February 2017

Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Colon Cancer Awareness: Dr. Gomez & Dr. Wallace

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVvq-DAN1Wk

2/28: Trump takes vision directly to America in first prime time address; Green Book helped black Americans travel through segregation

President Trump's first prime time address to Congress is expected to emphasize his domestic agenda: tax reform, infrastructure spending, and the repeal and replacement of Obamacare; For much of the 20th century, African Americans were routinely refused service at many businesses.

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/228-trump-takes-vision-directly-to-america-in-first-prime-time-address-green-book-helped-black-americans-travel-through-segregation/

Colorectal cancer cases in young adults on the rise

Younger Americans are now facing a higher risk of getting colon and rectal cancer, according to a new study. New cases are striking adults in their 20s and 30s, while cases among Americans 55 and older are declining. Dr. Jon LaPook reports.

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/colorectal-cancer-cases-in-young-adults-on-the-rise/

Baby caught on sonogram flashing the "rock on" sign

"The baby must be giving you a sign," the ultrasound technician told the mom- and dad-to-be

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/couple-notice-baby-in-ultrasound-flashing-the-rock-on-sign/

Baby flashes "rock on" sign during ultrasound

A mom and dad in Utah want the world to know their unborn baby is ready to rock and roll. During a routine ultrasound, the child seemed to flash the "rock on" sign with one little hand.

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/baby-flashes-rock-on-sign-during-ultrasound/

Preschooler recovering from rare paralyzing condition

Genetic mutations related to AVF have been discovered in the last few years

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/rare-paralyzing-condition-avf-arteriovenous-fistula-strikes-new-hampshire-child/

Bare-Metal, Drug-Eluting, and Bioresorbable Stents in Context

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rkVLrspw30

Gene Therapy Shows Promise for Aggressive Lymphoma

Over one-third of patients appeared disease-free 6 months after single treatment, report says

From: http://www.webmd.com/cancer/lymphoma/news/20170228/gene-therapy-shows-promise-for-aggressive-lymphoma?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Youth With Type 2 Often Face Complications

This growing group has double the problems as peers with type 1 disease, study finds

From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/news/20170228/youth-with-type-2-diabetes-often-face-complications?src=RSS_PUBLIC

After a Prediabetes Diagnosis: How to Prevent Diabetes

WebMD offers 7 ways to prevent the onset of diabetes if you've been diagnosed with prediabetes.

From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/prediabetes-diagnosis-what-to-do?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Invitation to Mayo Clinic's 3rd Annual Neuro & Intensive Care Review & Workshops

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=br7pFtbzaWw

'Biggest Loser' Host Bob Harper: I'm Healing After Heart Attack

A cardiologist weighs in on why someone who seems so healthy and fit could have a heart attack.

From: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/features/bob-harper-healing-after-heart-attack?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Etileno

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XkxOj0z3xQ

Ethylene Gas

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_UfObml9D4

Listo-para-el-consumo

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6fas88vWOM

StorageTemperature

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvkhOHJyp38

Ready to Eat

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0XQHgfqoQY

Tomando la Temperatura

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5kXR8DpeaY

Temperatures

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqUN-B0e-CQ

Temperature Readings

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKCRvKoOZgM

Washing Produce

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tned4NZDTPk

Lavar antes de almacenar

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DivWlNY4PBc

MyPlate, MyWins: Meet Candice & James

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7u6hLrDwR0U

Colon Cancer Rising Among Gen Xers, Millennials

And an old adversary -- the obesity epidemic -- may be the cause, U.S. researchers say

From: http://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/news/20170228/colon-cancer-on-the-rise-among-gen-xers-millennials?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Kids Should Be Screened for Lazy Eye by Age 5

Waiting later could lead to permanent vision problems, U.S. panel says

From: http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/news/20170228/kids-should-be-screened-for-lazy-eye-by-age-5?src=RSS_PUBLIC

High-Tech Mammograms: More Cancer, False Positives

Digital technology leads to 'marked improvement' in detection rates, radiology expert says

From: http://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/news/20170228/diagnostic-mammograms-find-more-cancers-and-more-false-positives?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Childhood Cancer Survivors Living Longer

Decline parallels reduced use of radiation, at lower doses, researchers say

From: http://www.webmd.com/cancer/news/20170228/childhood-cancer-survivors-living-longer?src=RSS_PUBLIC

After hip fracture, higher risk of death lasts years

New research finds people over the age of 60 face two to three times the risk of dying for years following the injury

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/hip-fracture-risk-early-death-may-last-years/

Better diagnostic mammograms also have downside

More sensitive high-tech imaging means more tumors are detected, but there are also more false alarms

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/diagnostic-mammograms-catch-breast-cancers-but-more-false-positives/

Mayo Clinic Minute: Brisk walk helps women's hearts

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrdIMKM3yzs

Diabetes Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

WebMD describes serious symptoms to watch out for if you have diabetes.

From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/diabetes-symptoms-to-never-ignore?src=RSS_PUBLIC

DNA Tests: Subway Sandwiches Short on Chicken

The majority of the remaining DNA in the Subway chicken products was soy, testing showed

From: http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/news/20170228/dna-subway-chicken?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Honor World Oral Health Day on March 20

World Oral Health Day is celebrated globally every year on March 20 to highlight the importance of keeping your mouth healthy whether you are young or old.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/honor-world-oral-health-day-on-march-20

Dental Quality Alliance Conference to foster collaboration in quality measurement

ADA members interested in pursuing common goals of quality improvement are encouraged to attend the conference at the Association's Chicago headquarters May 12-13.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/dental-quality-alliance-conference-to-foster-collaboration-in-quality-measurement

Indian dentist, student receives Dr. Ray Bowen Student Research Award

A master's degree dental student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry is the winner of the 2017 Dr. Ray Bowen Student Research Award.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/indian-dentist-student-receives-dr-ray-bowen-student-research-award

Link between Mission of Mercy events and emergency departments explored

In 2014, more than 163,000 Floridians visited the hospital emergency rooms for a dental issue, resulting in charges of more than $234 million, according to the U.S. Health and Human Services Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/florida-dental-association-foundation-studies-link

Gene therapy "seems extraordinary" at fighting cancer

Company's study shows more than one-third of lymphoma patients showed no sign of disease six months after a single treatment

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/gene-therapy-seems-extraordinary-at-fighting-lymphoma-blood-cancer-study-suggests/

Parents: As more states legalize marijuana here’s what you need to know and do

Follow me on Twitter @drClaire

Recreational use of marijuana was just legalized here in my home state of Massachusetts, and this has led to a lot of interesting conversations as legislators, regulators, and businesspeople try to figure out how to best implement this change.

But the most important conversations about marijuana, in Massachusetts and throughout the country, may be between parents and children.

This week the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a clinical report to help pediatricians and parents talk to teens about marijuana. As it has become legalized in more states, research has shown that fewer teens think of smoking marijuana as risky.

This is often what I hear from teens in my practice. They don’t think of marijuana as a dangerous drug — and the fact that its use was legalized seems to have reinforced the impression that it’s safe.

But it’s not safe.

Marijuana can:

impair short-term memory, concentration, attention span, and problem-solving, all of which can get in the way of learning and can also lead to accidents and injuries
lead to lung damage from inhaling the smoke
increase the risk of long-term psychiatric problems such as depression or psychosis
cause long-term problems with memory and executive function, even after use of marijuana has stopped
lead to addiction — experts say that 9% of those who experiment will become addicted. This number is higher (17%) for those who start in adolescence and even higher (25% to 50%) in teens who smoke marijuana daily.
cause growth and learning problems in babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy.

Just because something is legal doesn’t mean it’s safe. Cigarette smoking is legal, and is linked to many serious health problems. Drinking alcohol is legal, and leads to alcoholism, many health problems, and many serious accidents and injuries.

It’s really important that parents talk to their teens about the risks of marijuana use. It’s also really important that parents be mindful about how their own use of marijuana sets an example and sends a message. Here are the main points that the AAP wants parents to know.

Because marijuana affects the brain, and because teen brains are still developing, marijuana is particularly dangerous for teens.
Teens who use marijuana regularly can develop serious mental health problems.
While marijuana has been legalized in many states for use by people over 21, it’s still illegal for teens, so using it can lead to having a criminal record, which can affect getting into schools or getting jobs.
Driving under the influence of marijuana is like driving drunk: it’s dangerous and should never happen.
The smoke of marijuana is toxic, both to the person smoking it and the people around them.
If parents use marijuana in front of their teens, their teens are more likely to smoke it too. Think before you light up.
Another thing to think about before you light up: marijuana can impair your ability to make safe judgments for and about your children.
If parents have any marijuana products, especially things like edibles, they should keep them safely away from children (this is particularly true when there are small children at home).

It’s so important to think about this as a parent — and to talk with your teens, not just once but often, in an ongoing way. Make sure they have the information and strategies they need to make the best and healthiest choices. Make sure that you are making the best choices yourself when it comes to marijuana use, because as a parent, your choices are about more than just you.

The post Parents: As more states legalize marijuana here’s what you need to know and do appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Claire McCarthy, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/states-legalize-marijuana-parents-teens-need-know-2017022811256

Colorectal cancer rates rising in Gen X, millennials

Despite an overall decline in colon cancer rates, new research shows a dramatic uptick in these age groups

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/colorectal-cancer-rates-rising-in-gen-x-millennials/

Hip Fracture's Link to Early Death May Last Years

People over 60 face two to three times the risk of dying over next 8 years, study finds

From: http://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/news/20170227/hip-fractures-link-to-early-death-may-last-years?src=RSS_PUBLIC

WHO Lists 12 Most Dangerous 'Superbugs'

Doctors are running out of treatment options for these bacteria, the U.N. health agency says

From: http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/news/20170227/who-superbug-bacteria-list?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Monday, February 27, 2017

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

JAMA Pediatrics study that finds no benefit of preventive dental care for some kids raises questions

The conclusions of a Feb. 27 online article in JAMA Pediatrics on early preventive dental care for children may have raised more questions than the researchers answered, some dental experts say.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/jama-pediatrics-study-that-finds-no-benefit-of-preventive-dental-care-for-some-kids-raises-question

What Works to Help Overweight Folks Eat Healthier?

Researchers still don't know the answer, but say pamphlets couldn't hurt

From: http://www.webmd.com/diet/obesity/news/20170227/what-works-best-to-help-overweight-folks-eat-healthier?src=RSS_PUBLIC

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/march

Some Health Fads May Not Be All That Healthy

Vegetable juices, coconut oil have downsides, and gluten-free makes little difference in those without the sensitivity, study finds

From: http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20170227/some-health-fads-may-not-be-all-that-healthy?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Exercise, Weight Loss May Cut Heart Failure Risk

Link was stronger for common but difficult-to-treat type of heart failure

From: http://www.webmd.com/heart/news/20170227/more-exercise-fewer-pounds-cut-your-heart-failure-risk?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Nasal Swab Shows Promise in Confirming Lung Cancer

Simple technique is based on cancer DNA and seems accurate for use after chest CT scan, researchers say

From: http://www.webmd.com/lung-cancer/news/20170227/nasal-swab-shows-promise-in-confirming-lung-cancers?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Are Herbal Medicines Safe for Heart Problems?

While popular among patients, they haven't been proven safe or effective in clinical trials, study says

From: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20170227/review-raises-questions-about-herbal-meds-for-heart-problems?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Bad bug, no drugs: The real end of antibiotics?

Follow me on Twitter @JohnRossMD

In September 2016, a woman in her 70s died of septic shock in Reno, Nevada, from an infection which was fully resistant to 26 different antibiotics. She had spent much of the previous two years in India, where she was treated for a hip fracture. The hip became infected, and after several more hospital stays, she returned to her home in Nevada.

Within weeks, she was desperately ill, and back in a hospital in Reno. A sample from her hip wound revealed a strain of the bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae which was not sensitive to any antibiotics. It was even resistant to a drug called colistin, an old-fashioned, somewhat toxic, and rarely used antibiotic that is considered the last line of defense against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Before she died, the patient was isolated and kept in a private room. There is no indication that her resistant bacteria had spread to other patients in the hospital or in the Reno area.

How these bacteria outsmart antibiotics

The Klebsiella bacteria that killed her had a powerful enzyme that breaks down antibiotics, known as New Dehli metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM), because it was first found in a patient who had travelled to that Indian city. Indian politicians have disputed the link between their capital and a deadly superbug, and the local tourism board and chamber of commerce probably aren’t too thrilled about it either. In any case, it is probably unfair to focus too much on the Indian origin of this resistant bacteria. Klebsiella bacteria with a slightly different, but equally fearsome form of antibiotic resistance known as KPC have already become entrenched in the United States, as well as in Brazil, China, Israel, Colombia, and Italy.

The vast majority of cases of resistant Klebsiella infection in the United States involve patients who have been hospitalized. But alarmingly, highly resistant bacteria have started to percolate down into the community. A recent outbreak of NDM-positive Klebsiella in Colorado involved patients without health care exposures. A woman in Pennsylvania presented to a clinic in May 2016 with a urinary tract infection with bacteria resistant to colistin, which she had probably picked up during a recent hospital stay.

Is it the end of antibiotics as we know them?

Hand-wringing about antibiotic resistance has been around almost as long as antibiotics. Newsweek somewhat prematurely proclaimed “The End of Antibiotics” in 1994, and the New England Journal of Medicine bewailed the rising tide of antibiotic resistance as early as 1960. All the way back in 1945, scientists had discovered it was relatively easy to create antibiotic-resistant bacteria by exposing them to very small amounts of antibiotics, and then gradually increasing their degree of antibiotic exposure. In retrospect, this shouldn’t be so surprising. Penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics are derived from molds, which used these compounds for millennia to suppress competition from bacteria. So bacteria, in turn, have developed ways to neutralize and break down antibiotics. Overuse of antibiotics has favored the spread of bacteria carrying these resistance mechanisms.

Another sobering development is that the antibiotic pipeline is drying up, with dim prospects of new drugs coming along to replace the old ones that are losing potency. The economics of antibiotic discovery are bad. Many pharmaceutical corporations have gotten out of the business of developing new antibiotics altogether. The cost of bringing new drugs to market can ratchet up into the billions. The anticipated payoffs are small, as infectious diseases practitioners only use new and powerful antibiotics when absolutely necessary, in an effort to have them retain their effectiveness for as long as possible.

Here’s what you can do

You can take a number of steps as a patient, a consumer, and a citizen to help keep the flood waters of antibiotic resistance from breaking through the levee.

Don’t press your doctor to prescribe antibiotics if they believe it is unnecessary. Taking antibiotics increases your risk of acquiring drug-resistant bacteria, kills off your beneficial gut bacteria, known as your “microbiome,” and exposes you to the potentially deadly bowel infection, Clostridium difficile colitis.

About 80% of the antibiotic use in the United States is in agriculture, not medicine. In particular, low doses of antibiotics are added to livestock feed in factory farms to prevent infections and promote growth. This constant, low-level antibiotic exposure is an excellent way to create drug-resistant bacteria. At least some of these bacteria probably work their way up the food chain to affect humans. You can support the responsible use of antibiotics in agriculture by only purchasing meat raised without antibiotics. And consider calling your congressperson to ask their support for greater public funding for new antibiotic discovery.

And while this sounds bleak, there are other things you can do as a consumer and as a patient to help. You can start by paying attention to the food you eat and by not pressing your doctor for unnecessary antibiotics.

Listen to Dr. Ross’s podcast on antibiotic resistance.

The post Bad bug, no drugs: The real end of antibiotics? appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: John Ross, MD, FIDSA http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/bad-bug-no-drugs-real-end-antibiotics-2017022711103

Dental coalition urges House to support the Competitive Health Insurance Reform Act

The Organized Dentistry Coalition on Feb. 24 expressed its "strong support" of H.R. 372, the Competitive Health Insurance Reform Act.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/odc-urges-house-to-support-the-competitive-health-insurance-reform-act

EPA denies petition to ban adding 'fluoridation chemicals' to water supplies

The health benefits of fluoride include "having fewer cavities, less severe cavities, less need for filings and removing teeth, and less pain and suffering due to tooth decay," the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said Feb. 17.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/epa-denies-petition-to-ban-adding-fluoridation-chemicals-to-water-supplies

The mental health cost of unchecked climate change

Climate change is threatening the emotional health of humans worldwide, scientists and mental health professionals warn

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/despair-mental-health-trauma-cost-unchecked-climate-change/

Infectious Diseases A-Z: When to stay home from work

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAgvTXI7Va8

38th Annual Practice of Internal Medicine: Menopausal Hormone Therapy

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bnm1_vt_w88

Exercise and Diabetes: How a Trainer Can Help

Stay active with a trainer who can help manage your condition, and more tips from WebMD Magazine.

From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/diabetes-exercise-trainer?src=RSS_PUBLIC

3 Diabetes Tests You Must Have

Diagnosed with diabetes? WebMD shows how simple tests can help you manage your condition.

From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/three-medical-tests-for-diabetes-patients?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Pediatricians Revise Guidelines for Teen Victims of Sexual Assault

Physicians need to be comfortable screening for it, offering additional help if needed

From: http://www.webmd.com/parenting/news/20170227/pediatricians-revise-guidelines-for-teen-victims-of-sexual-assault?src=RSS_PUBLIC

As Pot Legalization Advances, Pediatricians Warn of Dangers

Marijuana isn't benign, child health experts contend

From: http://www.webmd.com/parenting/news/20170227/as-pot-legalization-advances-pediatricians-warn-of-dangers?src=RSS_PUBLIC

WHO publishes list of bacteria for which new antibiotics are urgently needed

WHO today published its first ever list of antibiotic-resistant "priority pathogens"—a catalogue of 12 families of bacteria that pose the greatest threat to human health.

From: http://www.who.int/entity/mediacentre/news/releases/2017/bacteria-antibiotics-needed/en/index.html

USDA Helps Expand Broadband Service in Rural Illinois and Oklahoma

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27, 2017 – Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Roger Glendenning today announced that USDA is awarding $19.3 million in loans to provide broadband in rural portions of Illinois and Oklahoma.

From: /wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2017/02/0016.xml&contentidonly=true

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Teen sexual assault screening guidelines updated

Pediatricians should be prepared to ask teens about sexual assault and help those affected, leading doctor's group advises

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/teen-sexual-assault-victims-doctors-group-revises-treatment-guidelines-recommendations/

Moms or dads? Survey shows who's most sleep-deprived

Each child in the home increases a woman's odds of insufficient sleep by 50 percent, new findings reveal; but what about dads?

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/moms-more-sleep-deprived-survey-shows/

U.N. issues list of 12 most worrying bacteria

The report warns that doctors are fast running out of treatment options for dangerous bugs

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/un-list-12-most-worrying-bacteria-antibiotic-resistant-superbugs/

Mayo Clinic Minute: Heart matters for millennials

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXaDbmS6ZtQ

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Surgeon donates kidney to save sick colleague

Doctor who donated organ says, “I didn’t want his daughter to grow up without a dad"

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/surgeon-doctor-donates-kidney-saves-life-of-sick-colleague/

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Mothers face greater sleep challenges than fathers, study says

New research shows how mothers struggle with sleep deprivation. Sixty-two percent of women aged 45 and younger who don't have children report getting at least seven hours of sleep per night, but that number drops to 48 percent for mothers. Dr. Carol Ash, director of sleep medicine a Meridian Health in New Jersey, joins "CBS This Morning" to discuss the findings.

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/mothers-face-greater-sleep-challenges-than-fathers-study-says/

Bad bug, no drugs: The real end of antibiotics?

Follow me on Twitter @JohnRossMD

How these bacteria outsmart antibiotics

Is it the end of antibiotics as we know them?

Here’s what you can do

You can take a number of steps as a patient, a consumer, and a citizen to help keep the flood waters of antibiotic resistance from breaking through the levee.

Listen to Dr. Ross’s podcast on antibiotic resistance.

The post Bad bug, no drugs: The real end of antibiotics? appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: John Ross, MD, FIDSA http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/bad-bug-no-drugs-real-end-antibiotics-2017022711103

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

2017 Agricultural Outlook Forum

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbwPDlDJvpE

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Pediatricians step up warnings about marijuana use by teens

American Academy of Pediatrics says growing number of states allowing pot use by adults for medical, recreational purposes could mislead parents

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/pediatricians-step-up-warnings-about-marijuana-use-by-teens/

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Sunday, February 26, 2017

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Saturday, February 25, 2017

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Morning Rounds: Rare diseases, kids' healthy eating, trial vaccine

In our Morning Rounds, Dr. Jon LaPook and Dr. Tara Narula discuss rare diseases that affect an estimated 25 million Americans, healthy eating habits for children, and a trial vaccine for mosquito-borne viruses.

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/morning-rounds-rare-diseases-kids-healthy-eating-trial-vaccine/

Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/child-safety/art-20044027

Bleeding during pregnancy

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/bleeding-during-pregnancy/basics/definition/sym-20050636

Intensive insulin therapy: Tight blood sugar control

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/intensive-insulin-therapy/art-20043866

Family planning: Get the facts about pregnancy spacing

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/family-planning/art-20044072

Healthy breakfast: Quick, flexible options

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/food-and-nutrition/art-20048294

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Friday, February 24, 2017

Addicts using pets to feed drug habit, vets warn

People don't want to believe anyone would intentionally hurt their pet, but vets say drug abusers are doing just that

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/addicts-turning-to-abusing-pets-to-score-drugs-veterinarians-warn/

"Wireless" pacemaker brings new hope for heart failure patients

Instead of wires, the system uses a tiny electrode placed directly inside the heart’s left ventricle

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/wireless-pacemaker-brings-new-hope-for-heart-failure-patients/

8 Things You Didn't Know About Twins

Can you guess which state has the highest rate of twin births?

From: http://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/things-you-didnt-know-about-twins?src=RSS_PUBLIC

CareCredit acquires Citi Health Card portfolio

ADA members who use Citi products for their patient financing will soon be moved over to CareCredit.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/carecredit-acquires-citi-health-card-portfolio

Little Tykes recalls 540,000 toddler swings

The company says it has received 140 reports of the swing breaking, resulting in 39 injuries, including two broken arms

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/little-tykes-recalls-540000-toddler-swings/

9 Parents of Twins Share Their Best Advice

We asked what they would tell other parents before bringing two bundles of joy into the world.

From: http://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/parents-of-twins-share-their-best-advice?src=RSS_PUBLIC

2017 Agricultural Outlook Forum

From: USDA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBu8kX9Tt1c

Can Depression Up Odds for Psoriatic Arthritis?

Mood disorder may increase inflammation throughout the body, researcher says

From: http://www.webmd.com/arthritis/psoriatic-arthritis/news/20170224/can-depression-up-odds-for-arthritis-linked-to-psoriasis?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Oklahoma MOM event donates $1.3M in dental care

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/oklahoma-mom-event-donates

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Study finds stroke care faster for this gender

Researchers are unsure why the disparity exists

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/study-finds-stroke-care-faster-for-men-than-women/

Hidden problem may hinder opioid addiction treatment

Opioid addicts who undergo “medication-assisted treatment” often have a serious side issue, say Johns Hopkins researchers

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/opioid-addiction-treatment-may-be-hindered-by-hidden-problem/

Mom to carry baby without brain to full term to donate organs

“There’s another family out there hurting and hoping for a miracle for their baby...Eva can be that miracle," dad says

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/mom-to-carry-baby-without-brain-to-full-term-to-donate-organs/

Drug OD Deaths Have Nearly Tripled Since 1999: CDC

Whites, middle-aged adults hardest hit, new report finds

From: http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/news/20170224/drug-od-deaths-have-nearly-tripled-since-1999-cdc?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Gender Doesn't Dictate Perspiration Rate

Instead, your size and shape influence how the body releases heat and cools down, study finds

From: http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/news/20170224/dont-sweat-it-gender-doesnt-dictate-perspiration-rate?src=RSS_PUBLIC

'Superbug' Infections Striking More U.S. Kids

Antibiotic-resistant germs no longer confined to hospitals, study warns

From: http://www.webmd.com/children/news/20170224/superbug-infections-striking-more-us-kids?src=RSS_PUBLIC

More Than 500,000 Toddler Swings Recalled

Injuries to children are prompting the recall of 540,000 Little Tikes 2-in-1 Snug'n Secure pink toddler swings

From: http://www.webmd.com/children/news/20170224/toddler-swing-recall?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Health Law Support Grows, Leaving GOP In A Bind

As GOP lawmakers struggle to find a replacement for Obamacare, public support for the health law grows and a majority of Americans say they don’t want fundamental changes to Medicaid.

From: http://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/news/20170224/support-for-health-law-grows-leaving-republicans-in-a-bind?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Get the scoop on ADA-sealant sealant guidelines

Dentists can hear directly from an author of ADA-developed sealant guidelines.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/get-the-scoop-on-ada-sealant-guidelines

Memphis dentist among 2017 Presidential Leadership Scholars

Dr. Christina Rosenthal can add another item to her list of accomplishments.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/2017-presidential-leadership-scholars

Create a healthy-eating routine you can build on

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/create-healthy-eating-routine/art-20308349

Aerobic exercise: Top 10 reasons to get physical

From: http://www.mayoclinic.com/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/aerobic-exercise/art-20045541

CDC: Drug OD deaths nearly triple since 1999

Whites and middle-aged adults have been hardest hit, new report finds

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/drug-od-deaths-nearly-tripled-since-1999-cdc/

Hockey stars pledge to donate their brains to research

Professional hockey players' brains will help scientists learn more about the effects of repetitive head trauma

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/nhl-ice-hockey-stars-pledge-to-donate-their-brains-to-traumatic-brain-injury-cte-research/

March JADA looks at phentolamine mesylate use after dental care

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/jada-looks-at-phentolamine-mesylate-use

Could Parkinson's Disease Raise Stroke Risk?

Or is the link the other way around? Study finds a connection, but cause-and-effect isn't clear

From: http://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/news/20170223/could-parkinsons-disease-raise-stroke-risk?src=RSS_PUBLIC

NHL Veterans Pledge Their Brains to Research

Donations will be used to study CTE, other conditions linked to repetitive head trauma

From: http://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20170223/nhl-veterans-pledge-their-brains-to-research?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Virus and Heart Disease, Diabetes in Some Women

CMV associated with increased chances of metabolic syndrome in those of normal weight

From: http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/news/20170223/common-virus-may-be-linked-to-heart-disease-diabetes-in-some-women?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Can an Apple a Day Keep COPD Away?

See which fruits, veggies may be linked to lower risk of lung disease in smokers, study suggests

From: http://www.webmd.com/lung/copd/news/20170223/can-an-apple-a-day-keep-copd-away?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Lunch-hour sex could boost employee morale, politician says

Sex should be an acceptable lunch time activity, just like eating and working out, town leader says

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/could-lunch-hour-sex-boost-employee-morale-swedish-politician-says-yes/

Finding the tick in time could save you from Lyme!

“Doesn’t it typically happen during the summer?” asked a worried lady that had walked into my clinic in November with a growing circular rash on her wrist. She was referring, of course, to Lyme disease, that scourge of outdoor enthusiasts. While the peak season for Lyme disease is indeed summer, the ticks that transmit it are active March through December. And, while this may be off-season for the ticks, it is a good time to catch up on how to stay safe in the not-so-distant spring.

What is Lyme disease, and how do you treat it?

Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi which is spread to people through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also popularly known as “deer ticks.” Early symptoms include a typical enlarging red rash (“bullseye rash”) at the site of the tick bite. This is common, but not everyone with Lyme disease gets this rash. Other signs of Lyme include flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, and headache). If left untreated, over time the infection can lead to Bell’s palsy (paralysis or weakness of facial muscles on one side), meningitis (inflammation in the brain and spinal cord), heart rhythm problems, and joint pain and swelling. Additional symptoms can include headaches and stiff neck, tingling and numbness (often in the hands and feet), and rarely, inflammation of the eyes.

The diagnosis is usually based on a person’s symptoms, the presence of the typical rash, and a history of likely exposure to infected ticks. Lab tests for Lyme disease do not turn positive until three to four weeks after the infection. Usually doctors do not wait for the results of these tests during the early stage of the disease, to begin treatment.

Once diagnosed, Lyme disease can be successfully treated with a few weeks of oral antibiotics. Doxycycline is the antibiotic prescribed to all but pregnant women and children, who usually get the antibiotics amoxicillin or cefuroxime. For people with severe heart or neurological symptoms of Lyme, intravenous antibiotics are usually necessary.

Here’s what you can do to keep from getting Lyme disease

As always, prevention is superior to cure. Right now, there is no Lyme vaccine available for people. There is a Lyme vaccine available for dogs! However, it does not protect against other tick-borne diseases, hence preventive measures against ticks are still necessary. Most dogs exposed to Lyme disease do not have symptoms. Some develop fever, lack of appetite, lameness, and joint swelling. Therefore, staying safe requires preparation and vigilance. The ticks that transmit Lyme disease are tiny, and you can’t feel it when a tick attaches to you. They may even make their way into your home by attaching themselves to pets. Here are some steps to follow to remain safe.

Avoid wooded and bushy areas with tall grass and stick to the center of trails when hiking.
Wear light clothing to make ticks easier to detect.
Wear long pants tucked into socks to keep ticks on the outside of clothes.
Use DEET or a permethrin-based tick repellent on clothing and outdoor gear.
Pesticides like permethrin, fipronil, or amitraz may be used on dogs. These are available in the form of powders, impregnated collars, sprays, or topical treatments.
Do remember to never use tick repellents that are intended for dogs on a cat! Cats are extremely sensitive to a variety of chemicals.
When back home, shower or bathe as soon as possible and carefully inspect the entire body to remove any attached ticks. It takes up to 36 hours for the bacterium to be transferred after the tick bite. Prompt removal of the tick will reduce the chance of infection.
Tumble dry clothes on high heat for at least 10 minutes to kill ticks.
Carefully examine children and pets after outdoor activity.

If you find a tick along for the ride, here’s what you need to do

Use thin tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible. Pull the tick straight upward with steady even pressure to remove the tick with the mouthparts intact. Squeezing the tick will not increase the risk of infection. Adult ticks are a lot more difficult to remove intact. If the mouthparts break off, the chance of getting Lyme disease is the same as if you hadn’t removed the tick at all. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water. Watch for signs and symptoms of Lyme disease for up to 30 days.

See your doctor within 72 hours of the tick removal and if the tick removed was swollen. You may benefit from preventive antibiotics. This is especially important if you live in (or have visited) an area where deer ticks are common.

Create a tick-free zone around your home

Need a little more motivation to mow the lawn or rake the yard? Remember that ticks lurk in tall grasses, brush, and weeds around homes and at the edge of lawns. Remove any old furniture, trash, or mattresses from the yard that may give the ticks a place to hide. Place a three-foot-wide barrier of wood chips or gravel between lawns and wooded areas and around patios and play equipment to restrict tick migration into recreational areas. Stack wood neatly in a dry area (this discourages rodents that carry the ticks). Keep playground equipment, decks, and patios away from yard edges and trees, and place them in a sunny location if possible.

Lyme disease is a painful but preventable condition. When you enjoy the outdoors this year, pay close attention to your environment and follow the steps mentioned above to stay safe and keep your family and your pets safe too!

References

Gary P, Wormser, Raymond J et al. The Clinical Assessment, Treatment and Prevention of Lyme Disease, Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis, and Babesiosis: Clinical Practice Guidelines by Infectious Disease Society of America, Clinical Infectious Diseases, November 2006.

Tick Borne Diseases of the United States: A Reference Manual for Health Care Providers, Third edition, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2015.

Tick Management Handbook: An integrated guide for homeowners, pest control operators, and public health officials for the prevention of tick-associated disease, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 2007.

Meryl P. Littman, Richard E. Goldstein, Mary A. Labato, Michael R. Lappin, and George E. Moore. ACVIM Small Animal Consensus Statement on Lyme Disease in Dogs: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention [PDF, 13 pages]. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, March 2006

The post Finding the tick in time could save you from Lyme! appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Meera Sunder, MBBS, MRCOG http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/finding-the-tick-in-time-could-save-you-from-lyme-2017022411241

Mayo Clinic Minute: Why skinny doesn't always mean heart-healthy

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8m--5hxrRM

"Wireless" tech brings new hope for pacemaker patients

About 30-percent of people with pacemakers have trouble with their devices. Experts say it's often due to the wires attached to the pacemaker. Now, new "wireless" technology is giving some patients a new lease on life. Teri Okita reports from London.

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/wireless-tech-brings-new-hope-for-pacemaker-patients/

The 5 worst things you can do while driving sober

Americans are driving more – and worse – every year. Is new technology to blame, or is it motorists?

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-5-worst-things-you-can-do-while-driving-sober/

Belly fat more dangerous than being overweight, study says

New research finds it’s not excess weight that’s deadly, but where those extra pounds collect that can shorten life in older women

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/belly-fat-more-dangerous-than-being-overweight-study/

Aerobic exercise: Top 10 reasons to get physical

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/aerobic-exercise/art-20045541

Create a healthy-eating routine you can build on

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/create-healthy-eating-routine/art-20308349

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Wounded veteran, double amputee undergo groundbreaking surgery

Jace Badia, an Army veteran, and Gary Molock, a double amputee who lost his legs in a truck crash, are the first patients ever to get an artificial leg with a porous metal collar permanently implanted

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/jace-badia-wounded-veteran-gary-molock-undergo-groundbreaking-surgery/

Home sleep studies may help identify sleep apnea

What if I need a sleep study? If you are one of the approximately 35% of Americans who snore, perhaps this has crossed your mind. You have read on the internet or watched a newscast about sleep apnea, a condition associated with an increase in heart attack and stroke risk. Loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and observed pauses in breathing at night are the most frequent symptoms. A sleep study is necessary to make the diagnosis.

To many people, the thought of a sleep study raises visions of being restrained in a bed with wires attached everywhere and complete strangers watching you, in other words, “Big Brother on steroids.” They frequently tell their doctors that they never will be able to sleep under such circumstances, and sometimes they are correct. A number of studies have shown that the first night of sleep in a laboratory may not be representative of a person’s usual sleep pattern. Fortunately, there is a solution: a home sleep study.

Increasingly, driven by the necessity to reduce health care costs, health insurance companies have been requiring that limited home sleep studies be done to confirm the diagnosis of sleep apnea. In addition to being less expensive, these studies allow the patient to sleep in his or her familiar home environment. A major disadvantage is that brain wave activity is not recorded, which means that important sleep information isn’t captured. In addition, because the study is not directly observed by a technician, the quality of the signals may be inadequate. So it’s been unclear whether the treatment outcomes of those studied with a home test are the same as those who are studied in a sleep laboratory.

In a recent large study of patients suspected of having sleep apnea, effectiveness of treatment for patients who were diagnosed using information from replicated home sleep studies was compared to those diagnosed with data from a sleep laboratory. The investigators found that improvements in sleepiness and quality of life were the same. These results are reassuring, and add to the increasing amount of information indicating that home sleep studies may be used to confirm the diagnosis of sleep apnea in most patients.

Although a home sleep study can be used to confirm a diagnosis of sleep apnea in the majority of patients, some really should be studied in a sleep laboratory — these include persons with underlying heart or lung disease and certain chronic medical conditions, as well as those who are suspected of having sleep disorders other than sleep apnea. Most importantly, home sleep studies can be incorrect and miss the diagnosis of sleep apnea, or underestimate its severity. If a home sleep study suggests the presence of sleep apnea, then it makes sense to go ahead and treat it. However, if the home sleep study is negative, a laboratory sleep study should be performed.

The post Home sleep studies may help identify sleep apnea appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Stuart Quan, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/need-sleep-study-home-sweet-home-2017022311096

For a longer life, eat this many fruits and veggies per day

A new analysis finds eating more servings of fruits and vegetables per day can reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, cancer, and early death

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/for-a-longer-life-researchers-say-eat-this-many-fruits-and-veggies-per-day/

Making Mayo's Recipes: Overnight Refrigerator Oatmeal

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwOyRKujR5w

Study Links Psychiatric Disorders to Stroke Risk

Mental health woes may trigger chronic fight-or-flight response, researchers suggest

From: http://www.webmd.com/stroke/news/20170223/study-links-psychiatric-disorders-to-stroke-risk?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Belly Fat vs. Being Overweight in Older Women

While a few extra pounds doesn't up death risk, weight around the middle does, study contends

From: http://www.webmd.com/women/news/20170223/belly-fat-more-dangerous-in-older-women-than-being-overweight?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Longevity Recipe: 10 Fruit, Veggie Servings Daily

Reductions seen in risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and early death

From: http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/news/20170223/10-daily-servings-of-fruits-veggies-a-recipe-for-longevity?src=RSS_PUBLIC

More Evidence Ties Gum Health to Stroke Risk

Study shows increasing risk of brain blockage with more severe gum disease

From: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/news/20170223/more-evidence-ties-gum-health-to-stroke-risk?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Dentists at the Front Line in Diabetes Epidemic

Severe gum disease can signal undiagnosed case of blood sugar disease

From: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/news/20170223/dentists-at-the-front-line-in-diabetes-epidemic?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Heartburn meds linked to risk of kidney damage, study finds

About 15 million Americans take prescription medications known as PPIs for heartburn or acid reflux

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/heartburn-acid-reflux-drugs-ppi-associated-with-increased-risk-kidney-damage/

A Stressed Life May Mean a Wider Waistline

Study finds chronic anxiety might raise risk of obesity

From: http://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/news/20170223/a-stressed-life-may-mean-a-wider-waistline?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Too Many Stroke Victims Don't Get Clot-Buster Drug

Minorities, women, seniors on Medicare, rural residents less likely to be diagnosed in time for tPA

From: http://www.webmd.com/stroke/news/20170223/too-many-stroke-victims-dont-get-clot-busting-drug-study?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Are antidepressants safe for "off-label" health issues?

A third of prescriptions are written for reasons other than depression, but there's little scientific evidence to back that up, study finds

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/are-off-label-antidepressant-prescriptions-safe/

Low weight gain in pregnancy linked to schizophrenia

Poor nutrition during mom's pregnancy may play a key role in child's later mental health issues, study suggests

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/little-weight-gain-poor-nutrition-in-pregnancy-may-increase-risk-of-schizophrenia/

Mayo Clinic Minute: Are you hitting your target heart rate?

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRnw-5lBP48

Help get dental patients out of the ER and into a dental chair

Dental professionals interested in strategies for directing dental patients from the emergency department to a dental home are invited to attend a one-hour webinar at noon Central time on March 8.

From: http://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2017-archive/february/help-get-dental-patients-out-of-the-er-and-into-a-dental-chair

Unhealthy in Middle Age, Dementia in Old Age?

Diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking may set you up for Alzheimer's, research suggests

From: http://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20170222/unhealthy-in-middle-age-dementia-in-old-age?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Heartburn meds could lead to kidney damage, study finds

Long-term use of certain heartburn medications could lead to serious kidney damage, a new study shows. It looked at the use of "proton pump inhibitors," sold under brand names including Prevacid, Prilosec and Nexium. An estimated 15 million Americans use these medications regularly. Dr. David Agus joins "CBS This Morning" to discuss the findings.

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/heartburn-meds-could-lead-to-kidney-damage-study-finds/

Judge: Mentally ill murder suspect can be forcibly medicated

Man charged with killing Yale doctor says he's not mentally ill, but Connecticut judge orders medication for trial

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/mentally-ill-yale-murder-suspect-lishan-wang-can-be-forcibly-medicated-judge-says/

WHO: Health crisis in North-East Nigeria.

From: World Health Organization http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWK7zZzo_dw

Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery for Valve Repair

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzHlZ7fzCbM

Home sleep studies may help identify sleep apnea

The post Home sleep studies may help identify sleep apnea appeared first on Harvard Health Blog.

From: Stuart Quan, MD http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/need-sleep-study-home-sweet-home-2017022311096

Bone and joint problems associated with diabetes

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes/art-20049314

Germs: Understand and protect against bacteria, viruses and infection

From: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infectious-diseases/in-depth/germs/art-20045289

Chronic stress linked to a bigger waistline

New research adds weight to the claim that high levels of stress are connected to obesity

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/chronic-stress-linked-to-obesity-weight-gain/

Does Zika Harm Male Fertility?

The CDC is working with a fertility clinic in Puerto Rico to determine if men infected by Zika have lower sperm counts or lower sperm function after infection

From: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/news/20170222/zika-mice-male-fertility?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Craniocervical Junction Anomalies in Children

From: Mayo Clinic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWVEAlrqXw0

Are outside agitators stirring up town halls as Trump administration claims?

GOP senators and congressmen have recently run into some testy exchanges with voters. The Trump administration claims the protesters are professional agitators, but that's not what Nancy Cordes found.

From: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/are-outside-agitators-stirring-up-town-halls-as-trump-administration-claims/