Master the blood sugar monitoring basics and know your numbers.
From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/how-to-test-your-blood-sugar?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
How to Test Your Blood Sugar
From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/how-to-test-your-blood-sugar?src=RSS_PUBLIC
First Zika-Linked Glaucoma Case Diagnosed in Baby
Brazilian baby developed vision-threatening condition after being exposed to virus in womb
From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20161130/first-case-of-zika-linked-glaucoma-diagnosed-in-infant?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Americans' Cholesterol Levels Keep Falling
Eliminating trans fats from the U.S. diet may be one factor in this healthy trend, CDC researchers say
From: http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/news/20161130/americans-cholesterol-levels-keep-falling?src=RSS_PUBLIC
The health advantages of marriage
Follow me on Twitter @RobShmerling
“My wife and I were happy for 20 years. Then we met.”
That’s just one of many Rodney Dangerfield jokes that don’t exactly paint a rosy picture of marriage. But, according to a new study, being married might just save your life.
Okay, that might be an overstatement. But there is fascinating — and compelling — research suggesting that married people enjoy better health than single people. For example, as compared with those who are single, those who are married tend to
- live longer
- have fewer strokes and heart attacks
- have a lower chance of becoming depressed
- be less likely to have advanced cancer at the time of diagnosis and more likely to survive cancer for a longer period of time
- survive a major operation more often.
This doesn’t mean that just being married automatically provides these health benefits. People in stressful, unhappy marriages may be worse off than a single person who is surrounded by supportive and caring friends, family, and loved ones. Interestingly, many of these health benefits are more pronounced for married men than for married women.
A newly recognized “marriage benefit” for the heart?
A recent study of 25,000 people in England found that among people having a heart attack, those who were married were 14% more likely to survive and they were able to leave the hospital two days sooner than single people having a heart attack.
This study was presented at a medical conference, so the results should be considered preliminary. But it does raise some questions. For example, were the heart attacks of single people more severe than those in people who were married? And was the health of the single heart attack victims worse before the heart attack than that of the married group?
The headlines describing this study might have single people feeling even more pressured than before to find a marriage partner. I think that would be unfortunate, as a study of this type can only conclude there is an “association” or link between marriage and better health outcomes after a heart attack — but it cannot say with confidence that marriage is the reason for that benefit.
How does this work?
Given the growing body of evidence linking marriage with better health, it’s worth asking why such a connection might exist. A number of researchers have explored this question. Here are some of the more prominent theories.
- It’s all about immune function. Studies have found that people in happy relationships have stronger immune function than those who are not. And, cortisol tends to be released in lower amounts in married people as compared with those who are single. That may be important because cortisol levels tend to reflect levels of stress, and high cortisol levels can impair immune function.
- Your behavior improves with marriage. Married people may take fewer risks, eat better, and maintain healthier lifestyles, on average, compared with single people. There is also evidence that married people tend to keep regular doctors’ appointments and follow doctors’ recommendations more often than single people.
- Mental health is better when you’re married. Poor social supports (as might be more likely for those who are single) have been strongly linked with higher rates of depression, loneliness, and social isolation, which have in turn been associated with poorer health outcomes.
- Married people have better health before getting married. It’s reasonable to wonder whether people with medical problems (or who are prone to them due to unhealthy habits) are less likely to get married; that would leave healthier people getting married and that could account for the “marriage health benefit.” But, some studies have actually found that unhealthy men tend to marry at a younger age and divorce less often than healthy men.
None of the evidence in support of these theories proves (or refutes) a health benefit to marriage. So, if there is a health benefit to marriage, the precise reason is not known. But researchers continue to study the question.
What’s next?
I think that in the future we will have a better understanding of the health effects of social supports, including marriage. Then, our focus can turn to another important question: so what? If marriage is truly a predictor of better health, can this knowledge be used to improve health? For example, if a single person has a heart attack, is there some way that this “higher risk” individual can be treated differently to improve the outcome?
It seems likely that Mr. Dangerfield’s comments about marriage were mostly (or totally) for laughs — but even if his marriage made him miserable (as he so often suggested), it may still have been good for his health.
The post The health advantages of marriage appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Robert H. Shmerling, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-health-advantages-of-marriage-2016113010667
"Teetotaler gene" could lead to alcoholism treatments
"Teetotaler gene" dampens desire to drink alcohol, according to genetic research involving more than 100,000 drinkers
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/teetotaler-gene-discovery-could-lead-to-alcohol-addiction-drinking-treatments/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/teetotaler-gene-discovery-could-lead-to-alcohol-addiction-drinking-treatments/
Invasive strep outbreak kills 4
More than two dozen people have been sickened by the invasive bacteria in the state’s two largest cities, officials said
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/invasive-strep-outbreak-alaska/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/invasive-strep-outbreak-alaska/
Protect your heart against the stress that diabetes can bring
Diabetes can strain your heart. Here's how to protect it.
From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/got-diabetes-get-heart-smart?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Dr. Jay Morris on 3-D Modeling Lab RSNA
From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yH7TjDnyZJQ
How Can I Get My Blood Pressure Down?
High blood pressure can worsen diabetes , but exercise, changes in your diet, and getting enough sleep can help fight the negative effects.
From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/question-how-can-i-lower-my-blood-pressure?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Colorectal Cancers on the Rise in Younger Adults
A recent study says rates of colon and rectal cancer are rising among younger people, a group that’s rarely screened for such cancers.
From: http://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/news/20161130/colorectal-cancers-on-the-rise-in-younger-adults?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Statement from Agriculture Secretary Vilsack on Farm Income Forecast for 2016
WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2016 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack issued the following statement today on the Farm Income and Financial Forecasts for 2016, released by USDA's Economic Research Service.
From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/11/0251.xml&contentidonly=true
From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/11/0251.xml&contentidonly=true
Balance training: Boost your long-term health with these exercises
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/seo/art-20270119
Urinary tract infection (UTI)
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/basics/definition/con-20037892
Getting healthy starts with changing your mindset
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/getting-healthy-starts-changing-mindset/art-20270830
Get unstuck: Move past obstacles to reach your goals
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/move-past-obstacles-reach-goals/art-20270116
Mastectomy
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mastectomy/basics/definition/prc-20012749
Behind the push to allow marijuana compound use in NFL
The NFL has suspended Buffalo Bills player Seantrel Henderson for using medical marijuana as treatment for his Crohn's disease. The 10-game punishment will stretch into next season. Despite a growing number of states legalizing marijuana for medical and recreational purposes, the substance is still banned in the NFL. Dana Jacobson spoke with Tennessee Titans' Derrick Morgan who's pushing for change.
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/behind-the-push-to-allow-marijuana-compound-use-in-nfl/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/behind-the-push-to-allow-marijuana-compound-use-in-nfl/
Ninth case of polio-like illness confirmed in one state
Acute flaccid myelitis, which can cause polio-like symptoms, is mostly affecting children, say health officials
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/polio-like-acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm-illness-washington-state-confirmed-cdc/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/polio-like-acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm-illness-washington-state-confirmed-cdc/
Can marijuana compound CBD help NFL players with pain?
Despite a growing number of states legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes, it is still a banned substance in the NFL
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/nfl-marijuana-policy-push-for-cbd-marijuana-compound-cannabidiol/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/nfl-marijuana-policy-push-for-cbd-marijuana-compound-cannabidiol/
Dehumidifiers Recalled Due to Fire Risk
Dehumidifiers Recalled Due to Fire Risk
From: http://www.webmd.com/allergies/news/20161130/dehumidifier-recall?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Mayo Clinic Minute: Seeing Alzheimer's in a new way
From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lDwwFFb7uU
FDA OKs Large Studies of Ecstasy to Treat PTSD
FDA OKs Large Studies of Ecstasy to Treat PTSD
From: http://www.webmd.com/depression/news/20161130/fda-ecstasy-ptsd-treatment?src=RSS_PUBLIC
It's Never Too Late to Stop Smoking
Even quitting in your 60s can add years to your life, researchers find
From: http://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/news/20161130/its-never-too-late-to-stop-smoking?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Smoking Ups This Risk 8-Fold in People Under 50
At all ages, the habit boosted odds for heart trouble, but younger people fared the worst, study found
From: http://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/news/20161129/smoking-raises-heart-attack-risk-8-fold-in-people-under-50?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Tennis Anyone? It May Prolong Your Life
Racquet sports, swimming and aerobics tied to lower risk of early death in study
From: http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/news/20161129/tennis-anyone-it-may-prolong-your-life?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Having Trouble Hearing? Maybe It's Not Your Ears
Part of the problem for seniors might lie in the brain, research suggests
From: http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/20161129/having-trouble-hearing-maybe-its-not-your-ears?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Get unstuck: Move past obstacles to reach your goals
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/move-past-obstacles-reach-goals/art-20270116
Mastectomy
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/tests-procedures/mastectomy/basics/definition/prc-20012749
Urinary tract infection (UTI)
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/basics/definition/con-20037892
Balance training: Boost your long-term health with these exercises
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/seo/art-20270119
Getting healthy starts with changing your mindset
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/getting-healthy-starts-changing-mindset/art-20270830
The health advantages of marriage
Follow me on Twitter @RobShmerling
“My wife and I were happy for 20 years. Then we met.”
That’s just one of many Rodney Dangerfield jokes that don’t exactly paint a rosy picture of marriage. But, according to a new study, being married might just save your life.
Okay, that might be an overstatement. But there is fascinating — and compelling — research suggesting that married people enjoy better health than single people. For example, as compared with those who are single, those who are married tend to
- live longer
- have fewer strokes and heart attacks
- have a lower chance of becoming depressed
- be less likely to have advanced cancer at the time of diagnosis and more likely to survive cancer for a longer period of time
- survive a major operation more often.
This doesn’t mean that just being married automatically provides these health benefits. People in stressful, unhappy marriages may be worse off than a single person who is surrounded by supportive and caring friends, family, and loved ones. Interestingly, many of these health benefits are more pronounced for married men than for married women.
A newly recognized “marriage benefit” for the heart?
A recent study of 25,000 people in England found that among people having a heart attack, those who were married were 14% more likely to survive and they were able to leave the hospital two days sooner than single people having a heart attack.
This study was presented at a medical conference, so the results should be considered preliminary. But it does raise some questions. For example, were the heart attacks of single people more severe than those in people who were married? And was the health of the single heart attack victims worse before the heart attack than that of the married group?
The headlines describing this study might have single people feeling even more pressured than before to find a marriage partner. I think that would be unfortunate, as a study of this type can only conclude there is an “association” or link between marriage and better health outcomes after a heart attack — but it cannot say with confidence that marriage is the reason for that benefit.
How does this work?
Given the growing body of evidence linking marriage with better health, it’s worth asking why such a connection might exist. A number of researchers have explored this question. Here are some of the more prominent theories.
- It’s all about immune function. Studies have found that people in happy relationships have stronger immune function than those who are not. And, cortisol tends to be released in lower amounts in married people as compared with those who are single. That may be important because cortisol levels tend to reflect levels of stress, and high cortisol levels can impair immune function.
- Your behavior improves with marriage. Married people may take fewer risks, eat better, and maintain healthier lifestyles, on average, compared with single people. There is also evidence that married people tend to keep regular doctors’ appointments and follow doctors’ recommendations more often than single people.
- Mental health is better when you’re married. Poor social supports (as might be more likely for those who are single) have been strongly linked with higher rates of depression, loneliness, and social isolation, which have in turn been associated with poorer health outcomes.
- Married people have better health before getting married. It’s reasonable to wonder whether people with medical problems (or who are prone to them due to unhealthy habits) are less likely to get married; that would leave healthier people getting married and that could account for the “marriage health benefit.” But, some studies have actually found that unhealthy men tend to marry at a younger age and divorce less often than healthy men.
None of the evidence in support of these theories proves (or refutes) a health benefit to marriage. So, if there is a health benefit to marriage, the precise reason is not known. But researchers continue to study the question.
What’s next?
I think that in the future we will have a better understanding of the health effects of social supports, including marriage. Then, our focus can turn to another important question: so what? If marriage is truly a predictor of better health, can this knowledge be used to improve health? For example, if a single person has a heart attack, is there some way that this “higher risk” individual can be treated differently to improve the outcome?
It seems likely that Mr. Dangerfield’s comments about marriage were mostly (or totally) for laughs — but even if his marriage made him miserable (as he so often suggested), it may still have been good for his health.
The post The health advantages of marriage appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Robert H. Shmerling, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-health-advantages-of-marriage-2016113010667
6 tips for making the most of your child’s checkup
Follow me on Twitter @drClaire
The yearly check-up: it’s the time when your child gets a total look-over. As a pediatrician, I’m often struck by just how much I need to cover in that appointment. I need to find out about eating, sleeping, exercise, school, behavior, even about peeing and pooping. I need to ask about the dentist, about screen time, about changes in the family’s health or situation. I need to do a full physical examination and check on growth and development. I need to talk about and give immunizations — and make sure parents have the health information they need and want. And of course, I need to address any chronic health problems the child might have, and any concerns the parents have.
In our practice, the longest I have to do this is 30 minutes. Usually I have 15 minutes.
After 25 years of being a pediatrician and doing thousands of check-ups, I’ve learned about what can help parents get the most out of whatever time they have. Here are some tips:
- Think about what you want to talk about before the visit. This sounds really obvious, but too often parents don’t do it. They get caught up in scheduling and getting to the visit, or in the forms they need, and don’t take the time to think about what they want to ask the doctor. Keep a list somewhere (like on your phone, so you don’t leave it at home); jot things down. As you go along, prioritize the concerns: what is most important to cover at the visit? Which leads me to…
- Don’t leave it all for the visit. This happens all the time. Parents store up all their worries— and have a list that is so long and complicated I can’t possibly tackle it all and still do what I need to do medically. While sometimes we schedule a follow-up visit to finish up (more on that below), another alternative is to find ways to get some of your questions answered ahead of the visit.
- Most practices have nurses that can answer common health questions and otherwise help families. You may be able to leave a message for your doctor and have them call you back; this can be particularly helpful when there are concerns, such as behavioral problems or bullying, that might be best discussed without the child present.
- Use portals or other forms of communication. More and more, practices are devising ways for families and doctors to communicate. You can use these to get a question answered or get advice. I’ve also had parents send me written information about their child ahead of a checkup exactly to save time at the visit — and allow us to be more efficient and focused when we are together.
- Consider making an appointment before the checkup. This sounds odd, but it can be really helpful, especially when there is something complicated going on — like asthma acting up, school problems, worries about behavior, or a family crisis. That way, I can fully focus on the problem, instead of having to ask about sleep or poop or daily servings of vegetables. Plus, it gives us a chance to try something — and then at the checkup, see if it helped or not.
- Ask your doctor which health and parenting websites they recommend. There’s a lot of great information out there.
- Have any forms or papers ready — and have your child undressed before the doctor comes in. Little stuff, but it really helps things move smoothly. If you have to fill out something for the visit, get it done. Have the argument with your modest child about the gown before the visit starts. If you have forms you need for school or sports, let the nurse or clinical assistant know; sometimes they can help.
- Work with your doctor to set an agenda for the visit. Too often, we docs come in with our own agenda. Or, parents start in with their first concern — and then time runs out before they get to the second or third. As soon as the doctor comes in, say something along the lines of, “I have three things I want to be sure we talk about today, and I know you have things you need to ask. How can we best make this work?” Planning it out together can make all the difference.
- Be brief whenever you can. I’m not saying you shouldn’t say everything you need or want to say. But if all is going fine in a particular area, say it’s fine rather than giving lots of details. Or if all isn’t going fine, just say it’s not, rather than defending or giving excuses. Save the time for questions and conversations that can help you and your child.
- Let your doctor know if your needs aren’t met. Sometimes we just can’t pull it off in that one visit, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get all of your needs met. As I said before, sometimes a follow-up visit makes sense. Maybe there is a nurse who can spend some time helping you before you leave or a social worker who can give you a call. Maybe you can get a handout about a topic you are interested in or a recommendation for good online information. Never just leave saying, “Oh well, maybe next year.” That’s not how primary care works; it’s an ongoing relationship. We are here to support you, every step of the way.
The post 6 tips for making the most of your child’s checkup appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Claire McCarthy, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/6-tips-for-making-the-most-of-your-childs-checkup-2016112910767
Mastectomy
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mastectomy/basics/definition/prc-20012749
Get unstuck: Move past obstacles to reach your goals
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/move-past-obstacles-reach-goals/art-20270116
Getting healthy starts with changing your mindset
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/getting-healthy-starts-changing-mindset/art-20270830
Urinary tract infection (UTI)
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/basics/definition/con-20037892
Balance training: Boost your long-term health with these exercises
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/seo/art-20270119
Alzheimer's: 7 tips for medical visits
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047326
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Alzheimer's: 7 tips for medical visits
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047326
The Ice Bucket Challenge makes the Smithsonian
An icon of altruism was given a new home in the Smithsonian, reports Jan Crawford.
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/the-ice-bucket-challenge-makes-the-smithsonian/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/the-ice-bucket-challenge-makes-the-smithsonian/
Alzheimer's: 7 tips for medical visits
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047326
Do fast-food calorie labels really help?
New research looks at whether well-intended new regulations will actually steer customers to less-fattening foods
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/fast-food-calorie-labels-not-working-study-finds/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/fast-food-calorie-labels-not-working-study-finds/
Could My Kid Be Transgender?
What does it mean if your little boy wants to wear dresses? Or your little girl refuses to? Parents and experts weigh in to help you support your child.
From: http://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/could-my-child-be-transgender?src=RSS_PUBLIC
To improve your health, practice gratitude
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/improve-health-practice-gratitude/art-20270841
Underage drinking: Talking to your teen about alcohol
Want to talk to your teen about drinking? Here's help explaining the risks and preventing underage alcohol use.
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/tween-and-teen-health/in-depth/teen-drinking/art-20047947
Why HIV infections in this group are no longer dropping
There's a risk that decades of progress against HIV could stall out or even be reversed
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/hiv-infection-white-injection-drug-opioid-abusers/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/hiv-infection-white-injection-drug-opioid-abusers/
Insulin prices skyrocket, putting many diabetics in a bind
The price of the life-saving medication has spiked by 700 percent in just two decades
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/insulin-prices-skyrocket-putting-many-diabetics-in-a-bind/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/insulin-prices-skyrocket-putting-many-diabetics-in-a-bind/
25 Legends: Eric Wicklund
This year marks the 25th anniversary of two American Diabetes Association® signature fundraising events—Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes® and Tour de Cure®.
Every dollar raised at these events supports people living with diabetes and funds our life-changing research and programs.
The “25 Legends” blog series highlights personal stories from some of the Association’s most dedicated walkers and riders who are affected by the disease.
Yes, diabetes is a chronic disease that impacts tens of millions of Americans—a disease that forces people to monitor their health 24 hours a day to prevent life-threatening complications. People with diabetes have no choice but to submit to daily blood glucose checks and medication their entire lives.
But on this one day, we can jump on a bike, grab a sign or slip on a diabetes t-shirt—and show the world how we fight. By exercising, celebrating and supporting those with diabetes, while raising money and awareness, we work toward the day we can ride for no reason at all.
I started riding in Tour de Cure–Southern Maine in the 1990s. I was young, single and just looking for something to do over the weekend when I saw the event brochure for the first time. So I participated, and during my initial ride, I got a flat tire and spent a lot of time repairing it and complaining. But soon after, I realized what a great experience it was and I joined the Tour de Cure planning committee, specializing in rider support.
A few months later, this event took on new meaning when my five-year-old son, Andrew, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The disease changed everything for my family. Daily tasks like meal planning, going to school and playing sports posed challenges. I remember coaching soccer, T-ball and Little League baseball just so I could be at Andrew’s side and ensure his safety.
Needless to say, my Tour de Cure team, Andrew’s Army, was born. I rallied up family members, friends, colleagues, teachers, and Andrew’s classmates along with soccer and baseball teammates to show support. Our team consisted of more than 40 members, and our annual fundraising goals swelled to over $10,000.
We weren’t just a team—we were a force. We tie-dyed our own shirts, organized groups of volunteers and made noise wherever and whenever we could. And when I became a co-chairman of the Tour de Cure Planning Committee, I convinced a few friends to join it as well.
The photograph of Andrew’s Army is a reminder of what we were able to do as a community. I’m still on the planning committee, and I still ride—as do Andrew, my sister and her family. My wife runs a rest stop along the routes and my son Brendan takes photographs and shoots videos. Together, we help organize the American Diabetes Association’s Champions Dinner—for fellow riders who raise $1,000 or more each season. Although Andrew’s Army is no longer the biggest or loudest team, each year we raise enough money so that Andrew and I can be Champions.
I’ll always ride. Maybe someday I’ll be the last member of Andrew’s Army. I’ve ridden in Tour de Cure as long as I have because I truly enjoy it. It gives me the feeling of accomplishment in fighting this disease and overcoming the struggles it has put us through. That is what I can do as a dad.
Together, we CAN Stop Diabetes®.
The Association is so grateful for our 25 Legends! Their tireless efforts as walkers and riders are a tremendous support and inspiration to people with diabetes.
Sign up today! Learn more about these events and find out how to get involved at diabetes.org/stepout and diabetes.org/tourdecure.
From: American Diabetes Association http://diabetesstopshere.org/2016/11/29/25-legends-eric-wicklund/
WHO issues new guidance on HIV self-testing ahead of World AIDS Day
In advance of World AIDS Day, WHO has released new guidelines on HIV self-testing to improve access to and uptake of HIV diagnosis.
From: http://www.who.int/entity/mediacentre/news/releases/2016/world-aids-day/en/index.html
From: http://www.who.int/entity/mediacentre/news/releases/2016/world-aids-day/en/index.html
What Should I Do If My Bipolar Meds Don’t Work?
What to do if your bipolar medication doesn’t seem to work as well as it used to.
From: http://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/features/bipolar-meds-not-working?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Even Low-Risk Should Get Heart Health Counseling
Even Low-Risk Should Get Heart Health Counseling
From: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20161129/uspstf-counsel-heart-health?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Hospital E-Prescribing: Trouble for Older Adults?
Hospital E-Prescribing: Trouble for Older Adults?
From: http://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/20161129/electronic-prescribing-hospital?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Mayo Clinic Minute: Molecular breast imaging finds breast cancer
From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4JvWHdt1cE
Child Teething, Ear Pain Relief Products Recalled
Child Teething, Ear Pain Relief Products Recalled
From: http://www.webmd.com/children/news/20161129/homeopathic-product-recall?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Alzheimer's brain plaques may harm the heart, too
Plaques that gum up neurons in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients could also play a role in heart disease, researchers find
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/alzheimers-brain-plaques-may-harm-the-heart-too/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/alzheimers-brain-plaques-may-harm-the-heart-too/
Texas reports first Zika case from local mosquito bite
Texas would be the second U.S. state, after Florida, where mosquitoes have spread the virus
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/texas-zika-virus-first-case-local-transmission-mosquito-bite/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/texas-zika-virus-first-case-local-transmission-mosquito-bite/
Doctor with rare disease works to find cure
Dr. David Fajgenbaum is both a physician and patient with Castleman disease, and he's heading up a database to help increase understanding of the often deadly condition
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/dr-david-fajgenbaum-castleman-disease-database/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/dr-david-fajgenbaum-castleman-disease-database/
Trump Picks Obamacare Critic for Health Secretary
Trump Picks Obamacare Critic for Health Secretary
From: http://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/20161129/trump-tom-price-hhs?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Health Coverage Worries Cross Political Boundaries
The uncertainty over what could replace Obamacare has left many uneasy about what will happen with their medical care.
From: http://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/20161129/worries-about-health-insurance-cross-political-boundaries?src=RSS_PUBLIC
USDA Awards $6.7 Million for Research to Support Healthy Agroecosystems
WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2016 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) today announced 18 grants totaling more than $6.7 million for research to discover how components of the agroecosystem from soil, water and sun to plants, animals and people, interact with and affect food production.
From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/11/0250.xml&contentidonly=true
From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/11/0250.xml&contentidonly=true
6 tips for making the most of your child’s checkup
Follow me on Twitter @drClaire
The yearly check-up: it’s the time when your child gets a total look-over. As a pediatrician, I’m often struck by just how much I need to cover in that appointment. I need to find out about eating, sleeping, exercise, school, behavior, even about peeing and pooping. I need to ask about the dentist, about screen time, about changes in the family’s health or situation. I need to do a full physical examination and check on growth and development. I need to talk about and give immunizations — and make sure parents have the health information they need and want. And of course, I need to address any chronic health problems the child might have, and any concerns the parents have.
In our practice, the longest I have to do this is 30 minutes. Usually I have 15 minutes.
After 25 years of being a pediatrician and doing thousands of check-ups, I’ve learned about what can help parents get the most out of whatever time they have. Here are some tips:
- Think about what you want to talk about before the visit. This sounds really obvious, but too often parents don’t do it. They get caught up in scheduling and getting to the visit, or in the forms they need, and don’t take the time to think about what they want to ask the doctor. Keep a list somewhere (like on your phone, so you don’t leave it at home); jot things down. As you go along, prioritize the concerns: what is most important to cover at the visit? Which leads me to…
- Don’t leave it all for the visit. This happens all the time. Parents store up all their worries— and have a list that is so long and complicated I can’t possibly tackle it all and still do what I need to do medically. While sometimes we schedule a follow-up visit to finish up (more on that below), another alternative is to find ways to get some of your questions answered ahead of the visit.
- Most practices have nurses that can answer common health questions and otherwise help families. You may be able to leave a message for your doctor and have them call you back; this can be particularly helpful when there are concerns, such as behavioral problems or bullying, that might be best discussed without the child present.
- Use portals or other forms of communication. More and more, practices are devising ways for families and doctors to communicate. You can use these to get a question answered or get advice. I’ve also had parents send me written information about their child ahead of a checkup exactly to save time at the visit — and allow us to be more efficient and focused when we are together.
- Consider making an appointment before the checkup. This sounds odd, but it can be really helpful, especially when there is something complicated going on — like asthma acting up, school problems, worries about behavior, or a family crisis. That way, I can fully focus on the problem, instead of having to ask about sleep or poop or daily servings of vegetables. Plus, it gives us a chance to try something — and then at the checkup, see if it helped or not.
- Ask your doctor which health and parenting websites they recommend. There’s a lot of great information out there.
- Have any forms or papers ready — and have your child undressed before the doctor comes in. Little stuff, but it really helps things move smoothly. If you have to fill out something for the visit, get it done. Have the argument with your modest child about the gown before the visit starts. If you have forms you need for school or sports, let the nurse or clinical assistant know; sometimes they can help.
- Work with your doctor to set an agenda for the visit. Too often, we docs come in with our own agenda. Or, parents start in with their first concern — and then time runs out before they get to the second or third. As soon as the doctor comes in, say something along the lines of, “I have three things I want to be sure we talk about today, and I know you have things you need to ask. How can we best make this work?” Planning it out together can make all the difference.
- Be brief whenever you can. I’m not saying you shouldn’t say everything you need or want to say. But if all is going fine in a particular area, say it’s fine rather than giving lots of details. Or if all isn’t going fine, just say it’s not, rather than defending or giving excuses. Save the time for questions and conversations that can help you and your child.
- Let your doctor know if your needs aren’t met. Sometimes we just can’t pull it off in that one visit, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get all of your needs met. As I said before, sometimes a follow-up visit makes sense. Maybe there is a nurse who can spend some time helping you before you leave or a social worker who can give you a call. Maybe you can get a handout about a topic you are interested in or a recommendation for good online information. Never just leave saying, “Oh well, maybe next year.” That’s not how primary care works; it’s an ongoing relationship. We are here to support you, every step of the way.
The post 6 tips for making the most of your child’s checkup appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Claire McCarthy, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/6-tips-for-making-the-most-of-your-childs-checkup-2016112910767
Does Light Daily Drinking Really Help the Heart?
Study found no evidence that moderate intake keeps arteries clear
From: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20161129/does-a-little-daily-drinking-really-help-the-heart?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Spiritual Experiences and Brain's Reward System
Many study participants were tearful by the end of imaging scans
From: http://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20161129/spiritual-experiences-seem-to-trigger-the-brains-reward-system?src=RSS_PUBLIC
OCR warns providers to be on the lookout for a fake email
The U.S. Office for Civil Rights issued an alert Nov. 28, warning health care providers of a phishing email disguised as an official OCR audit communication.
From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2016-archive/november/ocr-warns-providers-to-be-on-the-lookout-for-a-fake-email
From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2016-archive/november/ocr-warns-providers-to-be-on-the-lookout-for-a-fake-email
To improve your health, practice gratitude
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/improve-health-practice-gratitude/art-20270841
3 ways to get closer to achieving your goals
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/ways-get-closer-achieving-goals/art-20267230
Iron deficiency in children: Prevention tips for parents
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/iron-deficiency/art-20045634
Alzheimer's: 7 tips for medical visits
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047326
Cranberry orange muffins
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/cranberry-orange-muffins/rcp-20197700
Focus on progress, not perfection
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/focus-on-progress-not-perfection/art-20267203
Underage drinking: Talking to your teen about alcohol
Want to talk to your teen about drinking? Here's help explaining the risks and preventing underage alcohol use.
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/tween-and-teen-health/in-depth/teen-drinking/art-20047947
U.S. Should Reinforce Blood Supply: Report
New illnesses and financial pressures are potential threats, researchers say
From: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/news/20161128/us-should-reinforce-blood-supply-report?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Opioids vs. Ibuprofen for Post-Car Crash Pain
But more patients prescribed powerful painkillers were still taking them 6 weeks later
From: http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/news/20161128/opioids-no-better-than-ibuprofen-for-pain-after-car-crash-study?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Underage drinking: Talking to your teen about alcohol
Want to talk to your teen about drinking? Here's help explaining the risks and preventing underage alcohol use.
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/tween-and-teen-health/in-depth/teen-drinking/art-20047947
Iron deficiency in children: Prevention tips for parents
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/iron-deficiency/art-20045634
Alzheimer's: 7 tips for medical visits
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047326
Cranberry orange muffins
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/recipes/cranberry-orange-muffins/rcp-20197700
Focus on progress, not perfection
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/focus-on-progress-not-perfection/art-20267203
3 ways to get closer to achieving your goals
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/ways-get-closer-achieving-goals/art-20267230
To improve your health, practice gratitude
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/improve-health-practice-gratitude/art-20270841
Deadly heart tumor removed from baby still in womb
Doctors in Philadelphia saved child's life with the first surgery of its kind during mom's pregnancy
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/heart-tumor-fetal-surgery-baby-inside-womb/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/heart-tumor-fetal-surgery-baby-inside-womb/
Sexually transmitted infections on the rise
Recently I saw a young woman in my clinic for her annual exam. As usual, I asked her if she would like to be tested for sexually transmitted infections, and then we reviewed the “menu” of options: we could collect a swab of her cervix for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomonas, and a PAP smear for human papillomavirus. We could collect blood for HIV, hepatitis C, syphilis, and herpes. We discussed the pros and cons and details of testing — not everyone wants every test. But she cheerfully consented to all of it, and when the results came back positive for chlamydia, she was shocked.
“But I had no symptoms!” she exclaimed.
Like most primary care providers, I am a huge fan of screening for STIs and believe every patient should be asked at every annual exam if they would like to be tested, even if they feel fine. Why? Because most people don’t even know that they are infected.
How many people actually have a sexually transmitted infection?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently published its summary of reportable sexually transmitted infections in the United States over the past year, and it is not good. Rates of every reportable STI, which includes chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, have all increased significantly; all told, we are seeing a 20-year record high in the number of these cases.* What’s extra concerning is that it is the third year in a row that these rates have increased.
Chlamydia is king, with over 1.5 million cases in 2015, a 6% increase from 2014. Gonorrhea follows with 400,000 cases, a 13% increase. These infections can result in pelvic inflammatory disease, which is a major cause of infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. A pregnant woman with chlamydia can pass it to her baby; the baby can then develop serious eye and lung infections. The people at highest risk were young people between the ages of 15 and 24; they accounted for over two-thirds of the cases of chlamydia. This is why the CDC has been recommending that every sexually active woman under age 25 be screened.
There were 24,000 cases of syphilis, which may the most harmful of the three, and this was a whopping 19% increase. Gay and bisexual men remain at highest risk for syphilis and gonorrhea, though there were also significant increases in syphilis among women, as well as in congenital syphilis, which is spread from infected mothers to their newborns. Untreated syphilis can lead to blindness, paralysis, and dementia in adults, and seizures or stillbirth in babies. The CDC recommends that every pregnant woman be tested for syphilis, and sexually active gay and bisexual men should be tested for syphilis annually.
Barriers to preventing the spread of STIs
If someone doesn’t know that they are infected, they can’t get treated. If they don’t get treated, they may have sex with many partners, or without a condom, and spread the infection. So, screening tests like the ones we offer at the annual exam are important for the prevention of new infections.
Many people can’t access clinics like mine. They may be young people worried about what their parents may think. They may be uninsured, under-insured, or undocumented. That’s where the “safety net” comes in. These are the free or lower-cost clinics that focus on STI diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. But since 2003, there has been a slow and steady decrease in funding for these safety-net clinics, and we are paying a serious price for that now.
CDC officials blame the surge in STIs on these budget cuts: they point out that over 40% of health departments have reduced their clinic hours and tracking of patients, and at least 20 STI clinics flat-out closed in the past few years due to lack of funds.
Dr. Jonathan Mermin, director of the CDC’s National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, points out that, “STI prevention resources across the nation are stretched thin, and we’re beginning to see people slip through the public health safety net.”
Combine this decrease in public health clinics with the rise in popularity of dating apps like Tinder and Grindr, and ongoing inconsistent condom use, and we have a huge problem.
Keys to preventing STIs
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be prevented with condoms, and cured with antibiotics. And all can present with minimal symptoms, or none at all.
Sexual education programs that include instruction about condom use have been shown to help youth to delay first sex and use condoms when they do have sex. But, only 35% of U.S. high school students are taught how to correctly use a condom in their health classes. So it’s not surprising that among teens, only about a third of males and nearly half of females reported that they or their partner did not use a condom the last time they had sex.
What can we do about this? Obviously, we need to better fund our public health clinics. Anyone who is or has been sexually active needs to go get tested. We need to push for comprehensive sexual education in schools. Parents should talk openly with their kids about sex and STIs, and ensure that they have access to confidential medical care. We need to promote safe, protected sex through consistent condom use for everyone. These interventions are all cheaper and better than ongoing rampant infection.
*What about other STIs, like herpes and trichomonas? These were not included in the report, as they are not reportable in the same way. However, the CDC estimates that there are 20 million new STI cases yearly, costing the U.S. health care system approximately $16 billion.
The post Sexually transmitted infections on the rise appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Monique Tello, MD, MPH http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/sexually-transmitted-infections-on-the-rise-2016112810653
Monday, November 28, 2016
Fast-Food Calorie Labeling Not Working: Study
More visible signage could tip scales toward healthier eating
From: http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20161128/fast-food-calorie-labeling-not-working-study-finds?src=RSS_PUBLIC
TX Reports 1st Likely Case of Local Zika Infection
Woman had no travel-related risk factors, CDC says
From: http://www.webmd.com/news/20161128/texas-reports-1st-likely-case-of-local-zika-infection?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Think you're too old for a mammogram? Think again
In the latest round of a long-running medical debate, a large mammogram study suggests "the benefit continues with increasing age up until 90"
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/mammogram-breast-cancer-screening-not-too-old/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/mammogram-breast-cancer-screening-not-too-old/
Man with lung disease finishes marathon towing oxygen tank
Evans Wilson walked the entire 26.2-mile race Sunday to raise money and awareness for pulmonary fibrosis
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/seattle-marathon-evans-wilson-lung-disease-towing-oxygen-tank/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/seattle-marathon-evans-wilson-lung-disease-towing-oxygen-tank/
What Is Segmented Sleep?
Find out whether it's a good idea to break up your nighttime slumber into two shifts.
From: http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/what-is-segmented-sleep?src=RSS_PUBLIC
This is Christina. This Is Diabetes
Christina thrives on a busy, on-the-go lifestyle. But because of her schedule and frequent business travel away from her home in Seattle, her eating habits were often sporadic. “I would eat whatever was convenient, whether that’s something great like a steak tartar or whether it was McDonald’s French fries,” Christina says. “My food diet reflected my lifestyle and how busy I was.”
One day, Christina began experiencing unusual symptoms. Diabetes runs in their family, so she asked her doctor to run a blood test.
Christina says her doctor was hesitant because she didn’t display any of the typical risk factors for type 2 diabetes. She was young and she wasn’t overweight. Christina told her doctor, “Just humor me. Let’s do the test.”
It’s a good thing Christina persisted; her A1C was 16.7 percent—about three times the normal level. In addition, Christina was at risk for a heart attack and needed to be put on heart medication right away.
After her type 2 diagnosis, Christina knew she needed to alter her habits. This is her story.
During American Diabetes Month® we’re sharing the stories of people affected by diabetes, just like Christina. What do YOU want the world to know about this disease?
If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, share your story during November using #ThisIsDiabetes. And learn more at http://diabetes.org/adm.
From: American Diabetes Association http://diabetesstopshere.org/2016/11/28/this-is-christina/
Alzheimer's Protein Plaques May Also Harm Heart
Deposits can cause patients' heart muscle to stiffen, keeping it from pumping properly, study suggests
From: http://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20161128/alzheimers-protein-plaques-may-also-harm-the-heart?src=RSS_PUBLIC
3 Keys to Cutting Your Risk of Heart Failure
Guarding against obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes at middle age may slash risk, study finds
From: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/heart-failure/news/20161128/3-keys-to-cutting-your-risk-of-heart-failure?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Do I Really Need to Floss My Teeth?
Have you heard that you don’t need to floss your teeth? You might not want to quit that habit just yet.
From: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/to-floss-or-not-to-floss?src=RSS_PUBLIC
New Way to Detect Brain Injury in NFL Players?
The goal: to spot early signs of concussion-related head trauma
From: http://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20161128/researchers-explore-way-to-detect-brain-injury-in-nfl-players?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Never Too Old for a Mammogram?
Researchers find benefits for some women up to the age of 90
From: http://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/news/20161128/never-too-old-for-a-mammogram?src=RSS_PUBLIC
'I want veterans to feel honored'
Calling himself a patriotic person with staff members in his dental office whose spouses are members of the armed services, Dr. John Gammichia said making his annual day of service one to support veterans was an obvious choice.
From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2016-archive/november/i-want-veterans-to-feel-honored
From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2016-archive/november/i-want-veterans-to-feel-honored
MyPlate, MyWins: Real Solutions from Real Families
From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8KsDHCPrwY
New HIV vaccine trial could hold "great promise"
Scientists say the vaccine could be “the final nail in the coffin” for the disease, if it is successful
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/hiv-aids-vaccine-hvtn-702-trial-south-africa/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/hiv-aids-vaccine-hvtn-702-trial-south-africa/
Martial arts can pose serious dangers for kids
A top pediatricians' group warns of risk of concussions, suffocation, neck and spine injuries from sparring
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/martial-arts-can-pose-serious-dangers-for-kids/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/martial-arts-can-pose-serious-dangers-for-kids/
Dr. Gregory Poland discusses Zika virus and genetically modified mosquitoes
From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEJLN7MH0yA
USDA Expands Public-Private Partnerships to Create Economic Opportunities through Regional Food Supply Chains
ELGIN, Texas, Nov. 28, 2016 - U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Lillian Salerno today announced three new public-private partnerships that will create economic opportunities in Elgin, Texas; Fresno, Calif.; and Chicago. The Food LINC partnerships will help community leaders and private philanthropic partners develop regional food supply chains that drive job growth and increase farm income while helping to meet consumer demand for regionally produced food.
From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/11/0249.xml&contentidonly=true
From: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2016/11/0249.xml&contentidonly=true
'We're all about overcoming barriers'
In 1984, when Dr. Stephen Shuman was two years out of dental school, he began working at a county health department in Illinois to provide dental care for nursing home residents and developmentally disabled adults. But he'd never had specific training in treating these patients.
From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2016-archive/november/were-all-about-overcoming-barriers
From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2016-archive/november/were-all-about-overcoming-barriers
Elder Abuse Often Missed In ER
Up to 1 in 10 seniors affected, but harm or neglect can be difficult to identify, geriatric specialist says
From: http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/20161125/elder-abuse-often-missed-in-er?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Consider Eye Safety When Choosing Kids' Toys
As holiday shopping season kicks off, here are tips on buying toys and sports-related items
From: http://www.webmd.com/children/news/20161124/consider-eye-safety-when-choosing-kids-toys?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Diabetics Can Keep Disease Complications at Bay
Vascular expert urges regular doctor visits, eye exams, healthy lifestyle
From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/news/20161124/diabetics-can-keep-disease-complications-at-bay?src=RSS_PUBLIC
A Little Alcohol Each Day May Cut Your Stroke Risk
But drinking doesn't curb risk of every kind of stroke, and heavy drinking increases the danger, study finds
From: http://www.webmd.com/stroke/news/20161124/a-little-alcohol-each-day-may-cut-your-risk-of-stroke?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Story by Story Episode 11: Pharmacogenomics and Drug/Gene Alerts
From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IH9OxRCKIKg
Sexually transmitted infections on the rise
Recently I saw a young woman in my clinic for her annual exam. As usual, I asked her if she would like to be tested for sexually transmitted infections, and then we reviewed the “menu” of options: we could collect a swab of her cervix for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomonas, and a PAP smear for human papillomavirus. We could collect blood for HIV, hepatitis C, syphilis, and herpes. We discussed the pros and cons and details of testing — not everyone wants every test. But she cheerfully consented to all of it, and when the results came back positive for chlamydia, she was shocked.
“But I had no symptoms!” she exclaimed.
Like most primary care providers, I am a huge fan of screening for STIs and believe every patient should be asked at every annual exam if they would like to be tested, even if they feel fine. Why? Because most people don’t even know that they are infected.
How many people actually have a sexually transmitted infection?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently published its summary of reportable sexually transmitted infections in the United States over the past year, and it is not good. Rates of every reportable STI, which includes chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, have all increased significantly; all told, we are seeing a 20-year record high in the number of these cases.* What’s extra concerning is that it is the third year in a row that these rates have increased.
Chlamydia is king, with over 1.5 million cases in 2015, a 6% increase from 2014. Gonorrhea follows with 400,000 cases, a 13% increase. These infections can result in pelvic inflammatory disease, which is a major cause of infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. A pregnant woman with chlamydia can pass it to her baby; the baby can then develop serious eye and lung infections. The people at highest risk were young people between the ages of 15 and 24; they accounted for over two-thirds of the cases of chlamydia. This is why the CDC has been recommending that every sexually active woman under age 25 be screened.
There were 24,000 cases of syphilis, which may the most harmful of the three, and this was a whopping 19% increase. Gay and bisexual men remain at highest risk for syphilis and gonorrhea, though there were also significant increases in syphilis among women, as well as in congenital syphilis, which is spread from infected mothers to their newborns. Untreated syphilis can lead to blindness, paralysis, and dementia in adults, and seizures or stillbirth in babies. The CDC recommends that every pregnant woman be tested for syphilis, and sexually active gay and bisexual men should be tested for syphilis annually.
Barriers to preventing the spread of STIs
If someone doesn’t know that they are infected, they can’t get treated. If they don’t get treated, they may have sex with many partners, or without a condom, and spread the infection. So, screening tests like the ones we offer at the annual exam are important for the prevention of new infections.
Many people can’t access clinics like mine. They may be young people worried about what their parents may think. They may be uninsured, under-insured, or undocumented. That’s where the “safety net” comes in. These are the free or lower-cost clinics that focus on STI diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. But since 2003, there has been a slow and steady decrease in funding for these safety-net clinics, and we are paying a serious price for that now.
CDC officials blame the surge in STIs on these budget cuts: they point out that over 40% of health departments have reduced their clinic hours and tracking of patients, and at least 20 STI clinics flat-out closed in the past few years due to lack of funds.
Dr. Jonathan Mermin, director of the CDC’s National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention, points out that, “STI prevention resources across the nation are stretched thin, and we’re beginning to see people slip through the public health safety net.”
Combine this decrease in public health clinics with the rise in popularity of dating apps like Tinder and Grindr, and ongoing inconsistent condom use, and we have a huge problem.
Keys to preventing STIs
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be prevented with condoms, and cured with antibiotics. And all can present with minimal symptoms, or none at all.
Sexual education programs that include instruction about condom use have been shown to help youth to delay first sex and use condoms when they do have sex. But, only 35% of U.S. high school students are taught how to correctly use a condom in their health classes. So it’s not surprising that among teens, only about a third of males and nearly half of females reported that they or their partner did not use a condom the last time they had sex.
What can we do about this? Obviously, we need to better fund our public health clinics. Anyone who is or has been sexually active needs to go get tested. We need to push for comprehensive sexual education in schools. Parents should talk openly with their kids about sex and STIs, and ensure that they have access to confidential medical care. We need to promote safe, protected sex through consistent condom use for everyone. These interventions are all cheaper and better than ongoing rampant infection.
*What about other STIs, like herpes and trichomonas? These were not included in the report, as they are not reportable in the same way. However, the CDC estimates that there are 20 million new STI cases yearly, costing the U.S. health care system approximately $16 billion.
The post Sexually transmitted infections on the rise appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Monique Tello, MD, MPH http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/sexually-transmitted-infections-on-the-rise-2016112810653
Story by Story Episode 12: Familial Hypercholesterolemia
From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7DBHgr_gxg
OMS : Violence contre les femmes - Renforcer la réponse du système de santé
From: World Health Organization http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuizNPowuMY
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer
Chalk one up for exasperated women everywhere. Odds are the older men in their lives actually don’t hear them and need a hearing aid. Some estimates suggest that by age 65, about one-third of men need hearing aids. However, only half of this group wears them.
Why men tend to resist hearing aids
“Men tend to avoid hearing aids because of their negative imagery,” says Dr. Steven Rauch, an otologist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear. “To them, hearing aids symbolize declining age and health and that their best years are behind them.”
While some men can get by without a hearing aid, they need to consider the potential impact hearing loss has on their life, relationships, and even cognitive health. “Left untreated, hearing loss is associated with higher risks for social isolation, depression, dementia, and reduced physical activity,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you think you might need a hearing aid, get tested
The first step to knowing whether you need a hearing aid is to get your hearing checked by a certified audiologist. (Ask your doctor for a recommendation.) Hearing tests measure loudness and clarity of sound — how loud the sound needs to be for you to hear it and how clear the sound is.
People with normal hearing can hear sounds with a loudness between zero and 25 decibels (dB). When the softest sounds you can hear are louder than 30 dB, you may be missing a significant amount of speech and are probably a candidate for a hearing aid.
It is important to note that hearing aids are amplifiers — they make sounds louder, but not clearer. If you have trouble understanding speech in a noisy environment (a clarity problem), there are ways to improve communication without a hearing aid. For example, when speaking with someone, sit face-to-face and reduce background noise, like the TV, or distractions, like reading the paper. Be fully focused and engaged. “Ask the person not to shout, but to speak more slowly and more clearly in order to hyper-enunciate words,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you do have a hearing problem…
Age-related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss tend to affect both ears equally. If hearing loss occurs in one ear but not the other, it could be a result of a stroke, infection, or tumor, and requires a medical evaluation, says Dr. Rauch.
People with single-sided hearing loss, or hearing loss that is different in each ear, are less likely to benefit from a hearing aid in the bad ear. “These people seem to have trouble fusing the electronic sound of a hearing aid with the normal sound in the opposite ear,” says Dr. Rauch.
Hearing aids also have a learning curve. “If you’ve had a gradual, progressive hearing loss over a period of years, your brain is out of practice processing and filtering the full spectrum of normal sounds, so it needs time to adjust,” says Dr. Rauch. Wear your hearing aids for about an hour daily and then gradually increase your time over a few weeks. You don’t have to wear them all the time either. Put them in only when you need to, but the more you use them, the quicker you will adjust.
Also, be aware that not everyone finds hearing aids pleasurable. “They make everything louder — voices, noises, sounds — and some may find it overwhelming in places with a lot of stimulus like restaurants and crowds,” says Dr. Rauch. “They are usually more helpful in quieter environments.”
Factors to consider when hearing aid shopping
- A hearing aid center offers a better range of features, options, and prices than a franchise, which often has limited choices.
- A single aid can cost from $3,000 to $4,000, although most vendors offer a discount for the second one.
- Medicare and most other insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids, but the Veterans Administration might.
- Check the consumer protection laws regarding hearing aids for your state.
- The average hearing aid lasts about five years.
The post Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Matthew Solan http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/now-hear-men-hearing-aids-can-life-changer-2016112510674
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer
Chalk one up for exasperated women everywhere. Odds are the older men in their lives actually don’t hear them and need a hearing aid. Some estimates suggest that by age 65, about one-third of men need hearing aids. However, only half of this group wears them.
Why men tend to resist hearing aids
“Men tend to avoid hearing aids because of their negative imagery,” says Dr. Steven Rauch, an otologist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear. “To them, hearing aids symbolize declining age and health and that their best years are behind them.”
While some men can get by without a hearing aid, they need to consider the potential impact hearing loss has on their life, relationships, and even cognitive health. “Left untreated, hearing loss is associated with higher risks for social isolation, depression, dementia, and reduced physical activity,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you think you might need a hearing aid, get tested
The first step to knowing whether you need a hearing aid is to get your hearing checked by a certified audiologist. (Ask your doctor for a recommendation.) Hearing tests measure loudness and clarity of sound — how loud the sound needs to be for you to hear it and how clear the sound is.
People with normal hearing can hear sounds with a loudness between zero and 25 decibels (dB). When the softest sounds you can hear are louder than 30 dB, you may be missing a significant amount of speech and are probably a candidate for a hearing aid.
It is important to note that hearing aids are amplifiers — they make sounds louder, but not clearer. If you have trouble understanding speech in a noisy environment (a clarity problem), there are ways to improve communication without a hearing aid. For example, when speaking with someone, sit face-to-face and reduce background noise, like the TV, or distractions, like reading the paper. Be fully focused and engaged. “Ask the person not to shout, but to speak more slowly and more clearly in order to hyper-enunciate words,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you do have a hearing problem…
Age-related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss tend to affect both ears equally. If hearing loss occurs in one ear but not the other, it could be a result of a stroke, infection, or tumor, and requires a medical evaluation, says Dr. Rauch.
People with single-sided hearing loss, or hearing loss that is different in each ear, are less likely to benefit from a hearing aid in the bad ear. “These people seem to have trouble fusing the electronic sound of a hearing aid with the normal sound in the opposite ear,” says Dr. Rauch.
Hearing aids also have a learning curve. “If you’ve had a gradual, progressive hearing loss over a period of years, your brain is out of practice processing and filtering the full spectrum of normal sounds, so it needs time to adjust,” says Dr. Rauch. Wear your hearing aids for about an hour daily and then gradually increase your time over a few weeks. You don’t have to wear them all the time either. Put them in only when you need to, but the more you use them, the quicker you will adjust.
Also, be aware that not everyone finds hearing aids pleasurable. “They make everything louder — voices, noises, sounds — and some may find it overwhelming in places with a lot of stimulus like restaurants and crowds,” says Dr. Rauch. “They are usually more helpful in quieter environments.”
Factors to consider when hearing aid shopping
- A hearing aid center offers a better range of features, options, and prices than a franchise, which often has limited choices.
- A single aid can cost from $3,000 to $4,000, although most vendors offer a discount for the second one.
- Medicare and most other insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids, but the Veterans Administration might.
- Check the consumer protection laws regarding hearing aids for your state.
- The average hearing aid lasts about five years.
The post Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Matthew Solan http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/now-hear-men-hearing-aids-can-life-changer-2016112510674
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer
Chalk one up for exasperated women everywhere. Odds are the older men in their lives actually don’t hear them and need a hearing aid. Some estimates suggest that by age 65, about one-third of men need hearing aids. However, only half of this group wears them.
Why men tend to resist hearing aids
“Men tend to avoid hearing aids because of their negative imagery,” says Dr. Steven Rauch, an otologist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear. “To them, hearing aids symbolize declining age and health and that their best years are behind them.”
While some men can get by without a hearing aid, they need to consider the potential impact hearing loss has on their life, relationships, and even cognitive health. “Left untreated, hearing loss is associated with higher risks for social isolation, depression, dementia, and reduced physical activity,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you think you might need a hearing aid, get tested
The first step to knowing whether you need a hearing aid is to get your hearing checked by a certified audiologist. (Ask your doctor for a recommendation.) Hearing tests measure loudness and clarity of sound — how loud the sound needs to be for you to hear it and how clear the sound is.
People with normal hearing can hear sounds with a loudness between zero and 25 decibels (dB). When the softest sounds you can hear are louder than 30 dB, you may be missing a significant amount of speech and are probably a candidate for a hearing aid.
It is important to note that hearing aids are amplifiers — they make sounds louder, but not clearer. If you have trouble understanding speech in a noisy environment (a clarity problem), there are ways to improve communication without a hearing aid. For example, when speaking with someone, sit face-to-face and reduce background noise, like the TV, or distractions, like reading the paper. Be fully focused and engaged. “Ask the person not to shout, but to speak more slowly and more clearly in order to hyper-enunciate words,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you do have a hearing problem…
Age-related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss tend to affect both ears equally. If hearing loss occurs in one ear but not the other, it could be a result of a stroke, infection, or tumor, and requires a medical evaluation, says Dr. Rauch.
People with single-sided hearing loss, or hearing loss that is different in each ear, are less likely to benefit from a hearing aid in the bad ear. “These people seem to have trouble fusing the electronic sound of a hearing aid with the normal sound in the opposite ear,” says Dr. Rauch.
Hearing aids also have a learning curve. “If you’ve had a gradual, progressive hearing loss over a period of years, your brain is out of practice processing and filtering the full spectrum of normal sounds, so it needs time to adjust,” says Dr. Rauch. Wear your hearing aids for about an hour daily and then gradually increase your time over a few weeks. You don’t have to wear them all the time either. Put them in only when you need to, but the more you use them, the quicker you will adjust.
Also, be aware that not everyone finds hearing aids pleasurable. “They make everything louder — voices, noises, sounds — and some may find it overwhelming in places with a lot of stimulus like restaurants and crowds,” says Dr. Rauch. “They are usually more helpful in quieter environments.”
Factors to consider when hearing aid shopping
- A hearing aid center offers a better range of features, options, and prices than a franchise, which often has limited choices.
- A single aid can cost from $3,000 to $4,000, although most vendors offer a discount for the second one.
- Medicare and most other insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids, but the Veterans Administration might.
- Check the consumer protection laws regarding hearing aids for your state.
- The average hearing aid lasts about five years.
The post Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Matthew Solan http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/now-hear-men-hearing-aids-can-life-changer-2016112510674
Obamacare's Medicaid expansion divides GOP governors
With GOP-dominated D.C. threatening to repeal Obamacare, some Republican governors want their states to keep their favorite parts
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/republican-states-expanded-medicaid-obamacare-trump/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/republican-states-expanded-medicaid-obamacare-trump/
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Death toll from rare thunderstorm asthma rises to 6
Hundreds of people were hospitalized after a wild storm caused rain-sodden ryegrass pollen to explode and deeply penetrate people's lungs
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/death-toll-rare-thunderstorm-asthma-melbourne-australia-rises/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/death-toll-rare-thunderstorm-asthma-melbourne-australia-rises/
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Saturday, November 26, 2016
Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer
Chalk one up for exasperated women everywhere. Odds are the older men in their lives actually don’t hear them and need a hearing aid. Some estimates suggest that by age 65, about one-third of men need hearing aids. However, only half of this group wears them.
Why men tend to resist hearing aids
“Men tend to avoid hearing aids because of their negative imagery,” says Dr. Steven Rauch, an otologist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear. “To them, hearing aids symbolize declining age and health and that their best years are behind them.”
While some men can get by without a hearing aid, they need to consider the potential impact hearing loss has on their life, relationships, and even cognitive health. “Left untreated, hearing loss is associated with higher risks for social isolation, depression, dementia, and reduced physical activity,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you think you might need a hearing aid, get tested
The first step to knowing whether you need a hearing aid is to get your hearing checked by a certified audiologist. (Ask your doctor for a recommendation.) Hearing tests measure loudness and clarity of sound — how loud the sound needs to be for you to hear it and how clear the sound is.
People with normal hearing can hear sounds with a loudness between zero and 25 decibels (dB). When the softest sounds you can hear are louder than 30 dB, you may be missing a significant amount of speech and are probably a candidate for a hearing aid.
It is important to note that hearing aids are amplifiers — they make sounds louder, but not clearer. If you have trouble understanding speech in a noisy environment (a clarity problem), there are ways to improve communication without a hearing aid. For example, when speaking with someone, sit face-to-face and reduce background noise, like the TV, or distractions, like reading the paper. Be fully focused and engaged. “Ask the person not to shout, but to speak more slowly and more clearly in order to hyper-enunciate words,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you do have a hearing problem…
Age-related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss tend to affect both ears equally. If hearing loss occurs in one ear but not the other, it could be a result of a stroke, infection, or tumor, and requires a medical evaluation, says Dr. Rauch.
People with single-sided hearing loss, or hearing loss that is different in each ear, are less likely to benefit from a hearing aid in the bad ear. “These people seem to have trouble fusing the electronic sound of a hearing aid with the normal sound in the opposite ear,” says Dr. Rauch.
Hearing aids also have a learning curve. “If you’ve had a gradual, progressive hearing loss over a period of years, your brain is out of practice processing and filtering the full spectrum of normal sounds, so it needs time to adjust,” says Dr. Rauch. Wear your hearing aids for about an hour daily and then gradually increase your time over a few weeks. You don’t have to wear them all the time either. Put them in only when you need to, but the more you use them, the quicker you will adjust.
Also, be aware that not everyone finds hearing aids pleasurable. “They make everything louder — voices, noises, sounds — and some may find it overwhelming in places with a lot of stimulus like restaurants and crowds,” says Dr. Rauch. “They are usually more helpful in quieter environments.”
Factors to consider when hearing aid shopping
- A hearing aid center offers a better range of features, options, and prices than a franchise, which often has limited choices.
- A single aid can cost from $3,000 to $4,000, although most vendors offer a discount for the second one.
- Medicare and most other insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids, but the Veterans Administration might.
- Check the consumer protection laws regarding hearing aids for your state.
- The average hearing aid lasts about five years.
The post Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Matthew Solan http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/now-hear-men-hearing-aids-can-life-changer-2016112510674
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Morning Rounds: Preventing dementia, strokes, and more
Medical contributors Dr. Tara Narula and Dr. David Agus join "CBS This Morning: Saturday" to discuss reducing the risk of dementia and strokes, and why low-fat milk may not actually be as healthy as we thought.
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/morning-rounds-preventing-dementia-strokes-and-more/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/morning-rounds-preventing-dementia-strokes-and-more/
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer
Chalk one up for exasperated women everywhere. Odds are the older men in their lives actually don’t hear them and need a hearing aid. Some estimates suggest that by age 65, about one-third of men need hearing aids. However, only half of this group wears them.
Why men tend to resist hearing aids
“Men tend to avoid hearing aids because of their negative imagery,” says Dr. Steven Rauch, an otologist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear. “To them, hearing aids symbolize declining age and health and that their best years are behind them.”
While some men can get by without a hearing aid, they need to consider the potential impact hearing loss has on their life, relationships, and even cognitive health. “Left untreated, hearing loss is associated with higher risks for social isolation, depression, dementia, and reduced physical activity,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you think you might need a hearing aid, get tested
The first step to knowing whether you need a hearing aid is to get your hearing checked by a certified audiologist. (Ask your doctor for a recommendation.) Hearing tests measure loudness and clarity of sound — how loud the sound needs to be for you to hear it and how clear the sound is.
People with normal hearing can hear sounds with a loudness between zero and 25 decibels (dB). When the softest sounds you can hear are louder than 30 dB, you may be missing a significant amount of speech and are probably a candidate for a hearing aid.
It is important to note that hearing aids are amplifiers — they make sounds louder, but not clearer. If you have trouble understanding speech in a noisy environment (a clarity problem), there are ways to improve communication without a hearing aid. For example, when speaking with someone, sit face-to-face and reduce background noise, like the TV, or distractions, like reading the paper. Be fully focused and engaged. “Ask the person not to shout, but to speak more slowly and more clearly in order to hyper-enunciate words,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you do have a hearing problem…
Age-related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss tend to affect both ears equally. If hearing loss occurs in one ear but not the other, it could be a result of a stroke, infection, or tumor, and requires a medical evaluation, says Dr. Rauch.
People with single-sided hearing loss, or hearing loss that is different in each ear, are less likely to benefit from a hearing aid in the bad ear. “These people seem to have trouble fusing the electronic sound of a hearing aid with the normal sound in the opposite ear,” says Dr. Rauch.
Hearing aids also have a learning curve. “If you’ve had a gradual, progressive hearing loss over a period of years, your brain is out of practice processing and filtering the full spectrum of normal sounds, so it needs time to adjust,” says Dr. Rauch. Wear your hearing aids for about an hour daily and then gradually increase your time over a few weeks. You don’t have to wear them all the time either. Put them in only when you need to, but the more you use them, the quicker you will adjust.
Also, be aware that not everyone finds hearing aids pleasurable. “They make everything louder — voices, noises, sounds — and some may find it overwhelming in places with a lot of stimulus like restaurants and crowds,” says Dr. Rauch. “They are usually more helpful in quieter environments.”
Factors to consider when hearing aid shopping
- A hearing aid center offers a better range of features, options, and prices than a franchise, which often has limited choices.
- A single aid can cost from $3,000 to $4,000, although most vendors offer a discount for the second one.
- Medicare and most other insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids, but the Veterans Administration might.
- Check the consumer protection laws regarding hearing aids for your state.
- The average hearing aid lasts about five years.
The post Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Matthew Solan http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/now-hear-men-hearing-aids-can-life-changer-2016112510674
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Friday, November 25, 2016
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Elder abuse often missed in the ER
Many American seniors suffer elder abuse, but most pass through emergency departments without the problem being identified, according to new research
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/elder-abuse-often-missed-in-the-emergency-room/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/elder-abuse-often-missed-in-the-emergency-room/
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
For firefighters, emotional stress often the deadliest enemy
Though most often associated with soldiers, PTSD leaves many firefighters psychologically and emotionally damaged
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/firefighters-emotional-stress-ptsd/
From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/firefighters-emotional-stress-ptsd/
Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer
Chalk one up for exasperated women everywhere. Odds are the older men in their lives actually don’t hear them and need a hearing aid. Some estimates suggest that by age 65, about one-third of men need hearing aids. However, only half of this group wears them.
Why men tend to resist hearing aids
“Men tend to avoid hearing aids because of their negative imagery,” says Dr. Steven Rauch, an otologist with Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear. “To them, hearing aids symbolize declining age and health and that their best years are behind them.”
While some men can get by without a hearing aid, they need to consider the potential impact hearing loss has on their life, relationships, and even cognitive health. “Left untreated, hearing loss is associated with higher risks for social isolation, depression, dementia, and reduced physical activity,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you think you might need a hearing aid, get tested
The first step to knowing whether you need a hearing aid is to get your hearing checked by a certified audiologist. (Ask your doctor for a recommendation.) Hearing tests measure loudness and clarity of sound — how loud the sound needs to be for you to hear it and how clear the sound is.
People with normal hearing can hear sounds with a loudness between zero and 25 decibels (dB). When the softest sounds you can hear are louder than 30 dB, you may be missing a significant amount of speech and are probably a candidate for a hearing aid.
It is important to note that hearing aids are amplifiers — they make sounds louder, but not clearer. If you have trouble understanding speech in a noisy environment (a clarity problem), there are ways to improve communication without a hearing aid. For example, when speaking with someone, sit face-to-face and reduce background noise, like the TV, or distractions, like reading the paper. Be fully focused and engaged. “Ask the person not to shout, but to speak more slowly and more clearly in order to hyper-enunciate words,” says Dr. Rauch.
If you do have a hearing problem…
Age-related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss tend to affect both ears equally. If hearing loss occurs in one ear but not the other, it could be a result of a stroke, infection, or tumor, and requires a medical evaluation, says Dr. Rauch.
People with single-sided hearing loss, or hearing loss that is different in each ear, are less likely to benefit from a hearing aid in the bad ear. “These people seem to have trouble fusing the electronic sound of a hearing aid with the normal sound in the opposite ear,” says Dr. Rauch.
Hearing aids also have a learning curve. “If you’ve had a gradual, progressive hearing loss over a period of years, your brain is out of practice processing and filtering the full spectrum of normal sounds, so it needs time to adjust,” says Dr. Rauch. Wear your hearing aids for about an hour daily and then gradually increase your time over a few weeks. You don’t have to wear them all the time either. Put them in only when you need to, but the more you use them, the quicker you will adjust.
Also, be aware that not everyone finds hearing aids pleasurable. “They make everything louder — voices, noises, sounds — and some may find it overwhelming in places with a lot of stimulus like restaurants and crowds,” says Dr. Rauch. “They are usually more helpful in quieter environments.”
Factors to consider when hearing aid shopping
- A hearing aid center offers a better range of features, options, and prices than a franchise, which often has limited choices.
- A single aid can cost from $3,000 to $4,000, although most vendors offer a discount for the second one.
- Medicare and most other insurance plans don’t cover hearing aids, but the Veterans Administration might.
- Check the consumer protection laws regarding hearing aids for your state.
- The average hearing aid lasts about five years.
The post Now hear this, men: Hearing aids can be a life changer appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Matthew Solan http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/now-hear-men-hearing-aids-can-life-changer-2016112510674
Depression during pregnancy: You're not alone
From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/depression-during-pregnancy/art-20237875
Anti-inflammatory medications and the risk for cardiovascular disease: A new study, a new perspective
Follow me on Twitter @RobShmerling
News last week about celecoxib shows how challenging it can be to understand the risks and benefits of newly developed drugs. This is particularly true when the findings of one study contradict those of past studies. And that’s exactly what has happened with celecoxib.
Anti-inflammatory medications: pros and cons
The FDA approved celecoxib (Celebrex) in 1999. This anti-inflammatory medication can be a highly effective treatment for arthritis and other painful conditions. It was developed with the hope that it would be at least as effective as other anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) but cause less stomach irritation. Developing a safer anti-inflammatory medication is a worthy goal, since stomach irritation can not only cause annoying pain or nausea, but it can also lead to ulcers, bleeding, or perforation. These medications can also increase blood pressure and cause kidney problems.
Celecoxib is known as a COX-2 inhibitor — that’s because it targets an enzyme (COX-2) involved in inflammation. Ibuprofen and naproxen (and many other anti-inflammatories) target COX-1 and COX-2. They’re called “non-selective” anti-inflammatory drugs. Because of where these enzymes are found in the body, the COX-2 selective medications seemed capable of dampening down inflammation while going easier on the stomach.
And that was true. Celecoxib — and other COX-2 inhibitors, such as rofecoxib (Vioxx) — did cause less stomach trouble. But soon after its approval, studies suggested other concerns: an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Rofecoxib was removed from the market in 2004. And while the FDA allowed celecoxib to remain on the market, it required the manufacturer to issue additional warnings to patients. It also required additional study. And that’s why celecoxib is back in the news this week. The results of the PRECISION (Prospective Randomized Evaluation of Celecoxib Integrated Safety versus Ibuprofen or Naproxen) trial were released. And the news is good for celecoxib.
Results suggests lower cardiovascular disease risk — and fewer side effects — than expected
The PRECISION trial is a carefully designed and powerful study that analyzed the impact of celecoxib on cardiovascular disease. The study spanned 926 medical centers in 13 countries and enrolled more than 24,000 patients with two of the most common types of arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis). Each study subject had a higher than average risk for cardiovascular disease due to a history of high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Study subjects were divided into three groups who took anti-inflammatory medications every day: one group took celecoxib, one group took ibuprofen, and the last group took naproxen.
Study subjects taking celecoxib in moderate doses were
- no more likely than those taking ibuprofen or naproxen to have a fatal or non-fatal heart attack or stroke
- less likely than those taking ibuprofen or naproxen to have significant gastrointestinal problems, such as serious bleeding
- less likely than those taking ibuprofen to have kidney problems or hospital admission for high blood pressure.
What does this mean for you?
It’s rare that a single study provides a definitive answer or changes practice overnight. But this was a large, well-designed, and expensive study that is unlikely to be repeated any time soon. And, another study of lower-risk people came to a similar conclusion just last year.
Still, questions may yet come up regarding:
- The lack of a placebo group. As suggested by some prior research, it is possible that all three of the drugs used in this study increase the risk of cardiovascular problems; without a control group, it’s impossible to say.
- Dosing. Study subjects were allowed to take up to 400 mg/day of celecoxib if they had rheumatoid arthritis but only 200 mg/day if they had osteoarthritis. In real life doctors may prescribe a wider range of doses.
- Reason for treatment. This study only included people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. The results might be different if people with other conditions had been included.
- Other medical problems. The risks and benefits of celecoxib in people with other medical problems (such as significant kidney disease) are uncertain because this study excluded them.
- Other medical treatments. All patients in this study took a medication to protect the stomach; outside of studies, that’s not always the case.
While these issues are valid, I think this study does provide a significant measure of reassurance regarding the cardiovascular risks of celecoxib. And it may encourage doctors who thought the drug was too risky to prescribe it more often.
This new research shows in a dramatic way why “more research is needed” is not just a tagline at the end of so many medical news stories. And in the case of celecoxib, the result of the additional research is good news indeed.
The post Anti-inflammatory medications and the risk for cardiovascular disease: A new study, a new perspective appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.
From: Robert H. Shmerling, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/anti-inflammatory-medications-and-the-risk-for-cardiovascular-disease-a-new-study-a-new-perspective-2016112310725
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