For many of us, a visit to the dentist can be a stressful and traumatic experience.
Granted, today’s dentistry is relatively painless, but nevertheless the fear of a needle (the anesthetic injection) and a drill whizzing at nearly the speed of sound in your mouth could un-nerve even a gladiator.
There are some pre-visit preparations that you can engage in, and also some calming herbal teas to bring you closer to a quiet state.
We all worry, as Mark Twain said, “about many things that never come to be”. Here we shall tell you how to prepare, and behave at the dentist. Age, sex, and strength have nothing to do with it. The mighty elephant fears the lowly mouse.
First of all, its best to book your dentist appointment in the morning. Your nerves will be the calmest after a night’s sleep, and the stress of the day will not yet be upon you.
During the breakfast the morning of the appointment, avoid coffee, and tea. Instead, make an infusion (soaked herbs in hot water for about 20 minutes) of fresh mint leaves.
This will have the effect to lower your blood pressure, and calm the nerves. It acts almost as a tranquilizer.
Eat also sparingly, something like dry toast and some fruit. Leave your stomach half empty. Set out for the dentist, but repeat to yourself that you are in command of your nerves and not your nerves in command of you! Be resolute.
Arriving at the dentist, while waiting for your appointment, continue with your affirmation, close your eyes and try and relax your body by deep breathing; inhaling from the nose and exhaling from the mouth. Practice until you are called.
Arriving to the dentist, express your anxiety, and the steps you have taken to alleviate it. If allowed, ask the dentist if you can listen to an MP3 player (yours or the dentists), during the procedure.
Most dentists will permit this, as they know that the music will divert your attention away from the mouth and teeth, thus reducing pent-up fear. If the dentist is in agreement, fit the player’s earphones to your ears and lay back.
The dentist may need to speak a bit with you before this happens, but when the dentist begins, its best his or her attention is on your teeth and not your fears or problems.
At this point, turn your palms up on the dentist’s chair armrests. This is very important, as it will prevent also your muscles from tensing. You are forcing your body to relax, even if you mind would keep it tense. All though the procedure, remember to keep you palms facing upwards.
If you need anesthesia, keep your eyes closed. The syringe is by necessity very large, and the needle long. Your dentist will usually put a pre-anesthesia gel on your gums so the injection itself is not painful either. Its best to keep your eyes closed.
As the anesthesia starts working, concentrate on your music, and not the dentist. He or she knows what they are doing and you should be confident of them, or you should not be at that dentist.
Make sure your MP3 tracks will cover the whole of the session. Dentists don’t like to work more than two hours without a break, and for good reason. They become fatigued themselves, as well as their patient.
If you are still stressful into the procedure, ask to practice once again your breathing and relaxation technique.
Go back to the chair with resolve that you are in command of your nerves and not your nerves in command of you.
Believe it, and it will be true. This break will refresh you and the dentist as well, and know it will quickly be over.
Keep in mind a special treat for yourself at the end of the day; as a reward for conquering your fear and anxiety.
Have this in mind as the dentist is in the last phase of your appointment. You will feel relieved only at the thought only.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Stick a Needle in My Eye
I’ve got a leaky right eye. It doesn't hurt, but it’s a nuisance so I made an appointment with the ophthalmologist. The receptionist told me that I'd need a driver because I'd be blinded to some nebulous degree; my Aunt Pat and Uncle Don graciously offered to taxi me and watch my 10-month old son, Jonah, while I was in with the doc.
Early one snow-squally morning, we all arrive at the giant, megaplex office. Thank God they have a children’s playroom, because Jonah has been walking since he was 8 months old and can be quite the handful if left to his own devices.
When they call my name, I hand Pat the stocked diaper bag and breathe a prayer that Jonah avoids pitching a Class-A fit. Jonah, thankfully, doesn’t see me leave the room because he’s too busy trying to stuff a germ-ridden playroom toy into his mouth. So far, so good.
First I’m led into a room containing what looks like a dentist’s chair. There the nurse sits me down and performs the standard eye chart test. (Is there any sighted person who can’t read that big-ass “E”?) Then she tells me the doctor will be right in. I sit there waiting: calm, ready to be examined, and altogether ignorant of my fate.
Shortly thereafter, the doc himself appears: Ophthalmologist Extraordinaire, maybe 30 years old, looking slightly bored. He takes an obligatory glance at my chart and then asks why I’m there.
“My right eye is leaking,” I tell him. “Actually, it’s watering right now,” I add helpfully.
He nods, turns, and writes something on the chart. I can tell right away that this doctor was not head of the Bedside Manner 101 class at the University of Ophthalmology.
After a few more questions, he repeats the eye chart test and tells me that he's going to put numbing drops in my eyes. The word ‘numbing’ is a bright, clanging alarm bell. I don’t think my eyes have ever been numb before, and I really don't want to participate in any activity that’s going to require loss of feeling in my ocular region.
"Are you going to do that test where there's a loud noise and a puff of air blasts into your eye?" I ask hopefully. I’ve had that test before, and the puff of air scared me but it didn’t hurt at all.
"No.”
No explanation or alternative answer. Just no.
Quickly, as if guarding against any possibility of my escape, he guides my head into the metal torture-chamber-looking contraption. A machine comes whirring toward me and I valiantly attempt to stay calm. Hold my breath. Trust. Suddenly I can tell that something is touching my eyes, but I can't really feel it so it's not that bad.
I sit back in the chair and he again writes something in the folder.
Out of nowhere, slowly but with ever-increasing speed, I become Juliet after drinking her poison. I'm shaking...my vision is clouded with angry, furry, marching black clouds. My hands join my eyes in the heavy slump of the numb.
"I don't feel so well," I manage to whisper, whimpering like a 4 year old. "I'm very dizzy."
I break into a sweat and begin to swoon. I ask for the garbage can and lean over it quickly, ropes of my instantly saturated hair hanging limp against its blessed coolness.
The fight begins: Puke vs. Pass Out. I can feel the darkness take me but my stomach wants to heave first. Puke and Pass Out battle, locked in combat. With a mighty effort, Puke is abruptly victorious and I vomit.
Eventually I lift my head, a string of drool stretching from the can to my trembling lip. “What’s happening?” I gasp, convinced I am dying.
Ophthalmologist Extraordinaire hands me a lukewarm, wet towel for my forehead and pauses. He mutters a Greek-sounding medical phrase and settles himself more comfortably on the stool. I am not looking at him but I can clearly envision him frowning. Sighing. Checking his watch.
He repeats the strange medical term and adds blandly, “You’ve had a very rare reaction to the stress test. Usually it happens to males, not females.”
Females? Am I a laboratory rat?
Mr. Pass Out comes knocking again. I concentrate on breathing deep and begin to feel a little better. Meanwhile, the doc has snuck up alongside of me and is adjusting my chair. Without warning I am guided backward until I am practically lying down. The black clouds regroup for another storm, so I resist this new position and try to sit up.
“I’d rather sit forward,” I protest weakly. I remember feeling faint in elementary school, the school nurse telling me to drink some water and put my head between my legs. “May I have a glass of water?” I add pitifully.
He starts, as if from a reverie, and nods. “Sure.” He returns about seven minutes later with a very full, heavy glass of almost-hot water.
Then he tells me he’s going to leave me alone for a little while to relax with my hot water cocktail and my garbage can, because he has a few more things he needs to do but wants me to rest first.
As he exits the room it occurs to me that I have no idea whether ten minutes or one hour has passed. I perk up my ears for the telltale sound of Jonah’s wail, but hear instead a blessed silence.
When the doc returns, he smiles vaguely as though nothing has happened. I survive the eye dilation drops easily enough because this time I suggest that he kindly explain to me what he is going to do before he does it.
After this, he flatly states that next on the agenda of fun-things-to-do-in-the-doctor's-office is a procedure they like to call STICKING A NEEDLE IN YOUR EYE. "I'll inject saline into your tear duct opening,” he explains, “and if you can't taste the saline, I'll know the duct is blocked." In the distance, I hear Jonah’s distinct cry and wonder if he can somehow sense his hapless mother’s distress.
Gulping, I ask what happens if the tear duct IS blocked.
"At a later date, I’ll perform surgery and make an incision through the bone in your nose to open up the duct."
I feel a sudden rush of empowerment.
There is no way this man is going to stick a needle in my eye, let alone perform surgery on me.
I ask if people ever just live with this leaky-eye thing. The doc shrugs. "Sure they do," he says. Without any hesitation whatsoever I tell him that I am going to be one of those people. I have taken control of my situation, and it is good.
We end the appointment after the doc mentions that I need to come back in a year for a check-up. I nod and rise from my chair to answer Jonah’s crescendoing cry of distress.
Inside, though, I am laughing - albeit weakly - for I am certain that I will never again willingly encounter him in any kind of patient/doctor capacity.
Early one snow-squally morning, we all arrive at the giant, megaplex office. Thank God they have a children’s playroom, because Jonah has been walking since he was 8 months old and can be quite the handful if left to his own devices.
When they call my name, I hand Pat the stocked diaper bag and breathe a prayer that Jonah avoids pitching a Class-A fit. Jonah, thankfully, doesn’t see me leave the room because he’s too busy trying to stuff a germ-ridden playroom toy into his mouth. So far, so good.
First I’m led into a room containing what looks like a dentist’s chair. There the nurse sits me down and performs the standard eye chart test. (Is there any sighted person who can’t read that big-ass “E”?) Then she tells me the doctor will be right in. I sit there waiting: calm, ready to be examined, and altogether ignorant of my fate.
Shortly thereafter, the doc himself appears: Ophthalmologist Extraordinaire, maybe 30 years old, looking slightly bored. He takes an obligatory glance at my chart and then asks why I’m there.
“My right eye is leaking,” I tell him. “Actually, it’s watering right now,” I add helpfully.
He nods, turns, and writes something on the chart. I can tell right away that this doctor was not head of the Bedside Manner 101 class at the University of Ophthalmology.
After a few more questions, he repeats the eye chart test and tells me that he's going to put numbing drops in my eyes. The word ‘numbing’ is a bright, clanging alarm bell. I don’t think my eyes have ever been numb before, and I really don't want to participate in any activity that’s going to require loss of feeling in my ocular region.
"Are you going to do that test where there's a loud noise and a puff of air blasts into your eye?" I ask hopefully. I’ve had that test before, and the puff of air scared me but it didn’t hurt at all.
"No.”
No explanation or alternative answer. Just no.
Quickly, as if guarding against any possibility of my escape, he guides my head into the metal torture-chamber-looking contraption. A machine comes whirring toward me and I valiantly attempt to stay calm. Hold my breath. Trust. Suddenly I can tell that something is touching my eyes, but I can't really feel it so it's not that bad.
I sit back in the chair and he again writes something in the folder.
Out of nowhere, slowly but with ever-increasing speed, I become Juliet after drinking her poison. I'm shaking...my vision is clouded with angry, furry, marching black clouds. My hands join my eyes in the heavy slump of the numb.
"I don't feel so well," I manage to whisper, whimpering like a 4 year old. "I'm very dizzy."
I break into a sweat and begin to swoon. I ask for the garbage can and lean over it quickly, ropes of my instantly saturated hair hanging limp against its blessed coolness.
The fight begins: Puke vs. Pass Out. I can feel the darkness take me but my stomach wants to heave first. Puke and Pass Out battle, locked in combat. With a mighty effort, Puke is abruptly victorious and I vomit.
Eventually I lift my head, a string of drool stretching from the can to my trembling lip. “What’s happening?” I gasp, convinced I am dying.
Ophthalmologist Extraordinaire hands me a lukewarm, wet towel for my forehead and pauses. He mutters a Greek-sounding medical phrase and settles himself more comfortably on the stool. I am not looking at him but I can clearly envision him frowning. Sighing. Checking his watch.
He repeats the strange medical term and adds blandly, “You’ve had a very rare reaction to the stress test. Usually it happens to males, not females.”
Females? Am I a laboratory rat?
Mr. Pass Out comes knocking again. I concentrate on breathing deep and begin to feel a little better. Meanwhile, the doc has snuck up alongside of me and is adjusting my chair. Without warning I am guided backward until I am practically lying down. The black clouds regroup for another storm, so I resist this new position and try to sit up.
“I’d rather sit forward,” I protest weakly. I remember feeling faint in elementary school, the school nurse telling me to drink some water and put my head between my legs. “May I have a glass of water?” I add pitifully.
He starts, as if from a reverie, and nods. “Sure.” He returns about seven minutes later with a very full, heavy glass of almost-hot water.
Then he tells me he’s going to leave me alone for a little while to relax with my hot water cocktail and my garbage can, because he has a few more things he needs to do but wants me to rest first.
As he exits the room it occurs to me that I have no idea whether ten minutes or one hour has passed. I perk up my ears for the telltale sound of Jonah’s wail, but hear instead a blessed silence.
When the doc returns, he smiles vaguely as though nothing has happened. I survive the eye dilation drops easily enough because this time I suggest that he kindly explain to me what he is going to do before he does it.
After this, he flatly states that next on the agenda of fun-things-to-do-in-the-doctor's-office is a procedure they like to call STICKING A NEEDLE IN YOUR EYE. "I'll inject saline into your tear duct opening,” he explains, “and if you can't taste the saline, I'll know the duct is blocked." In the distance, I hear Jonah’s distinct cry and wonder if he can somehow sense his hapless mother’s distress.
Gulping, I ask what happens if the tear duct IS blocked.
"At a later date, I’ll perform surgery and make an incision through the bone in your nose to open up the duct."
I feel a sudden rush of empowerment.
There is no way this man is going to stick a needle in my eye, let alone perform surgery on me.
I ask if people ever just live with this leaky-eye thing. The doc shrugs. "Sure they do," he says. Without any hesitation whatsoever I tell him that I am going to be one of those people. I have taken control of my situation, and it is good.
We end the appointment after the doc mentions that I need to come back in a year for a check-up. I nod and rise from my chair to answer Jonah’s crescendoing cry of distress.
Inside, though, I am laughing - albeit weakly - for I am certain that I will never again willingly encounter him in any kind of patient/doctor capacity.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Help! My Tooth is Killing Me
In the past eight years, I have talked to thousands of people with tooth pain. With my job with an Endodontist or root canal specialist, I had opportunities every day to soothe nerves, answer questions and give comfort to those in pain and fear of root canals.
To ‘outsiders’ my job seemed somewhat morbid. I’d get comments like, “you work at a root canal office? Yuk, that can’t be much fun”. Actually, it was very rewarding. It was my experience that people are at their best when in pain and need your help.
Take note, though. If you are in pain and need help right away, it will not help to be demanding of your dentist or others. If you call your dentist and they cannot see you right away, explain that you are in misery ask to be put on their emergency call list. If you do not hear back from them in a few hours, call back and nicely explain, again, that you desperately need help. If they are unable or unwilling to help you or are uncooperative, ask for a referral (name and number) to an Endodontist.
Call the Endodontist and explain that you are in pain and your dentist cannot fit you into their schedule. Ask to be put on the Endodontist emergency call list and keep in touch with them once or twice a day at the most, until they can work you in. This works most of the time if you currently have no dentist. It depends on how full their schedule is.
Do not ask for special favors concerning the payment if you want to be seen right away. Do discuss payment policy and make sure you understand what is required of you because most Endodontist have a different financial policy than general dentists.
So what can you do in the mean time for toothache relief?
First, try taking an anti-inflammatory like Ibuprofen (such as Advil(tm) unless you've been advised not to by your medical doctor. Follow the maximum dosage stated on the bottle. If this does not alleviate the pain, try adding acetaminophen (Tylenol(tm) in between the doses of Ibuprofen. In other words, take Ibuprofen, and then 4 hours later take acetaminophen, and continue alternating these medications every 4 hours.
These medications work differently and work well together to help with pain and are readily available over the counter at any drug store or supermarket. Ask your pharmacist how much you can safely take and discuss any interactions it may have with your current medications before taking them.
Do not apply aspirin or any pain medication in pill form directly to the tooth or gum as it may contain ingredients that will burn the area.
Over the counter oral numbing products, like AmbesolÒ or Orajel(tm), can help temporarily, as does Oil of Cloves. Ask your pharmacist for his advice, if you can get to a pharmacy that is open.
A cold pack pressed to the cheek outside the painful area can be helpful. You can make one with a towel and ice cubes.
Rubbing a cold ice cube over your cheek has been recommended, also. Pain follows a ‘cycle’ of nerves. The cold sensation formed when rubbing ice on the cheek diverts the pain from your tooth to your cheek area. Yes, it may burn somewhat, but has been known to work.
Sometimes it helps to rinse your mouth with lukewarm salt water, one-teaspoon of salt in one cup of water.
The main thing is to try to stay calm. Getting your blood pressure up will only make the pain worse. Sit in an upright position as opposed to lying down to keep pressure from your head area.
IMPORTANT: These are emergency stopgap methods successfully tried by many. If you are allergic to any medications, or are taking other medications these might interfere with, seek proper medical advice and ask your doctor or pharmacist. These instructions are for those people that know they can take over-the-counter medication with no problems or side effects and in no way claims to take the place of professional or medical advice.
To ‘outsiders’ my job seemed somewhat morbid. I’d get comments like, “you work at a root canal office? Yuk, that can’t be much fun”. Actually, it was very rewarding. It was my experience that people are at their best when in pain and need your help.
Take note, though. If you are in pain and need help right away, it will not help to be demanding of your dentist or others. If you call your dentist and they cannot see you right away, explain that you are in misery ask to be put on their emergency call list. If you do not hear back from them in a few hours, call back and nicely explain, again, that you desperately need help. If they are unable or unwilling to help you or are uncooperative, ask for a referral (name and number) to an Endodontist.
Call the Endodontist and explain that you are in pain and your dentist cannot fit you into their schedule. Ask to be put on the Endodontist emergency call list and keep in touch with them once or twice a day at the most, until they can work you in. This works most of the time if you currently have no dentist. It depends on how full their schedule is.
Do not ask for special favors concerning the payment if you want to be seen right away. Do discuss payment policy and make sure you understand what is required of you because most Endodontist have a different financial policy than general dentists.
So what can you do in the mean time for toothache relief?
First, try taking an anti-inflammatory like Ibuprofen (such as Advil(tm) unless you've been advised not to by your medical doctor. Follow the maximum dosage stated on the bottle. If this does not alleviate the pain, try adding acetaminophen (Tylenol(tm) in between the doses of Ibuprofen. In other words, take Ibuprofen, and then 4 hours later take acetaminophen, and continue alternating these medications every 4 hours.
These medications work differently and work well together to help with pain and are readily available over the counter at any drug store or supermarket. Ask your pharmacist how much you can safely take and discuss any interactions it may have with your current medications before taking them.
Do not apply aspirin or any pain medication in pill form directly to the tooth or gum as it may contain ingredients that will burn the area.
Over the counter oral numbing products, like AmbesolÒ or Orajel(tm), can help temporarily, as does Oil of Cloves. Ask your pharmacist for his advice, if you can get to a pharmacy that is open.
A cold pack pressed to the cheek outside the painful area can be helpful. You can make one with a towel and ice cubes.
Rubbing a cold ice cube over your cheek has been recommended, also. Pain follows a ‘cycle’ of nerves. The cold sensation formed when rubbing ice on the cheek diverts the pain from your tooth to your cheek area. Yes, it may burn somewhat, but has been known to work.
Sometimes it helps to rinse your mouth with lukewarm salt water, one-teaspoon of salt in one cup of water.
The main thing is to try to stay calm. Getting your blood pressure up will only make the pain worse. Sit in an upright position as opposed to lying down to keep pressure from your head area.
IMPORTANT: These are emergency stopgap methods successfully tried by many. If you are allergic to any medications, or are taking other medications these might interfere with, seek proper medical advice and ask your doctor or pharmacist. These instructions are for those people that know they can take over-the-counter medication with no problems or side effects and in no way claims to take the place of professional or medical advice.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Dog Food Scandal: What About the Children?
The blogs are full of two cent comments regarding Christine Drummond’s attempt to send food from New Zealand to starving children in Kenya. The story was highlighted by a reporter who needed to stress that Christine was the owner of a dog food company. Kenyan politicians trumpeted the suggestion that the children were to receive donated dog food as a most grievous and racially insensitive cultural insult.
Newspaper sales went up and the politicians bolstered their self-righteous dignity. But what about the children, are they not still starving? Institutions should be judged on how well they are helping others, not how lucrative or secure they are by spinning a story to meet their own needs.
A similar situation exists with healthcare. Therapies based on simply providing added cellular energy to children in developing countries is effective in alleviating diarrhea, a killer of at least 5,000 children a day. The same energy based products can restore health to children with pneumonia and possibly represents mankind’s best defense against bird flu.
These natural products have been called “enerceuticals,” as opposed to pharmaceuticals. Herein is the problem because unlike patented drugs that are designed to address specific diseases, these inexpensive natural products can potentially help correct many illnesses of both the developing and the developed world. Regulatory agencies are slow to consider such products lest they bite into profits of the future employers of many of their senior staff.
It is time to forego profiting from the misery of others and to begin to seriously address the malnutrition and illnesses befalling those with whom we share this earth.
Dr. W. John Martin is considered by many of his peers to be the worlds foremost leading Pathologist, and research scientist in his field. He's coined the new term, "Enerceuticals," referencing the energy enhancing solutions for living cells.
Subscribe to the FREE "Rhino Charger" Newsletter to learn the latest scientific research regarding alternative energy medicine, new medical breakthroughs, health and medical solutions. The Rhino Charger is the FREE support Newsletter, for the "Progressive University, and the "Applied BioPhysics Foundation."
Newspaper sales went up and the politicians bolstered their self-righteous dignity. But what about the children, are they not still starving? Institutions should be judged on how well they are helping others, not how lucrative or secure they are by spinning a story to meet their own needs.
A similar situation exists with healthcare. Therapies based on simply providing added cellular energy to children in developing countries is effective in alleviating diarrhea, a killer of at least 5,000 children a day. The same energy based products can restore health to children with pneumonia and possibly represents mankind’s best defense against bird flu.
These natural products have been called “enerceuticals,” as opposed to pharmaceuticals. Herein is the problem because unlike patented drugs that are designed to address specific diseases, these inexpensive natural products can potentially help correct many illnesses of both the developing and the developed world. Regulatory agencies are slow to consider such products lest they bite into profits of the future employers of many of their senior staff.
It is time to forego profiting from the misery of others and to begin to seriously address the malnutrition and illnesses befalling those with whom we share this earth.
Dr. W. John Martin is considered by many of his peers to be the worlds foremost leading Pathologist, and research scientist in his field. He's coined the new term, "Enerceuticals," referencing the energy enhancing solutions for living cells.
Subscribe to the FREE "Rhino Charger" Newsletter to learn the latest scientific research regarding alternative energy medicine, new medical breakthroughs, health and medical solutions. The Rhino Charger is the FREE support Newsletter, for the "Progressive University, and the "Applied BioPhysics Foundation."
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Antidepressants and Weight Gain
If you are overweight and have been prescribed an antidepressant to provide you with the lift that you need to get your body and life back in order then you may be doing yourself more harm than good. The irony is that almost all antidepressants and anti-psychotic medications have weight gain as a side effect. The few antidepressants that do boast extreme weight loss as a side effect also usually have "or extreme weight gain" on the same label.
There are several ways that antidepressants can cause weight gain.
Antidepressants can slow down your metabolism and reducing your caloric intake or exercising will not jump-start it again.
Antidepressants can cause hormonal changes that increase the appetite. Some antidepressants can sedate and individual and make them more sedentary; they are cheery but less motivated to do anything.
Antidepressants can cause mood swings that make it difficult for an individual to stick to a disciplined schedule.
Some antidepressants (especially Celexa and Amytripyline) seem to cause unexplained food cravings.
Side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure can have a person living "minute too minute" and make it difficult to plan a disciplined exercise schedule.
Unexpected weight gain can increase the difficulties associated with psychiatric and seizure disorders by further aggravating mood instability and low self-esteem.
Perhaps the most commonly prescribed antidepressants in the world are the SSRIS - the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) This includes Celaxa, Prozac, Luvox, Paxil and Zoloft. Initially these drugs were marketed as weight loss aids until it was realized that after a week or so of initial weight loss that the body would start steadily gaining weight. The average weight gain that is expected after taking these drugs is fifteen to twenty pounds. Of them all, Paxil is thought to cause the most unexplained weight gain.
However the weight gain caused by SSRIs is peanuts considered to the pounds you can acquire by taking a tricyclic antidepressant. These include drugs such as Elavil, Asendin, Anofril, Petrofrane, Aventyl, Vivactil and Sinequan. If you take any of these drugs, which are prescribed for pain and sleep disorders as well as depression your physician will usually warn you that you can expect to gain at least twenty pounds during a course of treatment.
Another antidepressant that can cause weight gain but is not classified in either group is Mitrazapine. This drug has also been associated with significant weight gain. Wellbutrin, Nova Trazadone and Effexor which are not classified as SSRIs are among the antidepressants that can cause either extreme weight loss or weight gain. So if you take any of these you take your chances as to which direction your metabolism is going to swing - faster or slower.
To avoid the weight gain, lack of motivation to exercise and food cravings that both these types of antidepressants can cause your best course of action is to avoid taking them altogether. If this is not possible then you might find the entire weight loss process to be a very frustrating and uphill climb. However, never stop taking any medication that your health care practitioner has prescribed for you. If you feel that you are gaining too much weight, discuss this with your doctor and he/she may find an alternative for you.
There are several ways that antidepressants can cause weight gain.
Antidepressants can slow down your metabolism and reducing your caloric intake or exercising will not jump-start it again.
Antidepressants can cause hormonal changes that increase the appetite. Some antidepressants can sedate and individual and make them more sedentary; they are cheery but less motivated to do anything.
Antidepressants can cause mood swings that make it difficult for an individual to stick to a disciplined schedule.
Some antidepressants (especially Celexa and Amytripyline) seem to cause unexplained food cravings.
Side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure can have a person living "minute too minute" and make it difficult to plan a disciplined exercise schedule.
Unexpected weight gain can increase the difficulties associated with psychiatric and seizure disorders by further aggravating mood instability and low self-esteem.
Perhaps the most commonly prescribed antidepressants in the world are the SSRIS - the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) This includes Celaxa, Prozac, Luvox, Paxil and Zoloft. Initially these drugs were marketed as weight loss aids until it was realized that after a week or so of initial weight loss that the body would start steadily gaining weight. The average weight gain that is expected after taking these drugs is fifteen to twenty pounds. Of them all, Paxil is thought to cause the most unexplained weight gain.
However the weight gain caused by SSRIs is peanuts considered to the pounds you can acquire by taking a tricyclic antidepressant. These include drugs such as Elavil, Asendin, Anofril, Petrofrane, Aventyl, Vivactil and Sinequan. If you take any of these drugs, which are prescribed for pain and sleep disorders as well as depression your physician will usually warn you that you can expect to gain at least twenty pounds during a course of treatment.
Another antidepressant that can cause weight gain but is not classified in either group is Mitrazapine. This drug has also been associated with significant weight gain. Wellbutrin, Nova Trazadone and Effexor which are not classified as SSRIs are among the antidepressants that can cause either extreme weight loss or weight gain. So if you take any of these you take your chances as to which direction your metabolism is going to swing - faster or slower.
To avoid the weight gain, lack of motivation to exercise and food cravings that both these types of antidepressants can cause your best course of action is to avoid taking them altogether. If this is not possible then you might find the entire weight loss process to be a very frustrating and uphill climb. However, never stop taking any medication that your health care practitioner has prescribed for you. If you feel that you are gaining too much weight, discuss this with your doctor and he/she may find an alternative for you.
Friday, October 19, 2007
How Much Will Your Prescriptions Cost You?
I remember as a child watching a wonderful movie called “Animals are Beautiful People.” The movie is about the different animals living in Africa and how much they are like human beings. In one scene, a native shows the technique for catching monkeys. They would catch monkeys, not for food, but for water. The monkeys knew where the water was so the African would give the monkey salt. After getting very thirsty from licking the block of salt, it would lead the native to the water source. The interesting part is how the monkeys are caught.
First, the native would make sure a curious monkey is watching him. He then would but some nuts, berries, or other food into a hollowed out log or rock. After a while, curiosity gets the best of the little monkey and he just has to know what is in that hole. The opening is just large enough for the monkey to put his hand in. When the monkey grabs what is inside, his fist is too big to pull it out of the hole. He’s just too stubborn to let go of his prize and pull his hand out. The native can simply walk over and tie the monkey to a tree.
The reason I relay this story to you is to demonstrate how these big drug companies capture you. They lure you in with slick direct to consumer advertising. I’m sure you’ve seen the commercials on television. Everyone seems to be so happy after taking this little pill. They can suddenly ride bicycles, climb mountains, fish, hike, laugh, play, and have a beautiful relationship with their spouse. So now your curiosity is aroused and you want to see what this medication is all about. In a recent study, 75% of patients who asked their doctor for a particular name brand drug, regardless of their condition, got it. Drug companies advertise to you because it works.
Once you think that this pill is going to be the answer to your dreams, they have you. You just can’t wait to try this pill that is going to make your life wonderful. They know that you cannot just open your hand and let go, just like the monkey.
Remember when Claritin first came out several years ago? The manufacturer spent millions of dollars advertising the new drug. It was the first non-sedating anti-histamine. Suddenly, people without allergies were asking their doctor for Claritin. Not because they needed it, but because they saw the commercial. When Prilosec was introduced to the market, it took the subject of heartburn to the front page. For years, the old standby drugs worked just fine (and they still do). Then this new medication became available and everyone wanted it. Next time you see one of these commercials, pay attention to the people in the advertisement. For Paxil, a woman can’t face the social gathering outside until she popped her pill, then she is the life of the party. After taking Levitra, a man can suddenly throw a football through a tire. Hidden meaning? Maybe. (You can get Claritin free at www.claritin.com, free Prilosec OTC at www.prilosecotc.com, and free Levitra at www.levitra.com)
According to Forbes magazine, the most expensive diseases are:
• Heart Conditions at $68 billion
• Cancer at $48 billion
• Mental Illness at $48 billion
• Respiratory ailments at $45 billion
• Hypertension at $32.5 billion
• Arthritis and joint disorders at $32 billion
• Diabetes at $28 billion
• Back problems at $23 billion
The average out of pocket expense for prescriptions is now over $250 a month. This is how much money the average person has to pay, with or without insurance, every month at the pharmacy. That comes to over $3000 a year spent on prescription drugs for the average person. I don’t want to be average; and I am definitely not average.
Recent history tells us that prescription prices are going up anywhere from 8% to 15% per year. What if we used 10%? So next year, the average will be $3300; two years from now, $3630. At this rate, in ten years, you will be spending over $6400 a year, $533 per month. In twenty years, at this rate, $17,000 a year. In thirty years, almost $48,000 a year, $4000 per month! This is average. Add all this up and it comes to almost $550,000 spent on your prescription. This is IF the increase stays at 10%. Remember, the range has been from 8% to 15%. Changing the rate to 15% increases the amount spent to $1.47 million! WOW!
What if you could save just 10% of the cost of your prescriptions? Can you think of something else to do with roughly $100,000? I know I could.
Now is the time to be one of the few people who educate themselves about their medication. This will allow you to talk with your doctor about less expensive alternates. Using generics can save you 90%. Cutting your tablets will save you up to 50%. Using certain “hidden” rebated have the potential to save you hundreds per year, they are right there for the asking.
It is said that knowledge is power. In this case, lack of knowledge is expensive.
First, the native would make sure a curious monkey is watching him. He then would but some nuts, berries, or other food into a hollowed out log or rock. After a while, curiosity gets the best of the little monkey and he just has to know what is in that hole. The opening is just large enough for the monkey to put his hand in. When the monkey grabs what is inside, his fist is too big to pull it out of the hole. He’s just too stubborn to let go of his prize and pull his hand out. The native can simply walk over and tie the monkey to a tree.
The reason I relay this story to you is to demonstrate how these big drug companies capture you. They lure you in with slick direct to consumer advertising. I’m sure you’ve seen the commercials on television. Everyone seems to be so happy after taking this little pill. They can suddenly ride bicycles, climb mountains, fish, hike, laugh, play, and have a beautiful relationship with their spouse. So now your curiosity is aroused and you want to see what this medication is all about. In a recent study, 75% of patients who asked their doctor for a particular name brand drug, regardless of their condition, got it. Drug companies advertise to you because it works.
Once you think that this pill is going to be the answer to your dreams, they have you. You just can’t wait to try this pill that is going to make your life wonderful. They know that you cannot just open your hand and let go, just like the monkey.
Remember when Claritin first came out several years ago? The manufacturer spent millions of dollars advertising the new drug. It was the first non-sedating anti-histamine. Suddenly, people without allergies were asking their doctor for Claritin. Not because they needed it, but because they saw the commercial. When Prilosec was introduced to the market, it took the subject of heartburn to the front page. For years, the old standby drugs worked just fine (and they still do). Then this new medication became available and everyone wanted it. Next time you see one of these commercials, pay attention to the people in the advertisement. For Paxil, a woman can’t face the social gathering outside until she popped her pill, then she is the life of the party. After taking Levitra, a man can suddenly throw a football through a tire. Hidden meaning? Maybe. (You can get Claritin free at www.claritin.com, free Prilosec OTC at www.prilosecotc.com, and free Levitra at www.levitra.com)
According to Forbes magazine, the most expensive diseases are:
• Heart Conditions at $68 billion
• Cancer at $48 billion
• Mental Illness at $48 billion
• Respiratory ailments at $45 billion
• Hypertension at $32.5 billion
• Arthritis and joint disorders at $32 billion
• Diabetes at $28 billion
• Back problems at $23 billion
The average out of pocket expense for prescriptions is now over $250 a month. This is how much money the average person has to pay, with or without insurance, every month at the pharmacy. That comes to over $3000 a year spent on prescription drugs for the average person. I don’t want to be average; and I am definitely not average.
Recent history tells us that prescription prices are going up anywhere from 8% to 15% per year. What if we used 10%? So next year, the average will be $3300; two years from now, $3630. At this rate, in ten years, you will be spending over $6400 a year, $533 per month. In twenty years, at this rate, $17,000 a year. In thirty years, almost $48,000 a year, $4000 per month! This is average. Add all this up and it comes to almost $550,000 spent on your prescription. This is IF the increase stays at 10%. Remember, the range has been from 8% to 15%. Changing the rate to 15% increases the amount spent to $1.47 million! WOW!
What if you could save just 10% of the cost of your prescriptions? Can you think of something else to do with roughly $100,000? I know I could.
Now is the time to be one of the few people who educate themselves about their medication. This will allow you to talk with your doctor about less expensive alternates. Using generics can save you 90%. Cutting your tablets will save you up to 50%. Using certain “hidden” rebated have the potential to save you hundreds per year, they are right there for the asking.
It is said that knowledge is power. In this case, lack of knowledge is expensive.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Deciding the Medical Necessity of Insulin Pumps
The Pump. An insulin pump is a medical device continuously delivering insulin under the skin through a catheter. It’s usually connects somewhere in the waist area. There’s a new generation of insulin pumps, called a patch pump. Currently patch pumps are only available from OmniPod. Patch pumps adhere directly to the skin with no catheter tubing showing. It then infuses insulin directly under the skin.
Either pump delivers insulin at an hourly rate. For instance, the rate might be 1.1 units an hour. However, the pump delivers different rates at different times of day depending on the patient’s insulin infusion (or basal) rates that are programmed into the pump.
The amount of insulin delivered depends on two things. First by the amount of carbohydrate a patient eats using an insulin to carbohydrate ratio, and then by the correction factor, or the ratio of the number of milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) a patient’s blood sugar will be lowered by one insulin unit.
If a patient eats 60 grams carbohydrate at meals and has an insulin-carbohydrate ratio of one insulin unit to 15 grams carbohydrate, the patient’s insulin injection at that meal would 4 units. However, if a patient has a correction factor of one unit to 50 points of blood sugar, the pump should give an additional injection of 2.5 units to lower his blood sugar from 245 mg/dl to a needed level of 120 mg/dl.
Pump Candidates’ Skills. To use an insulin pump a patient must be able to manage it. This involves knowledge at several levels. First, patients must understand how to insert the catheter when using the pump, or how to attach the newer patch pump to their abdomen. They must also be able to push the right buttons on the pump to deliver proper insulin doses and adjust the basal rates. Then the patient needs to be skilled in carbohydrate counting so they are able to deliver correct insulin doses at mealtimes. And they should be willing to check their blood glucose levels at least four to six times a day. This assures that they detect a pump failure and prevent hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA, in type 1 patients). Patient attention is important because no long-acting insulin is used in type 1 patients who use pumps and they need to correct high- or low-blood sugars before they are clinically observable and symptomatic.
Medical Necessity. Insulin pump therapy is almost never needed to maintain life because insulin can be easily injected under the skin. Most insurers will cover insulin pump therapy in situations where insulin pump therapy will significantly improve the level of diabetes care and control over and above multidose insulin (MDI) therapy. This includes cases where:
The glucose control in multidose insulin therapy is not optimal with glycated hemoglobin (Hba1c>) than the ADA (American Diabetes Association) recommended goal of 7%. An endocrinologist, who will be able to help the patient learn how to use and the pump and adjust basal and correction doses, prescribes the pump.
The patient has type 1 diabetes. However, in many situations patients with type 2 diabetes will benefit from the pump as well. (See Diabetes Care, Sept. 2003, pp. 2598-2603.) Presence of hypoglycemia despite adjustments in insulin doses and utilizing carbohydrate counting to help decide pre-meal insulin doses in patients who are using MDI therapy.
• Presence of hyperglycemia-especially as revealed by high morning readings (Dawn phenomenon) where increasing basal rates of insulin in the early morning hours would help to better control blood sugar levels.
Insurers require medical charts from the prescribing doctor as well as blood sugar logs from the patient to prove that there is real medical necessity.
Either pump delivers insulin at an hourly rate. For instance, the rate might be 1.1 units an hour. However, the pump delivers different rates at different times of day depending on the patient’s insulin infusion (or basal) rates that are programmed into the pump.
The amount of insulin delivered depends on two things. First by the amount of carbohydrate a patient eats using an insulin to carbohydrate ratio, and then by the correction factor, or the ratio of the number of milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) a patient’s blood sugar will be lowered by one insulin unit.
If a patient eats 60 grams carbohydrate at meals and has an insulin-carbohydrate ratio of one insulin unit to 15 grams carbohydrate, the patient’s insulin injection at that meal would 4 units. However, if a patient has a correction factor of one unit to 50 points of blood sugar, the pump should give an additional injection of 2.5 units to lower his blood sugar from 245 mg/dl to a needed level of 120 mg/dl.
Pump Candidates’ Skills. To use an insulin pump a patient must be able to manage it. This involves knowledge at several levels. First, patients must understand how to insert the catheter when using the pump, or how to attach the newer patch pump to their abdomen. They must also be able to push the right buttons on the pump to deliver proper insulin doses and adjust the basal rates. Then the patient needs to be skilled in carbohydrate counting so they are able to deliver correct insulin doses at mealtimes. And they should be willing to check their blood glucose levels at least four to six times a day. This assures that they detect a pump failure and prevent hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA, in type 1 patients). Patient attention is important because no long-acting insulin is used in type 1 patients who use pumps and they need to correct high- or low-blood sugars before they are clinically observable and symptomatic.
Medical Necessity. Insulin pump therapy is almost never needed to maintain life because insulin can be easily injected under the skin. Most insurers will cover insulin pump therapy in situations where insulin pump therapy will significantly improve the level of diabetes care and control over and above multidose insulin (MDI) therapy. This includes cases where:
The glucose control in multidose insulin therapy is not optimal with glycated hemoglobin (Hba1c>) than the ADA (American Diabetes Association) recommended goal of 7%. An endocrinologist, who will be able to help the patient learn how to use and the pump and adjust basal and correction doses, prescribes the pump.
The patient has type 1 diabetes. However, in many situations patients with type 2 diabetes will benefit from the pump as well. (See Diabetes Care, Sept. 2003, pp. 2598-2603.) Presence of hypoglycemia despite adjustments in insulin doses and utilizing carbohydrate counting to help decide pre-meal insulin doses in patients who are using MDI therapy.
• Presence of hyperglycemia-especially as revealed by high morning readings (Dawn phenomenon) where increasing basal rates of insulin in the early morning hours would help to better control blood sugar levels.
Insurers require medical charts from the prescribing doctor as well as blood sugar logs from the patient to prove that there is real medical necessity.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Tamiflu Side Effects
Introduction:
To talk to you about the side effects of Tamiflu, I should be telling you what Tamiflu is. Tamiflu is an anti viral drug. This drug is taken to reduce the chances of symptoms appearing in human beings. The next question comes as to what is this anti viral drug used against. This anti viral drug is used to fight off the effects of bird flu attack in human beings.
Flu, as you know is a common problem faced by human beings when they are exposed to extreme conditions or when the antibody is fighting a viral infection within the body. The result is a flu which is displayed as a raise in temperature of the body. The symptom starts off with a sore throat more often than not. One may experience cough, with aching of the muscles, headache and a loss of appetite.
Any flu when left untreated, without proper rest and medication will lead to pneumonia. If the affected person is treated with proper care and given proper rest, then the flu may disappear. If not, this will lead to pneumonia. Pneumonia will result in death in a short time span of two days or so if again left untreated. Proper dosages of the drug are to be given to the patient suffering from flu and if it is bird flu then serious attention is to be given.
Side effects:
The drug Tamiflu is to be given in proper dosages as prescribed by your doctor. Exceeding the dosage limits for any drug will lead to serious side effects. As with any drug, Tamiflu will affect you in any of the following ways. You may experience a serious allergic reaction. The allergic reaction may be a difficulty in breathing. This will be caused by either a swelling of your tongue, lips or you may experience a construction of the throat. You may also have a swelling of your face. In any of these allergic reactions you should discontinue your medication and consult your doctor about it. In the case of the allergic reaction do not wait for the swelling to subside but go to the nearest emergency room.
Other than this you may experience less serious side effects. They may range from, you having a feeling of dizziness, nausea, vomiting. You may have a serious case of diarrhea, experience abdominal pains, or abdominal cramps. Some of you may experience a feeling of sleeplessness (insomnia). Fatigue, cough and other respiratory symptoms are also some side effects the one may experience. In these cases, you should not discontinue taking the medication, but the same time you should talk to your doctor about it.
The side effects of Tamiflu, when you are taking other medication are almost none. Though so far no clinical tests have proved that Tamiflu reacts with other medication it would be a good idea to tell your doctor that you are taking other medication when you are being prescribed Tamiflu.
If you are studying into the side effects of Tamiflu then you should know that Tamiflu is only a brand name. The main ingredient of Tamiflu is Oseltamivir. It (Tamiflu) when taken with medication to treat problem relating to the kidneys may throw up a different side effect. This may be dizziness or over drowsiness. Side effects of Tamiflu may be prominent if you are in the habit of consuming alcoholic beverages. Let not Tamiflu stop you from taking your regular influenza vaccination, as no side effects of Tamiflu have been observed along with it. For a complete list of side effects it would be better to have a discussion with your health care provider.
So far no one has reported experiencing any side effects which can be considered as of a serious nature.
To talk to you about the side effects of Tamiflu, I should be telling you what Tamiflu is. Tamiflu is an anti viral drug. This drug is taken to reduce the chances of symptoms appearing in human beings. The next question comes as to what is this anti viral drug used against. This anti viral drug is used to fight off the effects of bird flu attack in human beings.
Flu, as you know is a common problem faced by human beings when they are exposed to extreme conditions or when the antibody is fighting a viral infection within the body. The result is a flu which is displayed as a raise in temperature of the body. The symptom starts off with a sore throat more often than not. One may experience cough, with aching of the muscles, headache and a loss of appetite.
Any flu when left untreated, without proper rest and medication will lead to pneumonia. If the affected person is treated with proper care and given proper rest, then the flu may disappear. If not, this will lead to pneumonia. Pneumonia will result in death in a short time span of two days or so if again left untreated. Proper dosages of the drug are to be given to the patient suffering from flu and if it is bird flu then serious attention is to be given.
Side effects:
The drug Tamiflu is to be given in proper dosages as prescribed by your doctor. Exceeding the dosage limits for any drug will lead to serious side effects. As with any drug, Tamiflu will affect you in any of the following ways. You may experience a serious allergic reaction. The allergic reaction may be a difficulty in breathing. This will be caused by either a swelling of your tongue, lips or you may experience a construction of the throat. You may also have a swelling of your face. In any of these allergic reactions you should discontinue your medication and consult your doctor about it. In the case of the allergic reaction do not wait for the swelling to subside but go to the nearest emergency room.
Other than this you may experience less serious side effects. They may range from, you having a feeling of dizziness, nausea, vomiting. You may have a serious case of diarrhea, experience abdominal pains, or abdominal cramps. Some of you may experience a feeling of sleeplessness (insomnia). Fatigue, cough and other respiratory symptoms are also some side effects the one may experience. In these cases, you should not discontinue taking the medication, but the same time you should talk to your doctor about it.
The side effects of Tamiflu, when you are taking other medication are almost none. Though so far no clinical tests have proved that Tamiflu reacts with other medication it would be a good idea to tell your doctor that you are taking other medication when you are being prescribed Tamiflu.
If you are studying into the side effects of Tamiflu then you should know that Tamiflu is only a brand name. The main ingredient of Tamiflu is Oseltamivir. It (Tamiflu) when taken with medication to treat problem relating to the kidneys may throw up a different side effect. This may be dizziness or over drowsiness. Side effects of Tamiflu may be prominent if you are in the habit of consuming alcoholic beverages. Let not Tamiflu stop you from taking your regular influenza vaccination, as no side effects of Tamiflu have been observed along with it. For a complete list of side effects it would be better to have a discussion with your health care provider.
So far no one has reported experiencing any side effects which can be considered as of a serious nature.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
HIPAA And How It Will Affect Your Office
This information is designed to help you better understand HIPAA and to assist your office in becoming HIPAA compliant. The information was obtained from a variety of sources and is not intended to be legal advice. If you are having difficulty understanding any portion of the HIPAA regulations you should consult your legal counsel. First, there are no HIPAA police. No one is going to come into your office to inspect you to see if you are HIPAA compliant. A complaint must be filed in order for any action to be taken.
What is HIPAA?
HIPAA stands for The Health Insurance Portability And Accountability Act. It was enacted by the federal government in 1996 as part of a healthcare reform effort. HIPAA is intended to ensure confidentiality of all patient related health care information. It also intends to simplify the administrative processes of health care, thereby reducing the costs and administrative burdens of health care.
One thing to remember is that the HIPAA Act uses the word “reasonable” several times. You and your office staff must do whatever reasonable to protect your patient’s privacy. For instance, smaller medical offices do not have to take the same privacy measures as large hospitals do. That would not be reasonable.
Also, there are no “privacy police.” No one is going to come in and inspect your office randomly. Someone must file a complaint first. The complaints will be handled by the Office of Civil Rights. If someone puts in a complaint, then it will be investigated. The fines are very high, so you will want to be sure that your office has good privacy practices and that they are followed all of the time.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the type of your practice may determine the level of privacy that you need to acquire. For example, patient’s in an optometrist’s office may not be as concerned about people knowing they are there, as opposed to patient’s in a mental health office. There are several different components of HIPAA, each one having its own implementation date.
Section 2: The Privacy Component : implementation date: April 2002
1. You must do everything within reason to protect your patient's privacy.
2. Patient's files and information should be kept in a secure section of your office, a section that is not accessible by other patients.
3. Charts should not be left lying around, open where someone can read it.
4. If you are making a phone call about a patient or to a patient, you need to do it from an area where you cannot be overheard if you will be giving out personal information. For example, if you are calling their insurance company, and you will be saying the patient's first and last name, date of birth, ID#, and/or a diagnosis, then you do not want to do it where others, perhaps in a waiting room, can hear you.
5. If patient's charts are ever removed from the office you need to have a policy in place. For example, you should have a sign out sheet which states the patient's name, date taken, by whom, and then signed back in when the chart is returned.
6. If charts are removed , they should be carried in a case that is marked “confidential - medical records.” If you were ever involved in an accident, or separated from the bag for any reason, either authorities or medical personel would secure the information for you. Or you would have at least done whatever reasonable to protect that information.
7. If computer screens are in a position that patients can view them, you may want to move them, or get a screen cover. A screen cover makes it so that the computer screen can only be read when directly in front of it. The above are just some things that you will need to consider when becoming HIPAA compliant. Each office will have it’s own areas that need to be reviewed. The above are many of the common areas.
Section 3: Administrative Simplification: compliance date: October 2002
This component requires the standardization of data transmissions, or EDI, and procedure/diagnosis codes.
As for the standardization of procedure/diagnosis codes, this just means that you must use CPT-4 codes for procedure codes and ICD-9 codes for diagnosis codes.
As for the standardization of EDI, that refers to your electronic billing. In order to submit your claims electronically, you must do so in a HIPAA compliant format.
Section 4: Security Component: no implementation date set yet
This component requires that health care professionals, Billing Services, and clearing houses take appropriate security measures to assure that health information pertaining to an individual remains secure and is not accessible by others.
Things to consider:
Where is your fax machine? Is it in a place where only office staff can access incoming faxes? Is it on 24 hours a day? When you are not in the office (after office hours) can anyone else access your fax machine? Whenever you fax personal information about a patient you should use a fax cover sheet with a confidentiality statement. The statement should explain that the following fax contains personal medical information and that if the fax is received by anyone other than the intended party, that the fax should be destroyed and they should notify you that it was received in error.
Do you hire a cleaning person/crew? Are they in the office when you are not? Do they have access to the patient’s personal information? You may want to ask them to sign a confidentiality statement.
Do you rent office space? If yes, does your landlord have access to your office? Do they ever enter your office without you being present? If they do, you may want to ask them to sign a confidentiality statement.
By asking people who have access to your office to sign a confidentiality statement, you are making a reasonable attempt to protect your patient’s privacy. It is not always reasonable to never allow anyone access to areas that contain private information. If those people sign an agreement and then breech that agreement, you would not be held responsible.
If you do any business by email, you will need to use an encryption service. This will ensure that if anyone were to intercept your emails, they would not be able to read them.
Section 5: Privacy Officer
All offices must designate a mandated “privacy officer.” This person would be responsible for making sure all staff are HIPAA trained and that privacy policies are typed up and followed. They would also be the person that staff members or patients could go to with any concerns or questions about HIPAA compliance. Even if you are a very small practice, you MUST have someone designated as the privacy officer. It may even be the Doctor themself.
Section 6: Release of Patient Information/Consent
You need to have the patient’s written consent in order to release any of their records/information.
(Exception: If request is due to immediate/urgent care of patient.)
You should review your current consent and authorization forms to make sure they are HIPAA compliant. HIPAA requires you to obtain consent for the use and disclosure of information from each of your patients. You may refuse to treat patients who will not sign the consent form.
Section 7: Unique Identifiers: No implementation date set yet
HIPAA will mandate the use of unique identifiers. More to come on this component. Most likely you will have one national provider number, instead of a different provider number for each insurance company.
Section 8: Policies and Procedures Required by HIPAA
1. Identify people on your staff who require access to protected health information.
2. Prevent access to protected health information by unauthorized persons.
3. Ensure that the “minimum necessary” amount of information is released for routine disclosures (only release information pertaining to what is requested, not the patient’s entire file.)
4. Verify the identity of the requestor of information.
5. Provide patients access to their records, the opportunity to request corrections, and access to and accounting of disclosures.
6. Every office must have written policies regarding privacy practices.
Summary
Evaluate your physical office for potential privacy and security risks. One of the best things that you can do to become “ready” for HIPAA is to walk through (better yet - have someone else walk through) your office as if you are a patient. Look around at EVERYTHING. What do you see? Do you see any personal patient information, charts in full view? Start right from the front door, and go through every room in your office, especially the rooms that patients have access to. Then continue to do periodic checks to ensure ongoing compliance.
Make sure that you have written policies regarding any privacy practices, such as removing charts from the office, faxing patient information, reviewing any complaints from patients, etc. Also, make sure you designate a “privacy officer.”
Make sure all staff members are trained regarding HIPAA policies. Remember to train any/all new employees regarding HIPAA policies. You should also review your current HIPAA policies regularly.
What is HIPAA?
HIPAA stands for The Health Insurance Portability And Accountability Act. It was enacted by the federal government in 1996 as part of a healthcare reform effort. HIPAA is intended to ensure confidentiality of all patient related health care information. It also intends to simplify the administrative processes of health care, thereby reducing the costs and administrative burdens of health care.
One thing to remember is that the HIPAA Act uses the word “reasonable” several times. You and your office staff must do whatever reasonable to protect your patient’s privacy. For instance, smaller medical offices do not have to take the same privacy measures as large hospitals do. That would not be reasonable.
Also, there are no “privacy police.” No one is going to come in and inspect your office randomly. Someone must file a complaint first. The complaints will be handled by the Office of Civil Rights. If someone puts in a complaint, then it will be investigated. The fines are very high, so you will want to be sure that your office has good privacy practices and that they are followed all of the time.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the type of your practice may determine the level of privacy that you need to acquire. For example, patient’s in an optometrist’s office may not be as concerned about people knowing they are there, as opposed to patient’s in a mental health office. There are several different components of HIPAA, each one having its own implementation date.
Section 2: The Privacy Component : implementation date: April 2002
1. You must do everything within reason to protect your patient's privacy.
2. Patient's files and information should be kept in a secure section of your office, a section that is not accessible by other patients.
3. Charts should not be left lying around, open where someone can read it.
4. If you are making a phone call about a patient or to a patient, you need to do it from an area where you cannot be overheard if you will be giving out personal information. For example, if you are calling their insurance company, and you will be saying the patient's first and last name, date of birth, ID#, and/or a diagnosis, then you do not want to do it where others, perhaps in a waiting room, can hear you.
5. If patient's charts are ever removed from the office you need to have a policy in place. For example, you should have a sign out sheet which states the patient's name, date taken, by whom, and then signed back in when the chart is returned.
6. If charts are removed , they should be carried in a case that is marked “confidential - medical records.” If you were ever involved in an accident, or separated from the bag for any reason, either authorities or medical personel would secure the information for you. Or you would have at least done whatever reasonable to protect that information.
7. If computer screens are in a position that patients can view them, you may want to move them, or get a screen cover. A screen cover makes it so that the computer screen can only be read when directly in front of it. The above are just some things that you will need to consider when becoming HIPAA compliant. Each office will have it’s own areas that need to be reviewed. The above are many of the common areas.
Section 3: Administrative Simplification: compliance date: October 2002
This component requires the standardization of data transmissions, or EDI, and procedure/diagnosis codes.
As for the standardization of procedure/diagnosis codes, this just means that you must use CPT-4 codes for procedure codes and ICD-9 codes for diagnosis codes.
As for the standardization of EDI, that refers to your electronic billing. In order to submit your claims electronically, you must do so in a HIPAA compliant format.
Section 4: Security Component: no implementation date set yet
This component requires that health care professionals, Billing Services, and clearing houses take appropriate security measures to assure that health information pertaining to an individual remains secure and is not accessible by others.
Things to consider:
Where is your fax machine? Is it in a place where only office staff can access incoming faxes? Is it on 24 hours a day? When you are not in the office (after office hours) can anyone else access your fax machine? Whenever you fax personal information about a patient you should use a fax cover sheet with a confidentiality statement. The statement should explain that the following fax contains personal medical information and that if the fax is received by anyone other than the intended party, that the fax should be destroyed and they should notify you that it was received in error.
Do you hire a cleaning person/crew? Are they in the office when you are not? Do they have access to the patient’s personal information? You may want to ask them to sign a confidentiality statement.
Do you rent office space? If yes, does your landlord have access to your office? Do they ever enter your office without you being present? If they do, you may want to ask them to sign a confidentiality statement.
By asking people who have access to your office to sign a confidentiality statement, you are making a reasonable attempt to protect your patient’s privacy. It is not always reasonable to never allow anyone access to areas that contain private information. If those people sign an agreement and then breech that agreement, you would not be held responsible.
If you do any business by email, you will need to use an encryption service. This will ensure that if anyone were to intercept your emails, they would not be able to read them.
Section 5: Privacy Officer
All offices must designate a mandated “privacy officer.” This person would be responsible for making sure all staff are HIPAA trained and that privacy policies are typed up and followed. They would also be the person that staff members or patients could go to with any concerns or questions about HIPAA compliance. Even if you are a very small practice, you MUST have someone designated as the privacy officer. It may even be the Doctor themself.
Section 6: Release of Patient Information/Consent
You need to have the patient’s written consent in order to release any of their records/information.
(Exception: If request is due to immediate/urgent care of patient.)
You should review your current consent and authorization forms to make sure they are HIPAA compliant. HIPAA requires you to obtain consent for the use and disclosure of information from each of your patients. You may refuse to treat patients who will not sign the consent form.
Section 7: Unique Identifiers: No implementation date set yet
HIPAA will mandate the use of unique identifiers. More to come on this component. Most likely you will have one national provider number, instead of a different provider number for each insurance company.
Section 8: Policies and Procedures Required by HIPAA
1. Identify people on your staff who require access to protected health information.
2. Prevent access to protected health information by unauthorized persons.
3. Ensure that the “minimum necessary” amount of information is released for routine disclosures (only release information pertaining to what is requested, not the patient’s entire file.)
4. Verify the identity of the requestor of information.
5. Provide patients access to their records, the opportunity to request corrections, and access to and accounting of disclosures.
6. Every office must have written policies regarding privacy practices.
Summary
Evaluate your physical office for potential privacy and security risks. One of the best things that you can do to become “ready” for HIPAA is to walk through (better yet - have someone else walk through) your office as if you are a patient. Look around at EVERYTHING. What do you see? Do you see any personal patient information, charts in full view? Start right from the front door, and go through every room in your office, especially the rooms that patients have access to. Then continue to do periodic checks to ensure ongoing compliance.
Make sure that you have written policies regarding any privacy practices, such as removing charts from the office, faxing patient information, reviewing any complaints from patients, etc. Also, make sure you designate a “privacy officer.”
Make sure all staff members are trained regarding HIPAA policies. Remember to train any/all new employees regarding HIPAA policies. You should also review your current HIPAA policies regularly.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Dental Treatment India – Get Huge 70%+ Savings and a Free Holiday
Dentistry costs are expensive in the US and Europe, but dental treatments can be done at a fraction of the cost in India.
Dental treatment in India is therefore an attractive proposition. Patients can travel to India have their treatments done and then enjoy a free holiday and maybe even have funds left over.
Dental tourism
Dental tourism has emerged due to lower international travel costs than ever before and the fact that dental treatment is so expensive in many countries.
Unlike other medical tourism treatments such as heart surgery, recovery from the dentist is quick, which means patients can enjoy their holiday to the full.
Patients now having dental treatments carried out in India are increasing due to high quality service and low prices.
Lower costs
Dentists can charge up to $400 for a Dental Filling in USA & Europe. It costs only $20 in India. Root Canal treatment costs around $3,000 in the West but only $100 to $200 in India, here are some more sample approximate costs:
Ceramic Veneers (1) $160 Dental Bleaching (Both Arches) $200 Dental implants (1) $800 Bridge / crown porcelain $400
World class treatment
Dental treatment in India however does not mean lower quality and treatments compare with any in the world and are world class.
One reason why dental treatments in India have become so popular is the fact that many Indian dentists practice in the West.
This builds confidence for patients thinking of taking medical tourism packages to India, as they know the professionalism and expertise already, but also see the advantages of travelling to India for the substantial reductions in cost.
Western dentists simply cannot compete
The reason India is able to offer such competitive prices is due to the fact that infrastructure costs area a fraction of what they are in the West, as Indian dentists simply have a lower overhead which is passed on as a cost saving to patients.
All areas covered
Dental treatment in India can offer you all dental treatments you require. If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry or restorative dentistry India can provide for your needs at vast cost savings.
Free holiday
You also get the chance to spend time in one of the most beautiful countries in the world and can enjoy such sites as the mighty Himalayas and Taj Mahal, or Relax on the beaches of Goa. You can also enjoy world class fishing, trekking, white water rafting and much more. India has something for everyone.
Arranging your trip is easy
There are a number of specialist companies who will arrange all dental treatments travel and your holiday making it a simple and easy to arrange your treatment, travel and holiday all in one package, at fantastic savings.
Dental treatment in India is therefore an attractive proposition. Patients can travel to India have their treatments done and then enjoy a free holiday and maybe even have funds left over.
Dental tourism
Dental tourism has emerged due to lower international travel costs than ever before and the fact that dental treatment is so expensive in many countries.
Unlike other medical tourism treatments such as heart surgery, recovery from the dentist is quick, which means patients can enjoy their holiday to the full.
Patients now having dental treatments carried out in India are increasing due to high quality service and low prices.
Lower costs
Dentists can charge up to $400 for a Dental Filling in USA & Europe. It costs only $20 in India. Root Canal treatment costs around $3,000 in the West but only $100 to $200 in India, here are some more sample approximate costs:
Ceramic Veneers (1) $160 Dental Bleaching (Both Arches) $200 Dental implants (1) $800 Bridge / crown porcelain $400
World class treatment
Dental treatment in India however does not mean lower quality and treatments compare with any in the world and are world class.
One reason why dental treatments in India have become so popular is the fact that many Indian dentists practice in the West.
This builds confidence for patients thinking of taking medical tourism packages to India, as they know the professionalism and expertise already, but also see the advantages of travelling to India for the substantial reductions in cost.
Western dentists simply cannot compete
The reason India is able to offer such competitive prices is due to the fact that infrastructure costs area a fraction of what they are in the West, as Indian dentists simply have a lower overhead which is passed on as a cost saving to patients.
All areas covered
Dental treatment in India can offer you all dental treatments you require. If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry or restorative dentistry India can provide for your needs at vast cost savings.
Free holiday
You also get the chance to spend time in one of the most beautiful countries in the world and can enjoy such sites as the mighty Himalayas and Taj Mahal, or Relax on the beaches of Goa. You can also enjoy world class fishing, trekking, white water rafting and much more. India has something for everyone.
Arranging your trip is easy
There are a number of specialist companies who will arrange all dental treatments travel and your holiday making it a simple and easy to arrange your treatment, travel and holiday all in one package, at fantastic savings.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Is Your Child's Beloved Pet the Cause of an Asthma Attack?
Measures You Can Take to Prevent or Minimize Asthma Attacks Caused by Pets. That cute little kitten or lovable dog that your child (or partner) can't live without could be making them very sick. Sadly, as much as we love them, cats and dogs are often major asthma triggers for asthma sufferers and can send some to the emergency room.
Contrary to what many people believe, it is the dander (dry flakes of skin), not the hair of the animal that actually is the cause of the problem. Your pet's dander is shed continuously, but it is so small that it's difficult to see. The dander is easily airborne and sticks readily to fibers- therefore it goes everywhere and gets on just about everything. If you have rugs and your pet comes inside the house, they are certainly full of it, so is your furniture and beds if they are allowed on them. If you cuddle or play with your pet, it's all over your clothing too. However, this doesn't mean that you have to get rid of Fido or Garfield.
There are a number of alternatives that you can take. Steam cleaning rugs and furniture in your home will help to remove the dander. Using a HEPA vacuum cleaner is also good. If possible, getting rid of rugs is the best solution. Make sure your pet stays out of the asthma sufferer's bedroom. Wash all bedding, floors and walls to remove the dander. Then use a HEPA air purifier at night in the bedroom with the door closed.
Take your pet to the groomer for a shampoo once a week or have a family member wash your pet outside to ensure that the dander level is kept as low as possible. Long haired pets should get clipped shorter. If your pet loves to show their appreciation by licking, this should be discouraged since their saliva will contain dander as well as proteins, which are also an asthma trigger for many asthma sufferers.
If you don't have a pet but your friends or relatives do, even a short visit to their home can cause problems for an asthma sufferer, especially children who can't resist playing with them. When you get home, get your child to take a shower and wash their clothing too to remove the dander.
Living with your beloved pet can be comfortable and symptom free when taking all of these measures. However, if your situation is more serious and your pet still makes you sick, then you may want to try a natural asthma treatment.
Contrary to what many people believe, it is the dander (dry flakes of skin), not the hair of the animal that actually is the cause of the problem. Your pet's dander is shed continuously, but it is so small that it's difficult to see. The dander is easily airborne and sticks readily to fibers- therefore it goes everywhere and gets on just about everything. If you have rugs and your pet comes inside the house, they are certainly full of it, so is your furniture and beds if they are allowed on them. If you cuddle or play with your pet, it's all over your clothing too. However, this doesn't mean that you have to get rid of Fido or Garfield.
There are a number of alternatives that you can take. Steam cleaning rugs and furniture in your home will help to remove the dander. Using a HEPA vacuum cleaner is also good. If possible, getting rid of rugs is the best solution. Make sure your pet stays out of the asthma sufferer's bedroom. Wash all bedding, floors and walls to remove the dander. Then use a HEPA air purifier at night in the bedroom with the door closed.
Take your pet to the groomer for a shampoo once a week or have a family member wash your pet outside to ensure that the dander level is kept as low as possible. Long haired pets should get clipped shorter. If your pet loves to show their appreciation by licking, this should be discouraged since their saliva will contain dander as well as proteins, which are also an asthma trigger for many asthma sufferers.
If you don't have a pet but your friends or relatives do, even a short visit to their home can cause problems for an asthma sufferer, especially children who can't resist playing with them. When you get home, get your child to take a shower and wash their clothing too to remove the dander.
Living with your beloved pet can be comfortable and symptom free when taking all of these measures. However, if your situation is more serious and your pet still makes you sick, then you may want to try a natural asthma treatment.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Lead Poisoning, Hair Anaylsis and Beethoven: Solving a Medical Mystery
In 1827, A 56 year-old man died with his belly, arms and legs swollen like balloons. At age 22, he had developed belly cramps and diarrhea, which continued to occur for the rest of his life. He drank alcohol regularly, and whenever he drank his belly pain worsened. Two years before he died, his legs stayed swollen all the time. He started to lose his hearing at age 28 and became totally deaf at age 44. This made him miserable because he was a musician. He was so upset by his loss of hearing that he became depressed and as he aged, he started to spend long periods alone and when he was with other people, he acted crazy. He let his hair grow to his shoulders and he stopped combing it. He wandered around Vienna wearing an huge top hat and a coat that touched the ground. He walked around humming off-key and carried a notebook on which he scribbled all the time. He complained constantly about pain in his joints and his big toe would swell up again and again.
After he died, his autopsy showed that his liver was extremely small, and that he had kidney stones that destroyed his kidneys, to cause him to retain fluid, and die of kidney failure. You are correct if you recognize that this is the true story of perhaps the greatest composer who ever lived: Ludwig von Beethoven.
He died of kidney failure, but what caused his kidney failure? Stones in his kidneys! But what caused his kidney stones and intermittent joint pains? Gout! But what causes gout, pain in joints, and damages the nerves to cause deafness and craziness? Lead poisoning. Somehow he was poisoned with lead.
Beethoven died in 1827 and no tests were available to prove or disapprove whether he was poisoned with lead. After Beethoven died, hair was removed from his head and kept by his admirers; it is still available today. In November 2000, a study from the Health Research Institute in Naperville, Illinois, showed the concentration of lead in Beethoven’s hair was more than 100 times the amount found in healthy human hair. The source of the lead contamination remains unknown. Researchers are certain that Beethoven’s exposure to lead came as an adult, because he did not have vomiting and brain damage as a child and his disease worsened progressively as he aged. Lead directly damaged his nerves to make him deaf and crazy. Lead raised blood levels of uric acid that formed crystals in his joints to make them hurt and stones in his kidneys to damage them, causing his arms and legs to swell and eventually kill him of kidney failure.
After he died, his autopsy showed that his liver was extremely small, and that he had kidney stones that destroyed his kidneys, to cause him to retain fluid, and die of kidney failure. You are correct if you recognize that this is the true story of perhaps the greatest composer who ever lived: Ludwig von Beethoven.
He died of kidney failure, but what caused his kidney failure? Stones in his kidneys! But what caused his kidney stones and intermittent joint pains? Gout! But what causes gout, pain in joints, and damages the nerves to cause deafness and craziness? Lead poisoning. Somehow he was poisoned with lead.
Beethoven died in 1827 and no tests were available to prove or disapprove whether he was poisoned with lead. After Beethoven died, hair was removed from his head and kept by his admirers; it is still available today. In November 2000, a study from the Health Research Institute in Naperville, Illinois, showed the concentration of lead in Beethoven’s hair was more than 100 times the amount found in healthy human hair. The source of the lead contamination remains unknown. Researchers are certain that Beethoven’s exposure to lead came as an adult, because he did not have vomiting and brain damage as a child and his disease worsened progressively as he aged. Lead directly damaged his nerves to make him deaf and crazy. Lead raised blood levels of uric acid that formed crystals in his joints to make them hurt and stones in his kidneys to damage them, causing his arms and legs to swell and eventually kill him of kidney failure.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Simple Ways to Improve Your Clinic
Customers' demands have grown in Trinidad and Tobago, thanks in large part to exposure brought about by more frequent travel, the Internet and to some extent cable television. Many local businesses don't however realise that they too can right now satisfy sophisticated demands by using technology already available here. Take for example private clinics. I recently had the pleasure of spending some time at a local private clinic and here are some simple ways I saw that they can improve their service drastically:
The fee schedule, terms and conditions, visiting hours, what to bring from home and all the Frequently Asked Questions could have been placed on a website. This would free up phone time for the nurses who could then concentrate on nursing. Pictures of the rooms on a website would reduce the time the nurses spent giving potential patients "the tour" and showing what the shared rooms look like and what the private rooms offer.
Now here's one that would really make a local private clinic stand out: a password-protected webcam section. If a single mother has to work during the day while her infant is in the clinic, wouldn't it be great if she could enter a password-protected area of the website to see what's going on with her loved one?
All of the above and more are possible right now at affordable prices. So if you know any private clinic owners, you might want to share this newsletter with them.
Now let's look at the marvels doctors can accomplish through the Internet. You may already know that it's happening right now in developed countries that doctors tap into each other's expertise over the Net through teleconferencing, webinars and more. You may have even heard about "distance surgery."
While those are great, here's one simple way the Internet can immediately help medical doctors, dentists and veterinarians to improve their practices. Apart from adding value to their practices, the following will increase the numbers of highly satisfied patients as well as generate additional income. You know what, it could even become a long-term retirement plan for doctors. So be sure to tell your doctor about this:
Typically a patient may have a small question after a doctor's visit that would not warrant a second visit. So how about if your doctor had a website where you could login and post your medical question anonymously. The doctor could then answer, and not only you but all patients could see the response. A sort of forum could be created for patients only and answers could be found to all sorts of doubts. Of course this would all be done in a secure online environment for which you would need a username and password and the questions can be posted anonymously by members. True, this may not work for all issues but it would definitely work for many of the trivial ones, and patients could be charged a small yearly retainer's fee to have their questions answered on this service. So the doc even gets paid extra for the "after sales support."
The fee schedule, terms and conditions, visiting hours, what to bring from home and all the Frequently Asked Questions could have been placed on a website. This would free up phone time for the nurses who could then concentrate on nursing. Pictures of the rooms on a website would reduce the time the nurses spent giving potential patients "the tour" and showing what the shared rooms look like and what the private rooms offer.
Now here's one that would really make a local private clinic stand out: a password-protected webcam section. If a single mother has to work during the day while her infant is in the clinic, wouldn't it be great if she could enter a password-protected area of the website to see what's going on with her loved one?
All of the above and more are possible right now at affordable prices. So if you know any private clinic owners, you might want to share this newsletter with them.
Now let's look at the marvels doctors can accomplish through the Internet. You may already know that it's happening right now in developed countries that doctors tap into each other's expertise over the Net through teleconferencing, webinars and more. You may have even heard about "distance surgery."
While those are great, here's one simple way the Internet can immediately help medical doctors, dentists and veterinarians to improve their practices. Apart from adding value to their practices, the following will increase the numbers of highly satisfied patients as well as generate additional income. You know what, it could even become a long-term retirement plan for doctors. So be sure to tell your doctor about this:
Typically a patient may have a small question after a doctor's visit that would not warrant a second visit. So how about if your doctor had a website where you could login and post your medical question anonymously. The doctor could then answer, and not only you but all patients could see the response. A sort of forum could be created for patients only and answers could be found to all sorts of doubts. Of course this would all be done in a secure online environment for which you would need a username and password and the questions can be posted anonymously by members. True, this may not work for all issues but it would definitely work for many of the trivial ones, and patients could be charged a small yearly retainer's fee to have their questions answered on this service. So the doc even gets paid extra for the "after sales support."
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Seroquel Side Effects | Seroquel Lawyer & Seroquel Attorney Lawsuits
The FDA approved the drug Seroquel in 1997 for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar mania. Schizophrenia is not a multiple personality disorder, as it is commonly portrayed by the media, but rather a mental disease that causes people to fail to perceive reality properly. Schizophrenia can cause hallucinations, delusions and disorganized thinking processes. Bipolar mania is a mood disorder that is characterized as having extreme emotions. Usually these extreme emotions involve hyperactivity, increased sexual desires, increased irritability and sometimes euphoria.
Recently this drug has been linked to potentially fatal conditions such as diabetes and pancreatitis. If these conditions are left unchecked, they can sometimes lead to catastrophic problems such as ketoacidosis, coma and potentially death.
Seroquel is also known to cause an increase in appetite which ultimately causes the patient to gain weight. Weight gain can be an early sign of diabetes, hyperglycemia or other dangerous conditions. Unfortunately, Seroquel users have found it difficult (if not impossible) to lose the weight after it’s been put on after using the drug.
If you or a loved one has been faced with the devastating side effects of the drug Seroquel, it’s very important that you have someone to turn to for help. Seroquel induced diabetes or pancreatitis victims DO have legal rights. A qualified defective drug attorney can help you receive compensation for your injuries and fight for your rights. It’s time drug makers like AstraZeneca are held accountable for their actions. Please contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Recently this drug has been linked to potentially fatal conditions such as diabetes and pancreatitis. If these conditions are left unchecked, they can sometimes lead to catastrophic problems such as ketoacidosis, coma and potentially death.
Seroquel is also known to cause an increase in appetite which ultimately causes the patient to gain weight. Weight gain can be an early sign of diabetes, hyperglycemia or other dangerous conditions. Unfortunately, Seroquel users have found it difficult (if not impossible) to lose the weight after it’s been put on after using the drug.
If you or a loved one has been faced with the devastating side effects of the drug Seroquel, it’s very important that you have someone to turn to for help. Seroquel induced diabetes or pancreatitis victims DO have legal rights. A qualified defective drug attorney can help you receive compensation for your injuries and fight for your rights. It’s time drug makers like AstraZeneca are held accountable for their actions. Please contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Typhoid Mary Would Have Had Cancer
One hundred years ago in New York City, at least 10 epidemics of typhoid fever were traced to a single cook who was later called Typhoid Mary. Recent medical reports tell us how the epidemics could have been prevented and what could have been done to help her.
Mary Mallon came to the United States from Switzerland to work as a domestic caretaker for a family in New York. Soon afterwards, the whole family developed horrible fever, diarrhea and were very sick. Her doctor diagnosed typhoid fever, but before he could find the source of the bacteria that causes this disease, Mary Mallon had disappeared.
Later, an epidemic of typhoid fever was traced to a specific restaurant in New York and by the time the investigators arrived, they learned that an employee named Mary Mallon had worked there but had recently disappeared. Several more epidemics of typhoid fever occurred in restaurants and families in New York and each time, authorities found that a person matching Mary Mallon’s description had recently disappeared.
Finally, authorities caught Mary Mallow and told her never to work in a restaurant or handle food prepared for others. The epidemics continued, but she would then disappear before she could be caught and reappear later in another restaurant under an assumed name. Before she was finally put in jail, she caused at least 10 proven epidemics of typhoid fever, at least three deaths and who knows how many other cases of typhoid fever.
After she was caught for causing her tenth known outbreak, she was incarcerated and spent the rest for her life there, dying 31 years after her first epidemic. Typhoid Mary carried the typhoid fever germ in her gall bladder for the rest of her life, even though she, herself, was not sick. If it happened today, she would not have been placed in jail, she would be cured by taking antibiotics or by having her gall bladder removed.
A study in the British Journal, Lancet (January 8, 1994 343:83-84), shows that people who carry typhoid fever germs in their gall bladders are at increased risk for developing cancers, even though they may have no symptoms whatever. So, all people who have had typhoid fever and appear to have recovered, should have cultures done to see if they still carry the typhoid fever germ. If they do, they may need to take antibiotics or have their gall bladders removed. What a difference a century makes. Today, the term Typhoid Mary refers to a person who spreads diseases to other people, even though she has no symptoms herself.
Mary Mallon came to the United States from Switzerland to work as a domestic caretaker for a family in New York. Soon afterwards, the whole family developed horrible fever, diarrhea and were very sick. Her doctor diagnosed typhoid fever, but before he could find the source of the bacteria that causes this disease, Mary Mallon had disappeared.
Later, an epidemic of typhoid fever was traced to a specific restaurant in New York and by the time the investigators arrived, they learned that an employee named Mary Mallon had worked there but had recently disappeared. Several more epidemics of typhoid fever occurred in restaurants and families in New York and each time, authorities found that a person matching Mary Mallon’s description had recently disappeared.
Finally, authorities caught Mary Mallow and told her never to work in a restaurant or handle food prepared for others. The epidemics continued, but she would then disappear before she could be caught and reappear later in another restaurant under an assumed name. Before she was finally put in jail, she caused at least 10 proven epidemics of typhoid fever, at least three deaths and who knows how many other cases of typhoid fever.
After she was caught for causing her tenth known outbreak, she was incarcerated and spent the rest for her life there, dying 31 years after her first epidemic. Typhoid Mary carried the typhoid fever germ in her gall bladder for the rest of her life, even though she, herself, was not sick. If it happened today, she would not have been placed in jail, she would be cured by taking antibiotics or by having her gall bladder removed.
A study in the British Journal, Lancet (January 8, 1994 343:83-84), shows that people who carry typhoid fever germs in their gall bladders are at increased risk for developing cancers, even though they may have no symptoms whatever. So, all people who have had typhoid fever and appear to have recovered, should have cultures done to see if they still carry the typhoid fever germ. If they do, they may need to take antibiotics or have their gall bladders removed. What a difference a century makes. Today, the term Typhoid Mary refers to a person who spreads diseases to other people, even though she has no symptoms herself.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Overactive Thyroid
In May 1991, 66 year old George Bush, the 41st President of the United States and father of the 43rd president, was jogging around the grounds of Camp David when he suddenly felt short of breath, a tightness in his chest, and horrible tiredness. His heart beat very fast. How could this happen? He was highly fit and jogged regularly. He was athletic. He was a combat pilot during World War II and captain of the best baseball team Yale ever had. With George Bush at first base, Yale went to the semifinals of the NCAA tournament, the only time they got that far.
The president of the United States had fainted while jogging. A White House doctor had diagnosed a heart problem and admitted the president to Bethesda Naval Hospital. The president admitted feeling increasingly tired during the two weeks preceding his hospitalization. He had lost nine pounds in the last two months, and his hands shook so rapidly that not even he could read his handwriting. Doctors diagnosed that his thyroid gland was putting out too much of its hormone, and called it Graves' disease.
Soon afterward, the Bush family dog developed lupus (another autoimmune disease). Eighteen months before the president fainted, his wife, Barbara, was also diagnosed with Graves' disease. How could the president, his wife and his dog all develop autoimmune diseases that are thought to be inherited from your parents? Certainly, President Bush, his wife and his dog did not have the same parents. Most doctors continue to think that Grave’s disease is caused a person’s immunity being so stupid that it destroys a person’s own thyroid, but recent research has shown that this condition may be caused by a virus such as HTLV-1.
Doctors gave the president radioactive iodine that he swallowed and went to his thyroid gland and killed it. He now takes thyroid pills every day and will continue to do so for the rest of his life. Most of you know that six years after his diagnosis, and taking thyroid replacement daily, former president Bush jumped out of an airplane at age 72. If you suffer irritability, shakiness, weight loss, headache, osteoporosis, strokes, clotting and inability to stay asleep at night, you may have an overactive thyroid gland that can be cured by swallowing radioactive iodine. Then you take thyroid replacement pills forever, but you can live a long active and healthful life.
The president of the United States had fainted while jogging. A White House doctor had diagnosed a heart problem and admitted the president to Bethesda Naval Hospital. The president admitted feeling increasingly tired during the two weeks preceding his hospitalization. He had lost nine pounds in the last two months, and his hands shook so rapidly that not even he could read his handwriting. Doctors diagnosed that his thyroid gland was putting out too much of its hormone, and called it Graves' disease.
Soon afterward, the Bush family dog developed lupus (another autoimmune disease). Eighteen months before the president fainted, his wife, Barbara, was also diagnosed with Graves' disease. How could the president, his wife and his dog all develop autoimmune diseases that are thought to be inherited from your parents? Certainly, President Bush, his wife and his dog did not have the same parents. Most doctors continue to think that Grave’s disease is caused a person’s immunity being so stupid that it destroys a person’s own thyroid, but recent research has shown that this condition may be caused by a virus such as HTLV-1.
Doctors gave the president radioactive iodine that he swallowed and went to his thyroid gland and killed it. He now takes thyroid pills every day and will continue to do so for the rest of his life. Most of you know that six years after his diagnosis, and taking thyroid replacement daily, former president Bush jumped out of an airplane at age 72. If you suffer irritability, shakiness, weight loss, headache, osteoporosis, strokes, clotting and inability to stay asleep at night, you may have an overactive thyroid gland that can be cured by swallowing radioactive iodine. Then you take thyroid replacement pills forever, but you can live a long active and healthful life.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Arthritis Medication and Side Effects
"You have to take the good with the bad."
Whoever coined that phrase originally could have been referring to arthritis medications. While medications can make physical movement easier and less painful, they can also do some things you'd rather they didn't. Upset stomach, dry mouth, drowsiness, and increased risk of infection are some of the more benign of these side effects, but there are others that are decidedly worse.
Some side effects will disappear on their own as your body adjusts to the drug. For others, you can alleviate side effects by taking medications with food, supplementing nutrients the drug can affect, or using other medications to ease the first drug's effects (e.g. acetaminophen to ease injection pain, an artificial saliva product to ease dry mouth, or an antacid to ease stomach upset). For still others, you may have to learn to live with the side effects, especially if the benefits of taking the drug outweigh the consequences.
Sometimes, the bad exceeds the good and side effects can signal something life-threatening. Here are some side effects of the most commonly used arthritis medications that require immediate attention:
NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
Rapid or irregular pulse, hives on the face or mouth, wheezing, or tightness in the chest may indicate an allergic reaction to the drug. Stop taking the NSAID and get medical attention immediately.
Symptoms such as dark, tarry stools, or vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds could mean a bleeding ulcer. Unusual bleeding or bruising could mean the drugs are interfering with clotting. If you have one of these problems, call your doctor right away.
DMARDs (Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs)
DMARDs control arthritis by suppressing the immune system. Because this can also make it more difficult to fight infection, it's important that you call your doctor right away if you have symptoms of infection, including a fever, cough, hoarseness or sore throat. You should also consult with your doctor before getting any vaccinations while you are taking these drugs.
Corticosteroids
Though corticosteroids are potent anti-imflammatories, they also have the potential to do great harm. They have been shown to cause brittle bones, cataracts and elevated blood sugar, particularly if they are taken in high doses or for long periods of time. If you start to notice symptoms of diabetes (e.g. increased thirst, frequent urination and/or blurred vision), or neurological problems (e.g. hallucinations or rapid and wide mood swings), call your doctor as soon as possible.
These are some of the most common drugs used to combat the pain of arthritis, but there are many others used for all forms of arthritis and its related conditions. Any drug, for any condition, carries the risk of side effects. Before beginning any medication, read the drug's package insert. Ask your doctor if there are side effects you should watch for and what to do if you experience them. And, pay attention to what your body is telling you. If you're taking a medication, even one you've taken for a while, and you notice a problem, call your doctor.
As another familiar saying cautions us, "It’s better to be safe than sorry."
Whoever coined that phrase originally could have been referring to arthritis medications. While medications can make physical movement easier and less painful, they can also do some things you'd rather they didn't. Upset stomach, dry mouth, drowsiness, and increased risk of infection are some of the more benign of these side effects, but there are others that are decidedly worse.
Some side effects will disappear on their own as your body adjusts to the drug. For others, you can alleviate side effects by taking medications with food, supplementing nutrients the drug can affect, or using other medications to ease the first drug's effects (e.g. acetaminophen to ease injection pain, an artificial saliva product to ease dry mouth, or an antacid to ease stomach upset). For still others, you may have to learn to live with the side effects, especially if the benefits of taking the drug outweigh the consequences.
Sometimes, the bad exceeds the good and side effects can signal something life-threatening. Here are some side effects of the most commonly used arthritis medications that require immediate attention:
NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)
Rapid or irregular pulse, hives on the face or mouth, wheezing, or tightness in the chest may indicate an allergic reaction to the drug. Stop taking the NSAID and get medical attention immediately.
Symptoms such as dark, tarry stools, or vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds could mean a bleeding ulcer. Unusual bleeding or bruising could mean the drugs are interfering with clotting. If you have one of these problems, call your doctor right away.
DMARDs (Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs)
DMARDs control arthritis by suppressing the immune system. Because this can also make it more difficult to fight infection, it's important that you call your doctor right away if you have symptoms of infection, including a fever, cough, hoarseness or sore throat. You should also consult with your doctor before getting any vaccinations while you are taking these drugs.
Corticosteroids
Though corticosteroids are potent anti-imflammatories, they also have the potential to do great harm. They have been shown to cause brittle bones, cataracts and elevated blood sugar, particularly if they are taken in high doses or for long periods of time. If you start to notice symptoms of diabetes (e.g. increased thirst, frequent urination and/or blurred vision), or neurological problems (e.g. hallucinations or rapid and wide mood swings), call your doctor as soon as possible.
These are some of the most common drugs used to combat the pain of arthritis, but there are many others used for all forms of arthritis and its related conditions. Any drug, for any condition, carries the risk of side effects. Before beginning any medication, read the drug's package insert. Ask your doctor if there are side effects you should watch for and what to do if you experience them. And, pay attention to what your body is telling you. If you're taking a medication, even one you've taken for a while, and you notice a problem, call your doctor.
As another familiar saying cautions us, "It’s better to be safe than sorry."
Friday, October 5, 2007
Viagra Can Cure ED Due To Antipsychotic Drug Use
People with erectile dysfunction due to the use of antipsychotic drugs for the treatment of schizophrenia and similar other mental disorders have reasons to cheer, as Viagra is established to be an effective medicament to overcome the dysfunction. According to a press release in the American Journal of Psychiatry, the use of Viagra (sildenafil) can effectively improve the erection of an erectile dysfunction patient with history of antipsychotic drug use.
The study was conducted by a team of medical scientists led by Dr.Rajesh Gopalakrishnan in the renowned Christian Medical College, Vellore, India. Dr. Rajesh and his colleagues closely studied the effect of Viagra on 32 married men with erectile dysfunction caused due to the use of antipsychotic medicines, in a placebo-controlled situation. The study gave very interesting and encouraging results for the ED patients.
The study found that the patients who were given Viagra had an incredibly significant improvement in terms of their erection, as they were able to increase the frequency of their erection, and the duration too. And the patients could have a more satisfying sexual intercourse than before. Further clinical assessment and a deeper examination of the study revealed that Viagra (sildenafil) can triple the chances of a successful erection and a fulfilling sexual enjoyment in antipsychotic-induced erectile dysfunction patients.
Another startling fact that came of the research was the great tolerance level of Viagra in the patients. The report also said that there were no incidents of discontinuation during the course of the treatment. Other than the commonly occurring mild side effects like headaches and a stuffy nose, no serious side effects of Viagra use could be seen in the patients too.
The recent finding is quite akin to other published reports and studies on the use of Viagra in the treatment of patients with erectile dysfunction caused due to mixed reasons. Say, it is not very different from the study of Viagra use in a patient, who has spinal cord injuries and diabetes as the causes of ED.
Erectile dysfunction due to the use of antipsychotic medicaments can often lead to a number of problems because of its poor medical conformity. However, the path breaking research has given a new impetus to the treatment of erectile dysfunction patients with mental disorders like schizophrenia, giving a ray of hope to the patients.
The study was conducted by a team of medical scientists led by Dr.Rajesh Gopalakrishnan in the renowned Christian Medical College, Vellore, India. Dr. Rajesh and his colleagues closely studied the effect of Viagra on 32 married men with erectile dysfunction caused due to the use of antipsychotic medicines, in a placebo-controlled situation. The study gave very interesting and encouraging results for the ED patients.
The study found that the patients who were given Viagra had an incredibly significant improvement in terms of their erection, as they were able to increase the frequency of their erection, and the duration too. And the patients could have a more satisfying sexual intercourse than before. Further clinical assessment and a deeper examination of the study revealed that Viagra (sildenafil) can triple the chances of a successful erection and a fulfilling sexual enjoyment in antipsychotic-induced erectile dysfunction patients.
Another startling fact that came of the research was the great tolerance level of Viagra in the patients. The report also said that there were no incidents of discontinuation during the course of the treatment. Other than the commonly occurring mild side effects like headaches and a stuffy nose, no serious side effects of Viagra use could be seen in the patients too.
The recent finding is quite akin to other published reports and studies on the use of Viagra in the treatment of patients with erectile dysfunction caused due to mixed reasons. Say, it is not very different from the study of Viagra use in a patient, who has spinal cord injuries and diabetes as the causes of ED.
Erectile dysfunction due to the use of antipsychotic medicaments can often lead to a number of problems because of its poor medical conformity. However, the path breaking research has given a new impetus to the treatment of erectile dysfunction patients with mental disorders like schizophrenia, giving a ray of hope to the patients.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Cialis Sojourn: A Journey through Cyberspace
When push comes to shove:
It took one hell of an effort to come into terms with my underperformance or no-performance (the correct choice of word) in bed. It never was an issue when I was young, strong and healthy. Has age taken its toll on my virility? Well, I thought I was a goner, and was filled with trepidation and perturbation at having entered a stage of sexual vacuum. I surrendered to my fate, cos I knew even the heavens couldn’t help me. But a stubborn bull of a wife wouldn’t take it that way. I gave a deaf ear to her constant babbles and gabbles, day in and day out, to look for a solution. But push finally came to shove and I had to look for a way, when heaven had closed its doors on me.
Oh my god! I need Cialis.
Anyway, I couldn’t fault her. She is just forty and I am on the wrong side of fifty. We married in the fall of 2003, after a yearlong passionate romance of flowers and beaches. Our courtship days were full of exhilarating sexual escapades. The wonderful sexual chemistry we enjoyed was a binding force in our two years of married life. But things suddenly went out of hand, when our second anniversary was just round the corner. The invigorating sessions in bed showed a drastic slide. From a daily occurrence, it gradually became a once in a week affair. And one fine day, I was shell-shocked when I failed to get even an erection.
My wife, co-operative (especially when it came to sex) as she was, and I had a good chat. She passed it off as just a silly incident. But the next day the same thing happened again, my organ was dead as a dodo. From that day on, we tried titillating perfumes, stimulating ointments, sexy lingerie and what nots, but we always came up against a blank wall. I felt as if the ground was giving way under my feet. Then one day out of the blue, Meg popped up the million dollar question, “ Andy, you have a problem, I think you have erectile dysfunction. Why don’t we try Cialis?” “ No way! It’s just my age” I yelled and rushed out of the house. It was then the blabbers began.
Resigned to my helplessness, I fretted and fumed for a week. But my wife kept on planning her moves strategically that before I could say ‘checkmate’, I found myself wandering aimlessly in cyberspace witch-hunting for the ‘Le Weekender Pill’. But finding the right place to buy Cialis from the sea of sites selling Cialis was not exactly a chalk and cheese thing, though it is an altogether different story.
Where art thou Cialis?
I am no novice when it comes to ordering things online. I knew I had a tough task ahead of me. Filtering out a genuine place to talk shop in the net would be risky business. But no way was I going let some crackpot of a sexual psychologist, a sneak preview of my bedroom woes (by paying him?). caught between the devil and the deep sea, I plunged headlong into the sea, fishing for Cialis.
I began hitting the keys on my monitor and there before my naked eyes endless lists of sites selling ‘cheap’, ‘branded’, ‘discounted’ and ‘genuine’ Cialis popped up on my screen. I was in a fix. How could a product be cheap, branded, discounted and genuine at the same time? They would soon be out of business, the way they were doing business. “Hey Meg, I can’t do this alone,” I shouted, “better give me a hand”. Two heads are better than one, I realized. Meg suggested we try randomly at different sites. So began a ‘hit and trial’ hitting on the keyboard.
A female of the species, she was attracted to sites with sweet sounding names like cialiswonder, and others of the category with a dream or magic thrown in. I quote the Bard, “What's in a name? That which we will call a rose. By any other word would smell as sweet." But stubborn as she was sweet, she went ahead. (My apologies to William) She finally zeroed in on two sites and we started out filling the order forms. ‘No prescriptions required, you just need to fill in a simple online form’. My foot! The whole procedure was nothing less cranky than facing a live physician for a prescription. But what the heck, better finish what I started out. So, I finally place the orders at two sites. Then the wait began.
Mixed doubles:
Two packages arrived, one after the other. Missing out on the nocturnal activities for quite a while, I was eager and anxious, as if I was readying for my first lay in the back of dad’s car way back in high school. So, I bushwhacked through the first package and immediately downed a pill. The consulting physician of the online pharmacy told me over phone that I would experience the sexual high in 30 minutes after taking the pill. But nothing happened in the first half-hour, in spite of the exciting ministrations of Meg. I gave her a knowing look, meaning we were hoodwinked. She told me to wait. 45 minutes, one hour, it didn’t come. Then by the 75th minute, I felt a tingling in my groin. Impatient, like a bitch on heat, I was all over my wife. Then, bang, it was all over, the way it started. But still happy with the result, I looked forward to the next 35 hours. Holy cow, my boner remained placid and flaccid, the entire 35 hours. I flushed the remaining pills down the john.
Anyway I still had the other package to further carry out my virility trial. Low on confidence, but high in spirit, I reluctantly took the other pill. Even my wife didn’t show the usual sign of interest in the exercise this time round. Then I got the surprise of surprises. Hardly 25 minutes had passed, when I saw the resurrection down under. I wanted to shout “Happy Easter” (with no offence to the gods). But first things first. Meg was surprised when she saw the sign of life in my poker so fast. Then everything came back to me. Let me cut out the events of the day, but tell you what, thereafter Meg never sighed in bed, she always cried out. (She still does)
It took one hell of an effort to come into terms with my underperformance or no-performance (the correct choice of word) in bed. It never was an issue when I was young, strong and healthy. Has age taken its toll on my virility? Well, I thought I was a goner, and was filled with trepidation and perturbation at having entered a stage of sexual vacuum. I surrendered to my fate, cos I knew even the heavens couldn’t help me. But a stubborn bull of a wife wouldn’t take it that way. I gave a deaf ear to her constant babbles and gabbles, day in and day out, to look for a solution. But push finally came to shove and I had to look for a way, when heaven had closed its doors on me.
Oh my god! I need Cialis.
Anyway, I couldn’t fault her. She is just forty and I am on the wrong side of fifty. We married in the fall of 2003, after a yearlong passionate romance of flowers and beaches. Our courtship days were full of exhilarating sexual escapades. The wonderful sexual chemistry we enjoyed was a binding force in our two years of married life. But things suddenly went out of hand, when our second anniversary was just round the corner. The invigorating sessions in bed showed a drastic slide. From a daily occurrence, it gradually became a once in a week affair. And one fine day, I was shell-shocked when I failed to get even an erection.
My wife, co-operative (especially when it came to sex) as she was, and I had a good chat. She passed it off as just a silly incident. But the next day the same thing happened again, my organ was dead as a dodo. From that day on, we tried titillating perfumes, stimulating ointments, sexy lingerie and what nots, but we always came up against a blank wall. I felt as if the ground was giving way under my feet. Then one day out of the blue, Meg popped up the million dollar question, “ Andy, you have a problem, I think you have erectile dysfunction. Why don’t we try Cialis?” “ No way! It’s just my age” I yelled and rushed out of the house. It was then the blabbers began.
Resigned to my helplessness, I fretted and fumed for a week. But my wife kept on planning her moves strategically that before I could say ‘checkmate’, I found myself wandering aimlessly in cyberspace witch-hunting for the ‘Le Weekender Pill’. But finding the right place to buy Cialis from the sea of sites selling Cialis was not exactly a chalk and cheese thing, though it is an altogether different story.
Where art thou Cialis?
I am no novice when it comes to ordering things online. I knew I had a tough task ahead of me. Filtering out a genuine place to talk shop in the net would be risky business. But no way was I going let some crackpot of a sexual psychologist, a sneak preview of my bedroom woes (by paying him?). caught between the devil and the deep sea, I plunged headlong into the sea, fishing for Cialis.
I began hitting the keys on my monitor and there before my naked eyes endless lists of sites selling ‘cheap’, ‘branded’, ‘discounted’ and ‘genuine’ Cialis popped up on my screen. I was in a fix. How could a product be cheap, branded, discounted and genuine at the same time? They would soon be out of business, the way they were doing business. “Hey Meg, I can’t do this alone,” I shouted, “better give me a hand”. Two heads are better than one, I realized. Meg suggested we try randomly at different sites. So began a ‘hit and trial’ hitting on the keyboard.
A female of the species, she was attracted to sites with sweet sounding names like cialiswonder, and others of the category with a dream or magic thrown in. I quote the Bard, “What's in a name? That which we will call a rose. By any other word would smell as sweet." But stubborn as she was sweet, she went ahead. (My apologies to William) She finally zeroed in on two sites and we started out filling the order forms. ‘No prescriptions required, you just need to fill in a simple online form’. My foot! The whole procedure was nothing less cranky than facing a live physician for a prescription. But what the heck, better finish what I started out. So, I finally place the orders at two sites. Then the wait began.
Mixed doubles:
Two packages arrived, one after the other. Missing out on the nocturnal activities for quite a while, I was eager and anxious, as if I was readying for my first lay in the back of dad’s car way back in high school. So, I bushwhacked through the first package and immediately downed a pill. The consulting physician of the online pharmacy told me over phone that I would experience the sexual high in 30 minutes after taking the pill. But nothing happened in the first half-hour, in spite of the exciting ministrations of Meg. I gave her a knowing look, meaning we were hoodwinked. She told me to wait. 45 minutes, one hour, it didn’t come. Then by the 75th minute, I felt a tingling in my groin. Impatient, like a bitch on heat, I was all over my wife. Then, bang, it was all over, the way it started. But still happy with the result, I looked forward to the next 35 hours. Holy cow, my boner remained placid and flaccid, the entire 35 hours. I flushed the remaining pills down the john.
Anyway I still had the other package to further carry out my virility trial. Low on confidence, but high in spirit, I reluctantly took the other pill. Even my wife didn’t show the usual sign of interest in the exercise this time round. Then I got the surprise of surprises. Hardly 25 minutes had passed, when I saw the resurrection down under. I wanted to shout “Happy Easter” (with no offence to the gods). But first things first. Meg was surprised when she saw the sign of life in my poker so fast. Then everything came back to me. Let me cut out the events of the day, but tell you what, thereafter Meg never sighed in bed, she always cried out. (She still does)
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
How Can Magnetic Therapy Relieve Sciatica ?
What is Sciatica?
The longest nerve in your body, the sciatic nerve runs from your pelvis through your hip area and buttocks and down each leg. It divides into the tibial and peroneal nerves at the level of your knees. The sciatic nerve controls many of the muscles in your lower legs and provides feeling to your thighs, legs and feet.
The term sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of this nerve, from your back into your buttock and leg. The discomfort can range from mild to incapacitating, and may be accompanied by tingling, numbness or muscle weakness. Rather than a disorder in and of itself sciatica is a symptom of another problem that puts pressure on the nerve.
What are the signs and symptoms of Sciatica?
Pain that radiates from your lower (lumbar) spine to your buttock and down the back of your leg is the hallmark of sciatica. You may feel the discomfort almost anywhere along the nerve pathway, but it's especially likely to follow one of these routes:
•From your lower back to your knee.
•From the mid buttock to the outside of your calf, the top of your foot and into the space between your last two toes.
•From the inside of your calf to your inner ankle and sole.
The pain can vary widely, from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or excruciating discomfort. Sometimes it may feel like a jolt or electric shock. Sciatic pain often starts gradually and intensifies over time. It's likely to be worse when you sit, cough or sneeze. Usually only one lower extremity is affected.
In addition to pain, you may also experience:
•Numbness or muscle weakness along the nerve pathway in your leg or foot. In some cases, you may have pain in one part of your leg and numbness in another.
•Tingling or a pins-and-needles feeling. This occurs most commonly in your toes or part of your foot.
•A loss of bladder or bowel control. This is a sign of cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition that requires emergency care. If you experience either of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
Magnetic therapy for sciatica.
Sciatica can resolve by itself but this can take many weeks or even months. You can however quite rapidly reduce the symptoms of sciatica with magnets. As with all magnetic therapy treatments, the magnets have to be placed as close to the area of pain as possible, this will be the lower (lumbar) region of the back. Even though you may have pain down your legs or in your buttocks the cause is still in the lower back. When you treat the back area and the sciatica resolves then the pain running down the leg and buttocks will also dissipate.
There are really only 2 magnetic therapy devices that are effective in treating sciatica:
1.A magnetic therapy back strap or support. The functional straps and supports can be placed directly over the area of pain. If the sciatica is very low in the back then a narrow strap will be more practical and altogether more comfortable than a wide support, as it fits snugly around the hip area and will stay over the compressed nerve. A wider support is effective if the sciatic pain is higher and nearer to the waist area. As with all magnets the straps/supports need to be worn for 24 hours and 7 days a week until the pain has gone.
2.A Magnetic therapy pillow pad. If for any reason what so ever you cannot wear a back belt or support the only alternative is to use a pad placed under your back in bed at night. It can also be used during the day when sitting or lying down (even in the car). You will not have 24 hours 7 day a week exposure to the magnets but if you cannot wear a strap this is an acceptable alternative as long as it is used every might when the body is at its most receptive to magnetic healing.
When magnetic therapy is used in-conjunction with deep penetrating massage and cold/ice therapy, the symptoms of sciatica can be resolved in just a few days. Massage will relax the muscles that have gone into spasm around the trapped nerve, the cold or ice will help reduce the inflammation and heat around the injury and both of these will prepare the tissues and muscles, so that the magnetic field can penetrate more quickly into the damaged area. Massage and ice therapy can be used 3-4 times a day for approximately 10 minutes at a time.
The longest nerve in your body, the sciatic nerve runs from your pelvis through your hip area and buttocks and down each leg. It divides into the tibial and peroneal nerves at the level of your knees. The sciatic nerve controls many of the muscles in your lower legs and provides feeling to your thighs, legs and feet.
The term sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of this nerve, from your back into your buttock and leg. The discomfort can range from mild to incapacitating, and may be accompanied by tingling, numbness or muscle weakness. Rather than a disorder in and of itself sciatica is a symptom of another problem that puts pressure on the nerve.
What are the signs and symptoms of Sciatica?
Pain that radiates from your lower (lumbar) spine to your buttock and down the back of your leg is the hallmark of sciatica. You may feel the discomfort almost anywhere along the nerve pathway, but it's especially likely to follow one of these routes:
•From your lower back to your knee.
•From the mid buttock to the outside of your calf, the top of your foot and into the space between your last two toes.
•From the inside of your calf to your inner ankle and sole.
The pain can vary widely, from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or excruciating discomfort. Sometimes it may feel like a jolt or electric shock. Sciatic pain often starts gradually and intensifies over time. It's likely to be worse when you sit, cough or sneeze. Usually only one lower extremity is affected.
In addition to pain, you may also experience:
•Numbness or muscle weakness along the nerve pathway in your leg or foot. In some cases, you may have pain in one part of your leg and numbness in another.
•Tingling or a pins-and-needles feeling. This occurs most commonly in your toes or part of your foot.
•A loss of bladder or bowel control. This is a sign of cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition that requires emergency care. If you experience either of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.
Magnetic therapy for sciatica.
Sciatica can resolve by itself but this can take many weeks or even months. You can however quite rapidly reduce the symptoms of sciatica with magnets. As with all magnetic therapy treatments, the magnets have to be placed as close to the area of pain as possible, this will be the lower (lumbar) region of the back. Even though you may have pain down your legs or in your buttocks the cause is still in the lower back. When you treat the back area and the sciatica resolves then the pain running down the leg and buttocks will also dissipate.
There are really only 2 magnetic therapy devices that are effective in treating sciatica:
1.A magnetic therapy back strap or support. The functional straps and supports can be placed directly over the area of pain. If the sciatica is very low in the back then a narrow strap will be more practical and altogether more comfortable than a wide support, as it fits snugly around the hip area and will stay over the compressed nerve. A wider support is effective if the sciatic pain is higher and nearer to the waist area. As with all magnets the straps/supports need to be worn for 24 hours and 7 days a week until the pain has gone.
2.A Magnetic therapy pillow pad. If for any reason what so ever you cannot wear a back belt or support the only alternative is to use a pad placed under your back in bed at night. It can also be used during the day when sitting or lying down (even in the car). You will not have 24 hours 7 day a week exposure to the magnets but if you cannot wear a strap this is an acceptable alternative as long as it is used every might when the body is at its most receptive to magnetic healing.
When magnetic therapy is used in-conjunction with deep penetrating massage and cold/ice therapy, the symptoms of sciatica can be resolved in just a few days. Massage will relax the muscles that have gone into spasm around the trapped nerve, the cold or ice will help reduce the inflammation and heat around the injury and both of these will prepare the tissues and muscles, so that the magnetic field can penetrate more quickly into the damaged area. Massage and ice therapy can be used 3-4 times a day for approximately 10 minutes at a time.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
The Pill That Kill--Available at a Doctor Near You
Imagine going to your doctor and being offered a pill—not because you were sick, or in any danger of becoming sick. No—you’re friendly physician is simply giving you drugs because you’re a woman.
If that sounds like a Hitchcock horror story to you—be prepared. Gynecologists around the country are embarking on a weird medical experiment that could have serious repercussions for women’s health.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has decided it won’t wait for the Food and Drug Administration to approve over-the-counter sales of the so-called morning after pill—a pill which is supposed to help women who are harboring regret over a sexual encounter the night before. Of course, it doesn’t matter that the FDA is hesitant to give the pills out like candy because it doesn’t want to promote promiscuity among young people. Also, some leading medical experts say that the morning after pill doesn’t just prevent pregnancy—it can also kill a child who has already been conceived in her mother’s womb.
No, ACOG won’t let the facts stand in the way of its misguided idea of scientific progress. In fact, the gynecologists’ group employs this fuzzy reasoning for promoting morning after pill prescriptions: women tend to have sex on weekends. Maybe women also tend to have beer on Saturday nights. Does that mean their family doctors should load them up with six packs every time they come in for flu shots?
The fact is, the pro-abortion contingent of ACOG is running scared. Pharmacists throughout the country have said they don’t want to dispense the morning after pill, also known as emergency “contraception,” because they have religious and moral objections to it. The abortionists know that, if they can get women hooked on the morning after pill, they’ll have more support for their agenda—which includes abortion any time for any reason, anywhere.
It’s interesting to note that some experts have come to the conclusion that there really isn’t a great demand for the morning after pill. In other words, pharmacies are not going to go out of business for refusing to stock it. So the only way for big drug companies to sell the morning after pill and other such concoctions is to market them directly to doctors.
Every time a woman comes into a gynecologist’s office, ACOG wants the doctor to offer her advance prescriptions of the morning after pill. But it is apparently not enough to simply make the offer—some women are reporting that their gynecologists are insisting that they take the prescription—even if they say repeatedly that they don’t want it. The doctors urge them, “it’s good for a year!” This kind of scenario makes a mockery out of the phrase “pro-choice.” In a situation like this, how can anyone not conclude that “pro-choice” is really “pro- abortion?”
Apparently, ACOG sees no reason for gynecologists to inform their patients that the morning after pill can cause abortions—even if some women have strong moral objections to abortion. For ACOG, the pill is a simple solution to the estimated 2.7 million unplanned pregnancies that occur each year.
But the fact of the matter is, a number of us were the result of unplanned pregnancies. You don’t have to be planned—or even wanted by your natural parents—in order to make a difference in this world. Every human life is precious from the moment of conception—and no dictate from ACOG can change that.
Doctors routinely tell pregnant women not to take any medication during their pregnancies for fear that it will harm their unborn children. If a pregnant woman can’t take an aspirin, how can doctors assume that it’s safe for her to take the morning after pill? What if the pill “fails” and the woman remains pregnant? Or what if the woman takes the pill when she’s already six weeks along? And what’s to prevent the pill from getting into the hands of the woman’s impressionable 13- year-old daughter, who sees the pill as a good excuse to “hook up” with a boy she barely knows? Will ACOG pay for the girl’s counseling when she discovers that the boy who took away her virginity is a stalker or 40 years old?
Any doctor who thinks nothing of dispensing a pill that can kill has no place in the healing arts. Whether an abortion is surgical or chemical, it is still a tragedy for both mother and child.
If that sounds like a Hitchcock horror story to you—be prepared. Gynecologists around the country are embarking on a weird medical experiment that could have serious repercussions for women’s health.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has decided it won’t wait for the Food and Drug Administration to approve over-the-counter sales of the so-called morning after pill—a pill which is supposed to help women who are harboring regret over a sexual encounter the night before. Of course, it doesn’t matter that the FDA is hesitant to give the pills out like candy because it doesn’t want to promote promiscuity among young people. Also, some leading medical experts say that the morning after pill doesn’t just prevent pregnancy—it can also kill a child who has already been conceived in her mother’s womb.
No, ACOG won’t let the facts stand in the way of its misguided idea of scientific progress. In fact, the gynecologists’ group employs this fuzzy reasoning for promoting morning after pill prescriptions: women tend to have sex on weekends. Maybe women also tend to have beer on Saturday nights. Does that mean their family doctors should load them up with six packs every time they come in for flu shots?
The fact is, the pro-abortion contingent of ACOG is running scared. Pharmacists throughout the country have said they don’t want to dispense the morning after pill, also known as emergency “contraception,” because they have religious and moral objections to it. The abortionists know that, if they can get women hooked on the morning after pill, they’ll have more support for their agenda—which includes abortion any time for any reason, anywhere.
It’s interesting to note that some experts have come to the conclusion that there really isn’t a great demand for the morning after pill. In other words, pharmacies are not going to go out of business for refusing to stock it. So the only way for big drug companies to sell the morning after pill and other such concoctions is to market them directly to doctors.
Every time a woman comes into a gynecologist’s office, ACOG wants the doctor to offer her advance prescriptions of the morning after pill. But it is apparently not enough to simply make the offer—some women are reporting that their gynecologists are insisting that they take the prescription—even if they say repeatedly that they don’t want it. The doctors urge them, “it’s good for a year!” This kind of scenario makes a mockery out of the phrase “pro-choice.” In a situation like this, how can anyone not conclude that “pro-choice” is really “pro- abortion?”
Apparently, ACOG sees no reason for gynecologists to inform their patients that the morning after pill can cause abortions—even if some women have strong moral objections to abortion. For ACOG, the pill is a simple solution to the estimated 2.7 million unplanned pregnancies that occur each year.
But the fact of the matter is, a number of us were the result of unplanned pregnancies. You don’t have to be planned—or even wanted by your natural parents—in order to make a difference in this world. Every human life is precious from the moment of conception—and no dictate from ACOG can change that.
Doctors routinely tell pregnant women not to take any medication during their pregnancies for fear that it will harm their unborn children. If a pregnant woman can’t take an aspirin, how can doctors assume that it’s safe for her to take the morning after pill? What if the pill “fails” and the woman remains pregnant? Or what if the woman takes the pill when she’s already six weeks along? And what’s to prevent the pill from getting into the hands of the woman’s impressionable 13- year-old daughter, who sees the pill as a good excuse to “hook up” with a boy she barely knows? Will ACOG pay for the girl’s counseling when she discovers that the boy who took away her virginity is a stalker or 40 years old?
Any doctor who thinks nothing of dispensing a pill that can kill has no place in the healing arts. Whether an abortion is surgical or chemical, it is still a tragedy for both mother and child.
Monday, October 1, 2007
The Truth About Xanax (Frequently Asked Questions, Facts And Information)
Fiction: Xanax stays in your body for weeks and months.
Fact: For a healthy adult, the average time taken for Xanax to leave the system is 11.2 hours. For a healthy adult aged over 65, Xanax will take an average of 16.3 hours to leave the body.
Fiction: You can get 'permanent brain damage' from using Xanax.
Fact: There is no evidence to show that Xanax causes any type of brain damage. However, research shows that there are some serious side effects, although they are quite rare. Here is a list of such:
* seizures (particularly if dosage is discontinued abruptly)
* allergic reactions, including rash and anaphylaxis (a sudden, severe, potentially fatal, systemic allergic reaction that can involve various areas of the body)
* blood disorders, including leucopenia and leucocytosis
* jaundice
* difficulty concentrating
* slurred or unusual speech
* double vision
* fear or anxiety
* altered sense of taste
* lack of inhibition
* muscle cramps or spasms
* urination problems
* tingling
* incontinence
* warmth
* weakness
* change in muscle tone
* yellow eyes and skin
* hyperexcitement or overstimulation
* hallucinations
* rage or other hostile behavior
* transient elevated liver function tests
* tremors
* insomnia or sleeping difficulties
Fiction: Once you get 'hooked' on Xanax it's really hard to stop.
Fact: Because Xanax has a fast elimination rate from the body (compared with other drugs of its type), rebound and withdrawal symptoms are more prominent after discontinuation.
The risk of dependence or addiction is increased when:
* You've been taking more than 4 mg a day;
* You've been taking Xanax for a long period of time;
* You have a history of drug or alcohol abuse
You will feel as though you are addicted if you try to discontinue taking Xanax abruptly. This is commonly why people get so worried and frustrated about using this drug.
The best way to discontinue use is to taper the dosage. This means reducing the dose by small amounts on a regular basis, to help the body adjust accordingly and to reduce intake to zero. Tapering is an extremely effective method; it is recommended that Xanax dosage be decreased by no more than 0.5 mg every three days.
Fiction: Xanax will make you fat / Xanax will make you skinny.
You will not become "fat" or "skinny" from using Xanax. However, research has shown that Xanax does indeed increase food intake in humans.
Fact: For women Xanax use significantly increases food intake premenstrually compared to postmenstrually (particularly fatty foods). The study demonstrated how normally restrained eaters consumed 26% more calories premenstrually, whereas unrestrained eaters consumed 9% more calories.
Fiction: You will have no sex life whilst using Xanax
Fact: Yes, it is true that Alprazolam can cause a loss of sexual desire and function. This does not mean however that you will have no sex life. It simply means that you will have to talk to your doctor about what strategies are available to compensate for the Alprazolam's effects. Some evidence suggests use of Viagra to counter the negative sexual side effects.
Uncommon but documented cases include: inhibited female orgasm (using 5 mg/day); impaired ejaculation (using 3.5 mg/day), decreased libido, impaired erection (using 4.5 mg/day); altered timing and pattern of menstruation (using 0.75 to 4 mg/day.)
Fiction: Xanax can be used as a 'party drug'.
Fact: You are putting yourself at great risk if you misuse this medication. It is well known that overdoses of Alprazolam can cause unconsciousness, coma and death.
Combine this with the fact that alcohol increases the drowsiness and dizziness associated with Xanax, and you will quickly realise that this is not a drug to be abused at parties or for recreation. People die needlessly because of accidents involving alcohol and Xanax overdose.
Fact: For a healthy adult, the average time taken for Xanax to leave the system is 11.2 hours. For a healthy adult aged over 65, Xanax will take an average of 16.3 hours to leave the body.
Fiction: You can get 'permanent brain damage' from using Xanax.
Fact: There is no evidence to show that Xanax causes any type of brain damage. However, research shows that there are some serious side effects, although they are quite rare. Here is a list of such:
* seizures (particularly if dosage is discontinued abruptly)
* allergic reactions, including rash and anaphylaxis (a sudden, severe, potentially fatal, systemic allergic reaction that can involve various areas of the body)
* blood disorders, including leucopenia and leucocytosis
* jaundice
* difficulty concentrating
* slurred or unusual speech
* double vision
* fear or anxiety
* altered sense of taste
* lack of inhibition
* muscle cramps or spasms
* urination problems
* tingling
* incontinence
* warmth
* weakness
* change in muscle tone
* yellow eyes and skin
* hyperexcitement or overstimulation
* hallucinations
* rage or other hostile behavior
* transient elevated liver function tests
* tremors
* insomnia or sleeping difficulties
Fiction: Once you get 'hooked' on Xanax it's really hard to stop.
Fact: Because Xanax has a fast elimination rate from the body (compared with other drugs of its type), rebound and withdrawal symptoms are more prominent after discontinuation.
The risk of dependence or addiction is increased when:
* You've been taking more than 4 mg a day;
* You've been taking Xanax for a long period of time;
* You have a history of drug or alcohol abuse
You will feel as though you are addicted if you try to discontinue taking Xanax abruptly. This is commonly why people get so worried and frustrated about using this drug.
The best way to discontinue use is to taper the dosage. This means reducing the dose by small amounts on a regular basis, to help the body adjust accordingly and to reduce intake to zero. Tapering is an extremely effective method; it is recommended that Xanax dosage be decreased by no more than 0.5 mg every three days.
Fiction: Xanax will make you fat / Xanax will make you skinny.
You will not become "fat" or "skinny" from using Xanax. However, research has shown that Xanax does indeed increase food intake in humans.
Fact: For women Xanax use significantly increases food intake premenstrually compared to postmenstrually (particularly fatty foods). The study demonstrated how normally restrained eaters consumed 26% more calories premenstrually, whereas unrestrained eaters consumed 9% more calories.
Fiction: You will have no sex life whilst using Xanax
Fact: Yes, it is true that Alprazolam can cause a loss of sexual desire and function. This does not mean however that you will have no sex life. It simply means that you will have to talk to your doctor about what strategies are available to compensate for the Alprazolam's effects. Some evidence suggests use of Viagra to counter the negative sexual side effects.
Uncommon but documented cases include: inhibited female orgasm (using 5 mg/day); impaired ejaculation (using 3.5 mg/day), decreased libido, impaired erection (using 4.5 mg/day); altered timing and pattern of menstruation (using 0.75 to 4 mg/day.)
Fiction: Xanax can be used as a 'party drug'.
Fact: You are putting yourself at great risk if you misuse this medication. It is well known that overdoses of Alprazolam can cause unconsciousness, coma and death.
Combine this with the fact that alcohol increases the drowsiness and dizziness associated with Xanax, and you will quickly realise that this is not a drug to be abused at parties or for recreation. People die needlessly because of accidents involving alcohol and Xanax overdose.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
