool down during the fall. Just like other many insects, these little 'stinkies' have a hard time surviving the winter cold. They will crawl to warm places wherever they can, including your house where they hibernate and wait for winter to pass. However, because of the warm and cozy environment that they are in (your home!), they sometimes wake up and fly around your room clumsily.

Researchers are still unsure how stink bugs, with scientific name Halyomorpha halys, came to the United States. What they do know is that it is indigenous to Asia. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the bugs were first discovered in 1998 and have ever since increase in numbers damaging crops and invading homes.

Tips on how to get rid of stink bugs inside your house!

If you find them lurking in your home, do NOT squash or vacuum them, otherwise they're going to release their unpleasant odor and you would't want that to happen.

The best way to get rid of a stink bug is to allow it to walk onto a cardboard or piece of paper and carry it outside or flush it down the toilet. Or, if you are tired of having to wait for them to walk into your little trap, just pick it up with a tissue and flush them, that works quit well too!

Preventing them from entering your home is one key to avoid those bugs. Try to seal off cracks and other potential spaces where they can crawl to enter your house.

Insecticides may be effective against these pests. However, you should consider the potential effects when you apply it at your home or your surroundings. Also, if you do consider using insecticides, carefully plan on when your going to apply it. Applied early, the insecticide may degrade even before stink bugs try to invade your house.

What research is being done

Jeffrey Aldrich, an expert on stink bugs and a researcher at USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) , is experimenting on how to synthesize the stink bug's (H. Halys) pheromone, which can be used in a trap to protect houses, crop fields, and orchards.

Sources:
United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. Combating the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug: A New Threat for Agriculture, a Nuisance for Homeowners . Accessed on September 23, 2010.

United States Department of Agriculture, ARS Science for Kids. This Bug Doesn't Bite ... But It Can Stink Up Your House! . Accessed on September 23, 2010.

[Top of Page]

Philippines' Dengue Cases at 77,000, Feared to Further Increase by Year's End

2010-09-15T21:09:00.001+08:00

Medically Inclined (September 15, 2010) - Dengue fever cases in the Philippines has reached more than 77,000, the Department of Health (DOH) announced on Tuesday September 14. Recent data shows that the incidence is up by more than 100% compared to recorded cases in the same period last year.

The DOH also warns that if the trend continues, cases of dengue may rise to as much as 100,000 before this year ends.

Dr. Eric Tayag, the DOH's chief epidemiologist, said that the rise in dengue cases can be brought about by several factors including the El Niño phenomenon. Because of the El Niño effect people started to store water in containers, which in turn became the breeding places for dengue-carrying mosquitoes.

The DOH is urging local government units to help combat the outbreak by giving sufficient medical supplies to their respected local health centers.

Health experts are reminding the people to prevent the spread of dengue virus by making sure that potential breeding places for mosquitoes should be eliminated.

[Top of Page]

Faster Way to Detect Tuberculosis Now Developed

2010-09-14T21:30:00.002+08:00

New Test Found to Detect TB in Less than 2 Hours

A new reliable and faster way of detecting tuberculosis (TB) and drug-resistant TB bacteria in patients has been developed by researchers led by Dr. David Alland of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in collaboration with a diagnostics company, Cepheid. This new advanced test can lead to earlier diagnosis and better targeted treatment of this disease.

According to the National Institutes of Health, about 1.8 million people die from TB each year. Drug-resistant TB is becoming a threat worldwide as well. This happens when a case of tuberculosis do not respond well to common drugs used to treat the condition.

The new test called Xpert MTB/RIF can effectively detect the TB-causing bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and also resistance to rifampin (RIF), one of the most common treatments.

The scientists note that the new test can make detection of TB and drug resistance possible even in a single clinic visit and perhaps treatment can commence immediately. Alland says, “This is a major advance over other rapid TB detection methods, which are complex, labor-intensive, and technically challenging.”

The research is described in the September 1, 2010, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, has supported the development of this diagnostics technology since 2002.

[Top of Page]

Sleep Disorder Linked to Stroke Risk

2010-09-09T04:53:00.000+08:00

Sleep Apnea, Even its Milder Form, Puts Men at Increased Risk of Stroke

A large study shows that obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder, is associated with an increased risk of stroke in middle-aged and older adults, especially men.

Results of the Sleep Heart Health Study (SHHS), which was supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institutes of Health, indicate that the risk of stroke appears in men with mild sleep apnea and rises with the severity of sleep apnea. The result of the study was published online March 25 in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

The researchers noted that men with moderate to severe sleep apnea were nearly three times more likely to have a stroke than men without sleep apnea or with mild sleep apnea. "Men who had untreated sleep apnea were up to three times more likely to experience a stroke than men who did not have sleep apnea," says Dr. Michael Twery in an interview by the National Institutes of Health's NIH Radio. Twery is the Director of the NIH National Center on Sleep Disorders Research.

According to the NIH, obstructive sleep apnea is a common disorder in which the upper airway is occasionally narrowed or blocked, disrupting sleep and breathing during sleep. Experts believe that there are more than 12 million American adults who have sleep apnea, and most are not diagnosed or treated.

Stroke, on the other hand, is the second leading cause of death worldwide and the third leading cause of death in the United States. "Although scientists have uncovered several risk factors for stroke — such as age, high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation, and diabetes — there are still many cases in which the cause or contributing factors are unknown, " noted NHLBI Acting Director Susan B. Shurin, M.D. "This is the largest study to date to link sleep apnea with an increased risk of stroke. The time is right for researchers to study whether treating sleep apnea could prevent or delay stroke in some individuals. "

There were 5,422 participants aged 40 years and older without a history of stroke in the study. The study began with the participants performing a standard at-home sleep test that determined whether they had sleep apnea and, if so, the severity of the condition. The researchers then followed the participants for a period of nine years. They report that during the study, 193 participants had a stroke — 85 men (of 2,462 men enrolled) and 108 women (out of 2,960 enrolled).

The researchers suggest that the differences between men and women might be because men are more likely to develop sleep apnea at younger ages. Therefore, they tend to have untreated sleep apnea for longer periods of time than women.

"What the Sleep Heart Health Study has revealed in this study is that people have apnea and then later develop cardiovascular disease risk—whether it be stroke or high blood pressure or heart attack and so forth—the development of apnea preceded the development of the cardiovascular disease," Twery said. He further added, "And this gives us an important clue as to whether treating the sleep apnea maybe a potential important way to reduce these cardiovascular risks."

Source:
National Institutes of Health (NIH). "Sleep Apnea Tied to Increased Risk of Stroke (Even Mild Sleep Apnea Puts Men in Danger)." Available at . Accessed on September 8, 2010.

[Top of Page]

Natural Cure for Dengue, Tawa-tawa?

2010-09-03T03:04:00.011+08:00

A weed growing at your backyard, known to many Filipinos as tawa-tawa or gatas-gatas, may finally be the answer to the growing number of people victimized by the dreaded dengue fever.

Tawa-tawa, also called asthma weed or catss hair, is making a buzz in the Philippine community as it is believed that it can cure dengue fever - a condition caused by any of the four dengue viruses carried by day-biting mosquitoes.

Some claim that drinking tawa-tawa can increase platelet count - a blood component that helps prevent bleeding. This, however, is yet to be proven with clinical studies. The tea is prepared by boiling the leaves and may be drank hot or cold.

The Department of Health (DOH) is not fully disclaiming tawa-tawa's effectiveness as a possible treatment for dengue. However, it stressed that this home remedy should be accompanied by a consultation with a doctor to get its possible full effects.

Dengue fever cases in the Philippines has been on the rise since January of this year. According to the DOH website, there are more than 62,500 reported cases of dengue from January to August 21 of this year, which is up by almost 90% from the same period last year. Of the reported cases this year, 465 succumbed to the disease.

There has been no large clinical trial on the efficacy of tawa-tawa as treatment for dengue. In an interview by ABS-CBN, a local news channel, DOH Secretary Enrique Ona said that there has been no effort yet "to see whether tawa-tawa is truly effective or not." He added that they are going to include the weed plant when they're going to conduct a study.

While it is still uncertain whether tawa-tawa is truly an effective cure for dengue fever, the government should fast track on undergoing a study on the efficacy or effectiveness of the weed plant as a potential cure for dengue. The result would not probably be out any time soon. But if found to be effective, many lives will be saved in the future. Besides, it will be cost-effective for the government too.

For now, the only effective strategy is prevention by following the D.E.N.G.U.E. strategy being promoted by the DOH, which is:

D - daily monitoring of patient’s status
E - encourage intake of oral fluids like oresol, water, juices
N – note any dengue warning signs like persistent vomiting and bleeding
G – give paracetamol for fever and NOT aspirin, because aspirin induces bleeding
U – use mosquito nets
E – early consultation if with any warning signs

[Top of Page]

Dengue Fever Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention and Complication

2010-09-01T16:22:00.002+08:00

Early diagnosis and treatment of dengue is critical as epidemics of the disease become larger and more frequent. An estimated 50 to 100 million people contact dengue each year in over 100 countries. Recent explosive outbreaks of the disease have occurred in Brazil with 120,570 cases so far in 2008 and Venezuela with more than 80,000 cases in 2007. Left untreated, patients may experience hemorrhage and shock, leading to death.

Overview

Dengue fever is an infectious disease carried by mosquitoes and caused by any of four related dengue viruses. This disease used to be called "break-bone" fever because it sometimes causes severe joint and muscle pain that feels like bones are breaking, hence the name. Health experts have known about dengue fever for more than 200 years.

Dengue fever is found mostly during and shortly after the rainy season in tropical and subtropical areas of

Africa
Southeast Asia and China
India
Middle East
Caribbean and Central and South America
Australia and the South and the Central Pacific

An epidemic in Hawaii in 2001 is a reminder that many locations in the United States are susceptible to dengue epidemics because they harbor the particular types of mosquitoes that transmit dengue virus.

Worldwide, 50 to 100 million cases of dengue infection occur each year. This includes 100 to 200 cases in the United States, mostly in people who have recently traveled abroad. Many more cases likely go unreported because some healthcare providers do not recognize the disease.

During the last part of the 20th century, many tropical regions of the world saw an increase in dengue cases. Epidemics also occurred more frequently and with more severity. In addition to typical dengue, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome also have increased in many parts of the world. Globally, there are an estimated several hundred thousand cases of DHF per year.

Cause

Dengue fever can be caused by any one of four types of dengue virus: DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4. You can be infected by at least two if not all four types at different times during your lifetime, but only once by the same type.

Transmission

You can get dengue virus infections from the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they bite infected humans, and later transmit infection to other people they bite. Two main species of mosquito, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, have been responsible for all cases of dengue transmitted in this country. Dengue is not contagious from person to person.

Symptoms

The principal symptoms of dengue are (CDC 2009):

High fever and at least two of the following:

Severe headache
Severe eye pain (behind eyes)
Joint pain
Muscle and/or bone pain
Rash
Mild bleeding manifestation (e.g., nose or gum bleed, petechiae, or easy bruising)
Low white cell count

Generally, younger children and those with their first dengue infection have a milder illness than older children and adults.

Watch for warning signs as temperature declines 3 to 7 days after symptoms began.
Go IMMEDIATELY to an emergency room or the closest health care provider if any of the following warning signs appear:

Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
Red spots or patches on the skin
Bleeding from nose or gums
Vomiting blood
Black, tarry stools (feces, excrement)
Drowsiness or irritability
Pale, cold, or clammy skin
Difficulty breathing

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider can diagnose dengue fever by doing two blood tests, 2 to 3 weeks apart. The tests can show whether a sample of your blood contains antibodies to the virus. In epidemics, a healthcare provider often can diagnose dengue by typical signs and symptoms.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for classic dengue fever, and most people recover within 2 weeks. To help with recovery, healthcare experts recommend

Getting plenty of bed rest
Drinking lots of fluids
Taking medicine to reduce fever

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises people with dengue fever not to take aspirin. Acetaminophen or other over-the-counter pain-reducing medicines are safe for most people.

For severe dengue symptoms, including shock and coma, early and aggressive emergency treatment with fluid and electrolyte replacement can be lifesaving.

Dengue Fever Prevention

The best way to prevent dengue virus infection is to take special precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Several dengue vaccines are being developed, but none is likely to be licensed by the Food and Drug Administration in the next few years.

When outdoors in an area where dengue fever has been found

Use a mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
Dress in protective clothing—long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes

Because Aedes mosquitoes usually bite during the day, be sure to take precautions, especially during early morning hours before daybreak and in the late afternoon before dark.

Other precautions include:

Keeping unscreened windows and doors closed
Keeping window and door screens repaired
Getting rid of areas where mosquitoes breed, such as standing water in flower pots, containers, birdbaths, discarded tires, etc.

Complications of Dengue Fever

Most people who develop dengue fever recover completely within 2 weeks. Some, especially adults, may be tired and/or depressed for several weeks to months after being infected with the virus.

The more clinically severe dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndromes can result in vascular (blood vessel) and liver damage, and can be life-threatening.

Related Topics:
Natural Cure for Dengue, Tawa-tawa?
Dengue Fever Cases in the Philippines
Philippines' Dengue Cases at 77,000, Feared to Further Increase by Year's End

Source:
The above health article is reprinted from material provided by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).

[Top of Page]

Dengue Fever Cases in the Philippines

2010-09-01T16:06:00.005+08:00

Medically Inclined (September 1, 2010) - Dengue fever cases in the Philippines is increasing at an alarming rate with more than 62,000 cases from January to August 21 nationwide.

The Philippine Department of health (DOH), in its press release, states that the incidence of dengue cases rose by as much as 88.8% more than the reported cases last year of 33,102 affected with the condition.

Up to August, data shows that dengue resulted to 465 recorded deaths this year compared to 350 deaths from the condition for the same period.

DOH Secretary Enrique Ona said, "instead of confining patients in a hospital facility, parents and caregivers can practice the D.E.N.G.U.E. strategy."

"D.E.N.G.U.E. stands for D - daily monitoring of patient’s status, E - encourage intake of oral fluids like oresol, water, juices, etc, N – note any dengue warning signs like persistent vomiting and bleeding, G – give paracetamol for fever and NOT aspirin, because aspirin induces bleeding, U – use mosquito nets and E – early consultation is advised for any warning signs,” Ona added.

Dengue fever is an infectious disease brought about by mosquitoes, commonly the Aedes Aegypti--a day biting mosquito, carrying any of four types of dengue virus.

Symptoms of dengue include high fever, up to 105ºF; severe headache; pain behind the eye; severe joint and muscle pain; nausea and vomiting; and rash.

“There is still no cure or vaccine for dengue and that is why we must focus on other cost-effective interventions, the most important of which is source reduction --- destroy the dengue-carrying mosquitoes,” Ona said.

Dengue Cases Update (September 13, 2010): Recent reports say that dengue cases in the Philippines has reached more than 69,000 and is believed to further increase by year's end.

Related Topic:
Natural Cure for Dengue, Tawa-tawa?
Dengue Fever Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Complication

[Top of Page]

Stroke Detection Using MRI

2010-09-01T13:20:00.000+08:00

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is More Sensitive in Detecting Stroke

Researchers at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) have found that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide a more sensitive diagnosis than computed tomography (CT) for the most common type of stroke, called ischemic stroke.

The researchers studied more than 350 patients who arrived in the emergency room with suspected strokes to determine whether MRI or CT was better for rapid diagnosis. Doctors face an urgent need to swiftly distinguish between acute ischemic stroke, which is caused by clots in blood vessels, and hemorrhagic stroke, which is caused by bleeding into the brain, because the two types of stroke are treated in very different ways.

Standard CT uses X-rays which are passed through the body at different angles and processed by a computer as cross-sectional images, or slices of the internal structure of the body or organ. Standard MRI uses computer-generated radio waves and a powerful magnet to produce detailed slices or three-dimensional images of body structures and nerves. A contrast dye may be used in both imaging techniques to enhance visibility of certain areas or tissues.

Results of the NINDS study showed that standard MRI is superior to standard CT in diagnosing acute stroke, particularly acute ischemic stroke. That is very good news for patients, says NINDS Deputy Director Walter J. Koroshetz, M.D., noting that brain injury from ischemic stroke often can be avoided if clot-busting therapy is administered within three hours of stroke onset.

Source:
The above article is reprinted from materials provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
[Top of Page]

9/11 Responders Show Reduced Sensitivity to Odors, Irritants, New Research Says

2010-08-30T22:54:00.001+08:00

Responders or workers who breathed in a toxic mix of airborne chemicals, smoke, and dust in the wake of the September 11, 2001, World Trade Center disaster experienced a reduced ability to detect odors and irritants more than two years after they were exposed, says research published in the May 18 online issue of the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.

The research, which was funded by the NIDCD, was conducted by scientists with the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia, along with other collaborators.

"The nose performs many sensory functions that are critical for human health and safety," said lead author Pamela Dalton, Ph.D., in Monell's press release. "The sensory system that detects irritants is the first line of defense to protect the lungs against airborne toxic chemicals. The loss of the ability of the nose to respond to a strong irritant means that the reflexes that protect the lungs from toxic exposures will not be triggered." According to other studies, thousands of individuals exposed to the World Trade Center site immediately following the disaster have developed chronic respiratory conditions.

The nose's ability to detect odors and irritants makes use of two highly sensitive and discriminating systems. Our sense of smell relies on olfactory receptors high in the nasal cavity that, upon attaching to specific odor molecules, will send signals to the brain, which are translated as a particular smell. Our chemical irritant warning system relies on the trigeminal nerve, a nerve in the head that, when activated by a harmful chemical, causes your eyes to water and your nose to burn or sting. Under normal conditions, exposure to a chemical irritant will cause a person to reflexively sneeze and cough, protecting the lungs from damage. A person with reduced sensitivity, however, will be less likely to have this reaction.

Beginning in September 2003, the researchers examined 102 paid and volunteer World Trade Center responders who were on site at the time of and following the disaster and compared them to people of similar ages, genders, and job titles who weren't exposed. Ninety-seven percent of the World Trade Center group were near the lower Manhattan site during the week following the buildings' collapse, when the pollutants were likely at their highest.

The researchers found that 22 percent of the workers were below the normal range in their ability to discriminate odors while nearly 75 percent showed a decreased ability to detect irritants. What's more, workers who were exposed to the dust cloud at the moment the buildings collapsed experienced the most damage in their ability to detect irritants, with individuals virtually unable to detect the test irritant n-butanol, a chemical that is used in the manufacture of many substances, including some drugs, plastics, and solvents.

The researchers next plan to screen a larger number of individuals who were exposed to the World Trade Center site in hopes of determining how extensive this health issue might be in 9/11 responders; they also plan to re-evaluate individuals who participated in the initial study to assess whether the problem persists, worsens, or recovers over time.

Read the article "Chemosensory Loss: Functional Consequences of the World Trade Center Disaster" in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, or read the abstract in Pub Med.

Source:
The above article is reprinted from materials provided by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)

[Top of Page]

Itchy, Scaly Skin - Psoriasis?

2010-08-03T20:49:00.000+08:00

Living with Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes the skin to become thick, scaly, and red (inflamed). It affects more than 5 million adults or more than 3% of the United States population. The condition can occur at any age but it commonly affects adults.

People with psoriasis have patches of thick, red (inflamed) skin covered with silvery scales that usually appears on their elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms and feet. Sometimes, the condition can also affect the fingernails, toenails, genitals and the inside of the mouth. Symptoms of psoriasis often come and go. Sometimes, other factors may make the condition worse including stress, dry skin, infections and certain medications.

Psoriasis can be not only painful but also embarrassing. "Psoriasis can be socially isolating for many people," says Dr. Joel Gelfand, a psoriasis researcher at the University of Pennsylvania. "Often, people can become depressed."

Causes

Psoriasis occurs because of an overactive immune system. In people with psoriasis, their immune system becomes overactive causing inflammation and rapid turnover of skin cells.

Skin cells normally take about a month to grow deep in the skin and then rise to the skin surface. However, in psoriasis, the cells rapidly move to the surface of the skin in a mtter of days even before becoming mature. The new cells and existing cells all pile up on the surface of the skin. The result is redness, irritation and discomfort.

Genes may also play a role in the occurrence of the disease. In many cases, there is a family history of psoriasis.

How is psoriasis diagnosed?

Sometimes, it may be difficult to diagnose psoriasis because the disease looks like other skin diseases. The doctor may recommend examination of a small sample of the skin to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for psoriasis may vary from person to person. The doctor may use a trial-and-error approach to find a psoriasis treatment that works including topical treatment, light therapy, medications, or combination therapy, and psychological support.

Topical Treatments. Ointments or creams applied directly to the skin. These include corticosteroids, vitamin D3, retinoids, coal tar or anthralin.

Light Therapy or Phototherapy. Both natural light from the sun and artificial ultraviolet light can reduce symptoms. Light therapy should be administered by a doctor, since spending time in the sun or a tanning bed can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Medical Treatment. Doctors may prescribe systemic treatment—medicines taken by pill or injection.

Combination Therapy. Combining different treatments can prove more effective.

Psychological Support. People with moderate to severe psoriasis may benefit from counseling or a support group.
***Treatment adapted from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at http://newsinhealth.nih.gov/issue/Aug2010/Feature2

[Top of Page]

Importance of Choline in Brain Development

2010-08-01T18:54:00.001+08:00

Choline Deficiency May Hinder Brain Development of Baby in the Womb, Study Shows

Inadequate choline in the diet may cause reduction in blood vessel growth in the brain of a developing fetus, according to recent study. The study sheds new light on the importance of choline in fetal brain development.

The study was published in the July 20, 2010, edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The research was supported by NIH’s National Institute on Aging (NIA), National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).

Choline is an important nutrient that is needed by the body to make cell membranes - the structure separating the inside of the cell from the outside. Also, it is needed to produce a nerve cell messenger (neurotransmitter) called acteylcholine.

Earlier research conducted by Dr. Steven H. Zeisel of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that maternal choline deficiency alters the growth of new nerve cells in the hippocampus of fetal mice. "Because the developing brain also depends on an adequate blood supply, Zeisel and his colleagues decided to take a closer look at choline’s effect on the growth of new blood vessels, or angiogenesis, in the fetal hippocampus." The hippocampus is important for creating memory.

The researchers made use of pregnant mice in the study. One group of pregnant mice were fed with choline-enriched diet while the other with choline-deficient diet. Researchers found that on the 17th day of fetal development, "the choline-deficient fetal mice had significantly fewer blood vessels in the hippocampus compared to the mice whose mothers received a standard or choline-enriched diet. The fetal hippocampus in choline-deficient mice also had less proliferation of endothelial cells, the cells that line the inner walls of blood vessels."

"Further experiments linked choline deficiency to an overexpression of 2 growth factors—called Vegfc and Angpt2—in the fetal hippocampus. These growth factors regulate angiogenesis and the maturation of endothelial cells. The researchers propose that the abundance of the growth factors in the hippocampus during choline deficiency leads to the rapid differentiation and maturity of endothelial cells. Because differentiated cells divide less frequently, or not at all, the changes may prematurely dampen the growth of new blood vessels."

Dr. Mihai G. Mehedint, the paper's lead author said “The study could impact prenatal care in humans, as many pregnant women in the United States eat diets that contain less choline than recommended by authorities."

According to the National Institutes of Health, "the researchers are now conducting clinical trials to learn more about how much choline people need and how requirements may vary from person to person."

Source:
Vicki Contie (July 2010). Choline Deficiency May Hinder Fetal Brain Development. National Institutes of Health, Available Online at http://www.nih.gov/researchmatters/july2010/07262010choline.htm. Accessed on August 1, 2010.

[Top of Page]

Light Can Make Migraine Pain Worse

2010-07-06T23:48:00.000+08:00

Light can make migraine pain worse. More than 1 in 10 people nationwide get recurring migraines—often described as a pulsing or throbbing in one area of the head. A new study of blind patients may help explain why migraine gets worse when exposed to light. The finding could eventually lead to better treatments.

To discover how light can worsen the pain, NIH-funded scientists studied 20 blind patients who suffer from migraines.

Six of the volunteers couldn’t detect any light, either because their eyes were removed due to disease or because of damage to the optic nerves, which connect the eyes to the brain. The other 14 patients could detect some light but couldn’t perceive images.

When the 14 patients were exposed to light, their migraine pain got worse. In contrast, light had no effect on the 6 volunteers who were totally blind. The scientists concluded that the optic nerve must play a key role in light-induced migraine.

The researchers then searched for the cells in the eye that might trigger the pain. They knew that the eye’s main light-detecting and image-producing cells were not responsible, because these cells were damaged in the 14 blind patients. Instead, the researchers focused on rare light-sensing cells that help maintain the sleep-wake cycle and help the eye’s pupil enlarge or shrink in response to light.

Animal studies showed that these rare cells carry light signals through the optic nerve and on to brain cells that transmit pain. The research suggests that non-image-forming eye cells may help trigger migraines.

“Clinically, this research sets the stage for identifying ways to block the pathway so that migraine patients can endure light without pain,” says lead researcher Dr. Rami Burstein of Harvard Medical School.

Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) News in Health

[Top of Page]

Babies Can Learn While Sleeping?

2010-07-06T23:40:00.000+08:00

Babies can learn even while sleeping. A new study funded by the Nutional Institutes of Health (NIH) found that even when asleep, babies are capable of a simple form of learning

Since newborns spend most of their time sleeping, scientists have long wondered if some learning occurs during slumber. Researchers recently discovered that newborns can process some outside information while they’re asleep—for example, sounds of speech.

To see whether newborns could learn about relationships between events while sleeping, NIH-funded researchers studied 1- or 2-day-old infants. The scientists repeatedly played a brief musical tone followed by a faint puff of air to each sleeping infant’s eyelids. The babies scrunched their faces when they felt the puff. After several repeats, the researchers played a tone without the air puff.

After about 20 minutes, the tones made most infants (24 out of 26) scrunch their faces even without the puff of air. Infants who were exposed to random, unpaired tones and air puffs didn’t squeeze their eyelids in response to isolated tones.

In addition, after the babies had been exposed to the paired tones and air puffs, their brain wave activity showed some changes when the tone sounded. The researchers interpret this as further evidence that the sleeping infants had learned to link the tone to the air puff.

The researchers say that this is the first study to demonstrate that newborn infants are capable of learning about relationships between events while asleep. It’s still unknown whether this quality is unique to infants or could also occur in older children and adults.

Source: National Institutes of Health News in Health

[Top of Page]

Skin Cancer Information

2010-04-07T23:43:00.002+08:00

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that forms in abnormal skin cells or tissues. The World Health Organization estimates that the condition affects about 2 to 3 million people worldwide each year and the incidence have been increasing over the years.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting Caucasians and fair skinned people. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. The National Cancer Institute estimated that there are more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer in the United States in 2009.

The most common cause of skin cancers is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, also called UVR. UV rays can occur naturally through the rays coming from the sun and artificially through indoor tanning machines (e.g. sunlamps and tanning beds).

Risk Factors

Anyone can get skin cancer, but it is more common in people who

•Spend a lot of time in the sun or have been sunburned

• Have light-colored skin, hair and eyes

• Have a family member with skin cancer

• Are over age 50

Common Types of Skin Cancers

The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, which are highly curable, according to the CDC. The third leading type is melanoma and is considered as the most dangerous type, especially among young people. The Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Report (MMWR) of the CDC says that about 65%–90% of melanomas are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Signs to look for if you have possible skin cancer

The most common forms of skin cancer can be cured if found during its early stages. This is why, it is important to know the possible signs of skin cancer so you can consult your health care provider.

The most common sign of skin cancer is a change on the skin. This may be a new growth, a sore that doesn't heal, or a change in an old growth. Not all skin cancers look the same. Skin changes to watch for include:

• Small, smooth, shiny, pale, or waxy lump

• Firm, red lump

• Sore or lump that bleeds or develops a crust or a scab

• Flat red spot that is rough, dry, or scaly and may become itchy or tender

• Red or brown patch that is rough and scaly

Commonly, the condition does not cause pain. However, sometimes, skin cancer may become painful.

In any case, it is still important to ask you healthcare provider if you see any suspicious skin markings and any changes in the way your skin looks that seems to persist with no apparent reason.

Treatment of Skin Cancer

Most types of skin cancers can be effectively cured if found early, especially if it has not spread to nearby organs. Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease, the size and place of the growth, and your general health and medical history. In most cases, the aim of treatment is to remove or destroy the cancer completely.

Treatment options for skin cancer may include surgery to remove the cancer, topical chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, or radiation therapy. The most common treatment for skin cancer is removal of the cancer through surgery.

It is important to talk with your doctor regarding which option is best for you. Also, ask about any possible side-effects of each procedure.

Sources:

What You Need To Know About Skin Cancer (July 2009). Retrieved on April 7, 2010, from http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/skin.

Basic Information About Skin Cancer (June 2009). Retrieved on April 7, 2009, from http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/index.

World Health Organization: How Common is Skin Cancer (n.d.). Retrieved on April 7, 2010, from http://www.who.int/uv/faq/skincancer/en/index1.html.

Indoor Tanning: The Risks of Ultraviolet Rays (November 2009). Retrieved on April 7, 2010, from http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm186687.htm.1

[Top of Page]

Preventing Colorectal Cancer Through Regular Screening

2010-02-14T14:52:00.002+08:00

Preventing Colorectal Cancer Through Regular Screening
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. But, colorectal cancer can be prevented through regular screening.
Read More on my Associated Content article.

Hidden Dangers of X-ray Tests

2010-02-12T22:50:00.003+08:00

Are there hidden dangers that people should know about medical x-ray tests? The answer to this question is there are problems that may arise with exposure to radiation from medical imaging tests.

The invention of x-ray has marked a new dimension to medical diagnostics. It has made injuries and conditions easily seen without having to perform exploratory surgery to see what’s wrong inside the person’s body.

Today, innovations have been done to the simple x-ray wherein it has become more “high-tech” so to speak. Examples of medical x-rays include x-ray radiography, mammography, computed tomography (CT) scan and fluoroscopy, among others.

Undoubtedly, these medical imaging tests have improved diagnosis of injuries and diseases. Also, these tests have proven to make treatment plans more effective. However, these x-ray medical tests have been the source of many unnecessary exposures to ionizing radiation in patients. Ionizing radiation is a type of radiation that can increase the lifetime risk of having cancer.

In addition to increasing a person’s lifetime cancer risk, other health problems are associated with exposure to the radiation. Problems arising from accidental radiation exposure include erythema (reddening of the skin) and skin burns, hair loss and cataracts.

Health experts believe that the risk of developing cancer from radiation exposure is relatively low, which depends on several factors including: the amount of radiation dose; the age at exposure; and the gender of the person exposed to the radiation.

People who are exposed to the radiation and at large doses are at far more at risk of developing cancer in the future. Lifetime risk of developing cancer is higher in children because they have longer life expectancy than older people. Women are at a somewhat higher lifetime risk than men for developing radiation-associated cancer after receiving the same exposures at the same ages, according to the US Food and Drug Administration.

Experts believe that the benefits of medical x-ray tests far outweigh the risks. However, these risks should not be taken lightly. While some imaging tests may be more beneficial to the patient today, the risks of health problems in the future should also be considered. Scientists should be encouraged to look for and make other alternative imaging tests that that uses little to no radiation.

Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/MedicalImaging/MedicalX-Rays/default.htm)

[Top of Page]

Mesothelioma Information: Helping You Understand About this Malignant Cancer

2009-11-11T15:16:00.002+08:00

Mesothelioma is a rare form of malignant cancer that forms in the mesothelium, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The mesothelium is a protective sac or membrane, which covers most of the internal organs of the body. It produces fluid that allows smooth gliding of the organs’ surfaces. Commonly, mesothelioma develops in people who have worked on jobs where they are exposed to asbestos particles.

The mesothelium surrounding organs have different names. The pleural membrane or pleura is the mesothelial tissue surrounding the lungs. The peritoneum surrounds most of the organs in the abdominal area. The pericardium is the mesothelium covering the heart.

Mesothelioma is a cancer in which cells in the mesothelium abnormally divide producing a mass called a tumor. Like other malignant forms of cancer, the disease can invade other nearby organs and tissues. Also, mesothelioma cancer cells can travel through the blood or lymph—fluid found in lymphatic vessels—and can cause cancer to distant organs. The spreading of cancer cells is called metastasis.

Reports say that the incidence of mesothelioma have increased over the past 20 years. However, experts still consider it a relatively rare form of cancer. Each year, according to the National Cancer Institute, about 2, 000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States. The condition affects more men than women and the risk increases with age.

Most cases of mesothelioma are related to asbestos exposure. In fact, the National Cancer Institute says that about 70 to 80 percent of mesothelioma disease is associated with a history of exposure to asbestos exposure at work. Asbestos is the name given to a group of mineral fibers, which are separated into thin threads and woven. It has been widely used as components of many industrial products, which include cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation.

Inhaled asbestos particles can cause serious health problems. In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases a person’s risk of developing lung cancer and cancer of the larynx and kidney.

Smoking does not seem to cause mesothelioma. However, smoking combined with asbestos exposure may increase a person's risk of developing cancer of the airway passages of the lung.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Symptoms of mesothelioma do not usually occur immediately. Commonly, symptoms appear 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma symptoms depend on where it occurs. Pleural mesothelioma symptoms include shortness of breath and pain in the chest because of accumulation of fluid in the pleura.

In peritoneal mesothelioma, symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, and abdominal swelling due to accumulation of fluid in the peritoneum. Other symptoms include bowel obstruction, abnormalities in blood clotting, anemia, and fever.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Diagnosis is often difficult because mesothelioma symptoms are similar to those of other health problems. To diagnose mesothelioma, the doctor reviews your medical history and will ask about any history of exposure to asbestos. In addition, your doctor will also perform a thorough physical examination. Imaging tests, such as x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and CT scan may be recommended by your doctor to aid in the diagnosis.

To confirm mesothelioma diagnosis, your doctor may recommend a biopsy procedure. In biopsy, a sample is taken from the organ involved and viewed under a microscope.

Mesothelioma Treatment Options

Treatment of mesothelioma depends on the location of cancer, its stage, and the patient’s age and general health. Treatment options may include surgery to remove the cancer cells (tumor), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, a combination of treatments may be needed.

Sources:
Malignant Mesothelioma Treatment (PDQ®). Last Modified: August 19, 2009. National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/malignantmesothelioma/patient/). Accessed: November 11, 2009

Mesothelioma. Updated: September 2009. Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. Accessed: November 11, 2009

Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers (May 2002). National Cancer Institute (NCI) (http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Sites-Types/mesothelioma). Accessed: November 11, 2009

[Top of Page]

Steroids: Is it Good for You?

2009-11-07T11:07:00.004+08:00

Thinking whether steroids (anabolic) can make your body strong and add some bulk in your muscles? You better think twice. Steroids can have devastating, sometimes irreversible effects on your body when you use anabolic steroids for the wrong reasons. Read on to learn about the health effects of using nonprescription anabolic steroids.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, anabolic steroids are mostly laboratory-made (synthetic) substances, which have similar effects as the male testosterone. Sometimes, this substance is called anabolic-androgenic steroids or AAS. Anabolic means to build-up and androgenic refers to the increased male sexual characteristics.

Athletes and body-builders usually abuse anabolic steroids to improve strength and size to the muscles. However, studies have shown several side-effects of abusing anabolic steroids. Major health consequences from anabolic steroid abuse, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse include:

• premature stunted growth

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

• fluid retention

• high blood pressure

• increases in LDL (bad cholesterol)

• decreases in HDL (good cholesterol)

• severe acne

• trembling

Sometimes anabolic steroid abuse may result in the development of liver and kidney tumors.

Effects of anabolic steroids on the brain may include or mental health may include behavior disturbances, such as mood swings, feelings of depression, or irritability. In addition, researches have reported that users may suffer from paranoia, jealousy, extreme irritability, delusions, and impaired judgment stemming from feelings of invincibility.

Some of the side-effects of too much anabolic steroid use may be gender-specific. This means that its effect on the male is different from the effects on the female. Gender-specific side effects, according to the published article from the National Institute on Drug Abuse are:

• For the males—anabolic steroid use can cause shrinking of the testicles, reduced sperm count, infertility, baldness, development of breasts, increased risk for prostate cancer.

• For females—the use of anabolic steroids can cause growth of facial hair, male-pattern baldness, changes in or cessation of the menstrual cycle, enlargement of the clitoris, and a permanently deepened voice.

There are legitimate medical uses of steroids including treatment of conditions resulting from steroid hormone deficiency, such as delayed puberty, as well as diseases that result in loss of lean muscle mass, such as cancer and AIDS.

While anabolic steroids use can increase performance and add bulk to muscles. The side-effects can be devastating. There are other ways to improve athletic performance and add bulk to the muscles, such as following a proper strength training program and proper diet.

Sources:
National Institute on Drug Abuse. NIDA Research Report-Steroid Abuse and Addiction
(http://www.drugabuse.gov/ResearchReports/Steroids/AnabolicSteroids.html): NIH Pub. No. 00-3721. Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Printed 1991. Reprinted 1994, 1996. Revised September 2006. Retrieved November 2009.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Commonly Abused Drugs Chart (http://www.drugabuse.gov/DrugPages/DrugsofAbuse.html): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS, 2000. Retrieved November 2009.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. NIDA InfoFacts: Steroids (Anabolic-Androgenic)
(http://www.drugabuse.gov/Infofax/steroids.html): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Revised June 2008. Retrieved November 2009.

[Top of Page]

Effects of Methamphetamine on Health

2009-05-02T09:42:00.006+08:00

Methamphetamine is a white, odorless, bitter-tasting powder that can easily be dissolved in water or alcohol. This drug can be taken orally (by mouth), intranasally (snorted), by needle injection, or by smoking. The smokable form is known as “ice” or “crystal,” because of its appearance. There are many effects of methamphetamine on health including severe health problems like stroke.

Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug that has an effect on brain functions. It is classified as Schedule II stimulant, which means it has a high potential for abuse and is available only through a prescription that cannot be refilled. Medical uses of methamphetamine are limited and the doses prescribed are much lower than those typically abused.

Other names for the drug are speed, meth, chalk, crystal, ice, and glass.

Methamphetamine can affect lots of brain structures. However, the ones that the drug affects the most are the ones that contain a chemical called dopamine. This brain chemical is involved in motivation, the experience of pleasure, and motor functions. Methamphetamine increases the release of very high levels of dopamine. As a result, the person feels an extra sense of pleasure, which can last all day. However, these pleasurable effects would eventually stop. Once this happens, the person experiences unpleasant feelings called a “crash,” which often lead a person to use more of the drug.

The many effects of Methamphetamine

The drug has many effects on brain function, as well as on other body systems. Methamphetamine can cause a person to be more awake, more active, lose their appetite, irritable, aggressive, and have elevated body temperature (hyperthermia).

In addition, the drug can also cause a person’s blood pressure to rise and their heart to beat faster. Due to its effect in blood pressure, the person’s blood vessels, especially in the brain, may become damaged, which can lead to strokes.

Long-term methamphetamine abuse has many negative effects, including extreme weight loss, severe dental problems, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, mood disturbances, and violent behavior. In addition, chronic abuse of the drug may cause a person to become paranoid. They may experience hallucinations. They hear and see things that aren’t there.

More studies are being conducted to better understand how methamphetamine causes its effects.

Sources:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). InfoFacts: Methamphetamine (Revised June 2008).

NIDA for Teens. NIH Publication No. 03—4394. Printed 2000, 2003.

[Top of Page]

Information About Marijuana

2009-03-28T22:08:00.003+08:00

Marijuana, the most commonly illicit/illegal drug worldwide, is a mixture of the dried and shredded leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the hemp plant, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Hemp plant is scientifically known as Cannabis sativa.

Marijuana contains chemicals known as canabinoids. Although the main active ingredient in marijuana is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), there about 400 other chemicals found in them and some of these can cause cancer. (NIDA for Teens, n.d.)

Among the cannabinoids synthesized by the plant are cannabinol, cannabidiol, cannabinolidic acids, cannabigerol, cannabichromene.

Countless street terms for marijuana include pot, herb, weed, grass, widow, ganja, and hash, as well as terms derived from trademarked varieties of cannabis, such as Bubble Gum, Northern Lights, Fruity Juice, Afghani #1, and a number of Skunk varieties.

How are marijuana used?

Marijuana may be used in many ways. Some users may brew it as tea or mix it with other foods. Others may smoke it as blunts-cigars emptied of tobacco and refilled with marijuana, which is often combined with another drug. And sometimes may be smoked through a pipe called a bong. But the most common method is smoking loose marijuana rolled into cigarette called joint or nail.

Related Reading:

Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Use
Marijuana Used as Medicine?
Warning Signs of Marijuana Use
What are the Signs of Marijuana Use?

Source:
US Drug Enforcement Agency

Image Credit: US Drug Enforcement Agency. Web URL: http://www.usdoj.gov/dea/images_marijuana.html

Inhalants

2008-05-25T10:55:00.001+08:00

Many people do not think that products such as spray paints, glues, nail polish remover, hair spray, household cleaning fluids, and even gasoline as potential substances of abuse because their intoxicating effects are totally unrelated to their intended uses. And yet young children and adolescents do use these substances to get high. The high resembles the effects of alcohol intoxication.

Inhalants are commonly abused because of the chemical's psychoactive (mind-altering) effect. There are literally hundreds of inhalants, and most of these are included as components of household products that can be inhaled and produce their effects.

According to Dr. Nora D. Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), inhalants pose a significant problem because of their being readily available, it is legal, and is inexpensive.

Inhalants generally fall into three categories: solvents, gases and nitrites.

Solvents include:

Certain industrial or household products, such as paint thinner, nail polish remover, degreaser, dry-cleaning fluid, gasoline, and glue
Some art or office supplies, such as correction fluid, felt-tip marker fluid, and electronic contact cleaner

Gases include:

Some household or commercial products, such as butane lighters, propane tanks, whipped cream dispensers, and refrigerant gases
Certain household aerosol propellants, such as those found in spray paint, hair spray, deodorant spray, and fabric protector spray.
Medical anesthetic gases, such as ether, chloroform, halothane, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas)

Nitrites include:

Cyclohexyl nitrite (found in substances marketed as room deodorizers)
Amyl nitrite (used in certain diagnostic medical procedures)
Butyl nitrite (previously used in perfumes and antifreeze, but now an illegal substance)

Potential Health Hazards

Although inhalants differ in there composition, most of these produce a rapid high that resembles alcohol intoxication. Other initial effects may include slurred speech, lack of coordination, euphoria, and dizziness. Inhalant users may also experience lightheadedness, hallucinations, and delusions. The high usually lasts for only a few minutes.

Long term inappropriate use of these inhalants can cause severe, long-term damage to the brain, the liver, and the kidneys.

We should be aware of the potential health risks that inhalants pose to us and our children. According to Dr. Nora D. Volkow, adults should store household products carefully to prevent accidental inhalation by very young children; they should also remain aware of the temptations that these dangerous substances pose to children in their homes.

Topic References:
National Institute on Drug Abuse. NIDA InfoFacts: Inhalants
(http://www.drugabuse.gov/infofacts/inhalants.html): Revised May 2006. Retrieved May 2008.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. NIDA for Teens Facts on Drugs: Inhalants
(http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_inhale1.asp): Retrieved May 2008.

Page Last Revised: February 24, 2009

Difference Between Bell's Palsy and Stroke

2008-05-23T20:28:00.004+08:00

These two conditions, Bell's palsy and stroke, may have similarities in signs or symptoms especially on the face. But these are two different conditions.

Bell's palsy is caused by an injury or trauma to the facial nerve while stroke is an affectation of the brain due to inadequate or blocked blood supply to the brain cells.

Bell's palsy, also known as facial nerve paralysis, occurs when the 7th cranial nerve called the facial nerve is injured or cut. The facial nerve controls the muscles of facial expression and also transmits sensation of taste in two-thirds of the tongue (front two-thirds of the tongue).

Generally, the condition affects only one of the paired facial nerves and one side of the face. Affectation of both cranial nerves is usually rare.

Symptoms of Bell's palsy include: weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, drooping eyelid or corner of the mouth, drooling, dry eye or mouth, affectation of sense of taste, and excessive tearing of the eye. (Learn more about Bell's Palsy)

Stroke, sometimes called brain attack, occurs when there is inadequate or no blood flow to the brain. This can be caused by a clot or a break in the blood vessel causing bleeding. The brain cells, supplied by the blocked blood vessel, begin to die because they are not getting the oxygen and nutrients needed to function properly.

Symptoms of stroke include sudden numbness, weakness, or paralysis of one side of the body; trouble speaking or understanding speech; trouble seeing in one or both eyes; and trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of coordination and balance. If you believe you are having stroke or someone you know is having stroke, call your local emergency hot-line immediately. Stroke is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Don't wait for the symptoms to improve or worsen.

In conclusion, Bell's palsy occurs due to affectation of the facial nerve that results in paralysis or weakness of half of the face. It does not include paralysis of the limbs.

Stroke, on the other hand, involves the brain, which may be caused by a blockage of blood flow to the brain cells by a clot; or small blood flow to the brain cells due to blood leaking out of a damaged blood vessel. This is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Facial paralysis may occur, but more commonly, there is weakness or paralysis on one side of the body including the upper or lower limb or both.

Related Topic: Bell's Palsy

What Are Anabolic Steroids?

2008-05-13T21:12:00.001+08:00

Anabolic steroids are often used by athletes, body builders and fitness buffs to enhance their performance and also to improve physical appearance. But inappropriate use of this drug can lead to serious health problems.

What are anabolic steroids?

Anabolic steroids, also known as anabolic-androgenic steroids, are man-made substances that is similar to the naturally occurring male sex hormone called testosterone. These drugs are issued only with a prescription. Steroids are prescribed to treat conditions such as delayed puberty and some types of impotence. They are also prescribed to treat body wasting in patients with AIDS and other diseases that result in loss of lean muscle mass. However, the doses prescribed to treat these medical conditions are way much lower than the doses used by steroid abusers.

Steroids are never prescribed to young, healthy people for the sole purpose of increasing muscle mass or enhancing performance. Use of steroids without a prescription is considered illegal.

The most commonly encountered anabolic steroids on the illicit market include testosterone, nandrolone, methenolone, stanozolol, and methandrostenolone. Other steroids seen in the illicit market include boldenone, fluoxymesterone, methandriol, methyltestosterone, oxandrolone, oxymetholone, and trenbolone. (Source: US Drug Enforcement Agency)

How are steroids taken?

Anabolic steroids is taken by mouth while others use hypodermic needles to inject it directly into their muscles.

Many users take 2 or more kinds of steroids at once - called stacking. Stacking is supposed to get users bigger faster. Other users also take steroids on a schedule called cycle. A cycle is a period of between 6 and 14 weeks of steroid use, followed by a period of abstinence or reduction in use. Although the benefits of these practices have not yet been proven, most users feel that cycling and stacking enhance the effectivity of the drugs and minimize their side effects.

Anaboloc Steroid Abuse - Health Consequences

Anabolic steroids can enhance performance or add bulk to the muscles, but the health risks are high. The major side effects from abusing anabolic steroids include liver tumors and cancer, jaundice (yellowish pigmentation of skin, tissues, and body fluids), fluid retention, high blood pressure, increases in LDL (bad cholesterol), and decreases in HDL (good cholesterol). Other side effects include kidney tumors, severe acne, and trembling.

Some of the side effects of anabolic steroid abuse can be different according to gender:

For men - shrinking of the testicles, reduced sperm count, infertility, baldness, development of breasts (gynecomastia), increased risk for prostate cancer.
For women - growth of facial hair, male-pattern baldness, changes in or cessation of the menstrual cycle, enlargement of the clitoris, deepened voice.
For adolescents - growth halted prematurely through premature skeletal maturation and accelerated puberty changes. This means that adolescents risk remaining short for the remainder of their lives if they take anabolic steroids before the typical adolescent growth spurt.

Research also shows that steroid abuse can lead to serious psychiatric problems. Because steroids are often injected, users risk contracting or transmitting HIV or hepatitis.

Before you get involved with anabolic steroids use, think of the serious health hazards associated with it. You are never too cool knowing that you gained that bulk using unnatural means.

References:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (March 2007). NIDA InfoFacts: Steroids (Anabolic-Androgenic)(http://www.nida.nih.gov/Infofacts/Steroids.html): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Retrieved: May 13, 2008.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Message from the Director: Consequences of the Abuse of Anabolic Steroids
(http://www.drugabuse.gov/about/welcome/messagesteroids305.html): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Retrieved: May 13, 2008.

US Drug Enforcement Agency. Drugs of Abuse (Chapter 10): Steroids (http://www.usdoj.gov/dea/pubs/abuse/10-steroids.htm). DEA, US Department of Justice. Rtrieved: May 13, 2008.

National Institute on Drug Abuse (March 2007). NIDA for Teens: Anabolic Steroids (http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_ster1.asp): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Retrieved: May 13, 2008.

National Institute on Drug Abuse (April 14, 2000). NIDA News Release: NIDA Announces Multimedia Public Education Initiative Aimed at Reversing Rise in Use of Anabolic Steroids by Teens (http://www.drugabuse.gov/MedAdv/00/NR4-14.html): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Retrieved: May 13, 2008.

Page Last Revised: November 15, 2010

Commonly Abused Prescription Medications

2008-05-09T10:28:00.000+08:00

Prescription medications such as pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives are very useful treatment tools when used properly. When people don't take them as directed they might get addicted to it.

Most people take their prescription medications responsibly. It is, however, the inappropriate or nonmedical use of prescription medications that makes it a serious health concern. Prescription drugs that are abused or used for nonmedical reasons may alter brain activity resulting to addiction. Addiction is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use in spite of negative consequences.

Commonly abused classes of prescription drugs include opioids (often prescribed to treat pain), central nervous system depressants (often prescribed to treat anxiety and sleep disorders), and stimulants (prescribed to treat narcolepsy, ADHD, and obesity). (National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), June 2006)

Opioids

Opioids are often prescribed to relieve pain because of their effective analgesic (pain relieving) properties. When taken exactly as prescribed, opioids are effective in managing pain and rarely causes addiction.

Commonly used opioids include oxycodone (OxyContin); propoxyphene (Darvon); hydrocodone (Vicodin); hydromorphone (Dilaudid); meperidine (Demerol), which is used less often because of its side effects. In addition to their effective pain relieving properties, some of these medications can be used to relieve severe diarrhea (Lomotil, for example, which is diphenoxylate) or severe coughs (codeine). (NIDA, June 2006)

Opioid medications can effectively change the way a person experiences pain. In addition, people taking opioid medications may initially experience euphoria (feeling of pleasure), which many opioids produce. They can also produce drowsiness, cause constipation, and, depending upon the amount taken, depress breathing. Taking a large single dose could cause severe respiratory depression or death.

Opioids may interact with other medications. Inform your doctor about other medications you are taking. Opioids should not be taken with substances such as alcohol, antihistamines, barbiturates, or benzodiazepines. Since these substances slow breathing, their combined effects could lead to life-threatening respiratory depression.

When you stop taking your prescribed opioid medications this may result to experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms may include restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes with goose bumps ("cold turkey"), and involuntary leg movements. Appropriate medical supervision to individuals taking prescribed opioid medications also should be medically supervised when stopping use in order to reduce or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Long-term use of opioid medications can lead to physical dependence—the body adapts to the presence of the substance and withdrawal symptoms occur if use is reduced abruptly, and addiction if used inappropriately. Note that physical dependence is not the same as addiction. Physical dependence can occur even with appropriate long-term use of opioid and other medications. Addiction, on the other hand, is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use in spite of its consequences.

Top

Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants

CNS depressants slow normal brain function. In higher doses, some CNS depressants can become general anesthetics. Tranquilizers and sedatives are examples of CNS depressants.

CNS depressants can be divided into two groups:

Barbiturates, such as mephobarbital (Mebaral) and pentobarbitalsodium (Nembutal), which are used to treat anxiety, tension, and sleep disorders.

Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium), chlordiazepoxide HCl (Librium), and alprazolam (Xanax), which can be prescribed to treat anxiety, acute stress reactions, and panic attacks. Benzodiazepines that have a more sedating effect, such as estazolam (ProSom), can be prescribed for short-term treatment of sleep disorders.(NIDA, 2006)

CNS depressants work in different ways, but they all produce a drowsy or calming effect. Despite these beneficial effects for people suffering from anxiety or sleep disorders, barbiturates and benzodiazepines can be addictive and should be used only as prescribed.

Long-term use of CNS depressants may lead to drug dependence and addiction.

CNS depressants should not be used with medications or substances that cause drowsiness, including prescription pain medicines, certain OTC cold or allergy medications, or alcohol. If combined, they can slow breathing, or slow both the heart and respiration, which can be fatal.

Discontinuing prolonged use of high doses of CNS depressants can lead to withdrawal. Because they work by slowing the brain’s activity, a potential consequence of abuse is that when one stops taking a CNS depressant, the brain’s activity can rebound to the point that seizures can occur. Someone thinking about ending their use of a CNS depressant, or who has stopped and is suffering withdrawal, should speak with a physician and seek medical treatment. (NIDA, 2006)

In addition to medical supervision, counseling in an in-patient or out-patient setting can help people who are overcoming addiction to CNS depressants.

Top

Stimulants

Stimulants were historically used to treat asthma and other respiratory problems, obesity, neurological disorders, and a variety of other ailments. As their potential for abuse and addiction became apparent, the use of stimulants began to decline. Now, stimulants are prescribed for treating only a few health conditions, including narcolepsy, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression that has not responded to other treatments. Stimulants may also be used for short-term treatment of obesity and for patients with asthma. (NIDA, 2006)

Stimulants increase alertness, attention, and energy, which are accompanied by increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration.

When taken in high doses, stimulants can lead to compulsive use, paranoia, dangerously high body temperatures, irregular heartbeat, cardiovascular failure, and seizures.

Stimulants should not be used with antidepressants or OTC cold medicines containing decongestants. Antidepressants may increase the effects of a stimulant. Stimulants taken with decongestants may cause blood pressure to become too high or lead to irregular heart rhythms.

At this time, there are no proven medications for the treatment of stimulant addiction. Antidepressants, however, may be used to manage the symptoms of depression that can accompany early abstinence from stimulants.

Depending on the patient’s situation, the first step in treating prescription stimulant addiction may be to slowly decrease the drug’s dose and attempt to treat withdrawal symptoms. This process of detoxification could then be followed with one of many behavioral therapies.

Top

Reference/Source:
National Institute on Drug Abuse(June 2006). NIDA InfoFacts: Prescription Pain and Other Medications (http://www.drugabuse.gov/infofacts/PainMed.html): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS, Retrieved May 2008.

Top

Ecstasy (MDMA)

2008-05-09T00:38:00.000+08:00

Ecstasy is a slang term for an illegal drug, scientifically known as MDMA (3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine), that has effects similar to the stimulant methamphetamine and the hallucinogen mescaline.

Aside from ecstasy, other street names of MDMA include XTC, X, Adam, hug, beans, clarity, lover's speed, and love drug.

Ecstasy is considered as one of the most common club drugs. Other common club drugs include GHB, Rohypnol, ketamine, methamphetamine, and acid (LSD). Many of these drugs are used at dance clubs (thus the name "club drug"), raves, and trance scenes. Raves and trance events are generally night-long dances, often held in warehouses. But according to the Community Epidemiology Work Group (CEWG)*, MDMA is being used in a number of other social settings as well.

Short-term effects include feelings of mental stimulation, emotional warmth, changes in perception (such as enhanced sense of touch), and increased physical energy (a psychedelic effect). Adverse health effects can include nausea, chills, sweating, teeth clenching, muscle cramping, and blurred vision.

Ecstasy abusers can also become dehydrated due to vigorous activities in a hot environment. Ecstasy can interfere with the body's ability to regulate its temperature, which can cause dangerous overheating, a condition called hyperthermia. This, in turn, can lead to serious heart, kidney, or liver problems-or, rarely, death. If taken in high doses or several small doses within a short time, this can lead to high levels of the drug in the blood. High MMDA blood levels increase the risk of hyperthermia and other health risks of the drug.

MDMA has been shown to be neurotoxic (damage nerve tissue) in studies using animals. It's not yet known whether this drug is neurotoxic in humans. However, regular users of MDMA have demonstrated memory loss, and this may reflect damage to the neurons that release serotonin, which affects the ability to sleep and helps to regulate mood. (NIDA for Teens, nd)

*CEWG is an NIDA-sponsored network of researchers from 21 major U.S. metropolitan areas and selected foreign countries who meet semiannually to discuss the current epidemiology of drug abuse. CEWG’s most recent reports are available at www.drugabuse.gov/about/organization/cewg/pubs.html

References/Sources:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (March 2006). NIDA InfoFacts: MDMA (Ecstasy) http://www.drugabuse.gov/infofacts/ecstasy.html):
Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Retrieved May 2008.

National Institute on Drug Abuse (May 2006). NIDA InfoFacts: Club Drugs (http://www.drugabuse.gov/infofacts/Clubdrugs.html): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Retrieved May 2008.

National Institute on Drug Abuse (n.d.). NIDA for Teens: Facts on Drugs - Ecstasy. (http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_xtc1.asp): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Retrieved May 2008.

Image Credit: US Drug Enforcement Agency. Web URL: http://www.usdoj.gov/dea/photos/mdma/ecstacy-03.jpg

LSD (Acid)

2008-05-09T00:00:00.000+08:00

LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), with street names such as acid and blotter, is one of the strongest mood-changing drugs. This drug is one of the major drugs making up the hallucinogen class of drugs. People under the influence of hallucinogens see images, hear sounds, and feel sensations that seem real but do not exist. [National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), May 2006]

The use of LSD produces unpredictable psychological effects. With large enough doses, users experience delusions and visual hallucinations. Physical effects include dilated pupils, increased body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure; sleeplessness; tremors; and loss of appetite.

Most users of LSD voluntarily decrease or stop its use over time. LSD is not considered an addictive drug since it does not produce compulsive drug-seeking behavior, as do cocaine, amphetamine, heroin, alcohol, and nicotine. However, like many of the addictive drugs, LSD produces tolerance, so some users who take the drug repeatedly must take progressively higher doses to achieve the state of intoxication that they had previously achieved. This is an extremely dangerous practice, given the unpredictability of the drug. (NIDA, May 2006)

LSD is sold as tablets, capsules, liquid, or on absorbent paper.

Source:National Institute on Drug Abuse (May 2006). NIDA InfoFacts: LSD (Acid) (http://www.drugabuse.gov/infofacts/lsd.html): Bethesda, MD: NIDA, NIH, DHHS. Retrieved May 2008

Consequences of Drug Abuse

2008-05-08T19:20:00.001+08:00

How drug abuse affects the body.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), drug addiction is a brain disease. They further added that although the initial drug use might be voluntary, drugs of abuse have been shown to alter gene expression and brain circuitry that in turn can affect human behavior. When addiction develops, these changes in the brain can interfere with the individuals ability to make decisions that leads to drug cravings, seeking and use.

Drugs when used at high doses or prolonged use may lead to having cardiovascular diseases, stroke, hepatitis, and lung diseases to name a few. However, some drugs may also cause these effects even after just one use.

The following are some of the effects of drug abuse on body functions or systems. Drugs that can cause these effects have also been included.

1. Cardiovascular System/Cardiovascular Effects

Researchers have found a connection between the abuse of most drugs and adverse cardiovascular effects, ranging from abnormal heart rate to heart attacks. Injection drug use can also lead to cardiovascular problems such as collapsed veins and bacterial infections of the blood vessels and heart valves.

Drugs that can affect the cardiovascular system:
Cocaine, Heroin, Inhalants, Ketamine, LSD, Marijuana, MDMA, Methamphetamine, Nicotine, PCP, Prescription Stimulants, and Steroids

2. Respiratory System/Respiratory Effects

Drug abuse can lead to a variety of respiratory problems or disorders. Smoking cigarettes, for example, has been shown to cause bronchitis, emphysema and lung cancer. Marijuana smoke may also cause respiratory problems. The use of some drugs may also cause breathing to slow, block air from entering the lungs or exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Drugs that can affect the respiratory system:
Cocaine, GHB, Heroin, Inhalants, Ketamine, Marijuana, Nicotine, PCP, Prescription Opiates

3. Digestive System/Gastrointestinal Effects

Among other adverse effects, many drugs of abuse have been known to cause nausea and vomiting soon after use. Cocaine use can also cause abdominal pain.

The liver, one of the largest organ of the body has a many functions in digestion and detoxifying drugs. Chronic (long-term) use of some drugs, such as heroin, inhalants and steroids, may lead to significant damage to the liver.

Drugs that can affect the gastrointestinal system:
Cocaine, GHB, Heroin, LSD, MDMA, Nicotine, Prescription Opiates

4. Muscular and Skeletal System/ Musculoskeletal Effects

Steroid use during childhood or adolescence, resulting in artificially high sex hormone levels, can signal the bones to stop growing earlier than they normally would have, leading to short stature. Other drugs may also cause severe muscle cramping and overall muscle weakness.

Drugs that can affect the musculoskeletal system:
Inhalants, MDMA, PCP, Steroids

5. Endocrine System/Hormonal Effects

Steroid abuse disrupts the normal production of hormones in the body, causing both reversible and irreversible changes. These changes include infertility and testicle shrinkage in men as well as musculinization in women.

Drugs that can cause hormonal problems:
Steroids

6. Urinary System/Kidney Damage

Some drugs may cause kidney damage or failure, either directly or indirectly from dangerous increases in body temperature and muscle breakdown.

Drugs that can cause kidney damage:
Heroin, Inhalants, MDMA, PCP

7. Nervous System/Neurological Effects

All drugs of abuse act in the brain to produce their euphoric effects; however some of them also have severe negative consequences in the brain such as seizures, stroke, and widespread brain damage that can impact all aspects of daily life. Drug use can also cause brain changes that lead to problems with memory, attention and decision-making.

Drugs that can cause neurological problems:
Cocaine, GHB, Inhalants, Marijuana, MDMA, Methamphetamine, Nicotine, Prescription Stimulants, Rohypnol

8. Mental Health Effects

Chronic use of some drugs of abuse can cause long-lasting changes in the brain, which may lead to paranoia, depression, aggression, and hallucinations.

Drugs that can cause mental health problems:
Cocaine, Inhalants, Ketamine, Marijuana, MDMA, Methamphetamine, Prescription Stimulants

Other Effects:

1. Cancer

Cigarette smoking is the most preventable cause of cancer in the U.S. Smoking cigarettes has been linked to cancer of the mouth, neck, stomach, and lung, among others. Smoking marijuana also exposes the lungs to carcinogens and can cause precancerous changes to the lungs similar to cigarette smoke.

Drugs that may cause cancer:
Nicotine, Marijuana, Steroids

2. Pregnancy/Prenatal Effects

The full extent of the effects of prenatal drug exposure on a child is not known, however studies show that various drugs of abuse may result in premature birth, miscarriage, low birth weight, and a variety of behavioral and cognitive problems.

Drugs that may have adverse prenatal effects:
Cocaine, Heroin, Inhalants, Marijuana, MDMA, Methamphetamine, Nicotine

3. Other Health Effects

In addition to the effects various drugs of abuse may have on specific organs of the body, many drugs produce global body changes such as dramatic changes in appetite and increases in body temperature, which may impact a variety of health conditions. Withdrawal from drug use also may lead to numerous adverse health effects, including restlessness, mood swings, fatigue, changes in appetite, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, cold flashes, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Drugs that have global adverse health effects:
Cocaine, Heroin, Inhalants, Marijuana, MDMA, Methamphetamine, Nicotine, Prescription, CNS Depressants, Prescription Opiates, Prescription Stimulants Steroids

4. Mortality

According to the NIDA, drug-related deaths have more than doubled since the early 1980s. There are more deaths, illness, and disabilities from substance abuse than from any other preventable health condition. Today, one in four deaths is attributable to alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use.

Reference/Source:National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)(January 2008). Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse. Retrieved May 8, 2008, from the NIDA, National Institutes of Health. Web site: http://www.nida.nih.gov/consequences/index.html

Revised/Edited for Medically Inclined publication by David Mangusan Jr., PTRP.

Prostate Problems

2008-01-20T13:15:00.001+08:00

What Men Need To Know About Prostatitis and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

Frequent need to urinate or painful urination could be caused by a problem with your prostate.

The prostate or prostate gland is part of a man’s sex organs. It is a gland about the size of a walnut that surrounds the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body. The prostate adds fluid to the semen when you ejaculate.

What are prostate problems?

For men under age 50, the most common prostate problem is prostatitis, meaning the prostate is inflamed. For men over age 50, the most common prostate problem is prostate enlargement. This condition is also called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH.

What are the symptoms of prostatitis?

Prostatitis can cause painful, burning, or frequent urination. You may have a fever or pain in your lower back or genital area.

What causes prostatitis?

Prostatitis is sometimes caused by bacteria. But usually no bacteria are present and doctors will look for other possible causes of urinary symptoms, such as a kidney stone or cancer. If no other causes are found, your doctor may decide you have nonbacterial prostatitis.

How is prostatitis treated?

If you have bacterial prostatitis, your doctor can give you an antibiotic to fight the infection. If you keep getting infections, you may have a defect in your prostate that allows bacteria to grow. This defect can usually be corrected with surgery.

Antibiotics will not help nonbacterial prostatitis. Instead, your doctor may give you a medicine to relax the muscle tissue in the prostate. Changing your diet or taking warm baths may help too.

What are the symptoms of BPH?

Some symptoms of BPH include

a frequent and urgent need to urinate
trouble starting a urine stream
a weak stream of urine
the feeling you still have to urinate, even when you have just finished
small amounts of blood in your urine

What causes BPH?

As men get older, their prostate keeps growing. As it grows it squeezes the urethra. Since urine travels from the bladder through the urethra, the pressure from the enlarged prostate may affect bladder control.

How is BPH treated?

You’ll have to work with your doctor to find the best treatment for you. Some options are

living with your symptoms, if they don’t bother you too much, and regular checkups to make sure your condition isn’t getting worse
medicines to shrink or relax the prostate
a nonsurgical procedure to remove parts of the prostate
surgery to remove part of the prostate

What else could cause the same symptoms?

Frequent or painful urination, especially with blood in the urine, could be signs of bladder cancer. If you have these symptoms, see your doctor right away.

For more information about prostate problems and other disorders or diseases that affect the urinary system, please visit the Kidney Health Care website.

Information Provided by The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC)(November, 2007). Prostate Problems: What Men Need To Know - NIH Publication No. 08–6183. Retrieved January 20, 2007, from NKUDIC, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health. Web Site: http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/prostate_ES/index.htm

Page Last Revised: May 23, 2009

Reducing Risk of Heart Attack

2008-01-15T15:15:00.001+08:00

Heart attack is a serious health problem wherein heart muscles do not receive oxygen, thus, resulting in death of the heart muscles. This is caused by a blood clot that cuts off most or all blood supply to the heart. Heart attack is also known as myocardial infarction.

Each year, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, about 1.1 million Americans suffer a heart attack. About 460,000 of those heart attacks are fatal. About half of those deaths occur within 1 hour of the start of symptoms and before the person reaches the hospital.

There are ways you can do to reduce your risk of having a heart attack—even if you already have coronary heart disease (CHD) or have had a previous heart attack. The key is to take steps to prevent or control your heart disease risk factors.

Six Key Steps To Reduce Heart Attack Risk

Following these simple steps will reduce your risk of having a heart attack:

Stop smoking. Cigarette smoking greatly increases the risk of fatal and nonfatal heart attacks in both men and women. It also increases the risk of a second heart attack among survivors. Women who smoke and use oral contraceptives have an even greater risk than smoking alone. The good news is that quitting smoking greatly reduces the risk of heart attack. One year after quitting, the risk drop to about one-half that of current smokers and gradually returns to normal in persons without heart disease. Even among persons with heart disease, the risk also drops sharply one year after quitting smoking and it continues to decline over time but the risk does not return to normal.

Lower high blood pressure. High blood pressure makes the heart work harder. It increases the risk of developing heart disease, as well as kidney disease and stroke.

Also called hypertension, high blood pressure usually has no symptoms. Once developed, it typically lasts a lifetime.

To help prevent or control high blood pressure, you should: lose excess weight; become physically active; follow a heart healthy eating plan, including foods lower in salt and sodium; limit alcohol intake; and, if you are prescribed a medication, take it as directed.

The main types of high blood pressure medications are: diuretics, beta-blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin antagonists, calcium channel blockers, alpha blockers, alpha-beta blockers, nervous system inhibitors, and vasodilators. It’s important that you take medication as prescribed and control your blood pressure to below 140/90 mm Hg.

Reduce high blood cholesterol. The level of cholesterol in the bloodstream greatly affects the risk of developing heart disease. The higher the level of blood cholesterol, the greater the risk for heart disease or heart attack.

When there is too much cholesterol (a fat-like substance) in the blood, it builds up in the walls of arteries. Over time, this buildup causes arteries to become narrowed, and blood flow to the heart is slowed or blocked. If the blood supply to a portion of the heart is completely cut off, a heart attack results.

High cholesterol is treated with lifestyle changes–a heart healthy eating plan, physical activity, and loss of excess weight–and, if those do not lower it enough, medication. Medications include statins, bile acid sequestrants, nicontinic acid, and fibric acids.

Aim for a healthy weight. A healthy weight is crucial for a long, healthy life. In 1999, almost 108 million-or 61 percent of-adults in the United States were overweight or obese. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of heart attack. And, it increases your risk of developing high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes-each of which also increases your chance of having a heart attack. If you are overweight, even a small weight loss-just 10 percent of your current weight-will help to lower your risk of developing those diseases.

To be at their best, adults need to avoid gaining weight and many need to lose weight. Losing weight and keeping it off depends on a change of lifestyle that combines sensible eating with regular physical activity, not a temporary effort to drop pounds quickly. If you need to lose excess weight, talk with your health care provider about developing an action plan, which includes a hearty-healthy, low-calorie, nutritious eating plan and physical activity.

Be physically active each day. Being physically active reduces the risk of heart-related problems, including heart attack. Physical activity can improve cholesterol levels, help control high blood pressure and diabetes, and manage weight. It also increases physical fitness, promotes psychological well-being and self-esteem, and reduces depression and anxiety.

Those who have already had a heart attack also benefit greatly from being physically active. Many hospitals have a cardiac (or heart) rehabilitation program. A health care provider can offer advice about a suitable program.

To protect your heart, you only need to do 30 minutes of a moderate-intensity activity on most and, preferably, all days of the week. If 30 minutes is too much at one time, you can break it up into periods of at least 10 minutes each.

If you have been inactive, you should start slowly to increase your physical activity. However, if you have coronary heart disease, check with you health care provider before starting a physical activity program. This is especially important if you are over age 55, have been inactive, or have diabetes or another medical problem. Your health care provider can give you advice on how rigorous the exercise should be.

Manage diabetes. Diabetes mellitus affects more than 16 million Americans. It damages blood vessels, including the coronary arteries of the heart. Up to 75 percent of those with diabetes develop heart and blood vessel diseases. Diabetes also can lead to stroke, kidney failure, and other problems.

Because of the link with heart disease, it’s important for those with diabetes to prevent or control heart disease and its risk factors. Besides diabetes, major risk factors for heart disease include smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, physical inactivity, and overweight and obesity.

Fortunately, studies have shown that the same steps that reduce the risk of heart disease also lower the chance of developing type 2 diabetes. And, for those who already have diabetes, those steps, along with taking any prescribed medication, also can delay or prevent the development of complications of diabetes, such as eye disease and nerve damage.

According to the study, a 7 percent loss of body weight and 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week can reduce the chance of developing diabetes by 58 percent in those who are at high risk. The lifestyle changes cut the risk of developing type 2 diabetes regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, or weight.

To reduce the risk of developing diabetes, as well as heart disease, you should

Follow a heart healthy eating plan, which is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and moderate in total fat.
Aim for a healthy weight.
Be physically active each day–try to do 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity such as brisk walking on most and, preferably, all days of the week.
Don’t smoke.
Prevent or control high blood pressure.
Prevent or control high blood cholesterol.
(Learn more about Diabetes at UD-IA: Understanding Diabetes-Increasing Awareness Web site)

Related Topic: Warning Signs of Heart Attack

Source:National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (n.d). Act in Time to Heart Attack Signs. Retrieved January 14, 2007, from The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health. Web site: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/actintime/index.htm

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

2008-01-14T14:40:00.000+08:00

A heart attack is a serious problem and a frightening one to think about. Learning about the signs of heart attack is crucial.

What are the signs of a heart attack? Many people think that a heart attack is sudden and intense. You probably have seen in the movies a person having a heart attack wherein the person clutches his or her chest and falls over.

The truth is that many heart attacks start slowly, as a mild pain or discomfort. If you feel such a symptom, you may not be sure what's wrong. Your symptoms may even come and go. Even those who have had a heart attack may not recognize their symptoms, because the next attack can have entirely different ones. [National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI)]

It is vital that everyone should learn the warning signs of a heart attack. These are:

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. The discomfort can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Shortness of breath. Often comes along with chest discomfort. But it also can occur before chest discomfort.
Other symptoms. May include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or light-headedness.

Even if you're not sure that you or a loved one is having a heart attack, you should still consult your healthcare provider. Immediate action can save lives-maybe your own.

Related Topic: Reducing Risk of Heart Attack

Source:National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (n.d). Heart Attack Warning Signs. Retrieved January 14, 2007, from NHLBI, National Institutes of Health. Web site: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/actintime/haws/haws.htm

Bell's Palsy: The Bell That Does Not Ring

2008-01-10T21:42:00.002+08:00

Looking at yourself in front of the mirror, you notice that half of your face is somewhat "sagging", eyelid is drooping such that you cannot fully open your eye. Probably you are eating your favorite food and all of a sudden you cannot enjoy the food because you can't taste anything. These signs might indicate that you are experiencing a condition called Bell's Palsy.

Bell's palsy is a form of temporary facial paralysis resulting from damage or trauma to one of the two facial nerves. It is the most common cause of facial paralysis. Generally, Bell's palsy affects only one of the paired facial nerves and one side of the face, however, in rare cases, it can affect both sides.

Symptoms of Bell's palsy usually begin suddenly and reach their peak within 48 hours. Symptoms range in severity from mild weakness to total paralysis and may include twitching, weakness, or paralysis, drooping eyelid or corner of the mouth, drooling, dry eye or mouth, impairment of taste, and excessive tearing in the eye. Bell’s palsy often causes significant facial distortion.

So, "what causes Bell's palsy?"

Most scientists believe that a viral infection such as viral meningitis or the common cold sore virus - herpes simplex- causes the disorder when the facial nerve swells and becomes inflamed in reaction to the infection.

Is there any treatment?

There is no cure or standard course of treatment for Bell's palsy. The most important factor in treatment is to eliminate the source of the nerve damage. Some cases are mild and do not require treatment since the symptoms usually subside on their own within 2 weeks. For others, treatment may include medications such as acyclovir -- used to fight viral infections -- combined with an anti-inflammatory drug such as the steroid prednisone -- used to reduce inflammation and swelling. Analgesics such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen may relieve pain, but because of possible drug interactions, patients should always talk to their doctors before taking any over-the-counter medicines.

Physical therapy to stimulate the facial nerve and help maintain muscle tone may be beneficial to some. Facial massage and exercises may help prevent permanent contractures (shrinkage or shortening of muscles) of the paralyzed muscles before recovery takes place. Moist heat applied to the affected side of the face may help reduce pain.

Other therapies that may be useful for some individuals include relaxation techniques, acupuncture, electrical stimulation, biofeedback training, and vitamin therapy (including vitamin B12, B6, and zinc), which may help nerve growth.

In general, decompression surgery for Bell's palsy -- to relieve pressure on the nerve -- is controversial and is seldom recommended.

Will I recover from Bell's Palsy?

The prognosis for individuals with Bell's palsy is generally very good. The extent of nerve damage determines the extent of recovery. With or without treatment, most individuals begin to get better within 2 weeks after the initial onset of symptoms and recover completely within 3 to 6 months.

Related Topic: Difference Between Stroke and Bell's Palsy

Sources:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke(NINDS)(December, 2007). Bell's Palsy Information Page. Retrieved January 10, 2007, from NINDS, National Institutes of Health. Web site: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/bells/bells.htm

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke(NINDS)(April, 2003). Bell's Palsy Fact Sheet (NIH Publication No. 03-5114). Retrieved January 10, 2007, from NINDS, National Institutes of Health. Web site: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/bells/detail_bells.htm

Warning Signs of Marijuana Use

2008-01-07T14:56:00.000+08:00

There are some signs you might be able to see. If someone is high on marijuana, he or she might:

 seem dizzy and have trouble walking;
 seem silly and giggly for no reason;
 have very red, bloodshot eyes; and
 have a hard time remembering things that just happened.

When the early effects fade, the user can become very sleepy.

Parents should be aware of changes in their child’s behavior, although this may be difficult with teens. Parents should look for withdrawal, depression, fatigue, carelessness with grooming, hostility, and deteriorating relationships with family members and friends. In addition, changes in academic performance, increased absenteeism or truancy, lost interest in sports or other favorite activities, and changes in eating or sleeping habits could be related to drug use. However, these signs may also indicate problems other than use of drugs.

In addition, parents should be aware of:

 signs of drugs and drug paraphernalia, including pipes
and rolling papers;
 odor on clothes and in the bedroom;
 use of incense and other deodorizers;
 use of eye drops; and
 clothing, posters, jewelry, etc., promoting drug use.

See Also:
 What are the Signs of Marijuana Use: How can you tell if your child is using marijuana?
 Long-term Effects of Marijuana Use
 Marijuana used as medicine?

Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse (August, 2007). Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know. Retrieved January 7, 2007, From National Institutes of Health. Web site: http://www.nida.nih.gov/MarijBroch/Marijparentstxt.html

Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Use

2008-01-07T14:21:00.000+08:00

Although all of the long-term effects of marijuana use are not yet known, there are studies showing serious health concerns. For example, a group of scientists in California examined the health status of 450 daily smokers of marijuana, but not tobacco. They found that the marijuana smokers had more sick days and more doctor visits for respiratory problems and other types of illness than did a similar group who did not smoke either substance.

Findings so far show that the regular use of marijuana may play a role in cancer and problems of the immune and respiratory systems.

Cancer
It is hard to find out whether marijuana alone causes cancer, because many people who smoke marijuana also smoke cigarettes and use other drugs. Marijuana smoke contains some of the same cancer-causing compounds as tobacco, sometimes in higher concentrations. Studies show that someone who smokes five joints per day may be taking in as many cancer-causing chemicals as someone who smokes a full pack of cigarettes every day.

Tobacco smoke and marijuana smoke may work together to change the tissues lining the respiratory tract. Marijuana smoking could contribute to early development of head and neck cancer in some people.

Immune system
Our immune system protects the body from many agents that cause disease. It is not certain whether marijuana damages the immune system of people. But both animal and human studies have shown that marijuana impairs the ability of T-cells in the lungs’ immune system to fight off some infections.

Lungs and airways
People who smoke marijuana regularly may develop many of the same breathing problems that tobacco smokers have, such as daily cough and phlegm production, more frequent chest colds, a heightened risk of lung infections, and a greater tendency toward obstructed airways. Marijuana smokers usually inhale more deeply and hold their breath longer, which increases the lungs’ exposure to toxic chemicals and irritants.

Information excerpted from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know. NIH Publication No. 07-4036. Printed 1995, Revised November, 1998, Reprinted April, 2001, Revised November 2002, September 2004, August 2007.

Difference Between Viruses and Bacteria

2007-12-22T12:40:00.001+08:00

Viruses are the smallest and simplest life form known. They are 10 to 100 times smaller than bacteria. The biggest difference between viruses and bacteria is that viruses must have a living host - like a plant or animal - to multiply, while most bacteria can grow on non-living surfaces.

Also, unlike bacteria, which attack the body like soldiers mounting a pitched battle, viruses are "guerilla" fighters. They don't attack so much as infiltrate. They literally invade human cells and turn the cell's genetic material from its normal function to producing the virus itself.

In addition, bacteria carry all the machinery needed for their growth and multiplication, while viruses carry mainly information - for example, DNA or RNA, packaged in a protein and/or membranous coat. Viruses harness the host cell's machinery to reproduce. In a sense, viruses are not truly "living," but are essentially information (DNA or RNA) that float around until they encounter a suitable living host.

Related Article:

Not All Viruses Are Harmful

Source:
Excerpted from FDA/CFSAN Food Safety A to Z Reference Guide, September 2001

Page Last Revised: November 27, 2010

Not All Viruses Are Harmful.

2007-12-11T13:59:00.003+08:00

"Micro-monsters" that Infect Bacteria but not Humans

Not all viruses can harm people. A mixture of viruses has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as food additive to protect consumers from an infectious disease called listerioris.

The viruses used in the additive are known as bacteriophages (bacteria-eater). The additive can be used by processing plants for spraying onto ready-to-eat meat and poultry products to kill the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes).

What Is Listeriosis?

Listeriosis is a potentially life-threatening infectious disease that results from cosuming foods contaminated with the bacterium L. monocytogenes. Though listeriosis is rarely serious in healthy adults and children, it can be severe and even deadly in people with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, newborns, and older people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pregnant women are about 20 times more likely to get listeriosis than other healthy adults. Listeriosis may cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or death of a newborn baby.

The CDC estimates that about 2,500 people become seriously ill with listeriosis each year in the United States. Of these, about 500 die.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of listeriosis include fever and muscle aches, and sometimes an upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea. If the infection spreads to the nervous system, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions can occur.

Food safety experts say that although cooking can kill L. monocytogenes, many ready-to-eat foods, such as hot dogs, sausages, luncheon meats, cold cuts, and other deli-style meats and poultry, may become contaminated within the processing plant after cooking and before packaging. Unlike fresh meat and poultry, the ready-to-eat products can be consumed without reheating, so the L. monocytogenes survive and are ingested.

Furthermore, L. monocytogenes is capable of multiplying at low temperatures, so it can multiply in food over time even when the food is kept in the refrigerator.

Are bacteriophages harmful to humans?

Bacteriophages approved as food additive are very specific to listeria, they do not infect mammalian or plant cells. They work by attaching itself to a bacterium and injecting its genetic material into the cell. The bacteriophage takes over the metabolic machinery of the bacterium, forcing it to produce hundreds of new phages and causing the bacterial cell walls to break open. This process kills the bacterium and releases many new phages, which seek out other bacteria to invade and repeat the cycle.

The bacteriophages cease to reproduce when all host bacteria are destroyed.

Scientists continue to be interested in other uses for phages, such as to prevent food products from contamination with other types of harmful bacteria and to act as possible treatments for bacterial infections in people.

Related Article:

Difference Between Viruses and Bacteria

Source:
FDA COnsumer Magazine (2007, February). Bacteria-Eating Virus Approved as Food Additive. US Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved December 11, 2007, from
http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2007/107_virus.html

Page Last Revised: November 27, 2010

Depression During and After Pregnancy

2007-11-21T13:13:00.000+08:00

Some women become depressed when they are pregnant or after they give birth. Other women notice that their depression gets worse during pregnancy.

No one knows the exact cause of depression during or after pregnancy. It may have something to do with:

 Stress
 Hormones - After a woman has a baby, her hormone levels drop quickly.
 Having depression before you get pregnant.
 Lack of support from family and friends.
 Young age – The younger you are when you have your baby the more likely you are to become depressed.

Women should talk to their doctor about the risks of taking depression medicines during pregnancy. Depression can make it hard for woman to take care of herself and her baby. It is important to talk to your doctor about your feelings. Also, try to get some help from your family, friends, or a support group.

 Ask a relative to watch your baby for a few hours.
 Join a group for new mothers.
 Ask a friend to cook a meal for your family or to help with chores.

"The Baby Blues"
Having a baby can be a joyful time. However, some women cry a lot and feel sad right after they have a baby. This is called "the baby blues". This feeling usually goes away after about two weeks.

If you still feel sad after two weeks, go to your doctor or clinic. You may be depressed. This type of depression is called postpartum depression because it starts after a woman has a baby. A woman can have this kind of depression up to one year after she has a baby.

Depression is treated with medicine or counseling. Sometimes both are used. If you don't feel better, or feel worse, go to your doctor or clinic right away.

Sources:
Depression (August 2005). Office of Women’s Health. US Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved November 2007. Available http://www.fda.gov/womens/getthefacts/depression.html

Depression—Medicines To Help You (2007). Office of Women’s Health. US Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved November 2007. Available http://www.fda.gov/womens/medicinecharts/depression.html

Marijuana Used As Medicine?

2007-11-19T15:10:00.001+08:00

Are there possible medical uses of marijuana?

There has been much debate about the possible medical use of marijuana. Under U.S. law since 1970, marijuana has been a Schedule I controlled substance. This means that the drug, at least in its smoked form, has no commonly accepted medical use.

In considering possible medical uses of marijuana, it is important to distinguish between whole marijuana and pure THC(delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol)-the main active ingredient in marijuana, or other specific chemicals derived from cannabis. Whole marijuana contains hundreds of chemicals, some of which may be harmful to health.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, THC produces effects that potentially can be useful for treating a variety of medical conditions. It is manufactured into a pill that is taken by mouth, not smoked, which is used for treating the nausea and vomiting that go along with certain cancer treatments and is available by prescription. Another chemical related to THC (nabilone) has also been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating cancer patients who suffer nausea. The oral THC is also used to help AIDS patients eat more to keep up their weight.

Scientists are studying whether marijuana, THC, and related chemicals in marijuana (called cannabinoids) may have other medical uses. According to scientists, more research needs to be done on marijuana’s side effects and potential benefits before it can be recommended for medical use. However, because of the adverse effects of smoking marijuana, research on other cannabinoids appears more promising for the development of new medications.

Information Provided by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know. NIH Publication No. 07-4036Printed 1995, Revised November, 1998, Reprinted April, 2001, Revised November 2002, September 2004, August 2007.

This Page Revised: November 9, 2009

Phenylpropanolamine (PPA): Considered Not Safe in the US! Widely Used in the Philippines?

2007-09-18T20:43:00.000+08:00

In November 2000, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public health advisory concerning phenylpropanolamine (PPA). This drug is an ingredient that has been used in many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription cough and cold medications as a decongestant and an OTC weight loss products.

A study conducted by scientists at the Yale University School of Medicine have indicated that taking PPA increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain) in women. Men may also be at risk for this type of stroke.

FDA’s Nonprescription Drugs Advisory Committee (NDAC) discussed this study and other information on PPA and have determined that there is an association between this drug ingredient and hemorrhagic stroke. NDAC recommended that phenylpropanolamine should be considered not safe for over-the-counter use.

The FDA says that although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke is very low, consumers should not use products that contain PPA. FDA does not consider the conditions for which phenylpropanolamine is used (over-the-counter or by prescription) as justifying the risk of this serious event. Other products are available for use.

In response to the request made by FDA in November 2000 that all drug companies discontinue marketing products containing PPA, many companies have voluntarily reformulated and are continuing to reformulate their products to exclude PPA while FDA proceeds with the regulatory process necessary to remove PPA from the market. (Food and Drug Administration, 2000)

This drug ingredient is still being widely used in the Philippines. Many OTC and prescription cough and cold medications still has phenylpropanolamine. Although most of these drug products containing PPA has a warning regarding its use, we still have to consider that there have been studies regarding the potential risks or dangers of this ingredient.

There are other alternative over-the-counter and prescription products that do not contain PPA. The FDA advises consumers to discuss alternative over-the-counter and prescription products with their health care providers or pharmacists.

Sources:
Safety of Phenylpropanolamine (2000). Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. US Food and Drug Administration. November 6, 2000. Retrieved September 19, 2007 from http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/infopage/ppa/advisory.htm

Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) Information Page. FDA/Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. Updated December 23, 2005. Retrieved September 19, 2007 from http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/infopage/ppa/default.htm

Have You Been To Your Local Public Hospital Lately?

2007-09-18T15:47:00.000+08:00

It's hard to imagine that some of our politicians are going "gaga" over controversial transactions entered by our government officials but not how our public hospitals are doing right now!

When we rushed our grandfather, who was having a difficulty of breathing, to a nearby public hospital here in Baguio City, Philippines, I had the chance to observe the current state of the hospital. My grandfather was confined in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) due to pneumonia. If you go to the MICU, you would pass by the medical ward. All the beds were occupied. What's alarming is that, some of the beds were placed along the aisles to accommodate patients. You can just imagine, the heat being generated in that ward during the night when the windows were closed. It is even hotter during the day.

When they asked me to get supplies at the hospital supply room, I passed by more beds along the corridors, which were intended for mothers and their newly delivered babies. Truly, our population is growing at an alarming rate, another potential problem but that's another story.

These things happen due to lack of space or the increase in number of patients by the day. Should we blame our public hospital administrators for the lack of space? I guess not. Let our elected public officials stay there, not as patients but as observers, for one night and probably they'll understand that there is a need to expand public hospital spaces to accomodate the ever increasing number of patients.

This situation does not happen only in the Philippines, but also, in other third world countries as well.

It's really amazing that some of our "officials" are more interested in tackling controversial deals than try to see what they can do about these needs for more public hospitals, cheaper medicines, and more medical facilities.

Actions are needed, not just "all talk". The reality is here, but what are our elected officials going to do about it?

Stomach Flu: Not Your Typical Flu.

2007-09-15T20:58:00.002+08:00

At first, you might think this is another type of flu, just like the dreaded "Bird Flu" or the common flu. Stomach flu is the common name for viral gastroenteritis, an infection that results in vomiting or diarrhea caused by a variety of viruses. Though commonly known as stomach flu, it is not caused by any of the flu viruses.

Gastroenteritis means inflammation of the stomach and small and large intestines. Viral gastroenteritis can be caused by viruses, such as rotaviruses, noroviruses, sapoviruses and astroviruses. This condition is not caused by bacteria, parasites, medications or other medical conditions, although the symptoms maybe somewhat similar. The cause of diarrhea can be determined by your health-care provider.

Watery diarrhea and vomiting are the most common symptoms of viral gastroenteritis and may be accompanied by fever, headache, and abdominal cramping. Symptoms generally begin 1 to 2 days following viral infection and may last for 1 to 10 days, depending on the type of virus that caused the illness.

Most people recover from this illness without long-term problems. Infants, children, elderly and immune compromised persons are at risk of dehydration from loss of fluid caused by vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration is the most common complication of viral gastroenteritis if lost fluids are not immediately replaced.

The viruses that cause gastroenteritis can be spread through close contact with an infected person. Eating and drinking contaminated foods and beverages can also infect individuals.

Preventing severe loss of fluids is the most important treatment for viral gastroenteritis and should begin at home. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that families with infants and young children keep a supply of oral rehydration solution (ORS) at home, and use the solution when diarrhea first occurs in the child. Your physician may give you specific instructions about what kinds of fluid to give. Medications and other treatments should be avoided unless recommended by your doctor. Antibiotics should not be used to treat viral gastroenteritis because they have no effect on viruses.

Anybody can get viral gastroenteritis. But you can reduce the chance of getting it by frequent handwashing, disinfection of contaminated surfaces with household chlorine bleach-based cleaners, and prompt washing of soiled articles of clothing. You should avoid eating and drinking foods and beverages if you suspect that it is contaminated.

Source:
Viral Gastroenteritis(2006). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved September 15, 2007, from http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/gastro/faq.htm

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke: They Might Ruin Your Great Outdoor Activities

2007-09-09T09:59:00.000+08:00

Many people love to stay outdoors, away from the usual city life, enjoying the beautiful scenes and breathing in fresh air. Feeling the gentle breeze of air is invigorating. But our enjoyment of the great outdoors may be short lived if we disregard few simple things to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two of the most common heat-related illnesses that we would likely encounter in hot and humid places. These two illnesses results when the body loses too much fluid and the body is unable to control its temperature.

Heat exhaustion typically occurs when too much activity is done in a hot and humid environment, causing the body to lose too much fluid. Elderly people, exercising in a hot environment, or those with high blood pressure are prone to heat exhaustion. Some of the warning signs of this condition are: paleness, muscle cramps, heavy sweating, nausea, headache, fast and weak pulse rate, and breathing may be fast and shallow.

If heat exhaustion is not promptly treated, it may progress to heat stroke, a more serious heat-related illness. When you experience the symptoms you should take rest, drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages, loosen tight clothings, and take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath if possible. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or lasts for more than an hour.

Heat stroke, results when the body temperature rises rapidly within minutes and the sweating mechanism is unable to cool down the body. This can result to death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

The following warning signs may indicate that a person is suffering from heat stroke:

*An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
*Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating) due to failure of the sweating mechanism to control temperature.
*Rapid, strong pulse
*Throbbing headache
*Dizziness
*Nausea
*Confusion
*Unconsciousness

If you see these signs, have someone call for medical assistance while you begin cooling the victim.

While waiting for medical assistance, you could do the following:

*Get the victim to a shady area.
*Cool the victim rapidly, using whatever methods you can. For example, immerse the victim in a tub of cool water; place the person in a cool shower; spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose; sponge the person with cool water; or if the humidity is low, wrap the victim in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.
*Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102°F.
*If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
*Do not give the victim alcohol to drink.
*Get medical assistance as soon as possible.

Prevention is our best defense against heat-related illnesses. Doing simple things like drinking nonalcoholic beverages, wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothes, and resting often in shady areas can prevent illnesses cause by hot weather or environment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides simple tips to prevent the occurrence of heat-related illnesses.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Help Protect Your Family and Yourself From This Silent Killer

2007-09-08T15:11:00.000+08:00

Carbon monoxide at high levels in your blood can kill you or your loved ones in minutes!

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. Common sources include combustion fumes produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and gas ranges and heating systems. CO from these sources can build up in an enclosed or semi-enclosed rooms or spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned by breathing it.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are more than 500 Americans who die from unintentional CO poisoning, and more than 2,000 commit suicide by intentionally poisoning themselves each year.

Unborn babies, infants, elderly people, and people with anemia or with a history of heart or respiratory problems can be especially susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. CO poisoning is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to flu and other diseases. People who are sleeping or intoxicated can die from CO poisoning without experiencing any of the symptoms. This is the reason why CO poisoning is referred to as "The Silent Killer".

If you or your family experience the symptoms that you think could be from CO poisoning, open the doors and windows, turn off combustion appliances and get fresh air immediately. Don't ignore the symptoms, especially if more than one person is feeling them. Seek medical help immediately. You may lose consciousness, and worst, die if you do nothing.

Prevention is the key to avoiding CO poisoning in your home. Following these few simple tips, provided by the CDC, would be helpful in preventing the occurrence of CO poisoning:

1. Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.

2. Do not use portable flameless chemical heaters (catalytic) indoors. Although these heaters don't have a flame, they burn gas and can cause CO to build up inside your home, cabin, or camper.

3. If you smell an odor from your gas refrigerator's cooling unit have an expert service it. An odor from the cooling unit of your gas refrigerator can mean you have a defect in the cooling unit. It could also be giving off CO.

4. When purchasing gas equipment, buy only equipment carrying the seal of a national testing agency, such as the American Gas Association or Underwriters' Laboratories.

5. Install a battery-operated CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall.

6. Never run a car or truck in the garage with the garage door shut. CO can build up quickly while your car or truck is running in a closed garage. Never run your car or truck inside a garage that is attached to a house and always open the door to any garage to let in fresh air when running a car or truck inside the garage.

7. Never use a gas range or oven for heating. Using a gas range or oven for heating can cause a build up of CO inside your home, cabin, or camper.

8. Never use a charcoal grill or a barbecue grill indoors. Using a grill indoors will cause a build up of CO inside your home, cabin, or camper unless you use it inside a vented fireplace.

9. Never burn charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal — red, gray, black, or white — gives off CO.

10. Never use a portable gas camp stove indoors. Using a gas camp stove indoors can cause CO to build up inside your home, cabin, or camper.

11. Never use a generator inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window, door, or vent.

I hope this information was helpful to you in understanding and preventing carbon monoxide poisoning.

Sources:
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Fact Sheet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Protect Your Family and Yourself from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Last updated on August 10th, 2007.

Do You Have Blood In Your Urine?

2007-09-05T13:40:00.002+08:00

Have you observed your urine has a tinge of red, pale pink or the color of cola? Or it looks like its blood? If yes, this may mean that there is a problem in your urinary tract.

When red blood cells (RBCs) are present in urine this is called hematuria. Hematuria may either be microscopic or gross hematuria. In microscopic hematuria, microscopic examination of urine reveals the presence of high number of RBCs even if it appears normal to the naked eye.

Gross hematuria can be seen with the naked eye. The urine appears to be reddish or pinkish in color and sometimes the color of cola.

What causes hematuria?

Diseases affecting the kidneys, urinary bladder or other parts of the urinary tract may cause hematuria. Having kidneys stones may also cause hematuria. Other causes include tumors, trauma to any of the urinary organs, and kidney disease. Performing strenuous exercises may also cause hematuria but this is not often serious, as it usually goes away within 24 hours. Certain drugs, beets, or other foods may also cause discoloration of the urine that may mimic hematuria.

You should consult your doctor if you have hematuria since this may be the result of a tumor or kidney disease.

Hematuria is not a disease itself but rather it may be a sign of an underlying disorder. Your physician may order a series of tests to find the cause or rule out certain causes. Tests may include urinalysis, imaging studies of the kidneys, blood tests, and cystoscopic examination.

 Urinalysis is the examination of urine for various cells and chemicals. In addition to finding RBCs, the doctor may find white blood cells that signal a urinary tract infection or casts, which are groups of cells molded together in the shape of the kidneys' tiny filtering tubes, that signal kidney disease. Excessive protein in the urine also signals kidney disease. When urine sample is taken, it should not be contaminated with blood from menstruation in females.

 Blood tests may reveal kidney disease if the blood contains high levels of wastes that the kidneys are supposed to remove.

 Kidney imaging studies include ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT) scan, or intravenous pyelogram (IVP). An IVP is an x ray of the urinary tract. Imaging studies may reveal a tumor, a kidney or bladder stone, an enlarged prostate, or other blockage to the normal flow of urine.

 A cystoscope can be used to take pictures of the inside of the bladder. It has a tiny camera at the end of a thin tube, which is inserted through the urethra. A cystoscope may provide a better view of a tumor or bladder stone than can be seen in an IVP.

Treatment of hematuria

Treatment depends on the cause of hematuria. If it is caused by a urinary tract infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. No treatment is needed if there is no serious condition causing it. However, it is still important to see your healthcare provider to find out if it is being caused by another urinary tract problem.

For more information about hematuria, visit the Blood in the Urine (Hematuria) Page of the Kidney Health Care (KHC) website. They also provide information about other kidney diseases and urinary tract disorders.

Reference: National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC)(February, 2007). Hematuria (Blood in the Urine)- NIH Publication No. 07–4559. Retrieved January 20, 2008, from NKUDIC, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health. Web Site: http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/hematuria/index.htm

Page Last Revised: July 7, 2010

A New Hope For Prostate Cancer Patients

2007-09-04T18:49:00.000+08:00

Prostate cancer cell growth can be inhibited with a certain grape skin extract.

Laboratory studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) have shown that an extract from the skin of muscadine grapes can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells. It was also found that the muscadine grape skin extract (MSKE) does not contain substantial amounts of resveratrol. Extensive studies conducted on resveratrol, another grape skin component found in common red grapes, have shown to be beneficial in preventing the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Compared with other more common grapes, muscadine grapes contain more anthocyanins, the chemical responsible for the red and purple colors of grapes. Anthocyanins have been shown to have a strong antioxidant effect and have been suggested to have several antitumor effects.

The antitumor effect of anthocyanins have yet to be confirmed with more extensive studies. Previous studies have suggested that anthocyanins might suppress the cancer process but as to how, it is not yet clear.

In the NCI laboratory study on human prostate cancer cells, the researchers have shown that MSKE significantly inhibits the growth of cancerous prostate cells but does not affect the normal cells.

Trials in humans have not yet been conducted but an ongoing study of MSKE in animals is being conducted to determine how it inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Learn more about this breakthrough at the National Cancer Institute website.

8 Ways to Use Prescription Drugs Safely

2007-09-02T18:15:00.001+08:00

Most patients take medicine responsibly. But according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), there are about 9 million Americans who used prescription drugs for non-medical purposes in 1999. Some of the non-medical purposes include misusing prescription drugs for recreation and for psychological effects such as to get high, to have fun, to get a lift, or to calm down.

According to the National Household Survey on Drug Abuse, in 2001, almost 3 million youths and young adults reported using prescription drugs for non-medical reasons at least once in their lifetimes.

The following are 8 ways or tips to use prescription drugs safely:

1. Always follow medication directions and read the drug labels carefully.

2. Don't increase or decrease doses without talking with your doctor.

Physician supervision and appropriate use is critical for all prescription drugs. Doctors consider a patient's diagnosis and whether non-addictive treatments should be considered first.

3. Don't stop taking medication unless your doctor tells you to.

Your physician will evaluate your signs and symptoms and will decide if you should continue or discontinue your intake of medications.

4. Don't crush or break pills.

Some medications are supplied in a time-release dosage form. That is, the active ingredient is slowly released over a period of time. Oral tablets must be taken whole and only by mouth. When the tablet is crushed and its contents are injected or snorted into the nostrils, the controlled release mechanism of some medications are defeated and a potentially lethal dose of the active ingredient is released immediately.

5. Be clear about the drug's effects on driving and other daily tasks.

Some medicines may cause several reactions that may make it more difficult for you to drive a car safely. These reactions may include: sleepiness, blurred vision, dizziness, fainting, inability to focus or pay attention and nausea

Ask your doctor if you should drive - especially when you first take a medication.
Using a new medicine can cause you to react in a number of ways. It is recommended that you do not drive when you first start using a new medicine until you know how that drug affects you. You also need to be aware that some over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements can make it difficult for you to drive safely.

6. Learn about the drug's potential interactions with alcohol, other prescription medicines, and over-the-counter medicines.

Inform your doctor of other medicines - both prescription and over-the-counter - and herbal supplements you are using, especially if you see more than one doctor. Talking honestly with your doctor also means telling the doctor if you are not using all or any of the prescribed medicines.

Mixing two or more drugs together could make one of the drugs ineffective. The combination also could increase a drug's effect, and be harmful. The result might be mild symptoms such as nausea, stomach upset, or headache, or more serious symptoms such as a dramatic drop in blood pressure, irregular heart beat, or damage to the liver-the primary way that drugs pass through the human body.

7. Inform your doctor about your past history of substance abuse.

Your doctor will also consider your medical history and will monitor any signs of addiction. Being honest regarding medical history would provide your doctor a guide as to what treatment approach to to use.

8. Don't use other people's prescription medications and don't share yours.

Some prescription drugs might be effective to others but not to you.

Researchers say there are several important variables that affect individual differences in how drugs are metabolized (converted), including race, gender, age, and health conditions. For example, people with kidney or liver disease don't eliminate drugs from their system as well as people who are healthy. Very young children and older people have slower drug metabolism than others, and women may metabolize drugs differently than men in some cases.

Truly, prevention is better than cure. Eating a well balanced diet and taking time to do some aerobic exercises are sure ways to prevent some diseases. But if you do need or are required by your doctor to take medications, follow these eight tips to prevent any untoward consequences of improper use of medications. Safety of the drug is based on taking the drug exactly as intended.

Resources:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration. National Institutes of Health
http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2001/501_drug.html
http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2003/203_samhsa.html
http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/driving_taking_meds.htm
http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2004/404_drug.html

What are the Signs of Marijuana Use

2007-09-01T12:05:00.001+08:00

How can you tell if your child is using marijuana?

There following are some of the many signs that may indicate your child is using marijuana.

If your child comes home while he is high on marijuana he might have red, bloodshot eyes, be unsteady on his feet, act silly for no reasons, or have a hard time remembering things.

Your child is probably using marijuana if you see signs of drug paraphernalia (pipes, rolling papers) in her room, if you smell smoke on her clothes, if she uses a lot of room deodorizers, or her room has posters promoting drug use.

Even if you see none of those things, your son or daughter might be using marijuana if you notice a major change in behavior or if he or she has new friends that you suspect might be using drugs. But both behavior change and new friends can happen for reasons other than drug use. So also look for depression, withdrawal, carelessness with grooming, or hostility. Is your child doing well in school, getting along with friends, taking part in sports or other activities?

A simple way to find out if your child is using marijuana is to ask. If you suspect your child is using marijuana, it's time to have a conversation about drugs. In a caring, gentle way, let your child know that in your family you have a policy of no drug use. And the talk is not just once in your child's life, but often.

The antidrug Web site at www.antidrug.com, has lots of tips to help you. You might also want to check out "Marijuana: Facts Parents Need to Know," at the National Institute on Drug Abuse Web site, http://www.drugabuse.gov/.

Abuse of Over-the-counter and Prescription Medicines

2007-09-01T10:53:00.000+08:00

Information for Parents and Teens Regarding Medicine Abuse.

Ever wonder why you can't relate to your teens on new technologies such as MP3s and social networking sites? Do you know if your teens might be having problems in school or peers that they result in the use and abuse of over-the-counter and prescription medicines?

Truly, the harmful effects of using illicit drugs can be the same as abusing over-the-counter and prescription medicine. Several organizations and federal agencies have collaborated to warn parents and teens about the potential dangers of medicine abuse.

The Parents: The Anti-drug at www.theantidrug.com, provides information for parents and teens regarding the abuse of over-the-counter and prescription medicines. It also provides useful information for parents on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of medicine abuse and tips on how to talk to their teens about it.

For more information, visit the website at http://www.theantidrug.com/.

Related Reading:

Commonly Abused Prescription Medicines
Consequences of Drug Abuse

FDA Approves New Drug for the Treatment of Acromegaly

2007-08-31T09:15:00.000+08:00

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Somatuline Depot (lanreotide acetate injection)for the treatment of a rare, yet life-threatening disease called acromegaly.

According to the FDA, Somatuline Depot was approved for long-term treatment of patients with acromegaly who have had inadequate response to, or can not be treated with surgery or radiation therapy.

Acromegaly is a rare disease, commonly found in middle-aged adults. This is commonly caused by a benign tumor located in the pituitary gland located in the brain. The benign tumor causes excessive release of growth hormone (GH) by the pituitary gland. This excessive release of GH causes enlargement of hands, feet, and facial bones. If untreated, this may result to heart and respiratory diseases, diabetes, and cancer of the colon.

Source:
FDA News Release

Warning On Use of Codeine Containing Drugs by Nursing Mothers

2007-08-28T19:57:00.000+08:00

The U.S. FDA says it may increase chance of side effects in infants.

In August 17, 2007, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about codeine containing drugs used by nursing mothers. The risk of having morphine overdose in infants is increased if the mother is taking codeine containing drugs. Risk is further increased if the mother is said to be ultra-rapid metabolizer of codeine.

One reported case was the death of a 13-day old breastfed baby from morphine overdose. The mother's milk was found to have abnormally high levels of morphine after taking small doses of codeine for pain relief. Genetic tests also revealed that the mother was an ultra-rapid metabolizer of codeine.

Codeine is used as an ingredient for pain relievers and cough syrups. This has been used by many people, including nursing mothers, without serious side effects. In fact, the FDA says that codeine is considered as the safest choice among narcotic pain relievers for breastfeeding mothers and their babies.

When codeine enters the body, some of it is converted into morphine by the liver. Morphine relieves pain and cough. However, some people may have genetic abnormalities that increase their tendency to convert codeine into morphine at a faster than normal rate.

People who convert codeine at an abnormal rate are called ultra-rapid metabolizers of codeine. They have increased tendency to have elevated blood morphine levels after taking codeine containing products. Nursing mothers who are ultra-rapid metabolizers also have increased breast milk morphine levels, thus, increasing their chances of passing it to their babies.

The FDA advises physicians to inform their patients, especially nursing mothers, about the risks of codeine use and signs of morphine overdose. They added that physicians should also prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest period possible. Close monitoring of mother and infant is also advised.

FDA, likewise, asked manufacturers of prescription codeine drugs to include information about codeine ultra-rapid metabolism in their drug package insert information.

There are many benefits of breastfeeding, both for the mother and infant. If you are taking medicines containing codeine, this does not mean you should stop breastfeeding. You should discuss with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of breastfeeding while using codeine or other medications.

Nursing mothers, taking codeine containing drugs, should immediately seek medical attentions if the infant exhibits signs of morphine overdose. Signs include increased sleepiness,, difficulty of breastfeeding or breathing, or limpness.

Though there is a FDA-cleared test to see if a patient is an ultra-rapid metabolizer, additional information is required about this test for codeine metabolism. The FDA says that the test results may not predict the amount of morphine in the nursing mother's breast milk. The doctor will determine if genetic testing should be done.

Sources:
US Food and Drug Administration. US Department of Health and Services.
http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/infopage/codeine/qa.htm
http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2007/NEW01685.html

A Guide to Sprain

2007-08-25T13:19:00.001+08:00

Causes, Signs and Symptoms, and Treatment Options.

Most people have experienced sprain at one point in their lives. For some milder forms of sprain, it does not significantly affect day-to-day living. However, severe cases can cause severe pain and disability.

A sprain is an injury to a ligament - the connective tissue that joins two bones at a joint. Ligaments provide support to a joint. Sprain occurs when the ligaments are stretched or stressed beyond its normal limit. It may result from a fall, forceful wrenching or twisting of a joint, or a direct blow to the body that forces the joint out of its normal position.

The ankle is the most common site of sprain. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), there are more than 25, 000 individuals who experience ankle sprain in the United States. Common causes include running, sudden turning, and falls while the foot is inverted (the foot is turned inward). Wearing of loosely fit shoes and worn out shoe heels also increases the risk of having ankle sprain.

Another common site of sprain is the knee. Knee sprains may occur as a result of a direct blow to the knee joint or twisting the bended knee with the foot firmly planted on the floor. Knee sprains are more common in sports such as foot ball and basketball.

Depending on the severity, sprains may be mild, moderate or severe.

Mild Sprain is caused by overstretching or minimal tear to the ligament. There is little or no loss in joint function but the person may experience minimal pain and swelling. The person usually tolerates the pain upon putting weight on the affected joint.

In moderate sprain, there is further tearing of the ligament but an incomplete one. Signs and symptoms may include moderate pain, bruising, swelling and loss of joint function. The person usually experiences difficulty of bearing weight on the affected joint.

There is complete tearing of the ligament in people who sustain severe sprain. Severe sprain may be accompanied by damage to the bone, surrounding muscles, blood vessels, tendons, or nerves. The person experiences severe pain, swelling, bruising and cannot tolerate putting weight on the affected joint. Imaging techniques (X-rays and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)) may be required by your physician to rule out other injuries such as fracture or to see the extent of damage to the ligaments and surrounding structures.

The initial goal of treatment is to reduce pain and swelling. Sprain can be initially treated with PRICEM therapy.

PRICEM stands for:

P-Protection: Protect the injured area from further damage.

R-Rest: Rest the injured area. Try not to move the joint during the initial stages of recovery. Your healthcare provider may advise you to use crutches or cane.

I-Ice Application: Apply ice pack wrapped in towel to the injured area for about 15 to 20 minutes, 4 to 8 times a day or as needed. Never directly apply ice packs or ice to the injured area for extended periods as this can cause frostbites.

C-Compression: Apply an elastic bandage, if possible, to compress the injured area and to reduce swelling. Ask your health-care provider to teach you how to properly apply an elastic bandage. Always remember to never wrap the elastic bandage too tightly as this will impede the blood flow to the distal part of the limb.

E-Elevation: Elevating the involved limb would help to decrease swelling.

M-Medication: Your health-care provider may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

Resist the temptation of applying heat during the first 2-3 days of recovery as this may worsen the swelling.

Mild and severe sprains may require casting to immobilize the involved limb after pain and swelling have subsided. In more severe cases, it may require surgical intervention to repair the torn ligaments.

After the pain and swelling have subsided, it is important to be active using an alternative fitness program that does not worsen the original injury. These activities should be determined with your physician or physical therapist.

Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the recovery of the injured joint. Goals in rehabilitation involve prevention of stiffness, improve range of motion, restore muscle strength, restore normal joint flexibility, and patient education.

Return to normal daily activities is the ultimate goal of rehabilitation.

Learn more about sprain and strain, their difference and home treatments at Nasugnam Health - Division of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Disorders

Content By: D.K. Mangusan Jr., PTRP

Osteoarthritis

2007-08-22T19:56:00.000+08:00

You may be at risk in the future. Know more about the risks, signs and symptoms, and treatment options.

As we grow older, we are more at risk of having osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis seen especially in older people.

OA is sometimes called degenerative joint disease (DJD) or osteoarthrosis. This condition affects the joint cartilage - tissue that covers the ends of bones where they meet to form a joint. In normal joints, this cartilage allows bones to glide smoothly over one another. However, in osteoarthritis, the layer of cartilage breaks down and wears away allowing bones to rub together, causing pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint.

Although OA is more common in older people, younger people can develop it as a result of a joint injury, joint malformation, or a genetic defect in joint cartilage. People who are overweight and those with jobs that increase stress on particular joints are at risk of having OA.

Most commonly affected joints are those at the ends of the fingers (closest to the nail), thumbs, neck, lower back, knees, and hips.

In most individuals joint damage develops gradually over years through wear and tear of the joint and surrounding tissues, although, it can progress quickly in some people. In others, osteoarthritis is relatively mild and interferes little with activities of daily living; however, severe cases, cause significant pain and disability.

Having OA can have significant effects on lifestyle and finance. Lifestyle effects may include depression, anxiety, limitations on daily activities, and job limitations. Financial effects include treatment costs and wages lost because of disability.

Osteoarthritis require several methods to diagnose and rule out underlying problems. They include medical history, physical examination, imaging techniques such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and testing the fluid in the joint.

Treatment approaches to OA include: exercise as research shows that exercise is one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis; weight control (weight loss can reduce stress on weight-bearing joint, limit further injury, and increase mobility); rest and relief from stress on joints; nondrug pain relief techniques such as applying cold and hot packs, and massage; medications to control pain; surgery; and complementary and alternative therapies, such as, acupuncture and nutritional supplements

Osteoarthritis is a debilitating condition. But you don't have to suffer it. It can easily be prevented and managed, with a clear understanding of the condition, rest and exercise, and a positive outlook towards health.

Content By: D.K. Mangusan Jr., PTRP
Content Published: August 22, 2007
Last Reviewed: August, 25, 2007