These days the subject of generic medications troubles many “anxious about our health government minds ”. Generic drugs are unsafe, not helpful as brand names for your diseases , they are made in unautorised facilities ect . Is this the truth or is it just an attempt to favour some american drug manufacturers and pharmacies. Drug products sold in the United States are approved by the FDA whether they are brand name or generic.
"Most people believe that if something costs more, it has to be better quality. In the case of generic drugs, this is not true," says Gary Buehler, Director of FDA's Office of Generic Drugs. "The standards for quality are the same for brand name and generic products."
Health professionals and consumers can be assured that FDA approved generic drugs have met the same rigid standards as the innovator drug. To gain FDA approval, a generic drug must:
· contain the same active ingredients as the innovator drug (inactive ingredients may vary)
· be identical in strength, dosage form, and route of administration
· have the same use indications
· be bioequivalent
· meet the same batch requirements for identity, strength, purity, and quality be manufactured under the same strict standards of FDA's good manufacturing practice regulations required for innovator products.
So we can make the conclusion that: The Generic Drug is a drug which is bioequivalent to a brand name drug with respect to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Generic medicines must contain the same active ingredient at the same strength as the "innovator" brand, be bioequivalent, and are required to meet the same pharmacopoeial requirements for the preparation. By extension, therefore, generics are identical in dose, strength, route of administration, safety, efficacy, and intended use. Thus, in some cases, the "generic" product is actually the brand product but inside a different box.
The principal reason for the reduced cost of generic medicines is that these are manufacturered by smaller pharmaceutical companies which do not invest in research and development into new drugs. The significant research and development costs incurred by the large pharmaceutical companies in bringing a new drug to the market is often cited as the reason for the high cost of new agents - they wish to recover these costs before the patent expires.Other reason for high prices is that every year pharmaceutical companies spend billions to market their products .
When a pharmaceutical company first markets a drug, it is usually under a patent that only allows the pharmaceutical company that developed the drug to sell it. This allows the company to recoup the cost of developing that particular drug. It will frequently cost millions of dollars to develop and test a new drug before it is approved for use. After the patent on a drug expires, any pharmaceutical company can manufacture and sell that drug. Since the drug has already been tested and approved, the cost of simply manufacturing the drug will be a fraction of the original cost of testing and developing that particular drug.
So despite the strict standards imposed by the FDA for approval of generic drugs, and their enforcement of these standards, a number of misconceptions about generic drugs persist that we must disprove:
MYTH: Generics take longer to act in the body.
FACT: The firm seeking to sell a generic drug must show that its drug delivers the same amount of active ingredient in the same timeframe as the original product.
MYTH: Generics are not as potent as brand-name drugs.
FACT: FDA requires generics to have the same quality, strength, purity, and stability as brand-name drugs.
MYTH: Generics are not as safe as brand-name drugs.
FACT: FDA requires that all drugs be safe and effective and that their benefits outweigh their risks. Since generics use the same active ingredients and are shown to work the same way in the body, they have the same risk-benefit profile as their brand-name counterparts.
MYTH: Brand-name drugs are made in modern manufacturing facilities, and generics are often made in substandard facilities.
FACT: FDA won't permit drugs to be made in substandard facilities. FDA conducts about 3,500 inspections a year in all firms to ensure standards are met. Generic firms have facilities comparable to those of brand-name firms. In fact, brand-name firms account for an estimated 50 percent of generic drug production. They frequently make copies of their own or other brand-name drugs but sell them without the brand name.
MYTH: Generic drugs are likely to cause more side effects.
FACT: There is no evidence of this. FDA monitors reports of adverse drug reactions and has found no difference in the rates between generic and brand-name drugs.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
Cataract Removal - Get a Massive Reduction in Price and World Class Treatment!
Today with the emergence of medical tourism, patients can not only get world class treatment for cataract removals, they can also make huge cost savings that enable them to take a holiday in the country of treatment with the savings.
Low Cost Cataract Removal and a Free Holiday!
Before we look at the huge cost savings and the opportunity to get the free holiday of a lifetime, let’s look at what cataract removal involves.
Cataracts Definition
The lens of the eye, which is responsible for focusing images onto the retina, is normally transparent.
Cataract removal is a procedure to remove a cataract that is a cloudy or opaque area in the lens of the eye that is impairing vision.
As a normal part of aging for example, the lens begins to cloud and causes a progressive, painless decrease in vision, which results in a cataract removal being needed to restore optimum vision.
Procedures for Cataract Removal
There are two common cataract removal methods.
Phacoemulsification technique:
An ultrasound probe breaks the cloudy lens into tiny fragments and removes them through a small incision.
A plastic lens implant is inserted to replace the natural lens. Because the incision is tiny, stitches are often not necessary and visual improvement is usually noticeable immediately after surgery.
Extracapsular technique:
Entails the removal of the cataract as one entire piece. This requires a larger incision and stitches.
A plastic lens implant then replaces the natural lens. Recovery is usually slower, due to the larger incision.
Cataract Removal - Success Rates The outcome of cataract surgery is usually excellent.
The operation has low risk, the pain is minimal, and recovery time is short.
The patient can leave straight after the operation and can expect complete healing in about 10 weeks.
Cataract removal costs
Cataract removal costs in the USA are approximately $2,400 - $4,930 and in the UK £1,450 – £2,900
In India, the costs are just $280 – $697 or £165 - £410 - providing massive savings!
India is Leading the way in Medical Tourism
India is establishing itself as the world leader in medical tourism for the following reasons:
Indian corporate hospitals are comparable to hospitals anywhere in the world. In fact, India offers world-class medical facilities that are comparable with the USA or UK, or any other industrialized nation.
The high concentration of expatriate Indian medical staff working abroad particularly, in the USA and UK, gives patients confidence in healthcare in India generally. Patients are of course, already used to the expertise and professionalism of Indian medical staff.
Low Cost Cataract Removal and a Free Holiday!
Before we look at the huge cost savings and the opportunity to get the free holiday of a lifetime, let’s look at what cataract removal involves.
Cataracts Definition
The lens of the eye, which is responsible for focusing images onto the retina, is normally transparent.
Cataract removal is a procedure to remove a cataract that is a cloudy or opaque area in the lens of the eye that is impairing vision.
As a normal part of aging for example, the lens begins to cloud and causes a progressive, painless decrease in vision, which results in a cataract removal being needed to restore optimum vision.
Procedures for Cataract Removal
There are two common cataract removal methods.
Phacoemulsification technique:
An ultrasound probe breaks the cloudy lens into tiny fragments and removes them through a small incision.
A plastic lens implant is inserted to replace the natural lens. Because the incision is tiny, stitches are often not necessary and visual improvement is usually noticeable immediately after surgery.
Extracapsular technique:
Entails the removal of the cataract as one entire piece. This requires a larger incision and stitches.
A plastic lens implant then replaces the natural lens. Recovery is usually slower, due to the larger incision.
Cataract Removal - Success Rates The outcome of cataract surgery is usually excellent.
The operation has low risk, the pain is minimal, and recovery time is short.
The patient can leave straight after the operation and can expect complete healing in about 10 weeks.
Cataract removal costs
Cataract removal costs in the USA are approximately $2,400 - $4,930 and in the UK £1,450 – £2,900
In India, the costs are just $280 – $697 or £165 - £410 - providing massive savings!
India is Leading the way in Medical Tourism
India is establishing itself as the world leader in medical tourism for the following reasons:
Indian corporate hospitals are comparable to hospitals anywhere in the world. In fact, India offers world-class medical facilities that are comparable with the USA or UK, or any other industrialized nation.
The high concentration of expatriate Indian medical staff working abroad particularly, in the USA and UK, gives patients confidence in healthcare in India generally. Patients are of course, already used to the expertise and professionalism of Indian medical staff.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Cholesterol- Getting Down to the Basics
Blood cholesterol levels have been proven to be a major, modifiable risk factor for the development of heart disease. A risk factor is a condition that increases your chance of getting a disease. The fact that high cholesterol is a modifiable risk factor is important. Unlike your gender or your age, the cholesterol level in your blood is something you have the ability to change. High cholesterol levels can be treated with lifestyle modifications, supplements and/or prescription medication. Treatment to change blood cholesterol levels have been shown to lower your risk of getting heart disease or having a heart attack or stroke.
Cholesterol builds up in the walls of your arteries. Over time, this buildup causes "hardening of the arteries" so that arteries become narrowed and blood flow to the heart is slowed down or blocked. You can imagine what that looks like if you think about the pipes under your kitchen sink. As they get clogged with food, grease and hair over time, the drainage of water slows and eventually stops completely. Since blood travels through these arteries, or pipes, to carry oxygen to your muscles, organs and tissues including your heart, a blockage could reduce enough blood and oxygen to your heart that you may suffer chest pain, called angina. If the blood supply to a portion of the heart is completely cut off by a blockage, the result is a heart attack. If this blockage occurs in your brain, the result is a stroke.
High blood cholesterol itself does not cause symptoms; so there are a lot of people that are completely unaware that their cholesterol level is too high. It is important to find out what your cholesterol numbers are because lowering cholesterol levels that are too high lessens the risk for developing heart disease and reduces the chance of a heart attack or stroke. Even if you have already had a heart attack or stroke, lower cholesterol will reduce your chance of having second one. Cholesterol lowering is important for everyone--younger, middle age, and older adults; women and men; and people with or without heart disease.
There are different kinds of cholesterol in your blood that can measured through a simple blood test preformed at your doctor’s office. This blood test must be preformed fasting, which means you can not eat or drink anything but water or black coffee for 8-12 hours before your blood test for them to be accurate.
What is LDL?
LDL (bad) cholesterol is the main source of buildup and blockage in the arteries. The majority of LDL is created by your body in your liver. A smaller percentage of it is absorbed through your diet. An easy way for patients to remember LDL is the “bad cholesterol” is to think the L in LDL stands for Lousy cholesterol, or the one you want to Lower.With this form of cholesterol, studies have shown the lower the better. Babies are born with an LDL of 30-40, so it is hard to lower the LDL too much. Since physicians and various guidelines have different goals for different patients, ask your doctor what your personal goal is for LDL.
What is HDL?
HDL (good) cholesterol helps keep bad cholesterol from building up in the arteries. An easy way for patients to remember this is the good cholesterol is the H in HDL stands for Healthy cholesterol or the one you want to be Higher. Studies show that with this form of cholesterol, the higher the better. If your HDL is below 40, it becomes an additional risk factor for heart disease. If your HDL is above 60, it actually allows you to subtract one of your other risk factors.
What Is Triglicerides?
Triglycerides are another form of fat in your blood which is often high in patients with diabetes, but can be high in anyone. Some patients may only have high triglycerides while all other cholesterol values remain normal. If you have both high triglycerides and high cholesterol, the condition is called “mixed dyslipidemia”.
What Does Total Cholesterol To HDL Ratio Mean?
Another number that clinical studies have shown to be important in determining your risk of heart disease is the ratio of Total Cholesterol to HDL Cholesterol. In general, it should be less than 4.0. Ask your doctor what your value is, and what your specific goal should be. Again this is a number where the lower it is, the better.
The level of your LDL or “bad cholesterol ” along with the number of other risk factors that you may have for developing heart disease will help your doctor decide not only your individual cholesterol goals, but if necessary what your individual treatment will include.Other risk factors for heart disease include age, gender (males), cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, HDL levels below 40, and a family history of early heart disease. Even though physical activity (sedentary lifestyle) and obesity are not included on this list, these are conditions that need to be corrected as well.
There are several treatment options for patients depending on individual test results and goals. All treatments should include a diet designed to lower cholesterol intake and an exercise plan. Many treatment plans will include dietary supplements and/or prescription medication(s). There are a variety of prescription medications that can target your specific treatment needs, including but not limited to lowering the amount of LDL created by the liver, lowering the amount of LDL that is absorbed from your intestines, increasing levels of HDL or lowering levels of triglycerides.Your doctor may put you on one, or a variety of medications to meet your individual treatment goals.
Blood cholesterol levels have been proven to be a major, modifiable risk factor for the development of heart disease. A risk factor is a condition that increases your chance of getting a disease. A modifiable risk factor is something you have the ability to change. High cholesterol levels can be treated with lifestyle modifications, supplement and/or prescription medication. Treatment to change blood cholesterol levels have been shown to lower your risk of getting heart disease or having a heart attack or stroke.
There are many different types of cholesterol lowering medications that your doctor may prescribe, however these prescriptions can cause certain nutritional deficiencies that may increase your risk for side effects or diminish the risk reduction you would otherwise get from the cholesterol lowering medications. NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement was designed to work with your cholesterol lowering medications by replacing lost nutrients reducing the risk of dangerous side effects, and promote better health.
Medications for treatment of High Cholesterol:
The three main classes include statins, fibrates, and bile acid sequestrants.
Statins include the following medications:
Lipitor (atorvastatin)
Zocor (simvastatin)
Pravachol (pravastatin).
Mevacor (lovastatin)
Crestor (rosuvastatin)
Advicor (lovastatin + niacin).
Caduet (atorvastatin + amlodipine).
The main function of statins is to reduce an individual¡¦s risk for cardiovascular disease (i.e., heart attack, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, and plaque development in arteries) by reducing the total and LDL cholesterol levels as well as by reducing certain plaque promoting factors and increasing artery dilating factors.Your doctor may prescribe a statin if you have high cholesterol or have had heart attack or stroke in the past. If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes but do not have high cholesterol, your doctor may still prescribe a statin to reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease. Statins help lower cholesterol by blocking it's direct synthesis throughout the body but primarily in the liver, however the action of the medication also blocks the synthesis of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and has a potential negative effect on the synthesis of vitamin D.
* CoQ10 deficiency has been linked to the following diseases and symptoms:
Congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, rhabdomyolysis (muscle break down), muscle and joint pain, and fatigue.
Therefore to achieve maximum benefit from the statin medication and minimize potential side effects of nutrient deficiencies, you should compliment your prescription medication by taking NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement. By doing this you will balance the risk/benefit ratio further in your favor.
Fibrates include the following medications:
Tricor, Antara, and Lofibra (fenofibrates)
Lopid (gemfibrozil).
The main functions of fibrates are to lower triglycerides and raise HDL (good cholesterol). These medicines also have a mild lowering effect on LDL (bad cholesterol) and total cholesterol. Your doctor may prescribe fibrates in combination with a statin or bile acid sequestrants. The down side of fibrates is there ability to increase muscle pain and myalgia (including rhabdomyolysis).11-15 These medications also have the ability to raise homocysteine levels.11-15 Homocysteine is a chemical (amino acid metabolite) which when elevated is a risk factor for heart disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and osteoporosis. The only substances known to lower homocysteine levels are the B-vitamins (folate, riboflavin, cobalamin, and pyridoxine).Therefore to reduce the potential risks while taking fibrates, you should also be taking NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement.
Bile Acid Sequestrants include the following medications:
Questran or Questran Light (cholestyramine)
Welchol (colesevelam HCl).
The main functions of bile acid sequestrants are to lower cholesterol by binding to it in the intestine and preventing its absorption thus allowing its excretion in the feces. Your doctor may prescribe this type of medicine in combination with fibrates and statins. Unfortunately, bile acid sequestrants will also bind to vitamins A, D, E, and K as well as essential fats in the intestine preventing their absorption into the blood stream thus leading to their deficiencies. A few of the problems which arise from deficiencies of vitamins A, D, E, K, and essential fatty acids include the following: Heart disease, high cholesterol, stroke, high triglycerides, cancer, thyroid disease, autoimmune disease, bone disease, arthritis, joint pain, muscle pain, cataracts, skin lesions, allergies, and many other.Therefore, to reduce potential side effects of nutrient deficiencies you should take NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement as long as you are on bile acid sequestrants.
In summary, cholesterol-lowering medications prescribed by your doctor are necessary to treat your condition; however, you should also be aware that the long term potential nutritional side effects can be just as big a risk factor for your condition as well as other conditions. Put the odds in your favor and maintain your health with NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement.
Cholesterol builds up in the walls of your arteries. Over time, this buildup causes "hardening of the arteries" so that arteries become narrowed and blood flow to the heart is slowed down or blocked. You can imagine what that looks like if you think about the pipes under your kitchen sink. As they get clogged with food, grease and hair over time, the drainage of water slows and eventually stops completely. Since blood travels through these arteries, or pipes, to carry oxygen to your muscles, organs and tissues including your heart, a blockage could reduce enough blood and oxygen to your heart that you may suffer chest pain, called angina. If the blood supply to a portion of the heart is completely cut off by a blockage, the result is a heart attack. If this blockage occurs in your brain, the result is a stroke.
High blood cholesterol itself does not cause symptoms; so there are a lot of people that are completely unaware that their cholesterol level is too high. It is important to find out what your cholesterol numbers are because lowering cholesterol levels that are too high lessens the risk for developing heart disease and reduces the chance of a heart attack or stroke. Even if you have already had a heart attack or stroke, lower cholesterol will reduce your chance of having second one. Cholesterol lowering is important for everyone--younger, middle age, and older adults; women and men; and people with or without heart disease.
There are different kinds of cholesterol in your blood that can measured through a simple blood test preformed at your doctor’s office. This blood test must be preformed fasting, which means you can not eat or drink anything but water or black coffee for 8-12 hours before your blood test for them to be accurate.
What is LDL?
LDL (bad) cholesterol is the main source of buildup and blockage in the arteries. The majority of LDL is created by your body in your liver. A smaller percentage of it is absorbed through your diet. An easy way for patients to remember LDL is the “bad cholesterol” is to think the L in LDL stands for Lousy cholesterol, or the one you want to Lower.With this form of cholesterol, studies have shown the lower the better. Babies are born with an LDL of 30-40, so it is hard to lower the LDL too much. Since physicians and various guidelines have different goals for different patients, ask your doctor what your personal goal is for LDL.
What is HDL?
HDL (good) cholesterol helps keep bad cholesterol from building up in the arteries. An easy way for patients to remember this is the good cholesterol is the H in HDL stands for Healthy cholesterol or the one you want to be Higher. Studies show that with this form of cholesterol, the higher the better. If your HDL is below 40, it becomes an additional risk factor for heart disease. If your HDL is above 60, it actually allows you to subtract one of your other risk factors.
What Is Triglicerides?
Triglycerides are another form of fat in your blood which is often high in patients with diabetes, but can be high in anyone. Some patients may only have high triglycerides while all other cholesterol values remain normal. If you have both high triglycerides and high cholesterol, the condition is called “mixed dyslipidemia”.
What Does Total Cholesterol To HDL Ratio Mean?
Another number that clinical studies have shown to be important in determining your risk of heart disease is the ratio of Total Cholesterol to HDL Cholesterol. In general, it should be less than 4.0. Ask your doctor what your value is, and what your specific goal should be. Again this is a number where the lower it is, the better.
The level of your LDL or “bad cholesterol ” along with the number of other risk factors that you may have for developing heart disease will help your doctor decide not only your individual cholesterol goals, but if necessary what your individual treatment will include.Other risk factors for heart disease include age, gender (males), cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, HDL levels below 40, and a family history of early heart disease. Even though physical activity (sedentary lifestyle) and obesity are not included on this list, these are conditions that need to be corrected as well.
There are several treatment options for patients depending on individual test results and goals. All treatments should include a diet designed to lower cholesterol intake and an exercise plan. Many treatment plans will include dietary supplements and/or prescription medication(s). There are a variety of prescription medications that can target your specific treatment needs, including but not limited to lowering the amount of LDL created by the liver, lowering the amount of LDL that is absorbed from your intestines, increasing levels of HDL or lowering levels of triglycerides.Your doctor may put you on one, or a variety of medications to meet your individual treatment goals.
Blood cholesterol levels have been proven to be a major, modifiable risk factor for the development of heart disease. A risk factor is a condition that increases your chance of getting a disease. A modifiable risk factor is something you have the ability to change. High cholesterol levels can be treated with lifestyle modifications, supplement and/or prescription medication. Treatment to change blood cholesterol levels have been shown to lower your risk of getting heart disease or having a heart attack or stroke.
There are many different types of cholesterol lowering medications that your doctor may prescribe, however these prescriptions can cause certain nutritional deficiencies that may increase your risk for side effects or diminish the risk reduction you would otherwise get from the cholesterol lowering medications. NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement was designed to work with your cholesterol lowering medications by replacing lost nutrients reducing the risk of dangerous side effects, and promote better health.
Medications for treatment of High Cholesterol:
The three main classes include statins, fibrates, and bile acid sequestrants.
Statins include the following medications:
Lipitor (atorvastatin)
Zocor (simvastatin)
Pravachol (pravastatin).
Mevacor (lovastatin)
Crestor (rosuvastatin)
Advicor (lovastatin + niacin).
Caduet (atorvastatin + amlodipine).
The main function of statins is to reduce an individual¡¦s risk for cardiovascular disease (i.e., heart attack, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, and plaque development in arteries) by reducing the total and LDL cholesterol levels as well as by reducing certain plaque promoting factors and increasing artery dilating factors.Your doctor may prescribe a statin if you have high cholesterol or have had heart attack or stroke in the past. If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes but do not have high cholesterol, your doctor may still prescribe a statin to reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease. Statins help lower cholesterol by blocking it's direct synthesis throughout the body but primarily in the liver, however the action of the medication also blocks the synthesis of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and has a potential negative effect on the synthesis of vitamin D.
* CoQ10 deficiency has been linked to the following diseases and symptoms:
Congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, rhabdomyolysis (muscle break down), muscle and joint pain, and fatigue.
Therefore to achieve maximum benefit from the statin medication and minimize potential side effects of nutrient deficiencies, you should compliment your prescription medication by taking NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement. By doing this you will balance the risk/benefit ratio further in your favor.
Fibrates include the following medications:
Tricor, Antara, and Lofibra (fenofibrates)
Lopid (gemfibrozil).
The main functions of fibrates are to lower triglycerides and raise HDL (good cholesterol). These medicines also have a mild lowering effect on LDL (bad cholesterol) and total cholesterol. Your doctor may prescribe fibrates in combination with a statin or bile acid sequestrants. The down side of fibrates is there ability to increase muscle pain and myalgia (including rhabdomyolysis).11-15 These medications also have the ability to raise homocysteine levels.11-15 Homocysteine is a chemical (amino acid metabolite) which when elevated is a risk factor for heart disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and osteoporosis. The only substances known to lower homocysteine levels are the B-vitamins (folate, riboflavin, cobalamin, and pyridoxine).Therefore to reduce the potential risks while taking fibrates, you should also be taking NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement.
Bile Acid Sequestrants include the following medications:
Questran or Questran Light (cholestyramine)
Welchol (colesevelam HCl).
The main functions of bile acid sequestrants are to lower cholesterol by binding to it in the intestine and preventing its absorption thus allowing its excretion in the feces. Your doctor may prescribe this type of medicine in combination with fibrates and statins. Unfortunately, bile acid sequestrants will also bind to vitamins A, D, E, and K as well as essential fats in the intestine preventing their absorption into the blood stream thus leading to their deficiencies. A few of the problems which arise from deficiencies of vitamins A, D, E, K, and essential fatty acids include the following: Heart disease, high cholesterol, stroke, high triglycerides, cancer, thyroid disease, autoimmune disease, bone disease, arthritis, joint pain, muscle pain, cataracts, skin lesions, allergies, and many other.Therefore, to reduce potential side effects of nutrient deficiencies you should take NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement as long as you are on bile acid sequestrants.
In summary, cholesterol-lowering medications prescribed by your doctor are necessary to treat your condition; however, you should also be aware that the long term potential nutritional side effects can be just as big a risk factor for your condition as well as other conditions. Put the odds in your favor and maintain your health with NutraMD Cholesterol Essential Nutrients® supplement.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Hypertension Made Simple and Nutrients Patients Should Follow Levels of During Treatment
Your doctor may use the technical term hypertension, but it is more commonly called high blood pressure and at least 65 million American adults have high blood pressure. That translates into almost one-third of all American adults, and two thirds of all Americans over the age of 65. Because high blood pressure often has no warning signs or symptoms, it is often called “the silent killer”. High blood pressure is a very dangerous condition. If you don’t treat high blood pressure it can kill you and unfortunately, one-third of the people that have high blood pressure don’t even know it. One important thing to know about high blood pressure is that you can’t cure it. You can only treat high blood pressure with lifestyle changes and medication, and you will need to treat it for the rest of your life.
What is blood pressure? Blood pressure is the amount of force your blood is putting on to the walls of your arteries as it is moved through your body by your heart. Arteries are the blood vessels that carry the oxygen rich blood away from your heart and to all the muscles, organs and tissues in your body.Without this oxygen rich blood, your muscles, organs and tissues would die and eventually, so would you. Blood pressure normally rises and falls throughout the day, and changes heartbeat to heartbeat.
How is blood pressure measured? The test is quick and painless. The doctor or nurse puts a cuff around your upper arm (the technical term for the devices is a sphygmomanometer; pronounced sfig’-mo-ma-nom-e-ter). This device is used to get an actual measurement of the pressure inside your arteries. Your blood pressure measurement is made up of two numbers, one above or before the other. The top or first number which is technically called systolic blood pressure is the pressure in your arteries while your heart contracts during a heart beat. The bottom number is technically called your diastolic blood pressure and it is the pressure in your arteries as your heart relaxes between heart beats.
If you have ever felt your pulse in your wrist or your neck you have felt the differences between your systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The pulse you are feeling is the heart beating, which creates your systolic blood pressure. Between pulses, your heart is relaxing and the measurement of pressure during that time is your diastolic blood pressure.
These two numbers make up what is called your blood pressure reading. For example a blood pressure measurement of 120/80mmHg (that is, millimeters of mercury) means the pressure measured during a heart beat is 120, and measured in between heart beats at 80. This measurement would be expressed verbally as “120 over 80”. Both numbers in the test are important.
Why is high blood pressure dangerous? High blood pressure is dangerous because it makes your heart work too hard, and puts undue stress on your arteries. Having high blood pressure increases your chance of having a heart attack or stroke, (the 1st and 3rd leading causes of death). In fact, every 20mmHg increase in your systolic blood pressure or 10mmHg increase in your diastolic blood pressure DOUBLES your risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke. It also contributes to your chance of developing other conditions such as congestive heart failure, kidney disease and even blindness. High blood pressure is especially dangerous because it often has no warning signs or symptoms. Regardless of age, race, or gender anyone can develop high blood pressure and once it develops, it usually lasts a lifetime. So it is especially important to continue treatment of high blood pressure for a lifetime.
What is high blood pressure? By viewing the table below, you can see that a reading of 140/90 is considered high. If your blood pressure is between 120/80 and 139/89 you are considered prehypertensive. That means you don’t have high blood pressure now, but you are probably going to develop it in the future.You can take steps now by adopting a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk of developing it in the future.
Blood Pressure Level (mmHg)
Category Systolic Diastolic
Normal Less than 120 and Less than 80
Pre- hypertension 120-139 or 80-89
High Blood Pressure
Stage 1 Hypertension 140–159 or 90–99
Stage 2 Hypertension > or = to 160 or > or = to 100
At the age of 55, if you do not have high blood pressure, there is still a 90% chance you will develop it in the future. As you can see, high blood pressure is a disease that most people will develop over their lifetime. Your doctor will make a diagnosis of high blood pressure if the results of your test are high on two separate occasions.
There are two numbers! Which one is the most important? Both numbers are important. But once you are over the age of 50, the top number or systolic blood pressure becomes the more accurate reading for high blood pressure. It is high if it is 140 or above. Diastolic blood pressure does not need to be high for you to have high blood pressure.
When only the top number or systolic blood pressure is high, your doctor calls it “isolated systolic hypertension” or ISH. This is the most common form of high blood pressure in older Americans. You may have ISH and feel fine. As with other kinds of high blood pressure, ISH often has no symptoms or warning signs. Also like any form of high blood pressure ISH is dangerous if left untreated. Like all types of high blood pressure, ISH can never be cured once it has developed, it can only be controlled.
Many studies have proven that controlling high systolic blood pressure can reduce deaths, illness, and improve quality of life; most Americans do not have their systolic blood pressure under control.
Diastolic blood pressure or the bottom number continues to be an important measure of blood pressure, especially in younger people. The higher the diastolic number, the greater the risk of heart attack, strokes, and kidney failure. As people get older, the diastolic blood pressure reading tends to get lower as the systolic number tends to get higher.Your doctor will use both number when determining your blood pressure category and the appropriate prevention and treatment.
What causes high blood pressure? The causes of high blood pressure vary. It may include narrowing or hardening of the arteries, a greater than normal blood volume, or the heart beating faster or more forcefully than it should. Any of these things will increase the pressure against the artery wall. High blood pressure could be caused by another medical condition like gestational hypertension (high blood pressure during pregnancy). Or it may even be limited to a specific part of your body like pulmonary hypertension, but those conditions are rare. By far, the most common cause of hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a genetic predisposition which is called “essential hypertension”.
How is high blood pressure treated? Along with there being a lot of different causes of high blood pressure, there are also a lot of different treatment options for high blood pressure.Your minimum treatment goal is to have your blood pressure below 140/90 and even lower for people with diabetes, kidney disease or other conditions. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is an important factor, however most patients will require medication to control high blood pressure. Many patients need two, three or even four different types of prescription medications at once to control their high blood pressure. Because high blood pressure can be deadly, it is important that patients get and keep blood pressure under control, and monitor it at home as well as with your doctor.
Hypertension, more commonly called high blood pressure, is often referred as "the silent killer" because it often shows no signs or symptoms. In the United States alone, at least65 million American adults have high blood pressure.
There are many different types of blood pressure lowering medications that your doctor may prescribe, however these prescriptions can cause certain nutritional deficiencies that may increase your risk for chronic degenerative diseases. NutraMD High Blood Pressure Essential Nutrients® supplement was designed to work with your blood pressure lowering medications by replacing lost nutrients, reducing the risk of dangerous side effects, and promote better health.
Types of High Blood Pressure Medications The main categories of blood pressure lowering medications that deplete your nutrients are: Diuretics (loop, potassium sparing, and thiazide), ACE inhibitors Beta blockers Central alpha agonists.
Why do I need blood pressure medication? The main reason for your doctor to prescribe blood pressure medicines is because there is clear evidence that any blood pressure reading greater than 115/75 has an increased risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke, and a greater risk of sudden death. This risk increases dramatically with a blood pressure reading above 140/90. The main problem with blood pressure medications as a whole is that they have been found to cause depletion of the following nutrients: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, sodium, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), folate, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), and vitamin C. Calcium, magnesium, potassium, and CoQ10 deficiencies are directly linked to high blood pressure. Therefore reducing their amounts in the body can make it more difficult for your doctor to normalize your blood pressure.
Why are these nutrients important? * Calcium deficiency is related to osteoporosis, and arthritis. * Magnesium is responsible for more than 300 chemical reactions in the body. * Vitamin A deficiency is related to high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, muscle and joint pain, osteoporosis, heart arrhythmias, fatigue, and many more. * Potassium deficiency is related to heart arrhythmias, and mental disturbances. * Zinc is responsible for more than 200 chemical reactions in the body. Deficiency of zinc is related to heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, psoriasis, gout, and more. * CoQ10 deficiency has been linked to the following diseases and symptoms: Congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, rhabdomyolysis (muscle break down), muscle and joint pain, angina (pains in the chest), and fatigue. * Folate deficiency is directly related to heart disease, cancer, neural tube defects, anemia, and more. * Vitamin B1 deficiency is related to congestive heart failure, depression, muscle pain, and fatigue. * Vitamin B6 deficiency is linked with heart disease, carpal tunnel syndrome, PMS, depression, and fatigue. * Vitamin C deficiency is related to heart disease, high cholesterol, muscle pain, and osteoporosis.
Many of these side nutritional side effects are well known, which is why your doctor may monitor your serum electrolytes (calcium, potassium, magnesium, and chloride) while you are on some of these medications, however, serum electrolyte levels are not good markers for tissue levels of these nutrients and thus do not reliably detect nutritional deficiencies.
Therefore to achieve maximum benefit from the blood pressure medication and minimize potential side effects of nutrient deficiencies, you should compliment your prescription medication by taking NutraMD High Blood Pressure Essential Nutrients® supplement. By doing this you will balance the risk/benefit ratio further in your favor.
In summary, blood pressure lowering medications prescribed by your doctor are necessary to treat your condition, however, you should also be aware that the long term potential nutritional side effects can be just as big a risk factor for your condition and for other conditions as well. Put the odds in your favor and maintain your health with NutraMD High Blood Pressure Essential Nutrients® supplement.
What is blood pressure? Blood pressure is the amount of force your blood is putting on to the walls of your arteries as it is moved through your body by your heart. Arteries are the blood vessels that carry the oxygen rich blood away from your heart and to all the muscles, organs and tissues in your body.Without this oxygen rich blood, your muscles, organs and tissues would die and eventually, so would you. Blood pressure normally rises and falls throughout the day, and changes heartbeat to heartbeat.
How is blood pressure measured? The test is quick and painless. The doctor or nurse puts a cuff around your upper arm (the technical term for the devices is a sphygmomanometer; pronounced sfig’-mo-ma-nom-e-ter). This device is used to get an actual measurement of the pressure inside your arteries. Your blood pressure measurement is made up of two numbers, one above or before the other. The top or first number which is technically called systolic blood pressure is the pressure in your arteries while your heart contracts during a heart beat. The bottom number is technically called your diastolic blood pressure and it is the pressure in your arteries as your heart relaxes between heart beats.
If you have ever felt your pulse in your wrist or your neck you have felt the differences between your systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The pulse you are feeling is the heart beating, which creates your systolic blood pressure. Between pulses, your heart is relaxing and the measurement of pressure during that time is your diastolic blood pressure.
These two numbers make up what is called your blood pressure reading. For example a blood pressure measurement of 120/80mmHg (that is, millimeters of mercury) means the pressure measured during a heart beat is 120, and measured in between heart beats at 80. This measurement would be expressed verbally as “120 over 80”. Both numbers in the test are important.
Why is high blood pressure dangerous? High blood pressure is dangerous because it makes your heart work too hard, and puts undue stress on your arteries. Having high blood pressure increases your chance of having a heart attack or stroke, (the 1st and 3rd leading causes of death). In fact, every 20mmHg increase in your systolic blood pressure or 10mmHg increase in your diastolic blood pressure DOUBLES your risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke. It also contributes to your chance of developing other conditions such as congestive heart failure, kidney disease and even blindness. High blood pressure is especially dangerous because it often has no warning signs or symptoms. Regardless of age, race, or gender anyone can develop high blood pressure and once it develops, it usually lasts a lifetime. So it is especially important to continue treatment of high blood pressure for a lifetime.
What is high blood pressure? By viewing the table below, you can see that a reading of 140/90 is considered high. If your blood pressure is between 120/80 and 139/89 you are considered prehypertensive. That means you don’t have high blood pressure now, but you are probably going to develop it in the future.You can take steps now by adopting a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk of developing it in the future.
Blood Pressure Level (mmHg)
Category Systolic Diastolic
Normal Less than 120 and Less than 80
Pre- hypertension 120-139 or 80-89
High Blood Pressure
Stage 1 Hypertension 140–159 or 90–99
Stage 2 Hypertension > or = to 160 or > or = to 100
At the age of 55, if you do not have high blood pressure, there is still a 90% chance you will develop it in the future. As you can see, high blood pressure is a disease that most people will develop over their lifetime. Your doctor will make a diagnosis of high blood pressure if the results of your test are high on two separate occasions.
There are two numbers! Which one is the most important? Both numbers are important. But once you are over the age of 50, the top number or systolic blood pressure becomes the more accurate reading for high blood pressure. It is high if it is 140 or above. Diastolic blood pressure does not need to be high for you to have high blood pressure.
When only the top number or systolic blood pressure is high, your doctor calls it “isolated systolic hypertension” or ISH. This is the most common form of high blood pressure in older Americans. You may have ISH and feel fine. As with other kinds of high blood pressure, ISH often has no symptoms or warning signs. Also like any form of high blood pressure ISH is dangerous if left untreated. Like all types of high blood pressure, ISH can never be cured once it has developed, it can only be controlled.
Many studies have proven that controlling high systolic blood pressure can reduce deaths, illness, and improve quality of life; most Americans do not have their systolic blood pressure under control.
Diastolic blood pressure or the bottom number continues to be an important measure of blood pressure, especially in younger people. The higher the diastolic number, the greater the risk of heart attack, strokes, and kidney failure. As people get older, the diastolic blood pressure reading tends to get lower as the systolic number tends to get higher.Your doctor will use both number when determining your blood pressure category and the appropriate prevention and treatment.
What causes high blood pressure? The causes of high blood pressure vary. It may include narrowing or hardening of the arteries, a greater than normal blood volume, or the heart beating faster or more forcefully than it should. Any of these things will increase the pressure against the artery wall. High blood pressure could be caused by another medical condition like gestational hypertension (high blood pressure during pregnancy). Or it may even be limited to a specific part of your body like pulmonary hypertension, but those conditions are rare. By far, the most common cause of hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a genetic predisposition which is called “essential hypertension”.
How is high blood pressure treated? Along with there being a lot of different causes of high blood pressure, there are also a lot of different treatment options for high blood pressure.Your minimum treatment goal is to have your blood pressure below 140/90 and even lower for people with diabetes, kidney disease or other conditions. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is an important factor, however most patients will require medication to control high blood pressure. Many patients need two, three or even four different types of prescription medications at once to control their high blood pressure. Because high blood pressure can be deadly, it is important that patients get and keep blood pressure under control, and monitor it at home as well as with your doctor.
Hypertension, more commonly called high blood pressure, is often referred as "the silent killer" because it often shows no signs or symptoms. In the United States alone, at least65 million American adults have high blood pressure.
There are many different types of blood pressure lowering medications that your doctor may prescribe, however these prescriptions can cause certain nutritional deficiencies that may increase your risk for chronic degenerative diseases. NutraMD High Blood Pressure Essential Nutrients® supplement was designed to work with your blood pressure lowering medications by replacing lost nutrients, reducing the risk of dangerous side effects, and promote better health.
Types of High Blood Pressure Medications The main categories of blood pressure lowering medications that deplete your nutrients are: Diuretics (loop, potassium sparing, and thiazide), ACE inhibitors Beta blockers Central alpha agonists.
Why do I need blood pressure medication? The main reason for your doctor to prescribe blood pressure medicines is because there is clear evidence that any blood pressure reading greater than 115/75 has an increased risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke, and a greater risk of sudden death. This risk increases dramatically with a blood pressure reading above 140/90. The main problem with blood pressure medications as a whole is that they have been found to cause depletion of the following nutrients: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, sodium, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), folate, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), and vitamin C. Calcium, magnesium, potassium, and CoQ10 deficiencies are directly linked to high blood pressure. Therefore reducing their amounts in the body can make it more difficult for your doctor to normalize your blood pressure.
Why are these nutrients important? * Calcium deficiency is related to osteoporosis, and arthritis. * Magnesium is responsible for more than 300 chemical reactions in the body. * Vitamin A deficiency is related to high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, muscle and joint pain, osteoporosis, heart arrhythmias, fatigue, and many more. * Potassium deficiency is related to heart arrhythmias, and mental disturbances. * Zinc is responsible for more than 200 chemical reactions in the body. Deficiency of zinc is related to heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes, psoriasis, gout, and more. * CoQ10 deficiency has been linked to the following diseases and symptoms: Congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, rhabdomyolysis (muscle break down), muscle and joint pain, angina (pains in the chest), and fatigue. * Folate deficiency is directly related to heart disease, cancer, neural tube defects, anemia, and more. * Vitamin B1 deficiency is related to congestive heart failure, depression, muscle pain, and fatigue. * Vitamin B6 deficiency is linked with heart disease, carpal tunnel syndrome, PMS, depression, and fatigue. * Vitamin C deficiency is related to heart disease, high cholesterol, muscle pain, and osteoporosis.
Many of these side nutritional side effects are well known, which is why your doctor may monitor your serum electrolytes (calcium, potassium, magnesium, and chloride) while you are on some of these medications, however, serum electrolyte levels are not good markers for tissue levels of these nutrients and thus do not reliably detect nutritional deficiencies.
Therefore to achieve maximum benefit from the blood pressure medication and minimize potential side effects of nutrient deficiencies, you should compliment your prescription medication by taking NutraMD High Blood Pressure Essential Nutrients® supplement. By doing this you will balance the risk/benefit ratio further in your favor.
In summary, blood pressure lowering medications prescribed by your doctor are necessary to treat your condition, however, you should also be aware that the long term potential nutritional side effects can be just as big a risk factor for your condition and for other conditions as well. Put the odds in your favor and maintain your health with NutraMD High Blood Pressure Essential Nutrients® supplement.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Heart Surgery Costs - Why You Should Consider India
Any surgery where the chest is opened and surgery is performed on the heart directly is called open-heart surgery and is an operation that understandably worries most patients.
Getting the Best Care
It is a traumatic operation and most patients want the best possible treatments they can get above all else.
You can however get heart surgery at an affordable cost as well as enjoying some of the best cardiac care in the world.
Heart Surgery Costs
Open-heart surgery costs in India are low compared to the west. In fact, in many instances they are only a tenth of the cost for the same treatments at comparable hospitals in Europe and the USA.
Heart surgery can cost as much as £30,000 in the UK and up to $60,000 in the USA, depending on the nature of the operation. In India's best hospitals however, it could cost between $3,000 and $10,000 for the same surgery.
98.5% Success Rate
While cost is a consideration; it is the quality of heart surgery that is the most important factor for most patients.
The success rates in India’s top hospitals for heart surgery are an average of 98.50% - which is on par with the leading cardiac centers of the world.
India - A World Leader for Quality and Cost
As the quality of care and cost is so competitive, more and more people from around the world are choosing India for their heart surgery and a wide variety of other medical treatments. Below are a few examples of how India is becoming a world leader in heart surgery and cardiac care:
Analysts say that as many as 200,000 medical tourists went to India last year. Some industry analysts actually believe the number is far higher, as 70,000 people came for medical treatment from the Middle East alone.
A study in 2004 by the Confederation of Indian Industry, or CII, and international management consultancy McKinsey & Co. concluded medical tourism could earn India $2 billion a year by 2012.
The Indian government predicts that India's $17 billion a year health-care industry could grow 13% in each of the next six years, boosted by medical tourism, which industry analysts conclude is growing at 30% annually.
Britain's National Health Service has large waiting lists of people who need medical procedures. "They have been considering increasing the support staff from India, and many industry watchers believe that this will translate into a growing multi-billion pound industry.
Private Medical Treatment in India
India's medical schools produces a large number of skilled professionals. There are more than 35,000 specialist doctors of Indian origin in the USA alone, and the UK has a large number of Indian medical staff.
Private Indian hospitals are now at the same technological level as hospitals in Europe and America.
More Indian doctors than ever, who are practicing abroad, are now returning home to cater for the demand.
The combination of the best cardiac care in the world, with the best medical professionals, is an obvious comfort for patients who need such a serious operation as heart surgery.
Heart Surgery
The savings made on heart surgery costs in India will allow you to take a free holiday to rest and recuperate, in one of the most diverse and beautiful countries on earth.
With a wide variety of wildlife and stunning scenery, India offers the perfect country to recuperate in, after the operation is completed.
Getting the Best Care
It is a traumatic operation and most patients want the best possible treatments they can get above all else.
You can however get heart surgery at an affordable cost as well as enjoying some of the best cardiac care in the world.
Heart Surgery Costs
Open-heart surgery costs in India are low compared to the west. In fact, in many instances they are only a tenth of the cost for the same treatments at comparable hospitals in Europe and the USA.
Heart surgery can cost as much as £30,000 in the UK and up to $60,000 in the USA, depending on the nature of the operation. In India's best hospitals however, it could cost between $3,000 and $10,000 for the same surgery.
98.5% Success Rate
While cost is a consideration; it is the quality of heart surgery that is the most important factor for most patients.
The success rates in India’s top hospitals for heart surgery are an average of 98.50% - which is on par with the leading cardiac centers of the world.
India - A World Leader for Quality and Cost
As the quality of care and cost is so competitive, more and more people from around the world are choosing India for their heart surgery and a wide variety of other medical treatments. Below are a few examples of how India is becoming a world leader in heart surgery and cardiac care:
Analysts say that as many as 200,000 medical tourists went to India last year. Some industry analysts actually believe the number is far higher, as 70,000 people came for medical treatment from the Middle East alone.
A study in 2004 by the Confederation of Indian Industry, or CII, and international management consultancy McKinsey & Co. concluded medical tourism could earn India $2 billion a year by 2012.
The Indian government predicts that India's $17 billion a year health-care industry could grow 13% in each of the next six years, boosted by medical tourism, which industry analysts conclude is growing at 30% annually.
Britain's National Health Service has large waiting lists of people who need medical procedures. "They have been considering increasing the support staff from India, and many industry watchers believe that this will translate into a growing multi-billion pound industry.
Private Medical Treatment in India
India's medical schools produces a large number of skilled professionals. There are more than 35,000 specialist doctors of Indian origin in the USA alone, and the UK has a large number of Indian medical staff.
Private Indian hospitals are now at the same technological level as hospitals in Europe and America.
More Indian doctors than ever, who are practicing abroad, are now returning home to cater for the demand.
The combination of the best cardiac care in the world, with the best medical professionals, is an obvious comfort for patients who need such a serious operation as heart surgery.
Heart Surgery
The savings made on heart surgery costs in India will allow you to take a free holiday to rest and recuperate, in one of the most diverse and beautiful countries on earth.
With a wide variety of wildlife and stunning scenery, India offers the perfect country to recuperate in, after the operation is completed.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Panic Attack Medication
Here are some drugs that can prevent or reduce panic attacks. This is not meant to be a comprehensive list, but examples of drugs that have worked well for this painful disease.
Tricyclic antidepressants
These drugs are used to treat severe depression or depression with anxiety. Some of these anti-depressants are also used to treat obsessional disorders and panic attacks. Side effects include a dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, difficulty urinating, postural hypotension, tachycardia, loss of sex drive, erective failure, sensitivity to sunlight, weight gain, sedaction, sweating, jitteriness, irritation, unusual energy and disturbed sleep patterns. Examples of tricyclic antidepressants are Tofranil, Sinequan, Anafranil and Effexor.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
These are a newer type of anti-depressant introduced into the US in the 1980s beginning with Prozac. They work differently to traditional antidepressants and by assisting the brain in maintaining levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin which is often found to be low in sufferers of depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety and panic disorders. Side effects include nausea, insomnia, headaches, sexual difficulties and initial agitation. Examples: Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines have shown to be effective in reducing panic attack symptoms in many cases but not in all. It can be taken as a single dose therapy or several times a day for months or years. Side effects include drowsiness, decreased mental sharpness, slurred speech, clumsiness, less occupational efficiency, sexual side effects, low moods, irritability, agitation and increased susceptibility to the effects of alcohol. Examples of benzodiazepines are Klonopin, Valium, Serax and Librium.
Beta blockers
Beta blockers have proven to be helpful in controlling the physical symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks, particularly social anxiety and are prescribed to control rapid heartbeat, shaking, trembling and blushing. The side effects are less than other medications but can cause light-headedness, drowsiness, short-term memory loss, decrease in heart rate, insomnia, diarrhea, cold extremities, depression and nightmares. Beta Blockers include Atenolol and Propranolol.
Tricyclic antidepressants
These drugs are used to treat severe depression or depression with anxiety. Some of these anti-depressants are also used to treat obsessional disorders and panic attacks. Side effects include a dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, difficulty urinating, postural hypotension, tachycardia, loss of sex drive, erective failure, sensitivity to sunlight, weight gain, sedaction, sweating, jitteriness, irritation, unusual energy and disturbed sleep patterns. Examples of tricyclic antidepressants are Tofranil, Sinequan, Anafranil and Effexor.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
These are a newer type of anti-depressant introduced into the US in the 1980s beginning with Prozac. They work differently to traditional antidepressants and by assisting the brain in maintaining levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin which is often found to be low in sufferers of depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety and panic disorders. Side effects include nausea, insomnia, headaches, sexual difficulties and initial agitation. Examples: Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines have shown to be effective in reducing panic attack symptoms in many cases but not in all. It can be taken as a single dose therapy or several times a day for months or years. Side effects include drowsiness, decreased mental sharpness, slurred speech, clumsiness, less occupational efficiency, sexual side effects, low moods, irritability, agitation and increased susceptibility to the effects of alcohol. Examples of benzodiazepines are Klonopin, Valium, Serax and Librium.
Beta blockers
Beta blockers have proven to be helpful in controlling the physical symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks, particularly social anxiety and are prescribed to control rapid heartbeat, shaking, trembling and blushing. The side effects are less than other medications but can cause light-headedness, drowsiness, short-term memory loss, decrease in heart rate, insomnia, diarrhea, cold extremities, depression and nightmares. Beta Blockers include Atenolol and Propranolol.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Understanding FDA Approval for Medical Devices: Vest Airway Clearance System
FDA approval for a drug product suggests safety and efficacy. The same approval for medical devices does not. Approval for a device only says the manufacturing method is reliable and that the device is similar to another on the market.
The Vest Airway Clearance System falls in this category. It’s a high frequency chest-wall appliance for chest physical therapy, available since 1988. Doctors sometimes prescribe it for a range of pulmonary problems that include asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and others.
Most studies of the vest involve cystic fibrosis because daily physical chest therapy is an accepted, medically necessary treatment. Patients with cystic fibrosis have abnormal sputum and frequent pulmonary infections that progressively lessen their pulmonary system’s effectiveness. Physical chest therapy provides patients with some relief.
To date, there are no randomized, multiple center, controlled, long-term outcome clinical trials documenting the safety or efficacy of the vest for any disease. The studies show no documented superiority of the vest over routine chest physical therapy in any disease where the result of the clinical trial is a significant outcome. That is where the outcome showed fewer hospitalizations for pulmonary infections, decreased length of hospital stay or a lessening of the progression of pulmonary disease. Even short-term studies present no documentation of superiority over conventional chest physical therapy.
Faced with a lack of fact-based medical evidence, manufacturers often turn to anecdotal information to market their devices. As an example, the vest manufacturer markets its $16,000 appliance by providing doctors with vest prescriptions and free trials for patients. Usually both a physician and patient testimonial follow the trial. The testimonials argue the device is FDA approved and useful to the patient.
As compelling as such anecdotal evidence may be, testimonials do not trump medical evidence. They are not a substitute for randomized, controlled, clinical trials to prove a device’s efficacy and safety for a disease.
The lack of fact-based evidence means that the vest is a convenience. While it provides no advantage over conventional physical chest therapy, it can be useful in situations where multiple patients need physical chest therapy from a single caregiver.
The Vest Airway Clearance System falls in this category. It’s a high frequency chest-wall appliance for chest physical therapy, available since 1988. Doctors sometimes prescribe it for a range of pulmonary problems that include asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and others.
Most studies of the vest involve cystic fibrosis because daily physical chest therapy is an accepted, medically necessary treatment. Patients with cystic fibrosis have abnormal sputum and frequent pulmonary infections that progressively lessen their pulmonary system’s effectiveness. Physical chest therapy provides patients with some relief.
To date, there are no randomized, multiple center, controlled, long-term outcome clinical trials documenting the safety or efficacy of the vest for any disease. The studies show no documented superiority of the vest over routine chest physical therapy in any disease where the result of the clinical trial is a significant outcome. That is where the outcome showed fewer hospitalizations for pulmonary infections, decreased length of hospital stay or a lessening of the progression of pulmonary disease. Even short-term studies present no documentation of superiority over conventional chest physical therapy.
Faced with a lack of fact-based medical evidence, manufacturers often turn to anecdotal information to market their devices. As an example, the vest manufacturer markets its $16,000 appliance by providing doctors with vest prescriptions and free trials for patients. Usually both a physician and patient testimonial follow the trial. The testimonials argue the device is FDA approved and useful to the patient.
As compelling as such anecdotal evidence may be, testimonials do not trump medical evidence. They are not a substitute for randomized, controlled, clinical trials to prove a device’s efficacy and safety for a disease.
The lack of fact-based evidence means that the vest is a convenience. While it provides no advantage over conventional physical chest therapy, it can be useful in situations where multiple patients need physical chest therapy from a single caregiver.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Health Care Benefits for Veterans
The U.S. government promises a lifetime of guaranteed healthcare for veterans, in recognition of their service to our nation in the armed forces. What do the promises mean? This site provides an overview of the benefits, the barriers to obtaining benefits, and how to determine whether VA health care is for you.
Health Care Benefits Offered to Veterans
Veterans Administration facilities offer a wide range of services to millions of patients.
* Outpatient Care at VA Facilities: Primary care visits for a $15 copyayment and preventative care services with no copayment required for health fairs, outpatient visit for preventive screening and/or immunizations, laboratory services, flat film radiology services, and electrocardiograms.
* Medication for approved: Most veterans are currently charged $7 for a 30-day or less supply of medication.
Barriers to Using Veterans Health Care Benefits
While millions are served, these represent a mere fraction of eligible veterans. Why do many seek other avenues for health care?
* Congress talks about supporting Veterans yet prefers to fund pork. In 2005, Congress demonstrated its disdain for Veterans by refusing to fund promised benefits, and at the same time approving $220 million in funding for Alaskan "bridges to nowhere."
* Services primarily are delivered at a limited number of VA facilities that are not accessible by many. Congress has been asked to allow Veterans access to public and private hospitals, yet it declines to do so.
* Quality of Care is a Question Mark. Perceived quality varies by location. While the Federal Department of Health and Human Services lists the performance of many hospitals on a location by location basis, the VA results are not provided for each location. Many Veterans do find their VA health care services satisfactory.
* Eligibility is limited. If you are a veteran and have service connected disabilities, are catastrophically disabled, or destitute, you may be eligible to access benefits. Congress has restricted access that was promised to all. In this regard, while World War I veterans were afforded full eligibility, our Congress has segregated defenders of the Constitution eight separate classes. Eligibility in some cases can now depend not on whether the veteran served honorably in conflict, but on whether paperwork was filled out prior to January 17, 2003.
* Prescription drugs offered are often second rate. The VA listing of approved drugs excludes many modern prescriptions. Patients often prefer to use drugs that are recognized as superior, and so do not accept the VA drug formulary.
How Can I Get My Veterans Health Care Benefits?
If you satisfy the current narrow qualifications, e.g., you are destitute, severely disabled, or have won the Medal of Honor (there has been only one such recipient from the Iraq conflict, and he gave his life in the action), you can fill out a form. Most veterans must complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits. link https://www.1010ez.med.va.gov/sec/vha/1010ez/.
If you do not satisfy the narrow conditions, you are one of millions.
Do Any Congress Members Support Strong Veterans Benefits?
Many Congress members support our troops. Veterans could benefit from establishing lobbying as the sugar cane growers do. Interested parties can contact their Congressmen and ask them to support our troops by funding fully the promise of health care.
Health Care Benefits Offered to Veterans
Veterans Administration facilities offer a wide range of services to millions of patients.
* Outpatient Care at VA Facilities: Primary care visits for a $15 copyayment and preventative care services with no copayment required for health fairs, outpatient visit for preventive screening and/or immunizations, laboratory services, flat film radiology services, and electrocardiograms.
* Medication for approved: Most veterans are currently charged $7 for a 30-day or less supply of medication.
Barriers to Using Veterans Health Care Benefits
While millions are served, these represent a mere fraction of eligible veterans. Why do many seek other avenues for health care?
* Congress talks about supporting Veterans yet prefers to fund pork. In 2005, Congress demonstrated its disdain for Veterans by refusing to fund promised benefits, and at the same time approving $220 million in funding for Alaskan "bridges to nowhere."
* Services primarily are delivered at a limited number of VA facilities that are not accessible by many. Congress has been asked to allow Veterans access to public and private hospitals, yet it declines to do so.
* Quality of Care is a Question Mark. Perceived quality varies by location. While the Federal Department of Health and Human Services lists the performance of many hospitals on a location by location basis, the VA results are not provided for each location. Many Veterans do find their VA health care services satisfactory.
* Eligibility is limited. If you are a veteran and have service connected disabilities, are catastrophically disabled, or destitute, you may be eligible to access benefits. Congress has restricted access that was promised to all. In this regard, while World War I veterans were afforded full eligibility, our Congress has segregated defenders of the Constitution eight separate classes. Eligibility in some cases can now depend not on whether the veteran served honorably in conflict, but on whether paperwork was filled out prior to January 17, 2003.
* Prescription drugs offered are often second rate. The VA listing of approved drugs excludes many modern prescriptions. Patients often prefer to use drugs that are recognized as superior, and so do not accept the VA drug formulary.
How Can I Get My Veterans Health Care Benefits?
If you satisfy the current narrow qualifications, e.g., you are destitute, severely disabled, or have won the Medal of Honor (there has been only one such recipient from the Iraq conflict, and he gave his life in the action), you can fill out a form. Most veterans must complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits. link https://www.1010ez.med.va.gov/sec/vha/1010ez/.
If you do not satisfy the narrow conditions, you are one of millions.
Do Any Congress Members Support Strong Veterans Benefits?
Many Congress members support our troops. Veterans could benefit from establishing lobbying as the sugar cane growers do. Interested parties can contact their Congressmen and ask them to support our troops by funding fully the promise of health care.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Don't Risk Your Eyesight - Use Livostin Properly
Livostin is the trade name of a prescription medication available in the Canada and the US.
It comes in the form of eye drops, and contains as an active ingredient the drug levocabastine. Levocabastine is an antihistamine which can be useful in relieving the itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies.
Most allergic reactions have to do with a chemical called histamine, which is something that your body produces naturally in response to foreign organisms in the environment. Some organisms – like those contained in pollen and pet hair – cause some people’s bodies to produce too much histamine, which in turn irritates the eyes by causing them to become watery and itchy. Livostin can relive these symptoms by curbing your body’s production of histamine, and by reducing the eye cells’ sensitivity to it.
In order for it to be effective, Livostin must be used every day as directed by your doctor. It is also important that the eye drops be administered correctly. Many people don’t know how to do this, which can make the medication much less effective.
There are a few important steps you should keep in mind when administering the drops:
1) Wash your hands. Your eyes are suffering from an allergic reaction, and it is therefore necessary to keep as many foreign organisms as possible away from them.
2) Tilt your head back, and press on the area just below your lower eyelid. This will create a small space between your eyeball and eyelid.
3) Drop the medication into this space and immediately close your eye for a minute or two. This allows the medication to be absorbed by the eyes. It is important that you don’t blink.
4) Keep the applicator tip as sterile as possible. Do not let the tip touch your hands or eyeball, as this could contaminate it, and when finished, immediately replace the cap so that the applicator tip stays sterile.
As with all medication, it is possible that Livostin could interact dangerously with other drugs. It is therefore imperative that you notify your doctor of any other medication you are taking, or any allergies you have.
It is rare for Livostin to cause severe side effects: the most common one is an itching or burning sensation when the drops are placed in the eye – though for most people this will subside quickly.
If you find it doesn’t you should consult your doctor immediately. Less common side effects include drowsiness and a dry mouth, and as with any side effect, if it persists or becomes uncomfortable you should consult your physician.
It comes in the form of eye drops, and contains as an active ingredient the drug levocabastine. Levocabastine is an antihistamine which can be useful in relieving the itchy, watery eyes caused by allergies.
Most allergic reactions have to do with a chemical called histamine, which is something that your body produces naturally in response to foreign organisms in the environment. Some organisms – like those contained in pollen and pet hair – cause some people’s bodies to produce too much histamine, which in turn irritates the eyes by causing them to become watery and itchy. Livostin can relive these symptoms by curbing your body’s production of histamine, and by reducing the eye cells’ sensitivity to it.
In order for it to be effective, Livostin must be used every day as directed by your doctor. It is also important that the eye drops be administered correctly. Many people don’t know how to do this, which can make the medication much less effective.
There are a few important steps you should keep in mind when administering the drops:
1) Wash your hands. Your eyes are suffering from an allergic reaction, and it is therefore necessary to keep as many foreign organisms as possible away from them.
2) Tilt your head back, and press on the area just below your lower eyelid. This will create a small space between your eyeball and eyelid.
3) Drop the medication into this space and immediately close your eye for a minute or two. This allows the medication to be absorbed by the eyes. It is important that you don’t blink.
4) Keep the applicator tip as sterile as possible. Do not let the tip touch your hands or eyeball, as this could contaminate it, and when finished, immediately replace the cap so that the applicator tip stays sterile.
As with all medication, it is possible that Livostin could interact dangerously with other drugs. It is therefore imperative that you notify your doctor of any other medication you are taking, or any allergies you have.
It is rare for Livostin to cause severe side effects: the most common one is an itching or burning sensation when the drops are placed in the eye – though for most people this will subside quickly.
If you find it doesn’t you should consult your doctor immediately. Less common side effects include drowsiness and a dry mouth, and as with any side effect, if it persists or becomes uncomfortable you should consult your physician.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Generic Drugs and Health Care Savings
The sales of generic drugs are growing with each passing day. A rush of new generic drugs will be storming the pharmaceutical market in 2006 for the benefit of common men. During the next three years, brand-name drugs, whose sales total $10 billion to $12 billion, will become available as generics due to the mounting popularity of generic drugs as compared to branded one.
The potential savings from generic drugs are very impressive. According to the Excellus report, if all upstate New York counties fill prescriptions with generics at the rates of the best counties in the region then more than $880 million would be saved in this regard. It’s a big savings indeed. The best part is that these monetary savings can be used for other better purposes.
Normally, the percentage of consumers using generics varies by drug, age group, and region. Doctors in this regard can play a big role in making his patient aware of the benefits of generics. While the first and most important concern for physicians is to prescribe the proper treatment for their patients, cost can play a role in the decision-making process. They need to be encouraged by the insurance companies and their patients to consider generic alternatives.
For hospitals, generics are generally the preferred option as they are more economic as compared to the prescribed one, however, it honor patient requests for brands. It also will sometimes stick with a brand name if it has been used in an emergency situation to stabilize a patient. In addition to doctors, pharmacists, and patients themselves, employers also play a role in encouraging generic use.
Always remember that generic drugs can be cheaper but never inferior to a branded drug. It provides you the same benefits that you look for in a branded drug. Generic drug can be used for various purposes such as erectile dysfunction, heart disease and lot more. So make generic drugs a part of your life and save millions in the long run.
The potential savings from generic drugs are very impressive. According to the Excellus report, if all upstate New York counties fill prescriptions with generics at the rates of the best counties in the region then more than $880 million would be saved in this regard. It’s a big savings indeed. The best part is that these monetary savings can be used for other better purposes.
Normally, the percentage of consumers using generics varies by drug, age group, and region. Doctors in this regard can play a big role in making his patient aware of the benefits of generics. While the first and most important concern for physicians is to prescribe the proper treatment for their patients, cost can play a role in the decision-making process. They need to be encouraged by the insurance companies and their patients to consider generic alternatives.
For hospitals, generics are generally the preferred option as they are more economic as compared to the prescribed one, however, it honor patient requests for brands. It also will sometimes stick with a brand name if it has been used in an emergency situation to stabilize a patient. In addition to doctors, pharmacists, and patients themselves, employers also play a role in encouraging generic use.
Always remember that generic drugs can be cheaper but never inferior to a branded drug. It provides you the same benefits that you look for in a branded drug. Generic drug can be used for various purposes such as erectile dysfunction, heart disease and lot more. So make generic drugs a part of your life and save millions in the long run.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Pain Medication You Can Legally Order Online
Millions of American live with pain. Chronic pain, daily pain, short term severe pain. Of all the medications sold by online pharmacies, by far the most common type is pain relievers. You might think then that online pharmacies are a great source of pain relievers.
Well, did you know the Drug Enforcement Agency of the United States (DEA) has busted and close over 5000 online pharmacies? Did you know that many online pharmacies sell counterfeit medication? Did you know it is a federal crime for you to order prescription drugs from outside the United States?
It is true, online pharmacies are a great source of pain relief medication. This article teaches you to order pain medication legally, from within the United States, with a legal prescription. It’s the only way to go!
First, the caveats: You cannot legally order medication from outside the United States, even if you have a prescription. We always hear about the elderly taking buses to Canada to buy cheap medicine. The fact is, as of this writing, this course is illegal. Also, you cannot legally order medicine from a pharmacy without a prescription. Many online pharmacies (including my own) have physicians on staff who review your medication request and write you a prescription if they think it’s safe. In addition, NEVER order narcotics through the mail. Forget codeine, Tylenol #3, oxycontin, demerol, percodan and percocet. You can be charged with a federal crime for buying these substances. Lastly, regardless of the medication you buy, be sure to read the package insert (or a monograph on my web site). Drugs interact with each other and with your body- the package insert will tip you off to potentially dangerous behavior with respect to the medication you ordered.
The following are quick summaries of common pain relief drugs you can order through the Internet with very little risk:
Fioricet (butalbital)
Fioricet is a combination drug. It is made up of acetaminophen, caffeine and butalbital. Acetaminophen is the same medication in Tylenol You know caffeine from coffee (or even your favorite candy bar.) Butalbital is a mild barbiturate. It relaxes you.
Medical Science does not have an explanation for the reason this combination of drugs works so well, but the fact is Fioricet (and its generic form butalbital) is highly effective for tension headache. Presumably, it relaxes the muscles in the head and neck which typically tighten during tension headaches.. This is the top selling drug at our pharmacy month after month- it really helps headaches!
Soma (carisoprodol)
Soma is a muscle relaxant. It acts by blocking electrical signals among nerves in the reticular formation of the brain and in the spinal cord. Carisoprodol, combined with rest and physical therapy, is prescribed for the short term relief of painful muscle conditions- particularly muscle spasm (where the muscle tightens and does not relax). Most back strains result in muscle spasm, so patients find carisoprodol highly effective in relieving back pain.
Celebrex (celecoxib)
Celebrex is used in the treatment of symptoms of arthritis. This includes joint pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation. The medication does not cure arthritis, but does provide symptomatic relief. It s a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which relieves pain and inflammation. The drug works by blocking the production of prostaglandins in the body. Prostaglandins contribute to the pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
Ultram (tramadol)
Ultram is used for treatment of moderate to severe chronic pain. It binds to the opiod receptors on nerves (the same mechanism used by narcotics), but it has a far lower potential for dependency. It’s the closest medication to a narcotic you can order legally in the US online. It is not a NSAID (nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drug) and does not carry the risk of stomach ulceration and internal bleeding which can accompany the use of such medications. It is often prescribed for pain associated with shingles, fibromyalgia and other chronic diseases.
Ulracet
Ultracet is a combination of acetaminophen and tramadol. It is typically prescribed for the short term (up to five days) relief of moderately severe acute pain. It is often prescribed for post-surgical pain or after dental procedures.
The ultram mechanism as described above is very similar to the mechanism employed by narcotics. Acetaminophen of course is the active ingredient in Tylenol. It works by increasing the threshold to pain (i.e. it takes more pain stimulus to cause the sensation of pain). These two drugs work by different mechanisms, and they combine to be more effective than either drug alone.
Pain relief medication can be ordered safely online, but one should exercise appropriate caution before doing so. Specifically, it’s important to determine whether you need to see a physician before ordering pain medication. If you have a sudden onset of pain which is not readily explained, you should consult a physician first. If in doubt, go to the emergency room. If however you are a patient who has been diagnosed, and pain is a recurring problem, you can conveniently order pain medication online- typically at a lower cost than the combined cost of a doctor’s appointment and the medication itself.
Well, did you know the Drug Enforcement Agency of the United States (DEA) has busted and close over 5000 online pharmacies? Did you know that many online pharmacies sell counterfeit medication? Did you know it is a federal crime for you to order prescription drugs from outside the United States?
It is true, online pharmacies are a great source of pain relief medication. This article teaches you to order pain medication legally, from within the United States, with a legal prescription. It’s the only way to go!
First, the caveats: You cannot legally order medication from outside the United States, even if you have a prescription. We always hear about the elderly taking buses to Canada to buy cheap medicine. The fact is, as of this writing, this course is illegal. Also, you cannot legally order medicine from a pharmacy without a prescription. Many online pharmacies (including my own) have physicians on staff who review your medication request and write you a prescription if they think it’s safe. In addition, NEVER order narcotics through the mail. Forget codeine, Tylenol #3, oxycontin, demerol, percodan and percocet. You can be charged with a federal crime for buying these substances. Lastly, regardless of the medication you buy, be sure to read the package insert (or a monograph on my web site). Drugs interact with each other and with your body- the package insert will tip you off to potentially dangerous behavior with respect to the medication you ordered.
The following are quick summaries of common pain relief drugs you can order through the Internet with very little risk:
Fioricet (butalbital)
Fioricet is a combination drug. It is made up of acetaminophen, caffeine and butalbital. Acetaminophen is the same medication in Tylenol You know caffeine from coffee (or even your favorite candy bar.) Butalbital is a mild barbiturate. It relaxes you.
Medical Science does not have an explanation for the reason this combination of drugs works so well, but the fact is Fioricet (and its generic form butalbital) is highly effective for tension headache. Presumably, it relaxes the muscles in the head and neck which typically tighten during tension headaches.. This is the top selling drug at our pharmacy month after month- it really helps headaches!
Soma (carisoprodol)
Soma is a muscle relaxant. It acts by blocking electrical signals among nerves in the reticular formation of the brain and in the spinal cord. Carisoprodol, combined with rest and physical therapy, is prescribed for the short term relief of painful muscle conditions- particularly muscle spasm (where the muscle tightens and does not relax). Most back strains result in muscle spasm, so patients find carisoprodol highly effective in relieving back pain.
Celebrex (celecoxib)
Celebrex is used in the treatment of symptoms of arthritis. This includes joint pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation. The medication does not cure arthritis, but does provide symptomatic relief. It s a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which relieves pain and inflammation. The drug works by blocking the production of prostaglandins in the body. Prostaglandins contribute to the pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
Ultram (tramadol)
Ultram is used for treatment of moderate to severe chronic pain. It binds to the opiod receptors on nerves (the same mechanism used by narcotics), but it has a far lower potential for dependency. It’s the closest medication to a narcotic you can order legally in the US online. It is not a NSAID (nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drug) and does not carry the risk of stomach ulceration and internal bleeding which can accompany the use of such medications. It is often prescribed for pain associated with shingles, fibromyalgia and other chronic diseases.
Ulracet
Ultracet is a combination of acetaminophen and tramadol. It is typically prescribed for the short term (up to five days) relief of moderately severe acute pain. It is often prescribed for post-surgical pain or after dental procedures.
The ultram mechanism as described above is very similar to the mechanism employed by narcotics. Acetaminophen of course is the active ingredient in Tylenol. It works by increasing the threshold to pain (i.e. it takes more pain stimulus to cause the sensation of pain). These two drugs work by different mechanisms, and they combine to be more effective than either drug alone.
Pain relief medication can be ordered safely online, but one should exercise appropriate caution before doing so. Specifically, it’s important to determine whether you need to see a physician before ordering pain medication. If you have a sudden onset of pain which is not readily explained, you should consult a physician first. If in doubt, go to the emergency room. If however you are a patient who has been diagnosed, and pain is a recurring problem, you can conveniently order pain medication online- typically at a lower cost than the combined cost of a doctor’s appointment and the medication itself.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Bird Flu: Should You Stock Up on Medicines?
The bird flu virus called H5N1 can kill you. There is no bird flu epidemic in humans, but there could be. You can get bird flu only from birds. Since humans spend more time with humans than they do with birds, humans are at very low risk for bird flu. The concern is that H5N1 could mutate and be spread from human to human. This could cause an epidemic that could kill millions of people throughout the world.
At this time the only drugs we have to threat bird flu are Tamiflu and Relenza. On the first sign of chills or coughing during an epidemic, you would be instructed to take one Tamiflu pill twice a day for five days. This shortens the course of the disease by one day, which seems insignificant but could save your life. You could also take the drug prophylactically if you were exposed to people who have the flu. Relenza has to be inhaled , so you would take it only after you became sick.
If you hear that bird flu has mutated and is causing an epidemic among humans, you will want to get Tamiflu pills and have them ready if you need them. At this time it does not make sense to stockpile the drugs as there may never be a bird flu epidemic, the drugs are very expensive, and they have a limited shelf life.
At this time the only drugs we have to threat bird flu are Tamiflu and Relenza. On the first sign of chills or coughing during an epidemic, you would be instructed to take one Tamiflu pill twice a day for five days. This shortens the course of the disease by one day, which seems insignificant but could save your life. You could also take the drug prophylactically if you were exposed to people who have the flu. Relenza has to be inhaled , so you would take it only after you became sick.
If you hear that bird flu has mutated and is causing an epidemic among humans, you will want to get Tamiflu pills and have them ready if you need them. At this time it does not make sense to stockpile the drugs as there may never be a bird flu epidemic, the drugs are very expensive, and they have a limited shelf life.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Amantadine - Effective Anti-Viral Drug for Flu
The role of Influenza anti viral drugs will be of utmost importance if a pandemic breaks out, especially during the first wave of infection when pandemic vaccines may not be available. Anti Virals is the only option available for the prevention and treatment of Influenza in the absence of vaccines.
In the present scenario, we are encompassed with four types of Anti viral drugs which are miraculously effectual in shortening the course of infection if given early during the disease and are also capable of providing short term protection against Influenza.
They are:
* Amantadine
* Rimantadine
* Tamiflu
* Relenza
Amantadine- The medication is used to treat or prevent infections of the respiratory tract caused by a certain virus. It acts by slowing the growth of the virus. Amantadine is also used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease and to treat the side effects caused by certain psychiatric drugs.
Amantadine hydrochloride inhibits the replication of influenza A viruses at low concentrations. The exact mechanism of action is unknown.
In vitro human influenza viruses, including H1N1, H1N2, H2N2 and H3N2 subtypes are inhibited by 0.2 to 0.7 micrograms/ml or less of amantadine. It is recognized, however, that not all strains susceptible under in vitro conditions will be similarly affected in clinical practice.
The medication is only effective against the A influenza viruses. If used as a treatment it is not capable of preventing the host immune response for influenza A infection. Prophylactic administration has no effect on the host immune response to vaccination with the current inactivated influenza virus vaccines.
Amantadine Dosage- Generally the medication is recommended soon after the exposure is suspected and should be taken continuously for the next ten days. In case of recurrent or prolonged exposure, it is advised to continue with Amantadine dosage throughout the epidemic.
The suggested dosages of Amantadine for different age groups are as follows:
* Children aged five-nine years- 100mg once daily
* Children and adults aged 10-65 years- 100mg twice daily
* Adults over 65 years- 100mg once daily
Opt for Amantadine
The fact that makes Amantadine one of the best medications available against influenza is that it is anti-viral. Even antibiotics can kill bacteria but they are not effective against viral infection and since flu is a viral infection it deserves treatment through an anti-viral medication, which is Amantadine. So, you should look for the drug information number, or DIN, on the product, and buy amantadine from genuine internet pharmacies that provide a street address and telephone number in case there is a problem.
In the present scenario, we are encompassed with four types of Anti viral drugs which are miraculously effectual in shortening the course of infection if given early during the disease and are also capable of providing short term protection against Influenza.
They are:
* Amantadine
* Rimantadine
* Tamiflu
* Relenza
Amantadine- The medication is used to treat or prevent infections of the respiratory tract caused by a certain virus. It acts by slowing the growth of the virus. Amantadine is also used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease and to treat the side effects caused by certain psychiatric drugs.
Amantadine hydrochloride inhibits the replication of influenza A viruses at low concentrations. The exact mechanism of action is unknown.
In vitro human influenza viruses, including H1N1, H1N2, H2N2 and H3N2 subtypes are inhibited by 0.2 to 0.7 micrograms/ml or less of amantadine. It is recognized, however, that not all strains susceptible under in vitro conditions will be similarly affected in clinical practice.
The medication is only effective against the A influenza viruses. If used as a treatment it is not capable of preventing the host immune response for influenza A infection. Prophylactic administration has no effect on the host immune response to vaccination with the current inactivated influenza virus vaccines.
Amantadine Dosage- Generally the medication is recommended soon after the exposure is suspected and should be taken continuously for the next ten days. In case of recurrent or prolonged exposure, it is advised to continue with Amantadine dosage throughout the epidemic.
The suggested dosages of Amantadine for different age groups are as follows:
* Children aged five-nine years- 100mg once daily
* Children and adults aged 10-65 years- 100mg twice daily
* Adults over 65 years- 100mg once daily
Opt for Amantadine
The fact that makes Amantadine one of the best medications available against influenza is that it is anti-viral. Even antibiotics can kill bacteria but they are not effective against viral infection and since flu is a viral infection it deserves treatment through an anti-viral medication, which is Amantadine. So, you should look for the drug information number, or DIN, on the product, and buy amantadine from genuine internet pharmacies that provide a street address and telephone number in case there is a problem.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Keyhole Surgery Of The Shoulder - Who needs it in India?
‘Arthros’ means joint in Greek. The arthroscope is an instrument used by orthopaedic surgeons to look into joints. It is about 8- 10 inches long and is as thick as a pencil. There is a fibre optic lens system which transmits light from a cold light source outside and relays the interior image to a medical television monitor. In other words the arthroscope serves as a camera device to look into structures inside a joint. It is possible to diagnose pathological conditions not seen on X rays and sometimes even on MRI scans.
Who needs arthroscopy?
a)Rotator cuff tears, partial and complete
b)Recurrent dislocations
c)Frozen shoulder and adhesive capsulitis
d)Calcium deposition
e)Loose bodies
f)Osteoarthritis
Advantages
As there are no formal large incisions, post operative pain is minimal. Since muscles and tissues are not removed from their origins on bone, again the amount of inflammation is minimal. Recovery can be faster as it is not necessary for muscles to heal back. Cosmetically the procedure is very satisfying. There are no mental scars of open surgery. Return to sport or work is faster, hospital stays are shorter and hence bills are smaller. However arthroscopic equipment is expensive to hire or possess and the surgeon has to recover the cost of dispensable items like shavers, suture anchors. This is offset by enormous patient satisfaction.
Arthroscopic surgery by its simple nature provides an opportunity to the orthopaedic surgeon to examine the interior of a joint. After Knee arthroscopy, the shoulder is the joint which is suited for arthroscopic surgery. Other joints are the ankle, wrist and elbow. Indians and Asians in the Gulf get only short spells of leave to spend with their near and dear ones. They would benefit from undergoing Arthroscopic shoulder surgery for shoulder pain as the recovery is shorter.
The conditions treated by open surgery earlier are now treatable by arthroscopic surgery with remarkable success. Some hitherto unknown conditions have been diagnosed after the advent of arthroscopic surgery. Any painful or unstable condition of the shoulder except end stage arthritis can be treated by arthroscopic surgery. Shoulder replacement is not yet possible arthroscopically, but with minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery catching up, that may not be far off. It is certainly possible to introduce prosthesis for fracture fixation through key hole incisions and the same may be extended to joint replacement as well.
Arthroscopy can be diagnostic to confirm or make the diagnosis. X –rays do not reveal soft tissue pathology and many patients are frustrated when their orthopaedic surgeon dismisses their pain as of no significance just because the X-ray is normal. MRI and ultra sound are useful non invasive investigations but is operator dependent and need good musculo skeletal radiologists to interpret them.
Rotator cuff disease, instability, impingement due to bony outgrowths from the clavicle or the acromio clavicular joint can be trimmed arthroscopically. Infections can be drained. Recalcitrant calcium deposits can be needled and a frozen shoulder can be released arthroscopically. SLAP lesions are debrided and reconstructed by this method through small key hole incisions.
How is the procedure done?
Arthroscopic surgery is an elective or planned surgery. It is done under general anaesthesia. It is done as a day case which means that you may be discharged the same day (Day care or surgery). The instrument is introduced into the joint through small incisions about half centimeter long. Other instruments are also introduced and maneuvered to achieve the therapeutic goal.
Advantages
As there are no formal large incisions, post operative pain is minimal. Since muscles and tissues are not removed from their origins on bone, again the amount of inflammation is minimal. Recovery can be faster as it is not necessary for muscles to heal back. Cosmetically the procedure is very satisfying. There are no mental scars of open surgery. Return to sport or work is faster, hospital stays are shorter and hence bills are smaller. However arthroscopic equipment is expensive to hire or possess and the surgeon has to recover the cost of dispensable items like shavers, suture anchors. This is offset by enormous patient satisfaction.
Who needs arthroscopy?
a)Rotator cuff tears, partial and complete
b)Recurrent dislocations
c)Frozen shoulder and adhesive capsulitis
d)Calcium deposition
e)Loose bodies
f)Osteoarthritis
Advantages
As there are no formal large incisions, post operative pain is minimal. Since muscles and tissues are not removed from their origins on bone, again the amount of inflammation is minimal. Recovery can be faster as it is not necessary for muscles to heal back. Cosmetically the procedure is very satisfying. There are no mental scars of open surgery. Return to sport or work is faster, hospital stays are shorter and hence bills are smaller. However arthroscopic equipment is expensive to hire or possess and the surgeon has to recover the cost of dispensable items like shavers, suture anchors. This is offset by enormous patient satisfaction.
Arthroscopic surgery by its simple nature provides an opportunity to the orthopaedic surgeon to examine the interior of a joint. After Knee arthroscopy, the shoulder is the joint which is suited for arthroscopic surgery. Other joints are the ankle, wrist and elbow. Indians and Asians in the Gulf get only short spells of leave to spend with their near and dear ones. They would benefit from undergoing Arthroscopic shoulder surgery for shoulder pain as the recovery is shorter.
The conditions treated by open surgery earlier are now treatable by arthroscopic surgery with remarkable success. Some hitherto unknown conditions have been diagnosed after the advent of arthroscopic surgery. Any painful or unstable condition of the shoulder except end stage arthritis can be treated by arthroscopic surgery. Shoulder replacement is not yet possible arthroscopically, but with minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery catching up, that may not be far off. It is certainly possible to introduce prosthesis for fracture fixation through key hole incisions and the same may be extended to joint replacement as well.
Arthroscopy can be diagnostic to confirm or make the diagnosis. X –rays do not reveal soft tissue pathology and many patients are frustrated when their orthopaedic surgeon dismisses their pain as of no significance just because the X-ray is normal. MRI and ultra sound are useful non invasive investigations but is operator dependent and need good musculo skeletal radiologists to interpret them.
Rotator cuff disease, instability, impingement due to bony outgrowths from the clavicle or the acromio clavicular joint can be trimmed arthroscopically. Infections can be drained. Recalcitrant calcium deposits can be needled and a frozen shoulder can be released arthroscopically. SLAP lesions are debrided and reconstructed by this method through small key hole incisions.
How is the procedure done?
Arthroscopic surgery is an elective or planned surgery. It is done under general anaesthesia. It is done as a day case which means that you may be discharged the same day (Day care or surgery). The instrument is introduced into the joint through small incisions about half centimeter long. Other instruments are also introduced and maneuvered to achieve the therapeutic goal.
Advantages
As there are no formal large incisions, post operative pain is minimal. Since muscles and tissues are not removed from their origins on bone, again the amount of inflammation is minimal. Recovery can be faster as it is not necessary for muscles to heal back. Cosmetically the procedure is very satisfying. There are no mental scars of open surgery. Return to sport or work is faster, hospital stays are shorter and hence bills are smaller. However arthroscopic equipment is expensive to hire or possess and the surgeon has to recover the cost of dispensable items like shavers, suture anchors. This is offset by enormous patient satisfaction.
Friday, July 6, 2007
Plastic Surgery: Questions You Should Ask Before Going Under The Knife
Plastic surgery today has undergone a wide acceptance by society. Its popularity is most likely due to popular television shows and celebrity surgeries having removed the stigma to the point where it is considered an attainable and reasonable means of improving the appearance for almost anyone.
Additionally, the advancement of plastic technology means that many procedures are now quite common and offer very little risk. There are now limitless possibilities with plastic surgery, whether it is in the face, body or limbs. If your body bags, wrinkles, sags or pouches or if you feel something is too large, too small or even the wrong shape, cosmetic surgery can probably fix it. However it is important to keep in mind that no surgery is risk free and any person seriously contemplating plastic surgery should take the time to ask important questions as a part of their pre-surgery research.
One of the most important questions to ask, is "what are the risks?" And since all surgery carries some inherent risks, this is an aspect of cosmetic surgery that should be considered carefully before making a final decision. Even if your doctor is experienced and the risks are minimal you may still develop complications either during or after your surgery. You should therefore be sure to thoroughly review your health history with your doctor before commencing with any plastic surgery.
A good cosmetic surgeon will take your reasons for surgery into consideration and will be honest about the risks. Are you sure the risks outweigh the potential benefits? What, if any, follow up will be done by the surgeon? Will the doctor make adjustments if needed? How will complications be handled? How much time will you need to recover and what are the expected side effects of surgery?
Another important consideration you should carefully examine is your reason for plastic surgery.
Although the makeovers on television may give the impression that cosmetic surgery can improve the quality of your life it is vitally important that you have a realistic outlook on the impact of surgery.
When discussing cosmetic surgery with a doctor, they should also tell you the options that are available and any alternatives to surgery. You shouldn't be pressured into unnecessary surgery. An informed consent document should be signed prior to surgery.
Fourthly, since not all surgical procedures need to be preformed in a hospital, another critical part of your research should be to thoroughly investigate the accreditation of your surgeon. You should check to make sure that your plastic surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS) or a similar a organization in your country.
Ask the surgeon if they have hospital privileges. Having hospital privileges means that a hospital committee has approved the doctor's training and competency to meet their criteria for performing a similar operation in their facilities. Also, even if your surgery is performed in an office, verify that there will be appropriate medical personnel on hand and that the facilities are clean and medical waste is properly disposed of.
You should ask your personal physician for referrals as well. It is important that you find a surgeon that you feel comfortable with. You want to feel free to ask questions and to make certain they understand what you are hoping to achieve - after all, this isn't a hair cut - you want it to be right the first time.
Last, but not least, cost is an important consideration when thinking about plastic surgery. And while this may be the first questions that comes to some people's minds, in reality you should only consider this after determining whether you really need surgery. Costs vary widely and should not be the basis for your decision. The qualifications of the doctor and your comfort with him or her are of far greater significance than the cost since you will undoubtedly pay more if you encounter complications or are unhappy with the results.
Furthermore, depending on the reason for the surgery you may have some of the costs covered by insurance or state run medical programs. However, if cosmetic surgery (also called 'elective') is not seen as a medical and necessity it will not likely be covered by insurance.
Additionally, the advancement of plastic technology means that many procedures are now quite common and offer very little risk. There are now limitless possibilities with plastic surgery, whether it is in the face, body or limbs. If your body bags, wrinkles, sags or pouches or if you feel something is too large, too small or even the wrong shape, cosmetic surgery can probably fix it. However it is important to keep in mind that no surgery is risk free and any person seriously contemplating plastic surgery should take the time to ask important questions as a part of their pre-surgery research.
One of the most important questions to ask, is "what are the risks?" And since all surgery carries some inherent risks, this is an aspect of cosmetic surgery that should be considered carefully before making a final decision. Even if your doctor is experienced and the risks are minimal you may still develop complications either during or after your surgery. You should therefore be sure to thoroughly review your health history with your doctor before commencing with any plastic surgery.
A good cosmetic surgeon will take your reasons for surgery into consideration and will be honest about the risks. Are you sure the risks outweigh the potential benefits? What, if any, follow up will be done by the surgeon? Will the doctor make adjustments if needed? How will complications be handled? How much time will you need to recover and what are the expected side effects of surgery?
Another important consideration you should carefully examine is your reason for plastic surgery.
Although the makeovers on television may give the impression that cosmetic surgery can improve the quality of your life it is vitally important that you have a realistic outlook on the impact of surgery.
When discussing cosmetic surgery with a doctor, they should also tell you the options that are available and any alternatives to surgery. You shouldn't be pressured into unnecessary surgery. An informed consent document should be signed prior to surgery.
Fourthly, since not all surgical procedures need to be preformed in a hospital, another critical part of your research should be to thoroughly investigate the accreditation of your surgeon. You should check to make sure that your plastic surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS) or a similar a organization in your country.
Ask the surgeon if they have hospital privileges. Having hospital privileges means that a hospital committee has approved the doctor's training and competency to meet their criteria for performing a similar operation in their facilities. Also, even if your surgery is performed in an office, verify that there will be appropriate medical personnel on hand and that the facilities are clean and medical waste is properly disposed of.
You should ask your personal physician for referrals as well. It is important that you find a surgeon that you feel comfortable with. You want to feel free to ask questions and to make certain they understand what you are hoping to achieve - after all, this isn't a hair cut - you want it to be right the first time.
Last, but not least, cost is an important consideration when thinking about plastic surgery. And while this may be the first questions that comes to some people's minds, in reality you should only consider this after determining whether you really need surgery. Costs vary widely and should not be the basis for your decision. The qualifications of the doctor and your comfort with him or her are of far greater significance than the cost since you will undoubtedly pay more if you encounter complications or are unhappy with the results.
Furthermore, depending on the reason for the surgery you may have some of the costs covered by insurance or state run medical programs. However, if cosmetic surgery (also called 'elective') is not seen as a medical and necessity it will not likely be covered by insurance.
Docs Giving Wrong Rx to Kids with Sore Throats?
For years, there has been concern that antibiotics are overprescribed, and with good cause. Despite clear guidelines calling for prior testing, physicians prescribed antibiotics in 53 percent of sore throat cases in children, researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) and Children's Hospital Boston found in a recent study.
This represents significantly more prescriptions than warranted for actual rates -- 15-36 percent -- of strep throat among kids with sore throat. Furthermore, almost half of those prescriptions were given in the absence of a test. Details of this research appear in the November 9, 2005, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Group A streptococcal pharyngitis, or strep throat, is the most common cause of sore throat for which antibiotics are indicated. However, many leading health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics say that a common "strep" test should be performed prior to prescribing recommended antibiotics.
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
"This study demonstrates that children with sore throat are frequently given unnecessary antibiotics," says lead author Jeffrey A. Linder, MD, MPH, a BWH internist.
"This overprescribing of antibiotics could be easily remedied by following known guidelines, which include doing a simple, inexpensive strep test," he adds.
"This is critical for not just children but all patients," Dr. Linder notes, "as unnecessary prescription of antibiotics can lead to a variety of issues, including increased costs, the potential development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and adverse drug effects."
Researchers analyzed data from children aged 3 to 17 years from 1995 to 2003 with sore throat who visited office-based physicians, hospital outpatient departments and emergency departments.
Among an estimated 7.3 million visits for sore throat over this time period, physicians prescribed antibiotics in 53 percent of the cases, the researchers found.
Just 15 to 36 percent of children with sore throat actually have the strep throat bacterium, according to estimates. But only 53 percent of those who were given the antibiotics had been tested first.
Testing Is Underused
Over the eight-year time period of the study, physicians prescribed antibiotics less frequently, the researchers found, which suggests an encouraging trend. In 1995, 66 percent of cases were given antibiotics, decreasing to 54 percent of cases in 2003.
Still, there was no decrease in the prescribing of non-recommended antibiotics, which made up 27 percent of antibiotic prescriptions, Dr. Linder points out. Recommended antibiotics for the treatment of strep throat are penicillin, amoxicillin, erythromycin and first-generation cephalosporins.
"Strep testing is underused, and physicians should be ordering this important diagnostic test before prescribing antibiotics to kids with sore throat," emphasizes Dr. Linder.
"Instead of writing a prescription, physicians should order a test and make sure they are treating kids' symptoms by offering a pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen," he advises.
This represents significantly more prescriptions than warranted for actual rates -- 15-36 percent -- of strep throat among kids with sore throat. Furthermore, almost half of those prescriptions were given in the absence of a test. Details of this research appear in the November 9, 2005, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Group A streptococcal pharyngitis, or strep throat, is the most common cause of sore throat for which antibiotics are indicated. However, many leading health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics say that a common "strep" test should be performed prior to prescribing recommended antibiotics.
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
"This study demonstrates that children with sore throat are frequently given unnecessary antibiotics," says lead author Jeffrey A. Linder, MD, MPH, a BWH internist.
"This overprescribing of antibiotics could be easily remedied by following known guidelines, which include doing a simple, inexpensive strep test," he adds.
"This is critical for not just children but all patients," Dr. Linder notes, "as unnecessary prescription of antibiotics can lead to a variety of issues, including increased costs, the potential development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and adverse drug effects."
Researchers analyzed data from children aged 3 to 17 years from 1995 to 2003 with sore throat who visited office-based physicians, hospital outpatient departments and emergency departments.
Among an estimated 7.3 million visits for sore throat over this time period, physicians prescribed antibiotics in 53 percent of the cases, the researchers found.
Just 15 to 36 percent of children with sore throat actually have the strep throat bacterium, according to estimates. But only 53 percent of those who were given the antibiotics had been tested first.
Testing Is Underused
Over the eight-year time period of the study, physicians prescribed antibiotics less frequently, the researchers found, which suggests an encouraging trend. In 1995, 66 percent of cases were given antibiotics, decreasing to 54 percent of cases in 2003.
Still, there was no decrease in the prescribing of non-recommended antibiotics, which made up 27 percent of antibiotic prescriptions, Dr. Linder points out. Recommended antibiotics for the treatment of strep throat are penicillin, amoxicillin, erythromycin and first-generation cephalosporins.
"Strep testing is underused, and physicians should be ordering this important diagnostic test before prescribing antibiotics to kids with sore throat," emphasizes Dr. Linder.
"Instead of writing a prescription, physicians should order a test and make sure they are treating kids' symptoms by offering a pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen," he advises.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Sleeping Pill Facts
Have you ever thought about taking a sleeping pill to get you that good night’s rest that you have been searching for? Many people suffer from insomnia to some degree or another or just have an occasional hard time sleeping due to tension, pain, depression, or one of many other causes. It can be a tempting option to think that just by popping a pill you can settle down for a restful night. You can find a wide variety of sleeping pill products over the counter at your local drug store, grocery store, or even a discount store. But, is this the best way for you to get to sleep? The answer is—maybe, maybe not.
How Does This Type Of Drug Work?
There are actually a couple of different ways that a sleep aid can work. Some are anti-histamines that simply make you drowsy. Other types of sleeping pill options are sedatives or hypnotics that relax your muscles or act as an anti-anxiety agent. If you have been struggling with sleep issues for a while, it may not hurt to give one of these products a try but it should not be done on a long term basis.
Dangers
The dangers of using these medications are numerous. They can become extremely addictive because you need them to get to sleep and the longer you take a sleeping pill the more that you will need to take to get to sleep. You may also still be sleepy after it is time for you to be awake and drowsiness while driving or performing some tasks can be very dangerous. It also may be masking a more serious problem.
If you are taking a sleeping pill because you have chronic pain, it would be a better idea to visit your doctor to find out what the cause of your pain is than to continue taking the sleep aid. The same can be true for many other chronic sleep problems. If they last longer than a few days, you should definitely consult a medical professional before you over-medicate yourself.
Taking a sleeping pill can also aggravate conditions such as glaucoma, hyperthyroidism and sleep apnea. If you take an anti-histamine based sleep-aid it can actually cause you to become more excitable and unable to sleep.
Simple Aternatives
There are many alternatives to taking a sleeping pill. Some natural ways that will help you to sleep better include: drinking a warm glass of milk (no, it is not just an “old wives tale,) limiting caffeine and other drinks after dinner, exercising (especially if it is done earlier in the day,) and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, may all work as well as taking a sleeping pill.
How Does This Type Of Drug Work?
There are actually a couple of different ways that a sleep aid can work. Some are anti-histamines that simply make you drowsy. Other types of sleeping pill options are sedatives or hypnotics that relax your muscles or act as an anti-anxiety agent. If you have been struggling with sleep issues for a while, it may not hurt to give one of these products a try but it should not be done on a long term basis.
Dangers
The dangers of using these medications are numerous. They can become extremely addictive because you need them to get to sleep and the longer you take a sleeping pill the more that you will need to take to get to sleep. You may also still be sleepy after it is time for you to be awake and drowsiness while driving or performing some tasks can be very dangerous. It also may be masking a more serious problem.
If you are taking a sleeping pill because you have chronic pain, it would be a better idea to visit your doctor to find out what the cause of your pain is than to continue taking the sleep aid. The same can be true for many other chronic sleep problems. If they last longer than a few days, you should definitely consult a medical professional before you over-medicate yourself.
Taking a sleeping pill can also aggravate conditions such as glaucoma, hyperthyroidism and sleep apnea. If you take an anti-histamine based sleep-aid it can actually cause you to become more excitable and unable to sleep.
Simple Aternatives
There are many alternatives to taking a sleeping pill. Some natural ways that will help you to sleep better include: drinking a warm glass of milk (no, it is not just an “old wives tale,) limiting caffeine and other drinks after dinner, exercising (especially if it is done earlier in the day,) and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, may all work as well as taking a sleeping pill.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Costmetic Dentistry and Other
Dentistry is the widely used "practical application of knowledge of dental science (the science of placement, arrangement, function of teeth and their supporting bones and soft tissues) to human beings." I'm sure you can see why in most countries, many years of training are required in university in order to become an actual dentist. A dentist is what we call a professional practitioner of dentistry. This "Dentist" has normally studied between 4-8 years at university and will normally also have alot of practical experience with working on actual patients, often times accompianed by a more experienced dentist.
Dental Public Health - Which is the study of dental epidemiology and social health policies
Endodontics - Which is root canal therapy
Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology - Which is the study, diagnosis, and often the treatment of oral and maxillofacial related diseases
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology - Which is the study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Which is the extractions and facial surgery
Orthodontics - Which is straightening of teeth
Pedodontics - Which is pediatric dentistry for children
Periodontics - Which is treatment of gum disease
Prosthodontics - Which is the replacement of missing facial anatomy by prostheses such as dentures, bridges and implants
Often times visiting the Dentis is an un-nerving situation. Rest assured that if you are going to a qualified dentist, they have all of the training that is required to perform what it is that you require. If you are still un-easy or having a problem choosing a dentist in your area, you might want to talk those around you and find out who has had good and bad experiences and where.
Dental Public Health - Which is the study of dental epidemiology and social health policies
Endodontics - Which is root canal therapy
Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology - Which is the study, diagnosis, and often the treatment of oral and maxillofacial related diseases
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology - Which is the study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Which is the extractions and facial surgery
Orthodontics - Which is straightening of teeth
Pedodontics - Which is pediatric dentistry for children
Periodontics - Which is treatment of gum disease
Prosthodontics - Which is the replacement of missing facial anatomy by prostheses such as dentures, bridges and implants
Often times visiting the Dentis is an un-nerving situation. Rest assured that if you are going to a qualified dentist, they have all of the training that is required to perform what it is that you require. If you are still un-easy or having a problem choosing a dentist in your area, you might want to talk those around you and find out who has had good and bad experiences and where.
Cure for Myasthenia Gravis
Is modern medicine close to finding a cure for Myasthenia Gravis? Is modern medicine at least heading in the right direction to find a cure for myasthenia gravis? I believe the answer is an obvious NO to both questions.
I say that because modern medicine hasn’t developed a single cure for ANY of the eighty or so autoimmune diseases of which myasthenia gravis is just one. No cures either for heart disease or cancer, which are the biggest killers of people in the developed world. After more than a century of sophisticated research into these areas of medicine, still no cures. Doesn’t that seem a little strange?
It does to me. In fact it leads me to the conclusion that modern medicine has its focus in the wrong direction.
If you had a bath that was overflowing water on to the floor, what would you do first? Would you start mopping up the water and just keep mopping? Or would you look for the cause first, then turn off the tap? Of course, anyone with the slightest bit of common sense would look for the cause first.
Well modern medicine seems to function with very little common sense because the doctors are all still mopping and the water is running faster every year as cancer, heart disease and autoimmune diseases continue to increase in most developed countries.
The focus stays on managing and treating instead of preventing and curing. And the focus stays on using drugs as the predominate method to manage and treat. Still that isn’t surprising as the large pharmaceutical companies fund most medical research.
So when I developed myasthenia gravis, I immediately realised that if I didn’t have it one week and did have it the next, then something had changed and there must be a cause. It was obvious that I needed to determine the likely cause and fix it.
I started researching and my research led me to some amazing facts. The first fact that I wasn’t aware of is that myasthenia gravis and the other eighty or so autoimmune diseases have only become common during the last hundred or so years. The same is true for cancer and heart disease. This is an incredibly short period of time in the history of the human race as hominids (human like species) date back 4.4 million years.
As I continued my research it became obvious that these are ‘lifestyle’ diseases and it’s now being proven in many studies that we have brought this on ourselves. The outbreak of these diseases has now reached epidemic proportions. How have we done that?
1. We have destroyed the nutritional value of foods and added countless harmful chemicals and come up with a world of processed convenience foods.
2. We have become lazier and busier year after year to the point that on average our levels of physical fitness (especially cardiovascular fitness) are pathetic.
3. We have developed lifestyles that contain constant stress. Constant stress that doesn’t go away (chronic stress) is now common in the western world. It can even be low level stress, but over time, it causes serious chemical imbalances in our bodies.
4. We have also added an incredible amount of toxins, pollutants and electrical radiation to our daily environment.
The task ahead of me was obvious. If I wanted to cure my myasthenia gravis the first thing I had to do was remove the things that may have caused it. I had to focus on removing, or at least reducing to the best of my ability, the four problem areas I mentioned previously. I have a lot of faith in the ability of the human body to heal itself if we will only give it a chance.
I was really pleased when I completely eliminated my Myasthenia Gravis but actually wasn’t surprised as it all just makes sense.
I just worked hard at correcting those four problems most of us have in our lives.
I find it frustrating that little or no funding is ever available for in-depth studies to be performed on using natural methods like nutrition, exercise, stress relief, etc. to prevent and cure diseases like Myasthenia Gravis. Imagine if the same billions of dollars were invested into natural medicine. There would be some startling results. Unfortunately, the fact remains that this won’t happen because there are little or no profits to be made preventing or curing disease, especially in a natural way.
So once again, it’s up to us to use some common sense and realise that our bodies cannot stay healthy and disease free when we spend year after year abusing them with poor nutrition, little exercise, chronic stress, etc. Sooner or later something has to give. For me it was an autoimmune disease known as myasthenia gravis. For others it is cancer or heart disease.
I say that because modern medicine hasn’t developed a single cure for ANY of the eighty or so autoimmune diseases of which myasthenia gravis is just one. No cures either for heart disease or cancer, which are the biggest killers of people in the developed world. After more than a century of sophisticated research into these areas of medicine, still no cures. Doesn’t that seem a little strange?
It does to me. In fact it leads me to the conclusion that modern medicine has its focus in the wrong direction.
If you had a bath that was overflowing water on to the floor, what would you do first? Would you start mopping up the water and just keep mopping? Or would you look for the cause first, then turn off the tap? Of course, anyone with the slightest bit of common sense would look for the cause first.
Well modern medicine seems to function with very little common sense because the doctors are all still mopping and the water is running faster every year as cancer, heart disease and autoimmune diseases continue to increase in most developed countries.
The focus stays on managing and treating instead of preventing and curing. And the focus stays on using drugs as the predominate method to manage and treat. Still that isn’t surprising as the large pharmaceutical companies fund most medical research.
So when I developed myasthenia gravis, I immediately realised that if I didn’t have it one week and did have it the next, then something had changed and there must be a cause. It was obvious that I needed to determine the likely cause and fix it.
I started researching and my research led me to some amazing facts. The first fact that I wasn’t aware of is that myasthenia gravis and the other eighty or so autoimmune diseases have only become common during the last hundred or so years. The same is true for cancer and heart disease. This is an incredibly short period of time in the history of the human race as hominids (human like species) date back 4.4 million years.
As I continued my research it became obvious that these are ‘lifestyle’ diseases and it’s now being proven in many studies that we have brought this on ourselves. The outbreak of these diseases has now reached epidemic proportions. How have we done that?
1. We have destroyed the nutritional value of foods and added countless harmful chemicals and come up with a world of processed convenience foods.
2. We have become lazier and busier year after year to the point that on average our levels of physical fitness (especially cardiovascular fitness) are pathetic.
3. We have developed lifestyles that contain constant stress. Constant stress that doesn’t go away (chronic stress) is now common in the western world. It can even be low level stress, but over time, it causes serious chemical imbalances in our bodies.
4. We have also added an incredible amount of toxins, pollutants and electrical radiation to our daily environment.
The task ahead of me was obvious. If I wanted to cure my myasthenia gravis the first thing I had to do was remove the things that may have caused it. I had to focus on removing, or at least reducing to the best of my ability, the four problem areas I mentioned previously. I have a lot of faith in the ability of the human body to heal itself if we will only give it a chance.
I was really pleased when I completely eliminated my Myasthenia Gravis but actually wasn’t surprised as it all just makes sense.
I just worked hard at correcting those four problems most of us have in our lives.
I find it frustrating that little or no funding is ever available for in-depth studies to be performed on using natural methods like nutrition, exercise, stress relief, etc. to prevent and cure diseases like Myasthenia Gravis. Imagine if the same billions of dollars were invested into natural medicine. There would be some startling results. Unfortunately, the fact remains that this won’t happen because there are little or no profits to be made preventing or curing disease, especially in a natural way.
So once again, it’s up to us to use some common sense and realise that our bodies cannot stay healthy and disease free when we spend year after year abusing them with poor nutrition, little exercise, chronic stress, etc. Sooner or later something has to give. For me it was an autoimmune disease known as myasthenia gravis. For others it is cancer or heart disease.
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Naturopathic Medicine Practices
Naturopathic medicine is a form of medicine that attempts to improve the health of an individual by applying natural remedies. It should be noted that naturopathy is at the most of times used to complement, nor supplement conventional medicine.
Naturopathy was first heard talked about around 1900 by Benedict Lust. Schooled in hydrotherapy and other natural practices in Germanty, Lust was sent to the United States to share the practices in which him and his father Sebastio Kneipp has discovered. Shortly there after in 1905, Lust started and was the founder of the American School of Naturopathy in new York, which was the first naturopathic college in all of the United States.
Lust has great success in the early years, however after the 1930's naturopathy medicine. went into a recession with the discovery of penicillin. With it most other natural health professions declined as well. The post war era brought about several new drugs such as antibiotics and corticosteroids which changed the way we looked at medicine.
Although greatly reduced in the post war era, naturopathic medicine never completely stopped. One of the greatest modern steps back toward the practice was in 1956 when the National College of naturopathic Medicine was opened in Portland, Oregon. This school was the first modern school of the practice, and offered 4 year medical training in naturopathy, with the goal of integrating naturopthic practices back into the mainstream system.
Naturopathy was first heard talked about around 1900 by Benedict Lust. Schooled in hydrotherapy and other natural practices in Germanty, Lust was sent to the United States to share the practices in which him and his father Sebastio Kneipp has discovered. Shortly there after in 1905, Lust started and was the founder of the American School of Naturopathy in new York, which was the first naturopathic college in all of the United States.
Lust has great success in the early years, however after the 1930's naturopathy medicine. went into a recession with the discovery of penicillin. With it most other natural health professions declined as well. The post war era brought about several new drugs such as antibiotics and corticosteroids which changed the way we looked at medicine.
Although greatly reduced in the post war era, naturopathic medicine never completely stopped. One of the greatest modern steps back toward the practice was in 1956 when the National College of naturopathic Medicine was opened in Portland, Oregon. This school was the first modern school of the practice, and offered 4 year medical training in naturopathy, with the goal of integrating naturopthic practices back into the mainstream system.
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