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Phlebotomy - Here is Some Knowledge to Help You

2010-05-27T10:53:00.001-07:00

Phlebotomy is a branch of clinical science. It primarily involves taking blood samples from patient and then examining them for medical checks. A phlebotomy specialist or a phlebotomist has to draw blood from a patient very carefully. This blood then has to managed and transported safely from one place to another for the required medical testing.

Regular phlebotomy treats people who have to undertake this procedure of blood withdrawal every now and then. It is basically those people who have more than required levels of iron in their body or a higher than usual number of red blood cells that is needed in the body. Such people have to go for regular blood withdrawal sessions as prescribed by their doctors. More than required levels of iron ion the body can damage the liver over time and create other complications and hence regular phlebotomy is definitely required for such people to undertake.

A phlebotomist has to ensure that the blood sample is stored carefully and that the patient is also kept secure from all possible reactions. Phlebotomy is a full time clinical profession that involves as much responsibility as the doctors have on them because it involves the uptake and care of blood from patients. Moreover, the different blood samples that are taken from patients have to be treated differently for different types of blood tests. Also, phlebotomists know the kind of apparatus and equipment that is required to perform the desired test since phlebotomy is a specialized area of drawing of blood.

One of the most common methods used for the purpose is taking out the blood from the vein which considered the most suitable area for taking out the blood. In this procedure, around 5 to 25 mm if blood is withdrawn from the body to perform the required test. The process is not that lengthy but it requires precision and accuracy and the fact that the practitioner should handle the patient with full medical care and perfection.

Phlebotomy specialists are of course found in hospitals but there are also specialized institutes which offer this service to patients. For that you will have to find the nearest phlebotomy centre in your area.

If you want to take up phlebotomy as a profession, then you can search for institutions that offer special training courses for such a practice. Each state has different offers for phlebotomy courses and different requirement too. All what you need to do is search for such courses and get going with it if you want to take it up as a career option.

Medical Science Would Be Incomplete Without Phlebotomy

2010-05-27T08:41:00.000-07:00

Phlebotomy is a process that involves the extraction of blood from human veins by the puncturing of veins or through a process called veni-puncturing. The blood that is taken out is considered for medical testing by doctors so that they may carry out their diagnosis. This process is of great importance to medical science and doctors and hospitals won't be able to carry out their procedures if phlebotomy or phlebotomists (those who carry out the procedure of phlebotomy) would not have been there.

Phlebotomists basically take out blood samples and make sure that these samples are stored properly and are maintained in the right way as well. Phlebotomists are responsible for a lot of important things. The very process of taking out the blood and puncturing of veins requires perfection of focus, precision and accuracy. It is a work of the needle and human vein and one can imagine the degree of complication that is involved. A single wrong move can actually create a danger for the patient and it will be on a phlebotomist's shoulders, that is, the burden of risking a human life. Thus as far as responsibility is concerned a phlebotomist is as an important person as a doctor is.

Moreover, the phlebotomy specialist also has to ensure that the apparatus and equipment that is being used is up to the mark and is properly sterilized and safe for pricking into the vein. The phlebotomist also has to do some peripheral jobs at times like doing data entry of blood samples and maintaining the laboratory as well. At the same time, the phlebotomist needs to play the role of a social psychologist that has to pacify and appease the patients that come to him for the blood extraction purposes.

Phlebotomy has good career prospects and the field is seen as a good profession nowadays. With the growing demand of phlebotomists, there are medical institutions which are now offering phlebotomy courses at advanced levels. These courses not only involve coursework of study but also practical learning which considered more important. Those who want to get the feel of phlebotomy as a profession can take up short courses which can be registered online as well. These courses are for duration of maximum of 3 months anyone who wishes to avail these courses can do so.

A phlebotomy professional has a good earning potential as well. The starting salary for the new comers is also good at their level and as you experience and age in the profession with time, there are greater growth opportunities both in terms of learning as well as in income earning possibilities.

The Causes of Frequent Urination in Women and Men

2010-05-10T04:12:00.003-07:00

Frequent urination is not only aggravating, but could be the sign of health problems. If you "have to go" all of the time and are unable to store that urine in your bladder you may have an overactive bladder. There are other possible causes of frequent urination. Consuming liquids too close to bedtime or in excessive amounts can cause you to get up several times during the night. If fever accompanies your frequent urination, the chances are good that you may have an infection in the urinary tract.

Diabetes is one of the other causes of frequent urination and it is an early sign of diabetes. In the body's attempt to eliminate the unused glucose, will cause you to have to use the bathroom frequently. Prostate problems can lead to frequent urination. An enlarged prostate will press against the tube carrying urine out of the body (urethra) and will irritate the bladder by blocking the flow of urine. As the bladder contracts you will eliminate small amounts of urine, rather than fully emptying your bladder.

The use of diuretics (water pills) can cause frequent urination as well. These medications are generally used to combat high blood pressure. As the uterus grows during pregnancy, pressure will be on the bladder. This can occur very early in the pregnancy and last throughout the entire nine months.

Cystitis is another form of bladder infection/inflammation. The person will have severe pain in the pelvis and the bladder region. Along with the pain will come the need for frequently eliminating urine. Damage to the nerves supplying the bladder can occur when a person has a stroke or some other neurological illnesses. Sudden urges to urinate and frequency are not uncommon.

Other possible causes of frequent urination can include radiation treatment, dysfunctional bladder or cancer. There are also the instances when frequency is not a symptom but the problem itself. An overactive bladder will have bladder spasms and can cause you to go to the bathroom several times during the night or have the need to locate a bathroom in every place you may go.

The diagnosis of the causes of frequent urination starts with a complete physical examination by your physician. Be sure to tell him if your urine is cloudy, you are nauseous, have pain in your side or back, chills or discharge from the penis or vagina. Be aware of the effects of the medications that you are taking. Are you consuming more liquids than usual? This can be a symptom of diabetes as well.

What color is your urine? Are you passing any blood with your urine? Is your urine lighter than usual or darker? How much alcohol or caffeine do you drink in a day? All of these questions will need to be answered before lab tests or other diagnostic studies are done.

The first test your physician will probably order is a urinalysis. A microscopic study of your urine will tell him if there are microorganisms pregnant and the test will also measure quantities of the various compounds that are in your urine. If your urinalysis is within normal limits there are other tests that can be performed such as cystometry or cystoscopy. The causes of frequent urination are many and varied.

Please visit my site at http://causesoffrequenturination.org to get more information on the causes of frequent urination

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Gialasek

Profitable Physician Modalities Offset by Government Contract RFPs

2010-05-10T04:12:00.001-07:00

As the political rhetoric in Washington settles after the passage of Healthcare legislation last month there have been more questions created than answers provided over its future landscape. While almost all can agree that something must be done for improved quality while keeping these costs in order there are still many gaping holes that must be filled. A good litmus test is the constant haranguing by physician specialists over the control of the high dollar imaging modalities.

The advent of more affordable sixty four slice Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) imaging machines now available to cardiologists and radiologists for use in preventive cardiac disease programs have been touch and go regarding the reimbursement component that each specialist can expect. While the issue will never be settled, both sides have been forced to make decisions in light of their dwindling reimbursement fees in an already tight market.

To help augment the precipitous drop in collectible fees both camps have begun venturing into public contract work through government issued Requests for Proposals (RFPs). While these types of contracts are not new to entities like the US Department of Veteran Affairs, the level of qualified physician candidates has not only improved but has seen record numbers of applicants bidding on these RFPs. This has in turn generated much more demand for these federal, state, and local physician services contracts. The largest growth for these services exists in states and local government municipalities, namely cities and counties. According to BidPrime, an online database of government contracts, the last two months have seen a spike in these services. In fact the amount to date as of May, 2010 equals those contracts for bid for all of 2009.

The ubiquitous nature of these part time opportunities is now being sought out by physician management personnel to try and stave off their dwindling bottom lines. Thanks in large part to the steady flow of stimulus money and more funds for health care, this trend of finding government contract RFP work is becoming trendy while creating some better case scenarios for the physicians as well as their patients.

The constant and growing need for cardiology services had attracted many lesser trained clinicians in past years. That trend seems to be ending, though, as the once profitable modalities like the sixty four slice CTA cuts have provided the impetus for many cardiology groups to revamp their entire compensation packages requiring groups to at least place bids on newly released government contract RFP work.

The end result appears to favor a more productive patient environment due to the availability of more and better trained physicians at lower rates. Most industry analysts see this as the beginning of a longer lasting trend than previously imagined, largely because of the increased government role in healthcare legislation and funding. With the infighting in Washington decided over each penny in this year's Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 legislation, this trend of newly found and steady paying work appears to have just begun. How long it will last is anyone's guess. For the moment, though, it appears a more productive solution than the constant bickering over the once profitable imaging modalities.

Mr. Ward is the VP of Business Development at BidPrime.com, an online reseller of federal, state, and local government bids and contract intelligence. View more health care government bids and contracts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_H._Ward

Tips to Easily Swallow a Pill

2010-05-10T04:11:00.000-07:00

Some people may find difficulty to swallow pill, especially if the pill is too big for your throat. However, if you are considering your illness, you have to be able to swallow your pill for medication or you will not recover. At this time, this article will provide you some tips that will help you to easily swallow a pill for your medication.

When you find that the pill is too big to be swallowed, you need a pill cutter to cut it into smaller portions. When it is smaller, it will be easier to go down to your throat. In the process of swallowing it, you need to tilt your head back down and tuck in your chin.

Moreover, by using water, you will be easier to swallow the pill as well. In this process, you have to make sure that you are in standing up position or sitting up position. It is because when you are swallowing while lying; it is potential for you to get your throat gagging. Besides, you can also use carbonated beverage because it can also help you to be easier in swallowing the pill.

The other way to easily swallow a pill is by using soft food like puddings, applesauce, or yogurts. In this process, you need to make sure that the pill will work with the food. Also, you need to check on the warning of any interaction, especially for dairy products. Do not use too much food while you are swallowing the pill. Just use enough portion of food to swallow it.

If these all techniques to swallow pill cannot work, you need to talk to your doctor and ask for liquid medication instead of the pill. And for those who have already succeed to swallow pills for medication, there is a medical equipment called electronic pill dispenser that will help you to remember in taking your medication as needed, on an hourly or daily basis.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alexander_O_Mcgee

Given a New Meaning With Bladder Infections

2009-05-07T22:42:00.000-07:00

An infection to the urinary bladder is normally caused due to the presence of the bacterium E-coli in it. This bacterium is a harmless two in the lower intestine of the human body. However, it is detrimental to the health of the urinary bladder.

Any infection is bound to harmful to the human body in some way or other. The organs of the human body are sensitive and prone to a multitude of different diseases. However, the urinary bladder is two of the most vulnerable organs of the human body and, therefore, the probability of it being infected is a nice one.

The bacterium E-coli is two that is capable of causing a great amount of damage and, therefore, should be controlled effectively. This method should also be taken in a manner that the remedy does not involve the extinction of harmless and also beneficial bacteria residing in the urinary bladder.

The bladder infection is known to occur mostly in female members of the human race. This is due to the urinary bladder in women being more susceptible to an infection when compared to the bladder in men.

This requirement is, therefore, an important two and the whole world is now realising this importance. This is prevalent with a reduction in the number of occurrences of bladder infections in the current decade.

The credit for this reduction goes to the tireless efforts of researchers and scientists all over the world who have now come up with an accurate cure (and two that is selective also) in the form of medicines that are made from naturally occurring ingredients.

This is turning out to be the much needed 'boon' for the immense suffering being undergone by victims of bladder infections all over the world.

The method that is followed by these medicines involves the selection of E-coli amidst all the other forms of bacteria present in the urinary bladder.

What Are the Side Effects of a Depression Treatment Drug and How Do I Deal With It

2009-05-07T22:40:00.001-07:00

Like all other prescribed drugs, this five comes with its share of side effects to. As it is a strong drug, the effects are a lot more severe than headaches and slight temperatures. The Zoloft side effects have been divided in to five categories.

Zoloft is a prescribed drug that is used to cure extreme cases of depression which has severe symptoms like loss in interest, no hope in life, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances and so on. If Zoloft is not taken with care and precaution there is a high chance of damaging your physical and emotional well being. Therefore, when taking in medication, do be careful and only consume the required amount.

Common effects:

* Minor weight reduction
* Vision problems, sleepiness, tremors, anxiety
* Decrease sex drive, ejaculation problems
* Abdominal pains, dizziness, fatigue, increased sweating, insomnia, nausea
* Constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, muscle aches

Less common side effects:

* Hypomania
* Heighten depression and can lead to suicide
* Internal bleeding

Furthermore, before consuming Zoloft, check your relatives history and see if there are any traces of bipolar, seizures, kidney, thyroid or liver diseases. If yes, then Zoloft should be avoided. Also, to stay clear of the side effects from occurring, try to not take in Zoloft frequently. Instead permit yourself to work around it instead of being dependent on it, sooner or later; it could cause more serious damage.

With all these symptoms and possibilities, there are many ways to deal with these side effects. As the most common problems are indigestion and such, it can be treated by altering your diet. Avoid food which would irritate your digestions, consult a dietician and find out what you should eat. Aside from that, drinking lots of fluids water can help in constipation and also decrease any tremors and tingling sensations.

Cold Sore Remedies Quick and at Home Solutions

2009-05-07T22:37:00.000-07:00

Home remedies for cold sores are becoming more and more well-liked as they have proved to be just as, or even more, effective as conventional medicine. there is no cure for cold sores but these remedies will reduce the severity and frequency of the cold sores. At-home remedies also prevent the virus from spreading further in the body and form person to person.

Below are some easy cold sore remedies you can use at home.

Trigger
Get in tune with your body and pay attention to what causes or trigger a cold sore outbreak. Find out if there is any resemblance or a pattern in what precedes the onset of a cold sore. Some common triggers include colds, fever, exposure to sun, stress or menstruation. three times you know what triggers your cold sores you will know exactly what to avoid! This is probably the easiest remedy for preventing cold sores.

tidy and dry
Avoid frequently touching the cold sore and covering it up with makeup as this will worsen the condition and may even cause secondary infections.

Petroleum jelly
Cover the cold sore with petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to assist healing and to prevent the area form drying out and cracking. It is important to wash your hands before and after you have touched the cold sore, or even better, use a cotton swab.

Toothbrush
Replace your toothbrush when you feel the tingling sensation at the onset of a breakout and again after the blister breaks and when the sore is gone. This will prevent reinfection of the cold sore.

Lysine
This amino acid is important in the fight against cold sores. Lysine inhibits the growth of cold sores. Taking lysine supplements or including lysine-rich foods, such as potatoes and dairy products, will ease and shorten the period of the cold sore.

Zinc
This mineral has the ability to bind with the herpes virus on a molecular level and this prevents the virus form duplicating and spreading. You can apply a water-based zinc ointment on the cold sore three to four times a day.

Arginine
The herpes virus needs arginine to grow and reproduce, so you must avoid foods rich in this amino acid such as chocolate, grain cereals, cola, peas, peanuts, gelatine and beer.

Ice
When you feel the first tingling of a cold sore in the making, apply a cold compress to the area immediately. The cold will stunt the growth of the cold sore and it will decrease the inflammation.

Protection
If you know you have the herpes virus, be sure to protect you lips form excessive UV and wind exposure. If you have to go out in to the sun, apply a high factor sunscreen.

Immune system
If you suffer from cold sores frequently give your immune system a boost every now and then. Echinacea and goldenseal are excellent immune boosters. Taking a daily Vitamin B complex supplement will also help the immune system and will rapidly improve the cold sore.

there is no cure for the herpes virus and it is better to prevent a future breakout. You can prevent recurring cold sores by learning how to deal with stress, a strong immune system, relaxing, cool health and regular exercise.

New standard proposed to separate medicine and food

2008-09-26T23:36:00.001-07:00

The ability to distinguish between food and medicine has become increasingly difficult as a wave of functional foods and “superfoods” hit supermarket shelves.

Such inability to distinguish the line between what constitutes food and medicine has enabled some marketers of superfoods to get away with making prohibited health claims because of poor policing and loopholes in the law, a consumer advisor to the therapeutic goods regulator told the Sydney Morning Herald.

Following extensive consultation a draft standard has been prepared to provide for the regulatory separation of therapeutic and food dietary supplements. The requirements of the new Standard for Supplemented Food align with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code and will regulate food-type dietary supplements, which are generally highly fortified products presented as foods, such as sports drinks and mixes.

Many dietary supplements sit at the interface between foods and medicines because they are not food or medicine in the ordinary sense of those words. While dietary supplements used to come in tablet or capsule form they now often look more like ordinary food and drink with added vitamins, minerals and other nutritive substances, such as muesli bars and sports drinks.

Director of Policy at the New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA), Carole Inkster, said the main concern with supplementary foods is that, unlike ordinary foods regulated under the Code, there are few rules regarding the sale of these products. “This can lead to problems when there is no advice on safe use of the product or warning labels for certain groups, who perhaps should not be using them as is the case for some medicines for example,” she advised.

Meanwhile therapeutic-type dietary supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbal and traditional remedies that offer medicinal or healing benefits and are presented in a dose form such as pills and capsules, will remain under the existing laws as an interim measure pending decisions on the future regulation of these products.

High-Tech Vet Medicine Saving Lives of Pets and People

2008-09-26T23:35:00.001-07:00

Laser scalpels, arthroscopic surgery, genomic research, and now even dog heart defibrillators -- veterinary medicine is quickly expanding into new high-tech approaches to save pets. This work has a side benefit; it's improving medicine for people, too.

Pet owners are demanding increasingly advanced care for their pets to treat diseases like diabetes, heart disease, orthopedic problems and cancer, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association's "U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook." Today, many pets that would have been euthanized in the past are being saved by veterinarians. And these new treatments for pets often translate into new treatments for humans.

"Our work could have enormous impacts on human medicine. I'm already getting letters from people who want this surgery," explains Denis Marcellin-Little, a veterinarian at the North Carolina State University (NCSU) College of Veterinary Medicine.

After a German shepherd known as Cassidy refused traditional strap-on prosthetics for a missing hind leg, Cassidy's owners asked for a permanent leg replacement. Dr. Marcellin-Little's team at NCSU applied a revolutionary solution -- attaching a new carbon fiber leg directly to the bone with a titanium fitting. This new process uses computed tomography (CT) scans to engineer three-dimensional implants to perfectly fit the patient's bones.

Dr. Marcellin-Little's procedure has already been used to implant limbs on two cats and to create a plate for the roof of a dog's mouth. Someday, it's expected to help build prosthetics that function like real limbs for human patients.

Likewise, Dr. James Cook, a veterinarian at the University of Missouri, led a research team that developed the BioDuct Meniscal Fixation Device, which will allow people with knee injuries to avoid arthritis and have better joint function. The device helps heal the meniscus, a buffer of cartilage between bones in the knee joint, by transporting blood cells to the area to promote healing.

Dr. Cook and researchers on his team have performed joint surgery on 25 dogs using the new device, and each of the animals had partial or complete healing of the joint cartilage a few weeks after surgery. It's now earned U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for human medicine.

Making medicine more diverse

2008-09-26T23:31:00.001-07:00

For a century, the American Medical Association failed to live up to the ideals of medicine in its treatment of African-American physicians. In the first decades of the 20th century, the Association identified black doctors as "colored" in its national directory. Through the late 1960s, it did not act against state and local medical associations that excluded black doctors from their ranks, which in effect barred them from the AMA.

This blemish on the Association's history cannot be erased, but it can serve as a tool for this generation and others. AMA Immediate Past President Ron Davis, MD, perhaps summed it up best when he said "By confronting the past, we can embrace the future."

Today's AMA is making a concerted effort to do both. In July, the Association publicly apologized for its history of racial inequality against black physicians. The apology was spurred by the results of three years of work by an AMA-convened independent panel that examined the racial divide in organized medicine. Its findings were published in the July 16 Journal of the American Medical Association, along with a commentary from Dr. Davis.

The statement is part of an ongoing effort by the Association. In recent years, the AMA has created several programs to boost diversity in medicine, build stronger relationships with minority organizations and end racial disparity in health care delivery.

For example, in 2002, the AMA created a program to help doctors implement strategies to eliminate ethnic and racial disparities across the health care system. The initiative helps physicians form collaborations with national specialty organizations, state medical societies and other groups to address this issue.

Also in 2002, the AMA launched the Doctors Back to School program to raise awareness about the need for minority doctors and to get minority students interested in medicine. Statistics show the need for such a program. Blacks, Hispanics and American Indians make up about 25% of the nation's population but only 7% of doctors.

In Doctors Back to School, physicians and medical students share their personal stories and talk to students about careers in medicine, helping them realize they can become doctors, too. So far, more than 100 schools have been visited, reaching about 13,000 students nationwide. In May, seven physicians and medical students visited about 270 schoolchildren at the Ted Lenart Regional Gifted Center in Chicago, hoping to spark children's curiosity by letting them wear surgical outfits and listen to heartbeats with stethoscopes.

In 2004, the AMA, National Medical Assn. and National Hispanic Medical Assn. teamed up to establish the Commission to End Health Care Disparities, which consists of more than 50 state medical associations and other groups. As Dr. Davis put it, the coalition's goal "is to identify and study racial and ethnic health care disparities in order to eradicate them." Among its efforts is studying the implications of pay-for-performance and quality-reporting programs for health care disparities.

Meanwhile, the AMA-created Minority Affairs Consortium is a voice for minority doctors in the Association. In collaboration with the consortium, the AMA Foundation each year provides $10,000 scholarships to student winners of the foundation's Minority Scholars Award. A dozen students received the award this year.

The National Medical Assn., which represents the nation's black physicians, has accepted the AMA's apology, and its leaders said the moment should be used to generate more change. NMA President Nelson L. Adams, MD, has called on the AMA to work with his organization to recruit more black students into the profession, help reduce health disparities among minorities and make cultural competency training mandatory.

With its apology, the AMA has taken a big step toward improving relations. It's a healing that can bring the AMA and other physician organizations closer together in their joint efforts to increase the ranks of minority physicians and reduce the disparities that still exist in our health care system.

Free medicine and health examination for poor people

2008-09-26T23:29:00.000-07:00

The Day for health examination, medicine provision, gift presentation has been held to help poor people, social welfare beneficiaries, ethnic minority children in extreme difficulty in four communes Dong Xuan, Tuan Xuan, Yen Binh and Yen Trung of Luong Son district which has been merged into the capital city of Hanoi from Hoa Binh province.

Over 100 doctors and physicians from Friendship, Vietnam – Germany, Vietnam – Cuba, Thanh Nhan, Saint Paul, Dong Da, National Pulmonary Tuberculosis, Hanoi Pulmonary Tuberculosis and , Hanoi Hospital of Ophthalmology hospitals gave medical advice, checked health and provided free medicine for 2,500 social welfare beneficiaries and children in extreme difficulty.

On the occasion, young people in Hanoi presented gifts and 200 new clothes for children to get ready for the 2008 – 2009 school academic.

Help with medicine today in Norfolk for uninsured

2008-09-26T23:28:00.000-07:00

Uninsured people who can’t afford their prescription medicines may be able to get help from the “Help is Here Express” tour, which will be in Norfolk today.

The bus tour is part of the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, a national effort sponsored by pharmaceutical research companies.

The bus will be at the Southeastern Tidewater Opportunity Project office at 2551 Almeda Ave. in Norfolk from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Specialists will educate patients and help enroll them in patient assistance programs that provide free or discounted drugs.

'Herbal medicine' kills 13-member family

2008-09-26T23:25:00.000-07:00

A thirteen-member family were found dead in their Dingleton home on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast amid suspicions they may have consumed a fatal herbal concoction, police said on Monday.

Superintendent Zandra Wiid said 13 bodies were found in the house around midday on Sunday.

"It is alleged that one family member who was trained as a traditional healer gave them a certain herbal medicine which is suspected to have been the cause of the deaths," Wiid said.

Found dead were a two-week-old baby, four boys aged between two and seven, a 17-year-old youth, a 21-year-old man, four women in their 30s and two 55-year-olds.

Exploring the Benefits of Animal Assisted Therapy

2008-09-23T22:26:00.000-07:00

Taking a Closer Look at Animal Assisted Therapy

If you or someone you love suffers from a physical or mental disability, you might be interested in learning more about animal assisted therapy. With the many documented benefits of animal assisted therapy, it is certainly a technique that you might want to explore further in order to improve the health of the person you care about.

What is Animal Assisted Therapy?

Animal assisted therapy isn't all about spending time with a cute and cuddly animal, though this can certainly be part of the process. Rather, animal assisted therapy is a type of physical or occupational therapy that involves utilizing animals in order to help meet therapeutic goals. For example, a child with a physical disability or injury that has lead to muscle weakness in the arms may be encouraged to pet an animal with the weak arm. The therapist may also add weights to the child's arm in order to further help strengthen the muscles. With the help of the pet, the child is more motivated to lift the arm and perform the exercises that are necessary for recovery.

What are the Benefits of Animal Assisted Therapy?

The benefits of animal assisted therapy have long been recognized by St. Mary's Hospital for Children in New York. In fact, the hospital started a pilot animal assisted therapy program in 1998 and has since expanded the program to include numerous dogs, which provide therapy to children in groups as well as on an individual basis.

In addition to helping encourage children to engage in their prescribed therapy, there are many other benefits of animal assisted therapy. For example, interacting with animals can improve the overall quality of life of the sick or injured child. As a result, it can help speed up recovery time. Furthermore, the bonds that children form with animals can be quite beneficial and results in the pet serving as a sort of "co-therapist" in the child's therapeutic program.

Another one of the benefits of animal assisted therapy is that caring for the animals can help special needs children develop more independence. By having them feed, groom and otherwise care for the animal, children can improve their fine motor skills, cognitive skills, dressing skills, play skills and more.

The reality is that spending time with a loving pet makes everyone feel better, whether in need of therapy or not. So, if allowing a furry, four-legged friend to interact with sick children can help them heal faster, why wouldn't you implement animal assisted therapy into a therapeutic program?

Animal assisted therapy is quickly gaining attention from therapists from around the world. With these many benefits of animal assisted therapy, it is easy to understand why.

Ralph King has been contributing to leading magazines for the past 10 years. He's also an accredited researcher on the subject for leading research institutes in the US.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ralph_King

Avoid Common Side Effects From Medications When You Turn to Alternative Medicine

2008-09-02T19:29:00.002-07:00

There are many different types of medications out there that doctors prescribe for relief. It can be a long process working with your doctor to find the one that works well for you. Prescription medications fall into many categories so if one doesn't work well for you they will likely prescribe you something else to try. The dose of it to take may need to be tweaked as well.

It seems like the cost involved with prescription medications continues to increase all the time. Even if you have health insurance you may discover many of these medications aren't covered. You may have a co-pay that you need to give out of pocket each time you go in to have the prescription filled up again. The other major concern is the side effects.

When you pick up a prescription medication you will be given a list of the possible side effects. Some of the most common ones include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, irritability, and the inability to sleep. The way in which a particular medication affects you will depend on many factors. The severity of the side effects will also vary. You may suffer from them for only the first few days or continually while taking that medication.

This can pose some serious problems though so many people are turning to alternative medicine. When you are taking medication to get relief from a medical concern the last thing you want is side effects to make you feel worse. It is unrealistic too that you can function normally with them. It is almost impossible to work all day when you feel sick or you have diarrhea.

Since there are natural remedies out there that fall into the category of alternative medicine you can get results. However, you get those results without the side effects. That means you can get back to feeling good again. You can go on about your life and not have to worry about it. This is even more important if you are suffering from a problem that you will need ongoing treatment for.

Why does the medical community withhold information about alternative medicine? There are quite a few theories about this. First, they do make quite a bit of money off of the pharmaceutical companies for recommending certain medications. Second, they don't want their patients to get into the habit of self medicating.

However, if you do still see your doctor on a regular basis then tell them you are looking at alternative medicine. You have ever right to refuse to use prescription medications so that you can save money and avoid the side effects. Take the time to do your own research so you can evaluate various types of alternative medication that could replace those prescriptions for you.

The process can be one of trial and error as there are quite a few different types of alternative medicine for the same medical concern. Try one to see what type of results you get. If it isn't what you were after then try something else. Even if you haven't had much success with prescription medications you just may find a form of alternative medicine that works wonders.

Cindy Browne loves everything to do with alternative health and is an author of articles about blah. Visit her site for more information on getting healthy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cindy_Browne

Can You Really Cure Bad Breath With Zantac?

2008-09-02T19:29:00.001-07:00

If you suffer from the debilitating effects of chronic bad breath, you may be open to any possible solution, even if it is a medication that is on the market to treat a condition you may not have. Many people have heard of Zantac from commercials or from friends. It is one of the leading acid reflux disease medications on the market and it can be a real life saver if you suffer from the painful and sometimes scary symptoms associated with ARD. However, more and more people are realizing that Zantac and similar medications on the market that are meant to treat ARD can be used to treat chronic bad breath. Let's take a look at if you really can cure bad breath with Zantac or other acid reflux medications.

Acid reflux disease is a condition that affects millions of Americans, but it is a fairly new disease diagnosis. For years, people simply lumped the symptoms associated with acid reflux in with heartburn and didn't realize it was a separate condition altogether. Acid reflux is when the liquid, digested contents of the stomach actually back up and come into the esophagus. Not only is this condition extremely painful, it can cause bad breath in sufferers since it takes the partially digested food from the stomach and moves it back up the digestive tract towards the mouth. The question that most people ask is how likely is it that their chronic bad breath is caused by an undiagnosed case of acid reflux disease?

For some people, acid reflux disease is caused solely by the diet they eat. Doctors often tell patients to keep a diary of everything they eat so they can go through their daily routine and eliminate causes step by step. For many people, the subtraction of carbohydrates can all but eliminate acid reflux disease, and subsequently their chronic bad breath. However, it is never a good idea to drastically change your diet without seeking advice from a doctor first. Before you spend money on a product like Zantac that may or may not help you cure your bad breath, try to go through your diet and eliminate certain types of food to see if you can cure yourself naturally.

If you feel that you may be suffering from acid reflux disease, it is a good idea to consult a doctor before you run out and buy a box of Zantac. In most cases, people don't have a negative reaction to Zantac, but it is always wise to check with a medical professional before introducing new medication into your system. Once you have the all clear from your doctor, you can try Zantac or one of the store-brand alternatives. The chances that Zantac will help eliminate your bad breath if you don't have acid reflux disease are almost zero, but it can also help eliminate a possible cause so that you and your doctor can move on to other possible cures. You can cure bad breath with Zantac, but only if you suffer from acid reflux disease.

To learn exactly how I got rid of my acid reflux and cured bad breath using Zantac visit: http://www.gotbadbreath.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Morrison

Should I Try a Natural Remedy Before a Prescription Drug?

2008-09-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

Doctor, isn't there something all natural I could take? While this question may cause some doctors to roll their eyes at you, all natural remedies/medicines are well worth considering. In fact, most natural medicines and remedies should be considered your first choice before choosing prescription drugs.

Many people believe that prescription remedies are far from universally effective, while many natural remedies have proven benefits. It is a sad fact of life, however, that the large clinical trials doctors rely on to generate good quality evidence about the safety and efficacy of any treatment are very expensive to run. This puts natural remedies at a disadvantage, as being not patentable they are of little interest to the big pharmaceutical companies who have the large funds to organize trials, production and advertising. In the United States many natural remedies, like Aloe, Ginger, Vegetable Charcoal and Peppermint extracts, do undergo a very significant degree of processing and strict regulations monitored by the FDA. Regulations and processing is why many natural remedies cost a bit more than prescription drugs in the US.

The pharmaceutical industry searches the world to snap up the secrets of numerous herbal, nutritional and natural remedies to turn them into conventional pill and bottled patented remedies. Meanwhile, some elements of the pharmaceutical industry attack traditional herbalists the public is unlikely to pay large sums of money for expensive patented drugs if they can treat themselves, with no risk of side-effects, with safe and effective plant-based medicines, proven over years, sometimes centuries, of use. If doctors had to stop using all treatments unless they were proven by clinical trials, medicine as we know it would shut down.

There are a large number of proven all natural remedies which have not been formally researched and written up for publication in medical or scientific journals. But no pharmaceutical company will agree to fund such research to prove a remedy is safe and effective which anyone can then use at minimal cost. Whether we call them natural or prescription does not really matter. What does matter is that we use them in a way that maximizes the help and minimizes the harmful side effects.

Make sure to do your own research on natural remedies and their actions first, then to challenge a treatment by taking the all natural approach, and work in partnership with a doctor, especially regarding the diagnosis and treatment of you or your child's ailments. And remember, most natural remedies are dark in color because they are in there all natural form, so don't let the color of natural remedies/medicines scare you.

Andrew Van Vooren, a husband and family man whom firmly believes in natural colic remedies for infants. Andrew has authored numerous articles on the topics of colic in babies and infant reflux. He firmly believes in using homeopathic products to relieve many infant discomforts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Van_Vooren

Eastern medicine wins over athletes

2008-08-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

With the 2008 Olympic Summer Games underway in Beijing, the practice of traditional Chinese medicine on athletes for pain and improved performance is very much in evidence.

Swimmers have sported telltale cupping marks — they look like giant polka dots — and athletes such as pro basketball player Yao Ming have talked about how traditional medicine has enhanced their abilities and helped them recover.

While Eastern and Western athletes alike have been cautioned about taking herbal treatments that might cause them to test positive for banned substances, many Chinese medicine practices are being used — and for good reason, says Scot Somes.

Somes, owner of the Center for Integrated Eastern Medicine in Denver, says some of the benefits of an athlete using Eastern medicine include faster recovery from injuries, greater focus and less performance anxiety. All this comes from balancing emotional, mental and physical health.

Somes, who has a master of science from the Colorado School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, said he tried Eastern medicine when he was in the Navy.

After getting the flu in Japan, he visited an acupuncturist instead of taking the drugs that were prescribed for him. He said he recovered in two days.

Somes also credits the use of Eastern medicine with helping him heal after being hit by a bus, and the separated shoulder and neck injuries that followed . He's been using Eastern medicine for 15 years and says it has helped him stay strong as a cyclist, swimmer and skier.

Somes says that when he meets patients, the first session might last an hour. A patient will receive such treatments as acupuncture, tui na massage and cupping, which is done by applying glass or plastic cups over the body and using heat to create suction and work on stressed areas.

Robyn Smith, 38, has been a patient of Somes' for two years. The personal trainer and member of the women's rugby team Black Ice sees Somes three times a month for acupuncture and Chinese massage sessions. She says they keep her in balance and prevent health problems from arising.

Somes cautions patients not to expect immediate relief. "There are a lot of people who want instant gratification; it's an American way," Somes said. "They want the pain to be gone when I very first put the needle in. Anything in life takes time to achieve."

For a typical injury such as a hamstring pull that takes about six to eight weeks to heal using only Western medicine, Somes said, he can get athletes back to training in three weeks.

Eastern and Western medicine meet by Somes collaborating with the athlete's doctor or trainer to figure out a plan, he said.

"I can't guarantee I can fix it, but I can give them a fighting chance," he says.

Tight control on fake medicine

2008-08-29T11:55:00.001-07:00

A new Health Ministry project that will be put into practice in 2009 to combat the selling of fake medicine has already created controversy in the sector.

The new “Medicine Monitoring System” will replace the current system in which medicine boxes are stamped with an identification number and price, and instead medicine will be monitored using barcodes.

However, pharmacists say the new implementation may cause new problems. Head of the All Pharmacists' Federation of Employers' Organization, or TEİS, Nurten Saydan claimed that defects in the provision system, worries about future availability of medicines in pharmacies and the establishment of technical infrastructure have rendered the new system inoperable.

Turkish Pharmacists Association, or TEB, President Erdoğan Çolak said the ministry promised to grant a transition period for consumption of old packaged medicines in 2009 and to exchange the rest with new ones at the end of the year. Due to the cost of the new system, the ministry has undergone extensive negotiations with pharmaceutical companies. Companies expect a transition period, while medicine distributors are waiting for a quick establishment of the system that will not interrupt their work.

Speaking to daily Referans, Saydan claimed that pharmacists would be negatively affected by the new system. She cited disagreements on discounts for public institutions between pharmacists and the Social Security Institution, or SGK, which lasted for months. “We do not think that companies that raised difficulties to pharmacists during the application of discount for public institutions will exchange available medicines with new bar coded medicines. We will be aggrieved by this.”

Pointing at the new system's lack of an established infrastructure, Saydan argued that new problems would occur when the new “provision” system, in which products are registered onto a computer and the state determines the amount paid to the purchaser, was implemented. “Monday is the last day for our value added tax (VAT) declarations. However we still invoice prescriptions of July due to defects of provision system. We both make out an invoice and the system cannot overcome system cannot both print invoice and correcting it. Only after 6 o'clock in the evening, we can work on these invoices,” she added.

Under the current system, provision works of the medicines can be made after patients take their medicines. “However, medicine monitoring system will give different identity numbers for each medicine so provision system should work regularly,” Saydan said. She also asked why such a system was not applied in other countries. “If the target is to find fake medicine boxes, medicine depots put their own signs on them. In this way we know which depot the medicine belongs to,” she stressed.

Heat Sealing Machines - The Very Latest Technology

2008-08-20T08:55:00.002-07:00

There is no doubt that you have purchased products that were packaged in form fitting plastic. Often times the packaging is so secure now, that it often requires a sharp knife to get what ever it is that is contained in it out. This is because the product was packaged using the very latest technology in the from of a heat sealing machine.

The Very Latest Technology

With plastics playing an ever greater role in the packaging industry, heat sealing machines are also seeing more and more use. The reason for this is simple and that is that plastic has to be heated before it becomes pliable. However; this is not the only reason that more and more manufactures and handlers of consumer and industrial materials are using heat sealing machines.

Sterility and Security

Some products are just better suited to be packaged in the presence of heat. For instance, many perishable food items have to be heat sealed unless they are to be refrigerated. Medical tools and equipment in particular, most often have to be packaged under heat with a heat sealing machine, to remain sterile.

Easy Open Packaging

While many products that are sealed in plastic can be quite difficult to open, heat sealing technology also is used to seal many types of easy-open products. Once again medical and surgical tools that have to be quickly and easily opened are most often packaged with a heat sealing machine for this very reason.

Corrosion Protection

In the past corrosion was a big problem. Heat sealing a product that is vulnerable to corrosion, such as precision metal products that are vulnerable to rust, eliminates this problem and insures that when the metal item is removed form its heat sealed package, it is virtually devoid of any type of rust or corrosion.

Written by Timothy Bardoah. If you interested in Heat Sealer then you've come to the right place! You can also learn more about Heat Sealing Machines.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Timothy_Bardoah

Pharmaceutical Packaging - Everyone's Doing It

2008-08-20T08:55:00.001-07:00

One area of packaging that has undergone the most drastic and dramatic amount of change in recent decades is pharmaceutical packaging. Believe it or not, it wasn't really that long ago that over the counter medication was packaged loosely in boxes and plastic containers. It was the infamous Tylenol poisoning events that woke the public up to the fact that pharmaceutical both over the counter and prescription need to be packaged more securely.

Tamper Resistance With Easy Opening

The key catch phrase now in the industry is tamper resistance. In fact, the public has taken so quickly to tamper resistant pharmaceutical packaging, that even street drug dealers are improvising their own types and styles of tamper resistant packaging. The two basic commonalities that all pharmaceutical packaging has in common, is easy access or opening and tamper resistance.

Tight Aluminum Seal

Those cardboard prepackaged pill trays are a prefect example of the combination of these two features. From the top, they are covered with a tight aluminum seal. Once this aluminum seal is broken in any way, it is virtually impossible to hide it. Also, the broad flat aluminum surface makes for easy examination by even the visually impaired, who can feel the aluminum with their finger.

Problems Solved

Flip the pill card over and each unit is plainly visible in its own compartment for quick and fool proof examination. So, while all of the pills are secure, removing them would normally be a problem with such a tight secure seal. However; this is just not the case, because all that someone has to do is simply punch their pill through the seal from behind, using their finger. So, this type of pharmaceutical packaging is a fantastic example of how the industry was able to solve these two problems in one package.

Written by Timothy Bardoah. Learn all the top info on Pharmaceutical Packaging plus even Medical Packaging.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Timothy_Bardoah

Natural Hemorrhoid Treatment Vs Pharmaceutical Hemorrhoid Treatment

2008-08-20T08:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the best things in life are not popular. Think about the artistic work of Van Gogh, the intrigue that lies with his name did not materialize under over a hundred years after his death. The same thing with many remarkable inventions by that of the underground inventor Nikola Tesla who created AC circuitry. Furthermore, if you look at the independent music scenes, you'll notice many times that the best musicians are not always the famous ones. These are all examples of a very striking principle.

The same principle applies for hemorrhoid treatment. Notice how many pharmaceutical solutions there are in the supermarket, pharmacies, and other established places? Now, notice how many natural solutions are being shelved out there. Probably not a whole lot and even if they were, they are not presented in this way. The key to realize here is that big pharmaceutical corporations have the capital to shell our millions for advertising campaigns and broker distribution deals with grocery or department chains. Natural solutions simply do not get this type of media recognition because pharmaceutical corporations would merely muscle them out with sheer economic might.

It goes even further.... pharmaceuticals may sometimes fund educational institutions which educates doctors and respective hospitals. The unfortunate thing here is that doctors, despite being honest and well-meaning, may only prescribe based on the paradigm rooted in a corporate-funded education. Even worse, propaganda regarding natural systems are branded with connotations such as quackery. Anyone who prescribes natural health methods may be seen as a lunatic in extreme cases.

Within the realm of hemorrhoid treatment, you'll notice that most doctors readily recommend surgical removal and hardly try much more than a few creams which provide some mild relief in most cases. This does not always serve as a win-win for the patient.

It's best to be aware of these issues surrounding the health bureaucracy because it is your health in someone else's hands if you let it be.

Larry S. Lee is a popular reviewer of health products. He is considered an established expert within the realm of natural medical cures.

Grab the Alternative Digestive Remedies report valued at $39.99 absolutely FREE here: Natural Method To Treat Hemorrhoids. This system has been reviewed and highly recommended by Larry.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larry_S_Lee

The Medical Uses of Belladonna

2008-08-05T21:21:00.003-07:00

Belladonna is a very poisonous plant species. A common name for Belladonna is deadly nightshade. The plant species is distributed throughout Europe, West Asia, North America and North Africa. Plants grow to 1.5 m (5 ft) tall with 18 cm (7 in) long. The plant grows berries which are extremely poisonous.

The berries are attractive and pose a threat to children who may try to eat them.
A child eating 5 Belladonna berries may die. An adult eating 10 to 20 berries may also die. Belladonna is considered a weed species and can grow any wooded area. This plant species when eaten is also toxic to certain animals such as domestic animals and livestock. Cattle and rabbits can eat Belladonna without any issues.

Allopathic uses for Belladonna

Belladonna is given in small amounts for over the counter flu and cough medicines. Eye doctors also use this drug in small amounts to dilate pupils.

Belladonna is often combined with other drugs to treat patients. Examples of this are Donnatal. Donnatal is a prescription drug that provides peripheral anticholinergic/antispasmodic action and mild sedation. It contains natural belladonna alkaloids combined with phenobarbital.

The drug is considered possibly effective for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and acute enterocolitis and as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of duodenal ulcers. However, no conclusive trials have been done to verify whether Donnatal works for irritable bowel syndrome and acute enterocolitis.

Homeopathic uses for Belladonna

Hanhemann proved this remedy in 1799 and used it to treat scarlett fever. Belladonna is used to treat conditions with a sudden onset. The type of conditions Belladonna treatments are similar to the symptoms if someone is poisoned with Belladonna. Belladonna poisoning results in people getting a high fever, sore throat or loss of voice, nausea, delirium, muscle spasms, flushed skin and dilated pupils. Homeopathic Belladonna is used to treat these type of conditions in a person.

Homeopathic Belladonna is also used to treat cold and flu symptoms, infections with inflammation, intense pounding headaches, boils, earaches, seizures, labor pain, pink eye, nose bleeds, nephritis(inflammation of the kidneys) restless sleep, teething pain, tonsillitis, acne and sunburn.

Female use Belladonna to treat breast infections, urinary bladder infections, menstrual cramps, and irritated nipples due to breast feeding.

Symptoms for these conditions are usually better with warmth and standing. Conditions usually worsen with cold air, at night, movement and lying down.

Information Referenced from Wikiopedia.

Answers on Belladonna.

Complete Guide to Homeopathy. Dr. Andrew Lockie and Dr. Nicola Geedes.

Sanjib Sarkar is a content writer for Hmedicine.

Hmedicine offers a vast selection of homeopathic remedies to the public including Belladonna available for purchase.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sanjib_Sarkar

Calcium Tablet Or Liquid - Which is Better Absorbed?

2008-08-05T21:21:00.002-07:00

Does your daily diet provide sufficient Calcium?

Consuming enough of calcium is important because it helps to prevent bones from getting weaker and "brittle" later in life. Unless you are consciously consuming enough milk (3 glasses or more) or other dairy products daily, you can never be certain that you have fulfilled your daily calcium requirement. As a matter of fact, a study has pointed out that there is generally a lack of calcium intake among modern persons diet, indicating a low intake of between 300 - 400mg.

How well does your body absorb Calcium from supplement?

Calcium supplements are alternatives you can look at to fulfill your daily calcium requirements.
"A considerable mount of calcium ingested is not absorbed from intestine and simply leaves the body along with feces"

Indeed, the human body needs to absorb and utilize the calcium that is ingested from food or supplementary sources. Liquid calcium supplements dissolve well because hey are broken down before they enter the stomach, thus the calcium is more readily available when it reaches small intestine for absorption. In contrast, a hard solid tablet that does not disintegrate properly might possibly pass the absorption site of the small intestine, therefore limiting its absorption.

What is the right dosage for Calcium Supplements?.

The Medical experts also recommends that "Calcium, whether from the diet or supplements, is absorbed best by the body when it is taken several times a day in amounts of 500 mg." This is because absorption from supplements is best in doses 500 mg or less because the percent of calcium absorbed decreases as the amount of calcium in the supplements increases.

Author: Bardnurz, a young nutritionist who devote his daily activities to food and nutritional science. Doesn't believe in chemical base source of food which contain preservative, coloring and acid base foods. Write an article to educate people so that they can improve their life by eat well and have a wonderful life.

web: http://longerlifespan.blogspot.com/
Need a good natural supplements product in the market? You will find the best natural products at *BestHerbSupplements.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bardnurz_Sham

Saving Money on Blood Pressure Medication

2008-08-05T21:21:00.001-07:00

For years, people who have been troubled by both high blood pressure and diabetic kidney problems have believed that the more expensive blood pressure medications gave them an added benefit in the form of protection for their kidneys. So, they tended to spend extra dollars on expensive blood pressure medications even though cheaper generic equivalents were available. The less expensive generics, they were being told by their doctors, did less to help keep their kidneys healthy.

But a recent study on medications and their relationship to kidney health has cast doubt on conventional wisdom.

The study, conducted in the United Kingdom, suggests that the more expensive medications offer no more benefit to the kidneys than the less expensive generics. The real key, the study seems to say, is finding a medication that brings blood pressure down.

Dr. Raymond MacAllister at the Centre for Clinical Pharmacology at University College in London was quoted by HealthDay Reporter as saying, "In patients with high blood pressure who are at risk of progressive kidney disease -- particularly diabetics -- it doesn't matter which drug you use, provided you get good control of the blood pressure."

The current guidelines for treating blood pressure in patients with kidney disease, especially diabetics, calls for the use of two types of drugs -- angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin-II receptor blockers (ARB). These are considered to be first-line medications to help lower blood pressure in those who have diabetic kidney disease. For several years, medical professionals have assumed that these drugs have specific protective effects for the kidneys, beyond their ability to lower blood pressure.

But the study done my MacAllister's group and published in the December 10, 2005 issue of The Lancet questions such assumptions.

The British team looked at evidence supporting the use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs as first-line treatment for patients with kidney disease. They reviewed and examined results from 127 trials that investigated blood pressure-lowering drugs on the progression of kidney disease.

They found that ACE inhibitors and ARBs fared no better than other blood pressure-lowering drugs in preventing diabetic kidney disease. It was also unclear if these two drug classes were more effective in patients with non diabetic kidney disease.

McAllister also noted that the study would not come as welcome news to some pharmaceutical companies.

But it will certainly please consumers who are already strapped and struggling with the high cost of blood pressure and kidney disease medications.

George McKenzie is a retired TV anchor and radio talk show host who has created two websites where more information can be found on kidney health and blood pressure topics: The Blood Pressure Site and Kidney Health

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_McKenzie

Medicine is Your Cure, Medicine is Your Enemy

2008-08-05T21:21:00.000-07:00

It is an art that involves the application of both the preservation and safe guard of the health of a living being through the numerous researches, diagnostics and healing techniques. It can be safely said that its fundamental purpose is to ward of the particular individuals health for as long as possible. The doctors who practice it are known as the physicians.

In short it is chiefly related to the numerous ailments and infections that affect the humans internally or to any kind of physical ailments that are non-related to operation, OB and psychotherapy. In the ancient times natural assets were used as a medication for different ailments. At that time the spiritual medication and medication made from the natural assets was heavily dominant in all cultures, inclusive of the western market.

The education that is required to become a practitioner in the respective field is known as the medical education. It involves not only theoretical study but also necessary guidance and later practice. There are several methods of imparting knowledge regarding this subject and they vary across the globe. The teaching usually starts at the college and the university level, which is followed by a specific time period as an intern in the professional environment.

Its modern usage is not always the perfect solution for every disease and its inability of effective treatment is succeeded by substitute medication. At times both of them are unified by a medical practitioner for an affirmative outcome.

This field has received its share of criticisms with the main one being their over dosage and related blunders. For this purpose increased checks on the treatment areas and their resultant effects is becoming increasingly frequent for the recognition of the root causes of the mistakes and the steps that are taken for its rectification.

Sarfaraz was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan, surrounded by traffic and technology. He writes mostly about diseases, the storybooks, futuristic columns, mysteries, as he likes to call it. He enjoys writing for web.

He wrote his first book (The Black Bodyguard of Stone-Pyramid) in 2003 and since then has provided the picture for 1 more title. His book was honored as a BEST SELLER.

Sarfaraz currently lives with his wife in Karachi near Seashore, about fifteen miles from the house where he was born.

Pharmacy apologises for expired medicine

2008-07-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

A PHARMACY apologised after handing out medicine which was almost a year out of date.

Milton Road Pharmacy held its hands up after mother-of-two Davina Wilson discovered the cough medicine she had fed her dog had an expiry date of August 2007.

Mrs Wilson said she was advised to get children's medicine by her dog-breeding mother after her Rottweiler Apollo caught a nasty cough.

She sent her husband Stephen to Milton Road Pharmacy in Cambridge and he came back with a bottle of BENYLIN dry cough mixture.

The medicine was fed to the dog, but as an after-thought Mrs Wilson, of Kinross Road, Cambridge, looked at the expiry date.

The mother of two said: "I was told BENYLIN was just as good for dogs as the medicine you get from vets.

"I didn't think to check the date straight away. When I did a few curse words came out of me when I read it was so long out of date.

"A month, maybe you could understand, but eleven months? There is no excuse to be giving medicine out like that; it's an outrageous thing to do.

"The medicine is for one-to-eleven year olds but what would have happened if I had given it to a child?"

Apollo suffered no side effects after taking the medicine, but Mrs Wilson took it back to the pharmacy and demanded a refund.

"The manager apologised and blamed his staff," the 42-year-old mother of two said.

"He offered me a replace¬ment which was in-date but I refused it. I got my money back instead.

"I'm definitely going to check the date on every medicine I buy in future now."

Pharmacist Achmat Rossier, who last month faced calls from a coroner to be investigated after 71-year-old cancer patient Anthony Peckham died after being given morphine tablets 10 times stronger than they should have been, said he has apologised to Mrs Wilson.

He said: "Our medicines are frequently checked and we do have procedures in place to stop this from happening.

"It was a mistake by my staff and I have apologised to the lady involved.

"I'm sorry and that is all I can say. Nobody else has brought any out-of-date medicine back to us and this particular incident was a one-off."

Fine for illegal medicine

2008-07-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

A south London man has been fined £4,000 for selling unlicensed medicines as skin-lightening creams.

Arshad Mahmood, 48, from Brockley, was fined and ordered to pay over £4,500 in costs by Tower Bridge magistrates.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency said Mahmood's firm, Sabina Hair & Cosmetics (Peckham) Ltd was fined the same amount.

For Some Doctors, Music-Making and Medicine Are Complementary Arts

2008-07-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

Jul. 27--Dr. Greg Bociek's fingers moved with speed and surgical precision, but he wasn't in an operating room.

He was in his west Omaha basement music studio, playing favorite Genesis songs on a vintage Hammond organ.

"My love of music is indescribable," said Bociek, a cancer specialist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. "Music and medicine are equal passions for me."

When people think about doctors' hobbies, golf or tennis might come to mind. But amateur music-making also is a popular pastime.

The University of Nebraska Medical Center alone boasts several doctors and physician assistants who are active performers. Many more were serious music students who now play for recreation.

Dr. Keith Cheng, a cancer-research geneticist at Pennsylvania State University Medical Center and an expert on the connections between music and medicine, says musicians are often attracted to medicine because the fields have much in common.

"Music and medicine require a similar combination of analytical and artistic abilities," said Cheng, also a concert-level pianist. "In fact, medical schools love to recruit music-school graduates because they know musicians have the right skills."

Cheng says musicians use their intellectual skills to analyze the structure, phrasing and other technical aspects of music. But turning the notes into music requires inspiration.

"Music played technically, without artistry, is lifeless," Cheng said.

Similarly, doctors use their analytical skills to diagnose an illness. But medicine becomes an art form when dealing with a patient's emotions.

"Think of it as bedside manner," said Cheng. "You have to comfort a patient and also motivate them to take better care of themselves."

Musical doctors may share certain traits. But most go pro in medicine -- not music -- for personal reasons.

Cheng says he didn't have a choice.

"Hey, what can I say, I'm Asian, and my parents were ambitious for me," he said.

Those ambitions included undergraduate study at Harvard University, where Cheng made a lasting friendship with classmate and future cello great Yo-Yo Ma.

"Yo-Yo taught me how to play long lyrical lines," said Cheng, who notes that Ma's sister, Yeou-Cheng Ma, is both the executive director of the Children's Orchestra Society in New York City and a noted pediatrician.

Bociek, who spends his days teaching medical students and residents and treating adult lymphoma patients, decided on his own to enter medicine. He did it for one simple reason.

"The music business is ridiculously stupid," he said.

A native of Ottawa, Canada, Bociek began playing keyboards in bands while in junior high. He kept Peter Gabriel, Pink Floyd and early Yes LPs spinning on his turntable. He also began acquiring keyboards and speakers and now has an impressive collection.

After high school, Bociek briefly became a professional musician and toured Canada with bands. But he promised his parents he would go back to school if he didn't make it big within five years.

"I went back to school after just two years," he said. "I learned pretty fast that talent doesn't always rise to the top."

Bociek moved to Omaha for a permanent job in 1998 after completing a bone-marrow transplantation fellowship at UNMC. But he never gave up his music.

He gets his performance fix on Sundays, playing piano at King of Kings Lutheran Church.

After work, the tall, spectacled and soft-spoken Bociek, 46, strips off his lab coat and necktie and heads to his basement to play.

His studio calls to mind a used electronics store, where state-of-the-art gizmos sit side-by-side with vintage musical instruments and one or two broken-down antiques.

He owns an old Mellotron, a primitive sort of sampler that the Beatles used famously in "Strawberry Fields Forever."

"Mellotrons are now ridiculously rare," said Bociek, who uses the word "ridiculous" the way Bostonians use "wicked" -- as a modifier for just about everything.

But his favorite instrument is his Hammond A-100 organ, a close cousin of the B-3 heard in music from Genesis, Pink Floyd and other progressive rock bands.

Bociek uses it to create the signature sound of the music he writes, shimmering, rhythmically pulsating instrumental rock songs in the Gabriel mold.

"It takes me about 40 hours to put together a new song," Bociek said. "Once I get 10 of these songs together, I'm going to make a CD."

Dr. Howard Gendelman, another UNMC doctor, has also been recording and performing pop music. He plays accordion and keyboards with the local klezmer band Honorable Menschen.

An expert in infectious diseases and a leading HIV-AIDS researcher, Gendelman began taking piano lessons as a child. Later he took up accordion and became a concert-level classical guitarist.

Gendelman describes himself as a good but not great musician, which is partly why he chose medicine.

"Obviously the money is better in medicine," Gendelman said. "But I became a doctor because I wanted my life to have a bigger impact. As a doctor and scientist I can help more people."

Gendelman's first love was classical music. He plays klezmer -- a style of secular Jewish folk music -- for practical reasons.

"Klezmer takes less time to practice than classical," he said. "And besides, we're huge around the holidays."

Unlike a lot of music docs, Gendelman minimizes the connection between music and medicine. They are distinct parts of his life.

"For me, music is just a stress reliever," he said.

That isn't the case with Dr. Rosemary Mason, a general practice physician in Denison, Iowa. She not only believes music and medicine are related; she views music as a kind of medicine.

"Music has a healing quality," she said.

Mason said music helped her recover when she was in the hospital a few years ago. She also insists that the flowers in her garden grow more vigorously when she plays violin to them.

"All living things respond to music," she said.

Mason grew up with both music and medicine in Iowa City. Her physician father was a pioneer in gastric bypass surgery. Rosemary began violin lessons in the third grade.

But when she moved to small-town Denison 27 years ago to join her husband in private practice, she discovered the town had very little music.

"There was plenty of money in the schools for football, but not music," she said.

So Mason took money she inherited from her grandmother in 1996 and founded the Denison School for Strings.

Starting as little more than a studio with a few violin students, the school quickly grew to offer lessons in violin, viola, cello, bass and guitar to about 60 students.

"Music lessons are important, because they teach analytical skills to young children and help older people ward off Alzheimer's," Mason said. "They're good for everybody."

Bociek began piano lessons at an early age but never liked them.

He quit after a few months. Today, the only evidence that he once studied formally is the Schroeder-like bust of Beethoven in his studio.

Still, music remained a part of his life.

"I was never really a word person, so music was always how I expressed myself," Bociek said.

All the same, the combination of music and medicine make him a happy and fulfilled person, he said. Music keeps him in touch with his emotions. Medicine, meanwhile, binds him to other people.

"I wouldn't change anything about my life, even if I won a zillion dollars," Bociek said. "Being a doctor who also plays music is ridiculously cool."

Medical website similar to Wikipedia in production

2008-07-29T08:39:00.000-07:00

A WIKIPEDIA-style medical encyclopedia, which aims to make health information accessible to everyone, could be online by the end of the year.

Written and edited only by trained professionals, the Medpedia Project will compile the type of information usually found only in academic circles, according to Medpedia founder James Currier.

"Medicine is one of the least-developed areas of the Internet, and at the same time one of the areas that can be most improved by the internet," Currier told the LA Times.

Medical institutions, including the prestigious Harvard Medical School and Stanford School of Medicine in the US, have agreed to help build the site alongside physicians, medical schools, hospitals, health organisations and public health professionals.

The aim is to become the largest source of medical information on the internet, with pages on 30,000 diseases and tens of thousands of drugs, as well as details of medical procedures and hospitals.

Information will be presented free of charge and as accessible as possible to the general public.

A preview version of the site has been launched, with the full site is due to go live by the end of the year.

The website is appealing for more doctors to come forward to work unpaid as editors, London's Daily Telegraph reports.

“In recent years, we have witnessed the benefit that a website like Wikipedia can have on all knowledge," said Mr Currier.

"With ongoing experimentation and guidance from the medical community, Medpedia could provide a similar benefit to the world in the specialised area of health and medicine.”

Medpedia uses collaborative software similar to that used by Wikipedia, but the two sites are not connected.

Docs guilty in expired medicine controversy

2008-07-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

The state health ministry has indicted at least 15 officials of Sadar hospital here for stocking expired medicine in 2007.

Among them were seven civil surgeons, three doctors who headed different wings and five storekeepers, all of whom worked in the hospital from 1998 to 2007.

The Telegraph had reported that medicine past its expiry date worth Rs 5 lakh lying at the auxiliary nurse midwives’ hostel last year in February.

The medicines included paracetamol, chloroquine, metronidazole, dicyclomine tablet and ORS.

Reacting on the news, the local administration had set up an inquiry led by then additional commissioner Gauri Shankar Prasad.

In March, 2007, health minister Bhanu Pratap Sahi had constituted a two-member inquiry team comprising Anuj Kumar Singh, director (administration and training, health services) and Y.K. Sinha, regional deputy director health services.

The officials had found that there were no records of the medicine sent by the Union health ministry to the Sadar hospital. The storekeepers neither kept records of the medicines worth lakhs nor distributed them. Neither their superiors nor the civil surgeon took note of the irregularity.

Based on the reports, the state government’s joint secretary, B.K. Munda, asked for a clarification within 10 days from the 15 accused.

But most of them did not submit their clarifications by the deadline.

Wining, dining and debating the issues of modern medicine

2008-07-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

THE BMA's annual conference is over for another year. Doctors from across all branches of medicine and from all corners of the UK have now returned to their hospitals, surgeries or offices.

For outsiders looking in, it may seem this conference is little more than an annual get-together, an opportunity for camaraderie and fine dining. They would be wrong. The four-day conference includes a lot of hard debate on issues that challenge us ...

MEDICINE CABINET: A Âmulti-element’ plan to treat schizophrenia

2008-07-22T07:23:00.002-07:00

Q: My 19-year-old nephew was just diagnosed with schizophrenia. My sister says he doesn't want to take the medication. Does he need to start medication immediately? What else can he do?

A: Schizophrenia is a devastating psychiatric condition. It is a major cause of disability with huge human and financial costs. If your nephew's doctors have made the correct diagnosis, he probably does need to start medication. But medication is not the only treatment he needs.

Two important features of schizophrenia are psychosis and what psychiatrists call negative symptoms. Psychosis is the inability to recognize reality - for example, delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations (false perceptions). The negative symptoms of schizophrenia include a restriction of emotional range, a tendency to be inexpressive, and the inability to be active and productive.

These problems almost always result in significant functional decline.Early treatment is best, because affected patients respond better to treatment during their first psychotic episode. Also, the greatest decline in functioning is seen within the first few years of making a diagnosis. Symptoms get worse and are harder to treat with each subsequent episode.

Joan Geraldine Kanaley Bayoud: Gave back through arts, medicine

2008-07-22T07:23:00.001-07:00

Joan Geraldine Kanaley Bayoud was a devoted mother and wife who made time to be a civic leader and entrepreneur.

"She did it all," said her daughter, Laura Bayoud Hunt of Dallas. "She had a family first, she did what she could civically and then she got to the age where she wanted to do more. ... That's when she started her real career."

Mrs. Bayoud, 79, died Friday at UT Southwestern University Hospital of complications of a stroke.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. today at Christ the King Catholic Church. Private graveside services will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park.

Mrs. Bayoud served on several boards including the YWCA, and TACA, where she also chaired the TACA televised auction and gala. TACA supports the performing arts of North Texas with grants and efforts to increase public awareness of the arts.

Mrs. Bayoud, who was born in Brooklyn, was a nursing student when met her husband-to-be at Long Island College of Medicine Hospital in 1949.

He was a surgical resident and she was a student nurse in a body cast, having broken her back in a horse-riding accident.

Dr. George Bayoud accidentally hit the rail of the future Mrs. Bayoud's bed while giving her medication, causing her excruciating pain, their daughter said.

" 'What's your name,' " she yelled at the resident, Ms. Hunt said of her parents' meeting. " 'I'll get even with you if it's the last thing I ever do.' "

Eight months later, Mrs. Bayoud was out of the body cast and met Dr. Bayoud in the emergency room, where they both had been assigned. She was amazed watching his hands at work. They began talking. A week later she broke her engagement with another man. She married Dr. Bayoud three years later, in December 1952, their daughter said.

Mrs. Bayoud earned her nursing degree but never practiced as a nurse.

In 1954, the couple moved to San Antonio, where Dr. Bayoud was chief of surgery at Lackland Air Force Base.

In 1956, they moved to Garland, where Dr. Bayoud opened a clinic with his brother, Dr. Paige Bayoud. The clinic became Garland Medical Center and Hospital, a 150-bed hospital. The hospital closed when Dr. Bayoud retired about 20 years ago.

In 1959, Mrs. Bayoud joined the staff of YWCA, where she worked in adult education. Her YWCA programs included starting an American Music Forum featuring jazz.

Mrs. Bayoud also helped her husband and brother-in-law, doing secretarial and reception work for their growing clinic.

She also helped her mother, Edith Kanaley, operate a Garland real estate business, North Central Realty.

In 1964, Mrs. Bayoud opened Blue Book of Turtle Creek Realtors in Dallas, "specializing in homes for the discriminating," priced $40,000 and over.

Mrs. Bayoud continued to be active with the Dallas Civic Opera and co-founded the Dallas Charity Horse Show with Norman Brinker, her daughter said.

She became involved with TACA and in 1975 was chairman of the group's TV Auction.

As her family grew up, Mrs. Bayoud ventured further into business.

In 1975, Mrs. Bayoud and her daughter opened Roberta di Camerino Boutique, the first of their series of Dallas shops that later included The Haberdashery and Les Enfants, which featured designer miniature ball gowns and party dresses from Europe.

Stanley Marcus would visit The Haberdashery.

"Mr. Stanley used to come over and sit and have coffee and just admire the clothes," Ms. Hunt said. "He used to visit all the time."

The individual boutiques eventually were merged to a single shop, Joan and Laura Boutiques.

Mrs. Bayoud retired in the early 80s, after about eight years as a boutique operator, her daughter said.

In addition to her daughter and husband, Mrs. Bayoud is survived by three sons, George S. Bayoud Jr. of Dallas, David C. Bayoud of Dallas, and Bradley Bayou of Los Angeles; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Guest column: Reduce sway of medicine merchants

2008-07-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

Not far from the main gate at the Iowa State Fair, next to the pony ride, I came face to face with Digger.

The devilish-looking creature stood five-and-a-half-feet-tall, had yellow fur and pointy oversized ears. A single tooth showed when he grinned. He was prancing through the crowd, playfully creeping up behind children.

He wasn't there promoting Wonder Bars; he was selling prescription drugs.

The Swiss drugmaker Novartis had paid to make Digger and Lamisil, a pill for toenail fungus, official sponsors of the fair. The company had even brought along a podiatrist to examine the toenails of passersby for signs of the fungus that Lamisil happened to treat.

Digger was just one example of what I found in Iowa beginning in 2005 as I gathered material for a book on how the drug companies promote their products.

I grew up in Iowa. I believed that Middle America would be the last place to interest drug marketers. On that, I was wrong. You can't buy health, but the pharmaceutical companies were everywhere, trying to sell it.

Ads for Cialis, the prescription sexual aide, were posted on scoreboards at the John Deere Classic golf tournament in the Quad Cities. I found an Ambien saleswoman in Storm Lake promoting sleeping pills, while the audience enjoyed a free lunch of ham sandwiches.

TV ads were only the most obvious sign of their work. I discovered medicine marketers at the mall, on college campuses, even sitting on the board of a local chapter of the American Heart Association.

What's wrong this? Why shouldn't medicines be promoted like Tide or Tropicana? The problem is that prescription drugs are not like other consumer products. Every one has very real risks.

A study often cited by the FDA estimated that more than 100,000 Americans die each year from the side effects of medicines taken as the doctor directed. That's more than those who die from diabetes.

Yet these pitches aimed at Iowa consumers were just the beginning. The industry spends far more on courting physicians. This means that when the ad prompts you to ask your doctor about a medicine, the company has already visited your physician and made sure he or she is ready to prescribe it.

In a survey last year, 94 percent of American doctors said they had recently accepted cash or gifts from the industry. One frequent reward: a night on the town. An Iowa doctor showed me his invitation to a corporate-paid dinner at the Linn Street Café in Iowa City, which was then offering $28 rack of lamb and a wine list with a $300 bottle of cabernet sauvignon.

Drug companies were also hiring Iowa doctors to be their "consultants" and putting them on their lecture circuits. Some doctors were getting checks from a dozen companies at the same time.

Of course, medicines can help - even save - patients. But it's clear that doctors are prescribing too many drugs.

For example, University of Iowa researchers looked at a group of Iowans who had just been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The scientists went back through the prescription records of these patients and found that 30 percent had been taking medicines known to harm memory. Rather than stopping these prescriptions, the doctors added yet another drug - this one for Alzheimer's.

The researchers worried that some of these Iowans did not actually have Alzheimer's. They feared the patients' first medications, prescribed for conditions like incontinence and heartburn, may have stolen their recollections or caused subtle memory problems to become worse.

We must stop these tragedies. Write to your lawmakers and demand tighter restrictions on drug promotion. The first priority should be a law banning doctors from taking the industry's money and gifts.

We desperately need physicians to once again be independent gatekeepers who protect us from medicines we don't need.

3 Things You Didn't Know About Your Pharmacist That Could Save Your Life

2008-07-15T07:46:00.002-07:00

One of the outcomes of most life-altering diagnoses is a treatment regimen that includes some type of medication. The doctor hands you a prescription and off to the pharmacy you go. Most people believe that all pharmacists do is count pills and slap a label on the bottle. They aren't aware of the training involved in becoming a pharmacist and that training could save your life.

Pharmacists Know More Than Doctors

Whether or not your doctor wants to admit it, the pharmacist knows more about interactions of medications than the doctor. A huge component of pharmacy training includes chemistry and learning the interactions between classes of medication. Doctors are more likely to know about the drugs they most use in their specialty, but don't have the in depth knowledge across specialties.

Pharmacist as Air Traffic Controller

When facing a life-altering health challenge you often see more than one doctor, especially if surgery is part of the treatment protocol. You may have prescriptions from each doctor. As a patient, you may be overwhelmed with the amount of medication your taking and it may not cross your mind to tell one doctor about the other medications you've been prescribed. Your pharmacist and thanks to modern technology will know about all your prescribed medications. The pharmacist will become alarmed if some of your medications are known to interact in a bad way. Computer programs in pharmacies also are able to cross reference interactions and display an alert if two of your medications may interact poorly. The pharmacist can literally save your life.

Pharmacist as Educator

In today's healthcare environment your doctor has a short amount of time to spend with you. You may be so focused on questions about your health that you put aside any questions about the medication they prescribed. Your pharmacist has more time to explain the medication, the dosage, the possible side effects and interactions with over-the-counter medications. You may not think that cold medicine or aspirin could interfere with your prescriptions, but they can inhibit medication effectiveness or even have toxic effects on the body.

It's important that you bring all your prescriptions to the same pharmacy. If you use several pharmacies the possibility of detecting a problem is greatly reduced because you're history isn't in their computer system. Your pharmacist may recommend alternatives to more expensive medications with approval from your doctor. They are more aware of generic drugs and in this day and age any money saved as long as it doesn't impact the outcome may be worth investigating. Pharmacists are also trained differently than doctors because they are trained in a more customer service environment, the pharmacy. They are a valuable resource and making your pharmacist part of your trust healthcare inner circle will serve you well.

The Antibiotic Crisis - A Loss of Effectiveness

2008-07-15T07:46:00.001-07:00

It is often suggested we live in a state of fear in modern society. If it isn't one thing, it is another. Global warming, super volcanoes, weapons of mass destruction and so on make one wonder how we've survived this long.

Because of this general state of panic, we often fail to recognize big problems that aren't particularly sexy to the media. One of these problems is the developing crisis regarding the effectiveness of antibiotics. Simply put, they don't work as well as they used to.

Viruses and bacteria are becoming resistant to our most common antibiotics. Consider these facts. Of the roughly 100 antibiotics we have, every bacteria strain that causes us illness has developed at least one strain that is resistant to an antibiotic treatment. Nearly 20,000 people die in medical facilities every year from antibiotic resistant bacteria. When it comes to blood poising and pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus, we are down to our last effective antibiotic - Vancomycin.

So, how did we get to this point? Is it just the natural order of things? Well, yes and no. Over time, it is true that bacteria will slowly develop resistances to the drugs used to treat them. The key to that statement, however, is "over time." While we would inevitably expect to have problems, we are having them far too early.

Okay, is there a reason why we are seeing antibiotic resistant strains well before one would expect them? Yes. The problem has to do with our use of antibiotics. Simply put, we treat them as a wonder drug that is good for anything. This is true for both the medical profession and society in general.

In the medical profession, antibiotics are prescribed like candy. Research has shown that they are used by doctors 60 percent more than they should be. Further study has shown the more antibiotics are used, the quicker bacteria develop strains that are resistant to the drugs. In short, we are talking cause and effect.

Ah, but the medical profession is not the only one to blame. Most people are not aware that they are eating antibiotics practically every day. How? Well, they are in the meat products you eat including beef and poultry. They are also in animal products such as milk. These antibiotics are used as a precautionary measure for the animals who are housed in less than stellar conditions.

The biggest scare these days is Vancomycin resistant bacteria. Vancomycin is the antibiotic of last resort for pneumonia and the Staph infection superbug. Cases of bacteria not reacting to the drug are becoming more prevalent all the time. You've probably read about patients dying in the hospital. If this resistance becomes widespread, we have no immediate solutions and a plague of sorts could very well occur. How about that for a state of fear?!

Purchase Prescription Drugs Online

2008-07-15T07:45:00.004-07:00

Prescription drugs are used to treat, cure, or prevent certain diseases or medical conditions. Before they are put on the market, they undergo rigorous testing and clinical studies to ensure that they are both safe and effective. They must have approval from the appropriate government agency before they can be sold. But even though prescription drugs have been deemed to be safe, there are things to consider if you decide to purchase prescription drugs online.

The growth of the internet has made it possible to purchase almost anything, without having to ever leave home, often at a much better price than buying locally. But when thinking about purchasing prescription medication on the internet, it is especially important to exercise caution. Here are some things to look out for.

Some websites that claim to be pharmacies are in reality nothing more than scam sites, looking to quite simply take your money. You need to be able to identify whether a site is a legitimate e-pharmacy or not.

Many of the major chain stores with brick and mortar pharmacies also operate online pharmacies. These pharmacies are located in the United States and are licensed. Their pricing is comparable to their in-store prices.

So why wouldn't consumers simply use these e-pharmacies? Well, studies have shown that one of the main reasons for purchasing medication online is to save money. You won't save much, if any money, purchasing drugs through online pharmacies located in the U.S. This leads consumers to look for other online pharmacies.

As a result of the already high, and still rising cost of prescription medication, large numbers of American consumers each year buy their prescriptions through the internet. Many of us have, I'm sure, received those infamous emails promising cheap drugs for everything under the sun. You can buy weight loss drugs, Viagra, pain medication and more. But do you really know who is selling these drugs? Are they really pharmacies or are they simply websites designed to take your money and run?

Most consumers find online pharmacies by doing a search on the internet. But unless you know how to figure out whether an online pharmacy that is not located in the United States is legitimate, this too can be risky. So before you decide to purchase prescription drugs online, take the time to do some research. The time you spend will be worthwhile as you find a way to beat the mounting cost of prescription medications.

Wu Xing Rocks

2008-07-15T07:45:00.003-07:00

The ancient art of Traditional Chinese Medicine goes back a couple of millennia and its treatment techniques and knowledge have changed over time; however the basic principles of the art remain unchanged. To balance out the Yin and Yan in a human body, this is the founding principle of Chinese Medicine to achieve equilibrium between the difference forces that are at work inside the human body. The five forces or phases of Wu Xing should be taken into consideration in order to balance the Yin and Yan.

Five Wu Xing phases are metal (jin), wood (mu), water (shui), fire (huo) and earth (tu). According to Chinese philosophy these forces are used to describe the changes and interactions that occur in order to create a certain phenomena. Wu Xing is not just limited to Chinese Medicine; the philosophy is also utilized in any other diverse fields such as Feng Shui, martial arts, military strategy and even music.

In the philosophy of the five Wu Xing phases it is said that certain elements can upset or change the balance. These are categorized in to two sections generating or constructive interaction and overcoming or destructive interaction. For example a generating interaction would be wood creates fire, fire creates earth, earth creates metal, metal carries water, water nourishes wood. Similarly a number of other generating and overcoming relationships between the five phases can be explained similarly.

In traditional Chinese medicine Wu Xing elements are used to describe the fluctuations in the human body and the interaction between different organs. Each of the five Wu Xing phases are said to be responsible for the functioning of different body parts for example, the tongue is controlled by fire while the skin is controlled by metal. The five phases are also used to describe certain mental and emotional ailments such as anxiety and sadness. Thus it is possible to cure an illness by diagnosing which part of the body carries the ailment and treating it so that the five phases are balanced out.

Medication For Anxiety

2008-07-15T07:45:00.001-07:00

Some medications that are given to people who are suffering from anxiety are from the family of medication called benzodiazepines, though they are sometimes prescribed to help people who have difficulty getting to sleep, to help control seizures and to help patients who are working to become less dependent on alcohol. The purpose of this medication is to calm a person enough so that they can relax. What happens is that the benzodiazepine medication reduces the activity in some parts of the brain, and this is what causes a person to calm down and relax. There are more than fifty different kinds of medications that are from the benzodiazepine family, many of them used for treating different problems. Though, they are often used in helping many people who are suffering from anxiety.

As is true with just about any medication, this type of medication can have different affects on people, depending on how long the person has taken it, what they are being treated for, how serious their anxiety is and if they are taking any other medications with it. These medications are supposed relieve anxiety and make a person feel calmer and relaxed. This is why it can be so effective in helping a person be able to find sleep, though it can make a person feel extremely drowsy and clumsy if they are taking higher dosages. Some side effects of benzodiazepine include disorientation, some amnesia, dizziness, confusion, depression, and even hallucinations in more severe cases, though it is rare. Patients taking these drugs must also be aware of some dangers of taking the drug because of how the medication can affect a person, which is common with many other medications. For example, it is suggested that a person not drive when taking the medication because of how the medication can make the patient feel drowsy. Some people might also be more affected by smaller dosages and find it difficult to perform properly at work or school. In a case like this, or if a patient is having any other negative reaction to the medication, the patient should consult their therapist immediately. The therapist could then alter the medication the patient is taking to something that is better suited to them.

For more information, or if someone has any questions regarding the use of benzodiazepine medication, they can easily consult an online therapist who would be more than happy to answer any questions or concerns. To find an online therapist, a person only has to do a quick search on a search engine and then message the therapist they find through e-mail. It is far more convenient and more people have chosen to do this because it saves them having to wait on the phone, or having to constantly check their answering machine for a call back time. Through e-mail, an individual only has to write out all their questions, send away and wait for their answers. The online counselor will then e-mail back the answers when they can.

Facts About Penicillins

2008-07-15T07:44:00.001-07:00

The penicillins are the oldest class of antibiotics. Penicillin, the world's first antibiotic, was discovered by British scientist Alexander Fleming in 1928 on accident.

Over the years, this family of antibiotics has grown, and the antimicrobial activity has expanded. However, despite the discovery of many new antibiotics, the penicillins have remained a primary choice for treatment of a wide variety of bacterial infections. They are used to treat ear, nose and throat infections, respiratory and urinary tract infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases.

There are four types of penicillins:

The natural pencillins are based on the original penicillin-G structure. Penicillin-G types are effective against gram-positive strains of streptococci, staphylococci, and some gram-negative bacteria such as meningococcus.
Penicillinase-resistant penicillins are active even in the presence of the bacterial enzyme that inactivates most natural penicillins.
Extended spectrum penicillins which are effective against a wider range of bacteria.
Aminopenicillins such as ampicillin and amoxicillin have an extended spectrum of action compared with the natural penicillins.

Disadvantages:

Many of these drugs are destroyed by gastric acid
Short duration of action - because of the short half-life, the penicillins must be administered at short intervals, usually every 4 hours
Not effective against most Gram-negative organisms
Penicillin allergy - about 10% of population has allergy to penicillin
High rate of gastrointestinal side effects, particularly diarrhea

Advantages:

Bactericidal against sensitive bacteria
Relatively safe
Suitable for use in children and pregnant women
Excellent tissue penetration
Inexpensive in comparison with other antibiotics.

Newer penicillins, such as penicillin V, are resistant to stomach acid or, like ampicillin and amoxicillin, have a broader spectrum of action.

Mode of action

Penicillin antibiotics are bactericidal, and act by inhibiting the synthesis of the peptidoglycan layer of bacterial cell walls.

Penicillins have a bacteriocidal effect on Gram-positive bacteria. In Gram-positive cells, peptidoglycan makes up as much as 90% of the thick, compact cell wall, and is the outermost layer.
Penicillins are not effective against Gram-negative bacteria, which have cell walls in which peptidoglycan is not the outermost layer, but that lies between the plasma membrane and a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) outer membrane. Penicillin cannot access the peptidoglycan of Gram-negative cells.

Penicillin resistance

Many pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria produce enzymes called Penicillinases (or beta-lactamases) that can inactivate penicillin. The capability of bacteria to synthesize this enzyme is an adaptation that was selected for in the presence of substances that inhibit bacterial growth. This is an example of a type of antibiotic resistance. Penicillins are sometimes combined with beta-lactamase inhibitors (e.g. amoxicillin and clavulanic acid), agents that protect the penicillin from these bacterial enzymes.

Alternative Medicine

2008-03-01T03:51:00.003-08:00

Alternative medicine is a combined term used for various methods or practices of healing brought in practice by physicians or non-physicians, in addition to or apart from the conventional medicine. It is estimated that a little over 33% of the US population uses some form of alternative medicine that is mainly comprised of remedies derived from several different types of traditional and ethnic therapies. All of these therapies have diverse practice and/ or product based guidelines that are not a part of conventional Western medicine. This may include meditation, acupuncture, prayer, herbal supplements, chiropractors, massage therapy and other natural medicines.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has a separate division, called The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, that looks into the research, ethical and validation and related issues of alternative medicine that is prevalent in the US.

A recent statistics from the NIH shows that as many as 36% of the American adult population relies on one or more forms of alternative medicine to ward off sickness or derive other health benefits. The study doesn’t limit the use of alternative medicine to this specific population and shows that women, college students, former smokers and people who have undergone previous hospitalization are also using alternative medicine practices. The sheer holistic nature of alternative medicine is what draws people to it, but despite its widespread use and popularity, it remains relatively understudied.

Some of the most widely used alternative therapies in the US include biologically based practices, mind-body medicine, manipulative and body-based practices, and alternative herbal medicine, Ayurveda, naturopathy, homeopathy and energy medicine.

Alternative Medicine Schools

2008-03-01T03:51:00.001-08:00

Alternative medicine schools are educational institutions in which the processes and practices of non-Western medicine are taught and disseminated. This is a valuable addition to the health industry. There are a number of schools in the US, that offer education in various branches of alternative medicine including degree programs in holistic health care, naturopathy, Chinese herbology and medicine, acupuncture, nutrition, clinical counseling, psychology, spiritual psychology, Avurveda and more.

Three the well known alternative schools are Five Branches Institute, College and Clinic of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine an Southwestern College.

Five Branches Institute, College and Clinic of Traditional Chinese Medicine located in Santa Cruz and San Jose, California emphasizes traditional Chinese medical theory and diagnosis, acupuncture, herbology and Western Medicine. They offer a Master’s program as well as Doctoral degrees.

The University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine located in Connecticut awards a Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine to students who complete four years of study. Naturopathic medicine is a system of primary health care that practices prevention, diagnosis and treating conditions of the human mind and body.

Southwestern College in Scottsdale, Arizona creates a holistic approach to learning, counseling and psychology. Based on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, systemic and transpersonal psychology, each theory is applied to students’ personal transformation and professional development.

The interest in alternative medicine has prompted many medical schools to add complementary alternative medical (CAM) courses to their curriculums. It has become quite apparent that patients are seeing physicians who not only practice conventional medicine, but alternative medicine as well.

VasoPro Ephedrine

2007-07-09T02:56:00.002-07:00

VasoPro Ephedrine is a drug used for relief of symptoms including shortness of breath, tightness of the chest, and the inability to cough up and expel phlegm from the airways. Yuck! Ephedrine is effective in thinning the phlegm and opening the airways by relaxing smooth muscle tissues. Its effects are quick to feel which is just what you want when you can’t breathe.

It’s not just the asthmatics that bur this product though, far from it. Endurance athletes, bodybuilders, and common fatso’s love it. The endurance athletes swear by VasoPro ephedrine HCL because it increases the body’s aerobic capacity by enhancing oxygen transportation. Bodybuilders sing the praises of VasoPro ephedrine because it increases thermogenesis – the body’s ability to metabolize calories and fats. This accentuates the separations in their muscular striations, i.e. their cuts. Fat people dig it too. It suppresses the appetite effectively.

Common side effects of all ephedrine products include shakiness, nervousness, restlessness, teeth gnashing, loss of appetite, and loss of sleep. Ephedrine products should not be used by those who experience heart or thyroid problems, diabetes, or some types of mental problems that require the treatment of MAOI’s (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors).

When you purchase Vasopro Ephedrine HCL, you will be required to fill out a form, present valid, state-issued identification, and be subjected to a maximum purchase limit based monthly. Certain states do not allow the online ordering of VasoPro Ephedrine HCL. This is a direct result of an initiative by the US government to control the illegal manufacture of the street drug known as “crank” and its derivatives.

Overall reviews seem to point towards positive experiences from those using VasoPro Ephedrine. The expected and commonly encountered side effects are generally considered as euphoric by users of the product; the jittery nature of the effects mentally equated with increased energy and desired oncoming weight loss.

Everything You Need to Know About Ephedrine HCL

2007-07-09T02:56:00.001-07:00

Ephedrine hydrochloride is a synthetic pharmaceutical grade expectorant bronchodilator used by asthmatics, fat people, and bodybuilders – all for different reasons. Those with asthma use this drug to thin out and loosen their phlegm. This makes it easier to cough up and be rid of. It also betters their ability to breath. It rids them of feelings of tightness in their chests. It opens the airways by relaxing smooth muscle tissue.

The obese sing the praises of Vasopro Ephedrine HCL because of its capacity to increase thermogenesis – the body’s ability to metabolize calories and fats. By the same token, bodybuilders use it as a “cutter” – a drug to accentuate the separations between their striations. Endurance athletes also dig it because it increases oxygen transportation and aerobic capacity. When combined with caffeine, it yields the ingester increased energy and stamina coupled with the effect of appetite suppression.

The only legal way for the manufacturers of ephedrine to market it is as an expectorant bronchodilator. The US government has banned ephedrine-containing products for use as diet aids and even initiated a cap on how much asthma sufferers can purchase on a monthly basis. If you are to purchase Vasopro Ephedrine HCL online or over-the-counter, you will have to provide valid personal information, present valid, state-issued identification, fill out a form, and hence be prone to the cap of 6 grams total per month.

Vasopro Ephedrine HCL should never be taken by anyone who suffers from heart problems, thyroid problems, prostrate problems or enlargement, or certain types of depression that are treated with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI’s). The drug comes in tablet form and is commonly used as a cheap alternative to Clenbuterol. These expectorant bronchodilators have found their way to weight-conscious Hollywood, making them seemingly sheik. However, they can be dangerous if overused.

Should Nurses be Paid by Pharmaceutical Companies to Visit Patients?

2007-07-06T02:21:00.001-07:00

It is an intricate situation... Most states or local administrations do not have enough funds to examine and monitor all those who need medical treatment, especially those suffering from chronic diseases like diabetes and asthma.

So what if a pharmaceutical company puts up the funds to have qualified nurses visit doctors' offices to review the charts of the patients and to assess their progress? Such nurses sometimes also provide much needed professional development training for the office staff as well.

The practice, generally referred to as “disease-management programs,” started in U.K. but is spreading to Ireland, Germany and Belgium as well. The French drug maker Sanofi-Aventis SA, for example, is funding programs in Britain to provide training materials and classes for the staff nurses working in doctors' offices. However, the company officially claims that no attempt is made to push any proprietary drugs.

Critics of the practice charge that such pharmaceutical company programs are nothing but a thinly veiled attempt to push the highly-prices pills that company manufactures. Dr. Jim Kennedy, the spokesman for the Royal College of General Practitioners, is reported in American press as saying that there is a "perceived or real risk of the pharmaceutical companies' interests taking precedence over the patients' interests.”

The conflict of interest perhaps cannot be proven with 100% certainty but it's there and everyone knows it, the critics claim.

As proof, they point at what happened to Merck last year in Britain where such paid-nurse visits are wide spread. The Prescription Medicines Code of Practice Authority, a British watchdog group, has examined the complaint filed by a former Merck sales representative and decided that the program was indeed a “reward program” for those doctors prescribing “Cozaar,” a Merck product.

After being suspended for three months, Merck wrote a letter to all doctors involved and said it was taking the issue "very seriously," and that it "is working hard on corrective actions."

As the cost of health care continues to rise I think we'll see more such programs that make low-cost early-detection of chronic diseases possible while raising a perception of “conflict of interest” among its various practitioners.

ANCC "Magnet Hospital" Criteria Ensures Nurses Do Participate in Decision Making

2007-07-06T02:20:00.000-07:00

The most systematic framework of nurses' participation in decision making process has been developed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), the same organization that confers on US hospitals the prestigious designation of “magnet hospital.” To earn the distinction, hospitals usually invest two to five years of work to change their structure to one that complies with the ANCC criteria.

Some of the “magnet hospital” criteria directly address increased decision making participation for nurses like “decentralized, shared decision-making processes prevail throughout the nursing operations of the organization,” or “ the rehabilitation nurse participates in decision-making regarding allocation of resources used by or for the patient.”

Here are some other ANCC “Magnet Hospital” criteria:

“There is involvement of nurses at all levels of the organization in quality improvement planning and improvement processes.”

“ There is access to appropriate literature and databases for use by the nurse in planning, providing, and evaluating patient care.” “There is participation in professional nursing organizations. There is participation in healthcare and community organizations other than professional nursing organizations.”

“Peer review processes are in place for all nurses.”

Clearly, such expansion of nurses' administrative, leadership and political roles is here to stay thanks to the wide-spread consensus that it would only increase the efficiency, rationality and fairness of our existing healthcare system.

Now it's up to our well-trained and qualified nurses to run through this portal of opportunity and make the best of it. The decades ahead will be an exciting one for our nursing community, full of fascinating professional challenges and growth opportunities. It's a good time to serve as nurses again.

Cholesterol Reducing Medication

2007-07-02T04:35:00.001-07:00

If you suffer from high blood cholesterol levels, your doctor will most likely advise that you make some changes to bring it down. There are many ways to reduce your cholesterol but perhaps the fastest way is to use cholesterol reducing medications. For most people, getting cholesterol levels down is as simple as just adjusting the diet and starting an exercise program, but for some, those simple changes do not make a difference.

For those that diet and exercise do not work for, the other option is medication. There are different types of medication that can help to reduce your levels of cholesterol. The medications are basically broken into two different types.

• Some medications will reduce the amount of cholesterol that the liver makes.

• Some medications will reduce the amount of the dietary cholesterol that is absorbed from food.

Below is a list of some possible medications that you may want to look into.

Niacin. This is a B vitamin that is found in many foods and also in multi-vitamins. High doses that are available by prescription can lower the bad cholesterol and raise the good cholesterol. There are some minor side effects that you may or may not experience such as tingling or flushing of the skin as well as itching and possibly a headache.

Sequestrants of Bile-acid. These types of medications will help to cut down on the production of cholesterol in the liver. The most common side effects that you may experience may include some stomach irritations or digestive problems such as an upset stomach, constipation or gas.

Statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) is one of the newest medications that are out on the market to lower cholesterol. They are very effective as they do their work by interrupting the chemical pathway in its final step when it creates cholesterol in the liver.

Zetia is the newest drug to recently be released that will lower your cholesterol levels. This medication works by decreasing the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed in your intestines after you eat, where as the ‘statins’ that are generally used, reduce cholesterol by limiting the production of it in the liver.

No matter which cholesterol-reducing medication you use, make sure that you have regular blood tests to stay on top of the medication. You want to be sure that it is working and not causing you unwanted side effects. Also be sure to keep up a good diet and exercise program as these simple steps will help keep your cholesterol levels down naturally.

If you suffer with high cholesterol, be sure to talk with your doctor to find the right treatment regimen for you. Sometimes, diet and exercise is not enough to get your cholesterol under control and the use of cholesterol reducing medication may be prescribed by your doctor. What may work for one person may not be good for another, so you want to be sure that you know your personal condition and treat it accordingly. You doctor will be happy to go over your options for medications and help you find the right one.

Natural Remedies from Herbs and Plants

2007-07-02T04:34:00.000-07:00

Natural remedies have been around for thousands of years, and were the product of trial and error with eating many different plants over the course of time. Man has a long history with herbs and there healing properties. Herbs have saved many of lives and relieved people of a lot of suffering for thousands of years.

Herbal treatments take many forms, depending were in the world you happen to be, as different climates offer a different verity of plants for people to find there medicines in. Many Herbs are also the sources of many of today’s modern drugs. Pharmaceutical companies seen an opportunity to capitalize off the unique chemical compounds found in herbs and synthesized the compounds in labs, and were able to produce more concentrated forms of many of the drug compounds found in nature.

Pharmaceutical companies engineered many variations of these compounds found in herbal remedies. At the same time modern society started forgetting about herbal remedies and started using the artificial drugs that we could buy from the local pharmacy.

Many of the old herbal cures and remedies were soon lost and forgotten as each generation past. Unfortunately we all become to accustom to just buying our drugs off the shelves at the pharmacy.

Also something that we lost out on was the fact that herbs are natural and are symbiotic with there interactions on human beings. We started taking all these artificial drugs not found in nature, but rather the altered natural molecular structures found in nature, and having no biochemical relationship to the chemistry of the people and animals that eat them.

It just stands to reason that the evolution of all living creatures is defined by there environment, and the other living creatures and plants around them. The chemistry of all living things sharing the same environment, have a connection with one another on a complex chemical level. Each individual organism that shared the same environment while selectively mutating each generation, was influenced on a bio chemical level by the other organisms, sort of like biochemical cousins.

There is a symbiotic relationship with all organisms in a shared environment. So when you start to have people eating chemicals that don’t have this symbiotic relationship, these drugs stop being medicine and start becoming your poison. And though it may not be apparent right away, this will take it toll in time. People thought they could pull away from nature, but now are starting to realize you have to keep your roots to your environment, or face all kinds of sickness and disease.

Herbal remedies are the real source to keeping us all healthy and strong. Weather we like it or not, we all evolved in nature, and we can not get to far from it, or we will die. People are a very complex assemblage of biochemical’s that are interdependent with other forms of life that they evolved with. So as a species we can’t just step away from the other animals and plants that we are dependent on for our survival. And start to take a new chemical compound and just throw it into the mix, and not inspect to have problems. Herbs are nature’s medicines that were specifically designed for us and through the course of many years by selective mutation, just as we were evolved around them to be compatible in nature. So if were looking to cure our selves it will be from the knowledge to use herbs and plants and not from buying foreign chemical molecules to introduce to our bodies that were never designed for them.

Cymbalta Medication - Uses & Side Effects

2007-06-25T03:02:00.000-07:00

Cymbalta is brand name from Eli Lilly and called duloxetine.Cymbalta is a special drug which belongs to the group of Dual Uptake Inhibitors.Cymbalta medically formulated as Duloxetine Hydrochloride is a new revolutionary antidepressent. Cymbalta is used to treat major depressive disorder. It is also used to treat pain caused by nerve damage in people with diabetes. Cymbalta is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder. The effectiveness of Cymbalta for longer-term (more than 9 weeks) use has not been systematically evaluated in clinical trials. Cymbalta targets two chemicals, serotonin and norepinephrine, that are believed to play a role in how the brain and body affect mood and pain. Cymbalta is contraindicated in anyone who has shown a sensitivity to duloxetine or any of Cymbalta's inactive ingredients. It should not be used concommitantly with an MAOI. In clinical trials, Cymbalta was associated with increased mydriasis in patients with uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma and should not be used by patients with this condition.

Cymbalta increases the risk of elevated serum transaminase. It has been associated with an increase in blood pressure. Blood pressure should be monitored throughout treatment. Cymbalta till now is generally not being prescribed to pregnant women. Cymbalta is a class C drug, which means that it can and will be passed onto your baby and he or she could develop medical conditions as a result. Many women become pregnant when taking Cymbalta and their doctors typically choose to take them off the drug during the third trimester, when medical complications usually arise as a result of taking this drug. Cymbalta is also known to be passed through the mothers breast milk hence doctors suggest to refrain from taking the drug while breast-feeding an infant. Cymbalta should be used with caution in patients with a history of mania or seizures. Cymbalta is used to treat depression.

Cymbalta can cause the side effects which can deteriorate your thought or reactions. If you are taking Cymbalta Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can increase the risk of damage to your liver. Avoid. Somnolence caused by Cymbalta. Cymbalta can cause the side effects which can deteriorate your thought or reactions. Made attention if you lead or do all that requires you to be waked up and alert. Cymbalta should be administered at a total dose of 40 mg/day (given as 20 mg BID) to 60 mg/day (given either once a day or as 30 mg BID) without regard to meals. Cymbalta is not recommended for patients with end-stage renal disease (requiring dialysis) or in severe renal impairment.

Uses of Cymbalta Medication

Cymbalta Medication use very safely. Cymbalta Medication dose use daily one. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Do not stop using Cymbalta without first talking to your doctor. Store Cymbalta at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not take the medication in larger amounts and take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. It may take 4 weeks or longer for your symptoms improve. Do not crush, chew, break, or open a delayed-release capsule.

Side Effects of Cymbalta Medication

Cymbalta most common side effects is Nausea, dry mouth, constipation, loss of appetite, fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, increased sweating, blurred vision, rash and itching and other Less Common Side Effects is Abnormal orgasm; acid or sour stomach; belching; change or problem with ejaculation; decreased interest in sex; difficulty in moving; erectile dysfunction; fear; feeling of warmth or redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest; heartburn; indigestion and joint pain. Generalized anxiety disorder is generally recognized as a chronic condition.

Save Money With Discount Prescription Drug Plans

2007-06-25T03:01:00.000-07:00

Discount prescription drug plans are a new wave for consumers to save on their medications. We can all agree that prescription drugs are expensive enough as it is. Our family budget is already stretched to the limit. There is no reason we should be paying more than what we have to for our drug prescriptions. There are discount prescription drug plans out there that are bulked together and you can purchase supplemental discount plans and receive discounts on dental, vision, prescription and chiropractic. With these plans you can see how the savings multiply.

Major retail chain pharmacies are participating in these discount medication plans. The list includes: Walmart, Kmart, Target, Ekert and Walgreens. Make sure you double check that these stores are working with these discount benefits plans. Any individual with limited coverage or without any prescription drug coverage can benefit from a discount prescription benefit plan. Instead of paying full price for prescription drugs, members can save when they purchase their prescriptions.

People, who have insurance coverage, may still find these discount plans very useful as it can discount their prescription drugs not covered by their health plan. Members just show their card at a participating pharmacy and receive substantial discounts on their prescription drugs. Usually twenty-five percent on most brand names and up to fifty percent on most generics, it is that easy.

Drug costs are continuing to rise and are one of the fastest growing health care expenditures. It is growing at nearly three times the rate of other health care costs. One of the ways to lower your prescriptions cost is with a discount prescription drug plan. So whether you are on a fixed income or just need to cut your health care cost, you can save your family money and also receive the best value for your dollar.

Prescription Drug Discount Program

One such plan is the Ameriplan prescription discount program, managed by Medco Health Solutions. The retail pharmacy program will save you money on most prescription drugs at tens of thousands of retail pharmacies nation wide. The prescription home delivery service program will save you money on maintenance type medication that treats chronic health conditions. This program provides you with cost savings and up to date prescription drug monitoring for your protection. Discounts offered through the use of the Ameriplan pharmacy discount card are not insurance and are not intended as a substitute for insurance. You may also participate in and use the mail order service managed by Medco Health Solutions if you take maintenance medications. A maintenance medication is taken regularly to treat acute or chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure, ulcers, or diabetes.

Covered Drugs This program includes most legend drugs which by federal law require a physician’s prescription.

Drug Exclusions Over the counter drugs and non prescription drugs are not included in the program.

Generic Drug Savings A generic drug is the chemical copy of a brand name prescription drug. On average, generic drugs cost about fifty percent less than brand name drugs and like their brand name counterparts they are:

- Dispensed in the same dosage.

- Taken in the same way.

- Packaged in the same unit strength.

Prescription Monitoring Occasionally a prescription drug may cause a problem. The problem may be predictable, perhaps avoidable, if your physician and pharmacist are aware of your medical history, current medications and the many different combinations that cause harmful drug reactions.

Using DNA Tests To Expedite The Immigration Process

2007-06-21T03:20:00.001-07:00

In order to legally apply for residence to the United States on the basis of being a relative of a US citizen, one needs to provide definitive proof that you indeed are related to that person. Historically, this was a complex and involved process requiring tracking down birth certificates and other paper work, getting them certified by authorized people and then submitting them (in triplicate!) to the US Immigration authority. You would have to wait for the paper work to be accessed. If your paperwork was not 100% complete or there was a query, you would have to go through the whole process again. This involves big time delays and often considerable additional expenses.

But all that drama and delays is now a thing of the past!

You can now accelerate the whole process of proving your biological relationship to the US citizen who you are claiming to be your relative by undergoing a simple DNA test. This method is much easier and more accurate than the old paper-based method which is prone to inaccuracies and subjective interpretation by the relevant immigration authorities.

You can get the test done at DNA testing centres which are springing up all over the US, as well as most other countries. Simply make an appointment, appear in person, provide the sample DNA (usually from saliva or from some skin cells in your inside cheek), pay your fee – and you are done! The cost of this can be up to $400.

An alternative lower cost option is the DIY approach. Purchase a DNA testing kit online, take the sample (again probably some skin cells from your inside cheek), provide some proof of your identity, and then send the pack of to the company which processes the testing kits. These kits plus the analysis services usually retail for under $100. You can find these companies by googling the term “DNA Testing Kit”. As with any online purchase, do be careful and research the company thoroughly before sending any money.

Pursuing a Lucrative Career in Medical Billing

2007-06-21T03:19:00.000-07:00

The basic needs of man continue to evolve and so are the processes that go with these. Such development is reflected in the growing demand of adept personnel in the field of medical billing. The same holds true for medical coding. A number of health institutions are looking out for highly trained medical billers and coders to fill up the appropriate insurance claims or forms.

Things were different before the advent of health insurance. Normally, a person would consult a doctor whenever he feels sick or has to go for a routine check-up. After proper treatment and prescription of medicines, the patient would pay in cash the health professional for his services. The process ends there as each party goes on their respective ways. However, things are not as simple as it was before. Health insurance has made it possible for a third party to enter the patient-doctor relationship, that is, the insurance company. The addition has affected the ease to which the physician or hospital, in some cases, is able to charge his service fees.

Medical billing primarily involves only the health care provider such as the doctor or hospital and the insurance company. The former will be the one to issue the bill for the services rendered while the latter will pay the stated claim. The patient is merely the conduit that establishes the relationship of the two parties. This is the scenario if you or someone else has taken a health insurance policy to take care of all your health requirements. An employer generally provides health insurance coverage for their respective employees and the government implements its own health benefits for its workers.

Since the exchange of money is involved, there are a number of problems encountered by the concerned parties in medical billing. On the part of the physician or health care provider, he would want to be reimbursed for his costs. Insurance companies, on the other hand, have to protect themselves from the increased incidence in insurance fraud. Based on several reports, the number of rejected medical billings including resubmissions of claims is at an estimated 50%. These may be the result of improperly filled-up insurance forms submitted by the medical biller of a doctor or health institutions. Therefore, a lot of time in paperwork is being consumed. This is the reason why there is a strong demand for medical billers and coders. Fortunately, there are medical billing schools as well as medical billing classes offered to those who are interested to pursue this career.

The salary and benefits of a medical biller or coder is quite high since this is certainly not an easy job. The premium is necessary granted that adequate knowledge and familiarity about medical terms is essential. Such would make the filling up of insurance forms trouble-free. You should take the corresponding medical billing courses to prepare your for this responsibility. Undergoing the recommended medical billing training will also strengthen your capability. The challenge lies in completing an acceptable insurance claim to the benefit of the health care professional.

New Cord Blood Stem Cells Therapy

2007-06-13T04:18:00.001-07:00

Cord blood stem cells are human cells that have the potential to develop into many different types of cells in the body. These cells come from umbilical cord blood that can be saved after the birth of a baby. Similar to embryonic stem cells, which are very controversial, the cord blood stem cells are much easier to obtain and are readily available. The cells are taken from umbilical cord blood and can be grown outside the body in a laboratory.

Cord blood stem cells therapy has the potential to use stem cells to or replace organs in the body that are damaged from illness or disease. Scientists are already using cord stem cells in the treatment of many diseases. The list of potential areas of use is almost endless. The stem cells are in the very early stages of development and have the potential to turn into specialized cells such as liver cell, nerve cells or lung cells to name just a few.

The scientific community is optimistically hopeful that these cells will be able to allow regeneration of organs in the human body. Researchers have already used the technique to grow limited versions of lungs, liver and other body organs in the lab. The potential for treatment is huge because of the large supply of cord stem cells that are available. This allows for increased research and development increasing the potential for finding cures more rapidly than ever thought possible.

Even more promising, umbilical cord stem cells therapy is less prone to rejection than previous methods such as embryonic stem cell or bone marrow transplant. The cells in the umbilical cord are much less developed and therefore may not have taken on characteristics that the immune system would recognize and reject.

New stem cell banks are now available to store a baby’s own stem cells for future use. Research has shown that stem cells from your own body may be the best way of using cord blood stem cells therapy. Parents can sign up for the program before the birth. The hospital will then collect the umbilical cord blood to the proper bank for processing. The bank will test the blood and place it in preservation containers. The stem cells are then “frozen” for potential future use.

Cord blood stem cells therapy has an exciting future with many possibilities to provide people with advanced disease repair and treatment. While there is still much research to be done, the advancements are profound and important and will continue to proceed at a rapid pace.

Collecting Blood Stem Cells For Research

2007-06-13T04:17:00.001-07:00

Cord blood stem cells are human cells that have the potential to develop into many different types of cells in the body. The cells are in very early stages of development. Stem cells can turn into specialized cells such as liver cells, nerve cells, lung cells, etc. These cells can be taken from umbilical cord blood and grown outside the body in the laboratory. This allows scientists and researchers to study these cells isolated from other cells and in controlled conditions.

Previously, research was done primarily using embryonic stem cells because these were known to work well. Using newer and advanced research techniques scientists have found that collecting umbilical blood stem cells work just as well and in some cases even better. There is a huge supply of stem cells that can be tapped into because there are blood stem cells as a byproduct with every birth. Even more encouraging is that the cells are not taken from embryos, a previous concern and cause for continued debate.

Scientists are excited about the possibilities for curing and treating many various diseases in the future using blood stem cells. Already the results for recent research show encouraging results. Scientists have been able to grow a mini-liver in the lab using cord blood stem cells and are hopeful that in the future they may be able to develop an entire organ that would be available for transplant.

While much additional research is needed, the future of collecting blood stem cells looks very promising. Cord blood stem cell banks are now available that collect and store stem cells so that they are available for later use. Parents must sign up for a stem cell bank before giving birth. Notification is given to the doctor and hospital so that the cord blood will be collected and sent to the bank. The bank then tests the blood and records a count of stem cells available. The blood is then packaged, sealed and stored in special cryogenically frozen areas for future use.

Currently most hospitals are not equipped to save umbilical cord blood unless they are given previous notice. Hopefully this will change in the future to encourage more people to store or donate stem cells by allowing them to make an instant choice at birth. Using one’s own stem cells for future transplants reduces the risk that the body will reject the organs or tissues because the DNA is an exact match. Even siblings and other family members will be able to take advantage of the stem cell bank if needed.

Common Side Effects Of Antihistamines

2007-06-08T03:35:00.000-07:00

As we're in the middle of the spring season and hay fever is running rampant, many allergy sufferers are running to their allergists and filling prescriptions for the most powerful antihistamines they can find. Well, it might surprise you to know that not only do these antihistamines have side effects but they also come with another fact of life that very few people are aware of; something that the drug companies don't want us to know. Well, this article is going to give you the straight facts on antihistamine side effects and that small little detail that your allergist failed to tell you about your favorite hay fever remedy.

For those who aren't quite sure how antihistamines work, it's actually a very simple process. Basically, when your body is affected by an outside substance, like pollen, it reacts to this substance by producing histamines. These histamines are the body's defense against these outside invaders. Unfortunately, in creating this defense, it also creates the symptoms that go with them, such as the watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, and in extreme cases, shortness of breath and even asthma. What antihistamines do is reduce the effects of our body's defense mechanism.

Unfortunately, these antihistamines come with a price tag that goes way beyond the cost of the pills themselves. Common side effects of antihistamines are drowsiness, which is why you should never drive or operate heavy machinery when taking them, dizziness, restlessness, nervousness and upset stomach. Other side effects, which aren't as common are dry mouth, dry nose, irritability, difficulty urinating and blurred vision. In most cases, the side effects from antihistamines are barely noticeable. However, the real problem with taking these drugs is not so much from what they do to you, but from what they don't do.

Over time, as you continue to take a particular antihistamine, you may notice that the drug doesn't seem to be working as well as it used to. The reason is simple. Your body's immune system begins to build up tolerance to these drugs. Usually, within a period of about three months, the drug stops working completely. At the very least, its effectiveness is greatly reduced. That is why a knowledgeable allergist, who doesn't have his pockets filled by the drug companies, will tell you to rotate your antihistamines every three months. So for example, he might have you take Claritin, which contains loratadine, for three months and then have you switch to Benadryl, which contains diphenhydramine hydrochloride, for the next three months. Otherwise, you will find your allergy symptoms getting worse and worse.

This never ending battle against allergies, which is really a no win war with drugs, keeps the drug companies in business and makes them richer and richer. There are cures for allergies and they don't involve taking drugs. You can check out the details in my signature.

You don't have to put up with antihistamine side effects and ultimately lose the war against allergies.

Bird Flu and the Anti-Viral Drug Tamiflu

2007-06-08T03:34:00.000-07:00

Bird flu might have disappeared from the news recently but the likelihood of a human pandemic has not receded along with media interest in the story. Unless there is something new to hang a story on, there seems no point in reporting on the matter. When a dead swan was found in Scotland earlier this year the whole of the world's media seemed to go crazy but interest soon faded, even after the confirmation that the dead bird was indeed infected with the H5N1 strain of the influenza virus, as this seemed to be an isolated incident with a single migratory bird that had strayed off course.

The Global Health Research Forum believes that the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of the virus could be with us for another decade and the possibility of this virus mutating into one which can be transferred between humans is still highly likely. So far 256 humans have been infected with the virus since 2003 but these have all been people who have come into close contact with infected poultry or wild fowl.

It is estimated that around 750,000 people in the UK could die in a pandemic. The Government has arranged to stockpile around 14 million courses of the anti-viral drug Tamiflu which is effective in preventing the spread of influenza or reducing the symptoms once contracted. The Government is also in talks about acquiring a vaccine.

Given that the Government has only made provisions for around 25% of the UK population, many people are looking to Buy Tamiflu for themselves and their families as a precaution. Although GPs can write a private prescription for their patients, many seem to be unsympathetic to their patients' concerns and have refused to write the prescriptions. As a result, many people have turned to the internet to seek advice and to purchase medication.

Anyone seeking to purchase Tamiflu online should be careful to purchase from a regulated Online Clinic or pharmacy. Whilst there are many charlatans supplying counterfeit medication over the internet, there are a few legitimate suppliers in the UK which employ doctors and dispense from regulated pharmacies. Any person looking to purchase Tamiflu online should check out the credentials of the supplier and ask for the registration details of the pharmacy that will dispense the medication so this can be checked with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain.

Any Pain Or Discomfort That Just Won't Go Away Even With Surgery?

2007-06-05T04:05:00.001-07:00

I want to tell you a story of a client of mine (though you could read it in her words in the beautiful testimonial she wrote for my website under the name of Lisa E.). This woman had been in excruciating pain, which kept her bedridden for the five years. This would have been bad enough if we were talking about an older person. She is was all of 41 years old. She had been through two operations, a pain clinic and many other types of medical interventions but nothing helped her diminish the pain that left her totally disabled.

I got on the phone with the surgeon who had done the two operations, and he told me that there was no reason that he could find for her to have this sort of pain. It just did not make any sense. The MRI he had done on her came up clear. He told me that if I could help her to go ahead and do it.

Now, I want you to know that fourteen other hypnotists were called and not one of them returned the call given the information on the message. This was a fairly complex case given all the labels the various doctors gave her. Actually it was rather simple from my point of view.

We worked very hard over a period of six rather long sessions and released her from most of her discomfort. After the work was done she was thrilled to have a part-time job and to be able to function in the world. Function in a way that was not to be believed before our work together. Since that time she has gone on to earn a Ed. D. completing her dissertation a year and three months after we completed our work together. She is currently finishing her second year as an adjunct professor at a college in the area.

I want those of you who are out there to realize that doctors are wonderful and have the ability to do many things that a hypnotist really cannot in terms of using diagnostic equipment and in terms of what they know from their medical training. It is very important that we work with these professionals. However, there are times when the mind is more important in dealing with some of these issues, and that is where the hypnotist shines.

We went right to the root of this woman’s problems and got them cleared out to the point where anything that is left, the medical community needs to deal with. You see, the mind does things to protect us from the past and until we are able to understand it and let it go, it can come out in other ways like physical health issues or emotional problems. Each can cause a lot of lost time in life and that is very sad.

I see myself as a facilitator of letting people rid themselves from whatever may be causing this to happen in a rather quick and playful way. We hypnotists love to have fun, so our interventions work on that level. Of course if anything comes up that needs to be handled we can do that. But we work from the premise that the client’s symptoms are readily taken care of with the help of the subconscious mind, for it holds the key to all the answers. Once we have the key we unlock the cause and give you what you need to go on your way to achieving whatever it is that you would like to do. It’s quick, it’s simple and you are always in control. In fact much of my work is done in a manner where I do not even need to know the content, only the context. So you can keep your secrets and we can still work together to clear it out and have you pain free. Isn’t that great!

FDA Pushes to Broaden Warnings On Anti-Depressants

2007-06-05T04:04:00.001-07:00

The FDA is urging that a new warning be placed on the labels of all anti-depressants warning of an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. The current warning label warns of a increase of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children 18 and younger, but the FDA says that the warning should be expanded to also include young adults from 18-24 years old.

The FDA has said that the increase of suicidal thoughts and behavior is limited only to those 24 years and younger. Those taking the ant-depressants 65 and older actually show a decreased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior.

Dr. Steven Galson, the FDA’s drugs chief said, “Antidepressant medications benefit many patients, but it is important that doctors and patients are aware of the risks.”

NBC chief science correspondent Robert Bazell explained that many psychiatrists believe that the first 2 weeks after a young adult begins taking the medication are the most critical.

"What this warning says is to pay close attention to [young] people when they are starting on the medication, when there is a slight risk of suicide. They should be followed much more closely than they need to be later on," he explained.

Although it is good that the FDA has required the label change, some believe that the warnings have been long overdue. According to MSNBC, “last month, a comprehensive analysis of antidepressants for children and teenagers found the benefits of treatment trump the small risk of increasing suicidal thoughts and behaviors in some patients. The Journal of the American Medical Association study also found that risk is lower than what the FDA identified in 2004, the year the agency warned the public about the risks of the drugs in children.”

Bariatric Bypass Surgery - Weight Loss Method That Just Can Not Fail

2007-05-21T04:02:00.001-07:00

Bariatric bypass surgery is a medical phrase that you have very likely heard quite a bit about and really stands for many related manners of weight loss surgical treatments. Many individuals who have benefited from this surgery, as well as many famous persons, are very pleased by this weight loss system.

Nevertheless, before you conclude that bariatric bypass surgery is the best way for you to begin losing weight, you have to keep in mind the good and the disadvantageous side of it.

Though gastric bypass is a successful way of weight loss, it ought to be mainly employed to deal with those that are believed to be morbidly obese.

Because there are serious hazards of undergoing this form of surgical procedure, bariatric bypass surgery is employ only when the hazards of surgical procedure are decreased by the hazards of wellbeing that the person is currently facing.

In case that you are thinking about this type of surgical procedure for weight loss, you will most likely need to be ill with health problems that are caused or made worse by being obese.

For instance, it could be problems in which diabetes has progressed or blood pressure is way too high. By dropping the excess weight that you are lugging around, through bariatric bypass surgery or not, you are going to be more capable of turning around or slow down the growth of health problems similar to these.

What you should also recognize is that gastric bypass is more about preserving your health then improving your look. Various people learn that losing weight with any method is especially demanding and presents not much of instant gratification. It is extremely difficult losing even a couple of pounds, without even mentioning the amount that most individuals with obesity problem considering bariatric bypass surgery should lose.

By means of this way of weight loss, the body really loses weight rapidly because you are incapable to consume as big meals as you used to be able to.

In order to give you such health benefits, bariatric bypass surgery for all practical purposes, partitions the stomach in two. By dividing the stomach into 2 sections, the lesser of the two is at the top, the patient will feel his appetite satisfied sooner, and will ingest just small amounts of food.

This is the result of the stomach, after the surgery being considerably lesser in size. Nearly all of those that have used gastric bypass will eat more tiny meals rather then a few larger ones. Through gastric bypass you will truly lose a substantial amount of superfluous weight.

So in conclusion, if you have struggled to drop a significant number of pounds with other ways of weight loss and was unable to succeed, bariatric bypass surgery could just be the the key to your successful weight loss.

Getting Best Medical Treatment - Choosing A Good Doctor And Cut - Commission Practice In Medicine

2007-05-21T04:01:00.000-07:00

10 best ways to get best medical treatment.
*Write down your problems in order of severity and duration.
*Choose the best doctor and have faith in him.
*Be precise in describing your problem and get the doctors impression of your possible diagnosis.
*Get the list of investigations that are necessary and list of places where to get done.
*Discuss the treatment options.
*Search the web or library about your problem and learn more.
*If interventions are needed, find out who is best in that field around you and who can give personal attention.
*If it is difficult to get him choose the next best.
*Discuss about the procedure, complications, charges, success rates, and his personal experience.
*Have adequate insurance cover.

Choosing a good doctor It is extremely difficult to choose a good doctor. The public impression is that a neatly dressed one, a good looking, sweetly speaking doctor is a good doctor. But in reality the knowledge, skill, genuine interest in healing may not match the outward expression. An outwardly smart looking doctor with best skill, knowledge and good interest in patients outshines. When you choose a doctor, go by his qualification, experience, attitude and treatment records. Assess his genuine interest. Don’t have to hurry for treatment if not an emergency. Ask him about your problem, treatment options, expense involved and whether there are any methods to reduce your expense. A reasonable doctor would never deprive you from the adequate information. Whenever a surgery is involved ask for previous surgery out comes, patient references and counter check them.. Whenever a intervention is needed find out how urgent it is and on what basis. Enquire among the medical professional who is best in that field. Who is the next choice. And also enquire among your friends and relatives.

Cut or commission practice in medicine Cut pratice or commission practice in medical profession has been there since years. This is no doubt due to craving for earning more money. What is changing recently is the percentage is on the rise, the number of persons giving / taking cut or commission has increased also becoming more and more unethical. I shall touch upon what do I mean by unethical or ethical cut practice in my future postings. Partly it is due to changing technology, newer medical gadgets along with changing life style. The commission is given for minor tests like urine test, consultation to newer high cost investigations and interventional procedures.

Many times unnecessary investigations and procedures are done purely for monetary gains both to the performing person and referring doctor. The patients need to know about this and be diligent. It is not possible to guess who is or who is not in to it. It is so rampant that the commission is in fact paid in advance to the referring persons in lump some. The superspecialists and consultants also take commission. The percentage of people who are not into it may be less than 5-10%. The person however skilled or knowledged he may be will be avoided by the referring doctors if he does not “entertain” them. Some doctors maintain a clean note book indicating the name of the patient, amount due, from which doctor / lab etc. Now patients in private practice may not be able to avoid this , at the most can hope that only indicated procedures or investigations are done by a relatively competent person

Canadian Online Pharmacy Or Mexico Online Pharmacy - Importing Medications And Some Considerations

2007-05-21T04:00:00.002-07:00

The use of online pharmacies for the purchase of medications is a widely accepted practice used by consumers looking to find inexpensive and embarrassment free ways to purchase needed medications in a discreet manner. But now comes the topic of discussion, what about the importation of medications from outside of the USA from places like Canada or Mexico or even elsewhere? Is it wise? Are there risks involved both to your health and to your personal finances? What about legal issues? Hopefully this discussion will help to educate, increase awareness and consideration of the many faceted subject of purchasing medications from other countries and importing them into the USA.

First of all what is the main attraction for consumers to consider shopping for medications from other countries? The obvious answer is far cheaper prices for medications out of country than from those available in country. Some of the savings in price per pill from ordering out of country are absolutely astounding, sometimes savings of up to 90% are available - sometimes more - sometimes less, these prices dazzle and amaze consumers and produce an incredible temptation to consider purchasing from out of country, and who can blame them?

What are some considerations that consumers should look at before ordering out of country?

The main consideration for a consumer before ordering out of country should definitely be the issue of legality. Is it legal in State that I live to order medications from Canada, Mexico or overseas? This is a main consideration as ordering some medications may be considered as illegal as purchasing Cocaine from Brazil. So to answer this question it is recommended that you as a consumer will have to do some research, it is recommended to know the brand name and generic name of the medication you wish to purchase. It is also recommended to talk to customs about importation of that substance into your State; also a phone call to the local police station wouldn't hurt either and ask about the legality of importing that substance. A thorough search online about importing a specific medication into your State is also recommended. It is recommended to find out if a medication prescribed out of country is valid in your State for the possession of such a substance. Many people choose to risk it and just order and hope it works out - this is a foolish way to approach something of this nature as the legal results could be disastrous - it is completely up to the consumer to know the local laws about the importation of medications from out of country before ordering.

What are some of the health and financial risks involved in ordering medications out of country? Let's discuss some; when ordering medications from out of country a consumer should be completely assured that the online pharmacy is trustworthy, safe, and has some kind of 3rd party accountability to an online pharmacy checker type program so you can have confidence that no one is racking up charges to your stolen credit card number and also that the medication you are purchasing is a quality top grade trusted pharmaceutical laboratory produced substance. When ordering from verifiable sources you receive the medications shipped to you in their original packages so you know that you are receiving the correct medication whether it is a generic version or a brand name. Too many stories are circulating on the internet about ‘medications' arriving in containers that are not original packaging and consumers opening the caplets to find only sand, sugar or sawdust inside instead of the medication they ordered. Other stories of ‘medications' arriving in containers that are not original packaging that have impurities, filler mixed in, or who knows what, don't risk your health, its recommended to only accept medications arriving in un-tampered original packaging from a reliable source.

Which countries is it wisest to order medications from? As long as the pharmacy sells medications in the original packages the safety factor is very high, yet a consideration is that the medications even though they are in their original packaging may be ‘overdue', every medication has a shelf life and older medications may not be as effective as ones manufactured recently, always ask the online pharmacy to supply you with an expiration date of the medication. As an example, I am looking at a certain brand name bottle of Ibuprofen that has an expiration date written on it of 2009/12. Using the medication after this date may decrease its effectiveness and perhaps in some cases the safety of the substance if it begins to decompose. Buying medications from 1st world countries such as Canada, Australia, the U.K., etc. is typically safer then other countries as the standards in 1st world countries either meet or beat the FDA medication standards in the USA and existing government imposed safety and financial laws which must be abided by the pharmacies that operate in 1st world countries. This may or may not be the case in non-1st world countries. As a final suggestion, reading and discussing about a certain online pharmacies on an online pharmacy forum is a good suggestion as you can learn from the triumphs and mistakes of other online pharmacy consumer.

Pharmaceutical Industry

2007-05-21T04:00:00.001-07:00

I would like to stress again that I believe prevention is the first point of call.

If you find yourself regularly visiting the doctor or popping pills (even for headaches) it is imperative to examine your current lifestyle. By incorporating supportive eating, appropriate exercise (including not excessively) and consciously trying to reduce stressors (like getting to bed late, reducing alcohol consumption, being a non-smoker) many of the common afflictions will be dealt with and the body will be given a chance to do its natural job of healing.

But what happens when we do get sick or fall into a state of disease? For most people that means turning to pharmaceutical drugs for relief and treatment. In the US alone pharmacies filled 3 billion drug prescriptions in 2000. "That's enough drugs for every man, woman and child to have a prescription each new month of the year!" (1)

Now many people have benefited from pharmaceutical drugs particularly in the short term but I ask the question: "Have we become too dependent on man-made chemicals for our wellbeing? Are we looking for health solutions in wrong places?"

Here are some facts about big pharma in the UK:

• 1999 - £ 529.8 million spent on prescription in England

• 2001 - 587 million prescription items dispensed in England (6.4% increase on 2000)

• Aspirin Disper Tablet is the most commonly prescribed drug

• UK pharmaceutical exports in 2000 were £7.5 billion (2)

Potential risks of Prescription Drugs According to Dr. Bruce H. Pomeranz from the University of Toronto: "It's estimated that bad reactions to prescription and over the counter medicines kill more than 100,000 Americans and seriously injure an additional 2.1 million every year." (2)

"Aspirin and related drugs kill almost as many people as Aids. If those deaths were given their own category, they would constitute the 15th most common cause of death in the United States." Wolfe et al (Boston Universtiy School of Medicine, Reported in Reuters News Agency June 17, 1999) (2)

So I would like to leave you with a highly controversial cartoon that was posted on mercola.com that challenges the role of 'Big Pharma'.

I hope this provides some help in shaping and influencing your own health solutions. Enjoy!

Drug Advertising - Are The Drug Companies Lying To Us?

2007-05-21T03:59:00.000-07:00

Regardless if you’re a doctor, a health professional, or just a person who wants some reliable information I think we have all become overloaded with the media hyping of prescription drugs. If the ads are true then the only way to a happy and healthy life is through medication. But are the ads true? What are they really saying to us?

What finally flipped me off was a full page ad in the USA TODAY by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer. With a three tone color background, a photograph of Dr. Robert Jarvik, the inventor of the artificial heart, there it was in large bold print:

LIPITOR REDUCES RISK OF STROKE BY 48%. Now that may sound like good news and it would if it were true. In reality it is deceptive at best. Let me break it down and show you how this ad tricks us.

1. The majority of people who read the newspaper don’t read these ads or they may skim them briefly and move on. That’s fine with Pfizer; they know that at some later date, if the subject of strokes comes up in casual conversation you will remember that Lipitor reduces the risk by 48%.

2. In small print it says that this is only true in patients with type 2 diabetes AND have at least one other risk factor for heart disease including high blood pressure, smoking or complications of diabetes, including eye disease and protein in the urine. I don’t know about you but I think we just eliminated a lot of people who would need Lipitor.

3. This is the fun part. Next to 48% in the ad there is an asterisk* which states: “That means in a large clinical study, 2.8% of patients taking a sugar pill or placebo had a stroke compared to 1.5 % of patients taking Lipitor.” That means that 28 out of a 1,000 people who took the sugar pill {did nothing} had a stroke while 15 out of 1,000 taking Lipitor had a stroke. Now we get to the juicy part. There are two types of risk, relative risk reduction {RRR} and absolute risk reduction {ARR}. The difference between 15 and 28 is a relative risk of 48%, which the drug companies love to use because it is more impressive. The more important number is the absolute risk which is 1.3%, the difference between 2.8% and 1.5%. Drug companies don’t like to use the absolute risk because it is not as impressive but that is what researchers use and it is the most important factor.

Lets look at it another way. If I told you I could increase your chance of winning the Lottery by 48% would that get your attention? Sure it would. How about 1.3%? Not to exciting is it. In other words, if you take Lipitor your have a 1.3% better chance of not getting a second stroke compared to doing nothing.

Pfizer ends their ad with this statement: “When diet and exercise alone are not enough adding Lipitor can help.” When diet and exercise are not enough? Diet and exercise are very effective. In fact they can eliminate all the risk factors if the patient will apply themselves to a healthier lifestyle. It is only when the patient does not comply with lifestyle changes that the doctor has to revert to medication. In reality diet and exercise should be the cornerstone in preventing both a stroke and heart disease. The real risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, and sedentary living should first be addressed before you become dependent of prescription drugs. The next time you see your doctor ask, “What can I do to prevent having to take a drug?” Always ask your doctor what the absolute risk is for any medication you are considering. If they look at you with a blank stare and say, “What is absolute risk? then they have not done their home work.

I Want a New Drug

2007-05-15T04:52:00.001-07:00

Did you realize that most all of the new drugs made in United States in the past 25 years have come from natural plant resources? Despite exhaustive and sophisticated lab efforts the next new wonder drug will more than likely come from a plant found in the natural world. According to David Newman of the U.S. National Cancer Institute's natural products branch, "Chemists started making libraries of hundreds of thousands to millions of compounds. But they were simple compounds, Mother Nature doesn't make simple compounds. Mother Nature wants compounds that fit into particular places. A chemist would never conceive of making Taxol unless he or she had seen Taxol first."(ENN) Over 25% of western pharmaceuticals are derived from rainforest ingredients, less than 1% have been tested by scientists. What unknown treasures does the mysterious rainforests hold? Who knows probably the cure for AIDS, bird flu and yet undiscovered or unrealized diseases.

The troubling part about this wonderful news is that we are currently loosing more than 137 plant, animal and insect species per day due to rainforest deforestation. That equates to 50,000 species a year. As the rainforest species disappear, so do many possible cures for life-threatening diseases. Currently, 121 prescription drugs sold worldwide come from plant-derived sources. (Rainforest Facts) The rainforests used to cover more than 14% of the earth's land masses, they now cover a mere 6%. Experts project that this precious healing resource may be completly destroyed in less than 40 years. We believe that when the rainforest with their rich plant and animal abundance are depleted, then so too will be our abilityto heal ourselves. What we do to the earth will reflect back on our civilization. If we destroy one ecsystem, then we eventually destroy them all and ourselves along with them. It's time to wake up and realize that everyone and everything is truely connected.What can you do to help the rainforest situation?You can donate the National Arbor Day Society here. With your generous gift you can help save anywhere from 2,500 - 25.000 square feet of curing power! The National Arbor Day Society is a very old and reputable organization so you can be sure that your dollars are being placed effectively. Last year their members planted over 8.5 million trees! You can also vote to rehabilitate the earth with every dollar you spend. Shop for and buy organic, green and eco-earth friendly products at Khrom Chen Virtual Mall. We carry Natural Botanical Supplements, Natural Pet Products, Organic Flower Delivery, Natural Area Rugs and so much more. We also feature Coupons and weekly Specials on most product lines. We also recommend Young Living Essential Oils and Supplements to look and feel your personal best naturally!

Here is a short list of pharmaceutical drugs and their natural plant counterparts: Click Here for the very long list

Aspirin = Willow Tree Taxol = Pacific Yew Digitalis = Foxglove Atropine = Belladonna Bromelian = Pineapple Caffeine = Coffee Codeine = Poppy Ephedrine = Ma Huang Valium = Valerian

Ambien Sleeping Pills

2007-05-15T04:51:00.001-07:00

Ambien sleeping pills have become the most popular sleeping pills over the last few years, being taken by almost 22 million Americans. Ambien is a prescription based sleeping pill which your doctor can prescribe to help those who suffer from insomnia. It is not meant for long term use, although it can easily become addictive. Ambien is intended to help a person fall asleep quickly, and should be taken accordingly.

Ambien are sleeping pills which would be classified as sedatives. The drug is intended to alter the chemicals in your brain which sometimes can become unbalanced and lead to insomnia. What Ambien does is it reduces the cells in the brain from being electronically active, causing a feeling of relaxation, and allows the person to fall asleep quickly and easily.

There are some important things to consider when you are taking Ambien sleeping pills. First, since Ambien makes you fall asleep quickly, only take Ambien right before you go to bed. If you take the drug and stay up, you are at risk to do and say things you do not remember. This is because the chemicals in the brain have been altered. Also, make sure to follow your doctors directions when taking Ambien sleeping pills. Do not take Ambien while under the influence of other drugs or alcohol, as that can greatly increase the severity of any side effects. Driving or operating machinery also should not be done after taking Ambien sleeping pills.

Ambien sleeping pills, for all the help they can provide you in falling asleep quickly at night, do have some major drawbacks. The longer you have been taking Ambien, the higher dosage you will need to achieve the same effects. Also, users will often develop mood swings, and can become very irritable, especially if they are unable to take the drug. Ambien sleeping pills can also produce hallucinations for the user, some of which can become very intense and frightening. Anyone taking Ambien sleeping pills must also be very cautious of not overdosing. If someone takes too many Ambien sleeping pills, they could become very sleepy or even go into a light coma. If the person has also been taking other drugs, the overdose could become very severe. There have even been a few cases of death resulting from an overdose of ambient sleeping pills.

There are many benefits and could also be many drawbacks from taking Ambien sleeping pills. Just remember to consult your doctor, follow his instructions, and Ambien could be just what you need to get a good nights rest.

Pain - Do You Pay the Right Attention to the OTC Drugs You are Using for Pain Relief?

2007-05-15T04:50:00.002-07:00

For most pain discomfort, we reach for NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). They are very effective, but "when people take inbuprofen, aspirin, ketpprofen or naproxen sodium, they figure since those drugs are ITC so they must be safe. As as result they overdo them, or don't pay attention to interactions with other medications," says Joseph Markenson, M.D., professor at Weill Medical College in New York City. "While the benefits of these drugs are enormous and real, so too are the risks of gastrointestinal upset and bleeding.

With any OTC pain reliever, start low and go slow, says Dr. Fishman. He also suggests, "Don't use aspirin as your first choice for pain relief. It is short acting as far as pain goes, but long-acting in its impact on platelets and blood coagulation, and has a greater risk of causing ulcers than ibuprofen for example".

"You can protect yourself from ulcers related to NSAIDs," says Dr. Markenson. take them with an OTC or prescription proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or opt for a pure analgesic such as acetaminophen, which offer relief from headaches, muscle aches and fever, but does not cause bleeding.

Acetaminophen poses little threat when taken as recommended, but liver toxicity is a risk if you drink alcohol, have liver disease or are also taking an NSAID or any additional medication that contains aetaminophen.

Make sure you tell your pharmacist and doctor what prescription meds you take, especially phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamazepine (Tegretol), rifampin (Rimactane, Rifadin), sulfinpyrazone (Anturane) and vitamin supplements.Surprised to find out that your "harmless" vitamin supplement can set off adverse reactions to medications? They can and plenty of research exists to prove that supplements can set off dangerous reactions when taken with OTC drugs.

"When it comes to decisions about pain relief", says Dr. Fishman, "you have to think about what makes sense for you and with individual risks and benefits. Is the pain affecting your quality of life? Do you really need a pain reliever to stay on track every day? Can you get rid of your headache for example some other way? Proceed cautiously with OTC drugs".

And don't ignore pain, ever. It is trying to tell you something. The bottom line is to find out what the problem is and take corrective action before things get worse.

Proton Pump Inhibitors for Acid Reflux Syndrome - Are They For You?

2007-05-15T04:50:00.001-07:00

There are many ways to treat acid reflux syndrome, and one of the things you might hear about the most are proton pump inhibitors (PPI’s). These are the most commonly advertised types of medications, and they come in both OTC (over-the-counter) and prescription strength. These are really great for those who have a lot of problems with their reflux recurring day in and day out. However, they might not be needed for everyone all of the time. You should talk to your doctor about how often you have pain, and what they think would be the best for you.

Proton pump inhibitors do more than just help soothe pain. They do something to reduce the pain and keep the levels of acid down in the stomach. These medications will actually stop many of the acid pumps in the stomach from producing acid.

The idea is if you have less acid production in your stomach, you won’t have the problem of the acid backing up into the esophagus. When this happens, the damage from acid reflux has time to heal. PPI’s can also be used for people who have ulcers in their stomachs.

Those who have had damage to the esophagus might have to take a prescription proton pump inhibitor to give the tissues time to heal. These are prescribed by a doctor, and they will need to be taken anywhere from two weeks to two months.

Because the amounts of acid are reduced, you will feel relief from your bouts of heartburn, and all tissues have breathing room to heal as they should. After the prescription has run out, you can probably take the OTC version of proton pump inhibitor. They aren’t as strong, but if the tissues have healed, you don’t need the prescription strength any longer.

There are some side effects with proton pump inhibitors that you do have to watch out for. If something is giving you problems, you may have to try a different medication. The goods news about this is that there are many different PPI type medications that you can try until you find something that does not bother you.

Some of the most common side effects are diarrhea, gas, and upset stomach. Occassionally people report experiencing dry mouth and headache. These are pretty rare though, and most won’t have problems with them.

Make sure you talk about all of your symptoms with your doctor so they can recommend the best medication for your acid reflux syndrome. If you are taking any other type of medication, either OTC or prescriptions, ask about drug interactions to be sure you will be safe.

You should be sure to let them know if you are pregnant, nursing, or have kidney problems. They may want to give you something else any of those are true for you. Also ask if there is anything else you can do to help your acid reflux syndrome. They might give you a food list, or recommend stress reduction to help with healing and to offer more relief.

Tegaserod Maleate Information

2007-05-15T04:49:00.000-07:00

Zelnorm Recall Update: Zelnorm has recently been recalled by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration due to its link to serious, life-threatening side effects. These side effects include heart attack, stroke, angina pectoris, heart attack, stroke, angina pectoris, Intestinal Ischemia, Colonic Ischemia and Ischemic Colitis. What is Zelnorm?

Tegaserod maleate, more commonly known as the prescription drug Zelnorm, is marketed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals. The United States Food and Drug Administration approved it in July of 2004. Zelnorm is intended for the short-term treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women. IBS is a syndrome that affects the function of the large intestine and colon. The drug is mainly meant to relieve severe, chronic constipation that is a main symptom of IBS. Zelnorm has never been tested on men and therefore not prescribed to males.

The drug is not a cure for IBS, but only a treatment. It is believed that Zelnorm provides benefits for most patients that suffer from irritable bowel syndrome and constipation because it increases the movement of fecal matter through the intestinal system. The drug is effective in relieving constipation (hard stools or difficulty passing stools) as it increases serotonin within the intestines. The increase in serotonin in turn increases the movement of stool through the bowels. For many patients that have used the drug, they have experienced a reduction in pain, discomfort, bloating, and constipation.

How to Use Zelnorm Because Zelnorm is a prescription drug, it is important to take it only as directed by a licensed physician. Never take a drug if you are unsure or do not fully understand the instructions. Your doctor or pharmacist will always be happy to explain them to you. Always be sure to take Zelnorm with a full glass of water and on an empty stomach. Typically, the regimen requires that the drug be taken twice a day. It is important to understand that Zelnorm is not a cure for irritable bowel syndrome, but is only a treatment. If the regimen is halted, symptoms of IBS may return within two weeks. Always remember that Zelnorm does not reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in every person. It may relieve all, just some, or none of the pain, bloating, and constipation commonly associated with IBS. If, after about a month, there is no improvement, Zelnorm may not be the best treatment and should be stopped with the consultation of a physician.

Zelnorm Side Effects As with any prescription or over the counter medication, there are side effects associated with the use of Zelnorm. The most commonly experienced side effects include, but are not limited to, headaches, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and dizziness. More serious side effects include heart attack, stroke, angina pectoris, Intestinal Ischemia, Colonic Ischemia and Ischemic Colitis. Upon prescribing Zelnorm, the physician will review and explain the side effects to the patient.

Additionally, any patient that is prone to excessive diarrhea, bad kidney function, liver disease, bowel obstructions, gallbladder disease, or abdominal adhesions should not take Zelnorm as treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. The drug may exacerbate these preexisting conditions. Zelnorm is intended for short-term treatment of irritable bowel syndrome only and is not recommended for long-term use. Physicians suggest that the drug be used only for several weeks or months at a time. Most often, the effects of the drug wear off after extended use.

Spend Money to Make Money-Big Pharma Sets Record for Number of Lobbyists

2007-05-08T04:46:00.003-07:00

According to examiner.com drug companies and their trade groups spent a record $155 million on lobbying the past 18 months. Issues that top the list for spending include Medicare prescription drug price negotiation and FDA reform.

Drug companies were responsible for the bulk of the spending, employing around 1,100 lobbyists on capitol hill. Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturing of America accounted for 18 million of the 155 all by themselves.

According to recent reports, the majority of spending has been directed towards stopping the ability of Medicare to negotiate its prices on prescription medication. Big Pharma by far outspent all other lobbying organizations.

A recent 60 minutes expose entitled Under The Influence, talked about to several senators and other experts to assess the drug lobbyists' role in passing bill that keeps drug prices high. Here is an exerpt from the program that talks about the Medicare prescription drug bill was passed three-and-a-half years ago;

"The pharmaceutical lobbyists wrote the bill," says Jones. "The bill was over 1,000 pages. And it got to the members of the House that morning, and we voted for it at about 3 a.m. in the morning."

Why did the vote finally take place at 3 a.m.?

"Well, I think a lot of the shenanigans that were going on that night, they didn't want on national television in primetime," according to Burton.

"I've been in politics for 22 years," says Jones, "and it was the ugliest night I have ever seen in 22 years."

The legislation was the cornerstone of Republican's domestic agenda and would extend limited prescription drugs coverage under Medicare to 41 million Americans, including 13 million who had never been covered before.

At an estimated cost of just under $400 billion over 10 years, it was the largest entitlement program in more than 40 years, and the debate broke down along party lines.

But when it came time cast ballots, the Republican leadership discovered that a number of key Republican congressmen had defected and joined the Democrats, arguing that the bill was too expensive and a sellout to the drug companies. Burton and Jones were among them.

"They're suppose to have 15 minutes to leave the voting machines open and it was open for almost three hours," Burton explains. "The votes were there to defeat the bill for two hours and 45 minutes and we had leaders going around and gathering around individuals, trying to twist their arms to get them to change their votes."

Jones says the arm-twisting was horrible.

Years Lost To Misdiagnosis

2007-05-08T04:46:00.001-07:00

I was diagnosed with Epilepsy at the age of three months, when my mother realized I was not following things properly with my eyes. I was taken into hospital and kept there under observation. Nothing happened to me there. I had no other strange episodes, but instead of just sending me home and asking my parents to keep an eye on me, Doctors put me on Barbiturates and my mother had to feed them to me in my baby milk.

I had no other symptoms of epilepsy, however, at the age of five I suffered Rheumatic Fever and, I didn't know it then, but that is when problem really started, because I began to suffer pains in many parts of my body and they never went away.

At the age of six, I had my first test for Epilepsy, which turned out to be normal. Doctors made the decision that I should come off the barbiturates, but because I was suffering from Anxiety, Dizziness and confusion, they put me on tranquilisers. In those days, tranquilisers were the answer to everything that doctors didn't understand. It didn't matter that I was only six year old!

I actually suffer from Fibromyalgia Syndrome, which used to be called, Chronic Rheumatism and Fibrositis. The main difficulty with Fibromyalgia is the side affects of the condition, which include, problems with concentration, bouts of confusion, Anxiety and Chronic Fatigue, sleep disturbances and lack of co-ordination. I started suffering from FMS after having Rheumatic Fever, but I would be in my fifties before my condition was actually diagnosed.

For much of my earlier life I continued on many different forms of tranquiliser, because doctors did not know what to make of me. Then I started on the Epilepsy medication, because they did not know what else might be causing my problems. I had begun passing out, so the Doctors decided that I must have Epilepsy after all! They weren't interested in the pains I was suffering, because the could not find a reason for them. There attitude was that my pains were imaginary.

Fibromyalgia is a much misunderstood condition and needs to become better known, in the medical community and by sufferers of chronic pain, who might have the condition. The main problem is that Fibromyalgia is only diagnosed when other tests have failed to reach a diagnosis. It is diagnosed by exerting pressure on various parts of the body. If enough of those pressure points are found to be painful, the condition is diagnosed.

Fibromyalgia causes sufferers to be unable to fall into a restful sleep. Antidepressants are usually used to enable the sufferer to relax better and fall into REM sleep more easily. The condition is quite common, so many of you, reading this article might have FMS. If you think you may do, see a rheumatologist and get it checked out. That way, you will avoid the pitfalls that I fell into, and you will have a correct diagnosis.

In Search For A One-Stop Store For Your Drugs

2007-05-08T04:45:00.002-07:00

Being informed always helps you make good decisions and especially when it concerns your health. Needles to say that the Internet is one huge resource for information that has changed the way we live, work and shop. The growth of the Internet has made it possible to compare prices and buy products just at the click of a mouse. But when it comes to buying medicines online, it is important to be extremely careful. Many pharmacies have their own websites that provide helpful information and some even offer the opportunity to purchase products online. But some websites sell medicine that may not be safe to use and could put your health at risk.

A recent report examines the behaviors in each consumer segment and forecasts growth in four general categories of Internet health care products and services, these have been named the four C’s of online health care:

* Content: information and services online
* Community: online support groups and communications networks
* Commerce: health-related goods and services for purchase
* Care: health care treatment via the Internet

Though the interests and motivations of individuals are diverse, the online health consumer population breaks down into three general categories distinguished by overall health status and related online behavior: individuals who are well; those who are newly diagnosed with an illness; and those who are chronically ill and their caregivers.

All online health consumers are not the same. Sick and well people search for different types of information at different rates of frequency and with different levels of urgency. Some start searching online when a family member or friend becomes ill and they want to help. Others use the Internet as consumers of health care in the same way they consume other commodities. They shop for discounts and go to sites that attract them with a coupon, and then go elsewhere when the promotion ends.

As health care organizations continue to use the Internet for business-to-business transactions and the supply-driven online health care market transforms itself to meet consumer demands, recognizing the efficiencies of collecting data and administering health care online has gained momentum as never before. One goal of such online health care providers is to create user loyalty by creating a relationship with consumers. Theoretically, the longer a visitor “sticks” to the site, the more likely that person is to be converted into a buyer of products and services from the site.

A medical search engine is what might be offered as a solution for both the providers as well as the patients. It would not only relieve the customers from site hopping in search of the best price and quality but will also provide wellness information in conjunction with the management of their specific disease or condition and with their efforts to improve their quality of life. Instead of surfing through thousands of individual pharmacy web sites, the customer will certainly feel in control while searching on a medical search portal. It will give them the ability to instantly move their prescription to any pharmacy irrespective of their location. Medical search portals thus provide customers an easy solution to make their desired purchase after checking out other pharmacy sites listed on the portal.

Internet Pharmacy - An Ideal Platform For Drug Purchase

2007-05-08T04:45:00.001-07:00

Getting the prescribed medicines from a nearby community drugstore had long been the only option for us. But now, Internet pharmacies have become a far better alternative. Internet pharmacies go a long way in meeting patient’s demands than what the traditional pharmacies could. A good online pharmacy entitles us to a host of benefits and services that the age-old community drugstores are incapable of providing in the near future. Online pharmacies outclass the traditional ones on more than a single ground.

A lot of patients suffer from ailments that they do not wish to make public. It could even be embarrassing for some to publicly buy such drugs at a community drugstore. Conversely, they can buy similar drugs through an Internet pharmacy. The ordering process is easy, secure and confidential. No need to go out of the house to queue up near a drugstore; just fill in the online order form available in the internet pharmacy’s website and wait for the drug to be delivered right at your doorsteps.

Most of us have a busy lifestyle. We need to take some time out for activities that are not a part of our daily routine. To get the drugs from a nearby drugstore, we need to find time to go out and buy them. Furthermore, there are patients who are too weak to move out. Such patients need to depend on others’ help to procure drugs from the nearest store. An Internet pharmacy, on the other hand, not only save our time but also reduces the effort needed to go to a drugstore. Whether at home, office, or anywhere else, all we need is to login to an online pharmacy website and place an order.

The cost of medicines is an essential point of consideration for the patients. Online pharmacies offer drugs at a far cheaper rate than that of the traditional ones. The difference in price is due to the high overhead costs incurred by the community drugstores. Conversely, an online pharmacy does not have similar magnitude of infrastructure or operational costs. Furthermore, online pharmacies operating from Canada offer attractive discounts as compared to others. This is due to the price regulations of prescription medicines by the Canadian government. Such discounts can be as high as 70%!

Safety, security, confidentiality, low prices and good product quality is what drives most patients to login to an online pharmacy. However patients should be careful to check out the legitimacy of the pharmacy. Internet pharmacies have become a booming business and a lot of people try to cash in this opportunity by promising the best and offering the worst. Legal online pharmacies are authorized by an external authoritative agency. Most legitimate Internet pharmacies provide a link to such an agency in support of their authenticity. People should check out for such links. Apart from that, it is always better to stay away from pharmacies that have broken links and look badly managed. Such pharmacies, in all probability, are the ones to stay away from. Online Canadian drug pharmacies are truly the best place to order medicines from; however, just do a bit of research beforehand to crosscheck its legitimacy.

Arthritis Pain Relief - Natural Tips And Treatments That Work Fast

2007-05-08T04:44:00.000-07:00

I got rid of my arthritis and arthritis pain forever by doing one single thing - read on. Yes I finally found complete relief from my arthritis pain naturally, and you can do it too.

To get the arthritis pain relief you're seeking it's helpful to understand how arthritis works. Sometimes arthritis occurs in the wrist, elbows, shoulders, and jaw but you generally don't find it there. In osteoarthritis, any one or more affected joints experience a progressive loss of cartilage, which is the slippery material that cushions the ends of bones.

It's important to learn plenty of facts about joints and arthritis to help you understand how to treat arthritis better. Collagen is the main protein found in all connective tissues in the body, including the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Damaged joints cause pain and sufferers are constantly looking for ways to relieve the pain.

Researchers report a higher incidence of osteoarthritis between parents and children or between siblings than between husbands and wives. Injuries sometimes can be the start in the arthritic disease process; osteoarthritis can develop years later even after a single traumatic injury to a joint or near a joint. Possible causes of arthritis include lesser known: bleeding disorders, like hemophilia that causes bleeding to occur in the joint; disorders such as avascular necrosis, that block the blood supply closest to the joint; and conditions like hemochromatosis, which causes iron build-up in the joints.

Many arthritis sufferers have changed their diets, like I did, and noticed significant or total improvement. An acidic diet, that is any foods that are not alive, is considered to be inflammatory to the joints. One natural treatment method involves avoiding all inflammatory foods. I learned to eat and enjoy all living foods. Living foods are foods that are alive, like fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds. There are plenty of raw food cookbooks out there with great recipes, too.

If you're not already doing so, make a big effort to change your diet. Many have told me that going off dairy products and gluten-containing foods relieved their arthritis pain entirely.

Make smoothies with fruit only using a base of two bananas, adding a cup of frozen or fresh blueberries and mango chunks or substitute any other fruit and add an energy boost of two tablespoons of coconut oil; add one or two leaves of kale for another highly nutritional boost -- no one will ever know.

Studies done on antioxidant vitamins question the value of these supplements; it's clearly better to consume these antioxidants in living foods because they may also need to work with other nutrients present in the foods to work properly. Keep in mind, if you take a joint supplement it should help do three things -- build cartilage, relieve everyday joint pain, and enhance your flexibility and movement.

Some people swear by morning drinks of raw apple cider vinegar and honey for arthritis pain relief. If your osteoarthritis is affecting your load-bearing joints, keeping your weight within a normal range is important.

Even the lightest exercise can go a long way to maintaining your joint mobility and overall health. At bedtime try putting on a pair of stretch gloves to help reduce the pain and swelling in your fingers for those who have arthritic hands. To be on the safe side always seek your doctor's advice before starting or changing your exercise program. Stretching and warming up the joints should always be the first step in your exercise routine to make your joints more flexible.

For arthritic fingers, a good exercise is to put your finger tips together and press hard and release, then repeat several times. Even if you don't think you can exercise, you can do some movements. Use Taiji health balls, with the chimes, to strengthen the finger joints: hold two balls, move in a clockwise circle with your fingers to rotate them, then try counterclockwise and do throughout the day.

If you're going to go the conventional treatment route and take medications, ask your pharmacist for drug inserts so you can read up on the drugs and understand any side effects or adverse reactions, before taking them. If you're planning to take any of the non-prescription NSAIDS for arthritis, make sure you understand what bad effects they can have on the stomach, liver and/or kidneys and discuss this with your doctor. Once you become more informed about arthritis you'll be able to plan an arthritis treatment program, natural or conventional or a combination of both.

More and more doctors are investigating the benefits of alternative therapies and most don't object to patients trying them. One should not only search for relief of arthritis pain but work on preventing it. Knowing more about arthritis and how it works will ultimately help contribute to your relief of arthritis pain. Changing the diet to a diet of mostly living foods is the fastest way to get rid of arthritis pain - I did it, you can too.

Ventricular Septal Heart Defects Linked to Antidepressants

2007-05-04T04:01:00.004-07:00

PAXIL AND THE POSSIBLE LINK TO VENTRICULAR SEPTAL DEFECTS Paxil may be the end-all and cure-all when it comes to depression, but nearly 20 years after it was released to the general public, more and more studies are showing the negatives may far outweigh the positives. Despite being the most popular and well respected drugs to control depression, Paxil has entered the third decade of its existence with a whole new slew of side effects that may be worse than the disease it was designed to control.

One of these side effects is known as Ventricular Septal Defects (VSD), a congenital heart defect. A VSD is a problem with the wall between the left and right side of the heart. To understand beeter what a VSD is, picture or a poorly built apartment building. The walls are in this apartment building are so thin that if you were to hammer a nail into the wall, the pointy end would protrude into your neighbor’s apartment. Now picture the same thing with the left and right sides of your heart. Not a pretty picture is it?

In September 2005, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) released a study showing that pregnant women who use Paxil during the first trimester are two times more likely to have a baby with birth defects. The most common defect of Paxil users, according to the FDA, is VSD. Put simply, VSDs are holes in the heart ranging in size from a problem that can correct itself as the baby grows older to holes that require surgery to repair.

FUTURE CARE OF VENTRICULAR SEPTAL DEFECTS You may decide the risk to your future child of your ingesting using Paxil is not enough to warrant the risk of your depression resurfacing if stop using the drug. There are other Paxil side effects down the road that you need to be aware however. Babies born with ventricular septal defects sometimes require ongoing care throughout their life. And the restrictions imposed on their lives can effect more than their physical health.

• Medical – If your baby is born with VSD, it is necessary for a physician to periodically check the heart to make sure there are no problems.

• Activity restrictions – Though most patients won’t have to limit their activities much, there is a small percentage who will. Activities as simple as playing in the backyard and riding a bike may be limited.

• Medicinal therapy – Some patients, even after surgery, suffer with a heart that is less able to contract. In these cases the patients uses diuretics to help the heart pump better.

• More surgery – Most people with uncomplicated ventricular septal defects that are repaired early rarely need further surgery. However, residual effects in some patients have been found. In this case, more surgery may be required.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHOICES

Of all the defects associated with the use of Paxil, ventricular septal defects are the most common. The side effects may not be enough to warrant you, as the mother, to cease using the drug. After all, most of the issues of a “hole in the heart” can be easily repaired with surgery and medicinal therapy. However, there is the risk of a hole in the heart that cannot be repaired and the risk of a child being on medication the rest of their life. The choice is yours.

Atrial Septal Heart Defects Linked to Antidepressants

2007-05-04T04:01:00.003-07:00

PAXIL AND THE POSSIBLE LINK TO ATRIAL SEPTAL DEFECTS Paxil landed on the market in the early 1990s and took the psychiatric world by storm. Psychiatrists quickly began treating their patients suffering from depression with the new miracle drug. And why not…it worked. However, there was a problem. And like a lot of so-called “miracle drugs,” those problems didn’t really begin to surface until many, many years later.

One of these problems is a congenital heart defect called Atrial Septal Defect (ASD). In layman’s terms, ASD is a defect involving the inter-atrial septum of the heart that prevents the uninterrupted flow of blood the left and right chambers of the heart. . Theses defects can range in severity from very small glitches in the heart that resolve themselves to major glitches that require surgery.

A recent public health warning released from the Federal Drug Administration revealed that pregnant women who take Paxil during the first trimester are nearly two times more likely to produce a baby with ASD. Women who take other antidepressants or no drugs at all presented a much smaller chance of having a baby with ASD. The FDA released the report after reviewing two independent studies. The first report was from the Swedish national registry. The second study was culled from United States insurance records. Both sources confirmed that women who used Paxil in the first trimester were one and a half to two times more likely to produce a baby with ASD.

ATRIAL SEPTAL DEFECTS AND FUTURE PROBLEMS The Paxil side effect of Atrial Septal Defects in infants may not be enough to convince some patients from taking Paxil. After all Paxil is a mood stabilizer and many patients feel the risk is worth it. But other problems may arise further down the line. An atrial septal defect (better known on the street as a “hole in the heart”), can lead later in life to decompression sickness, paradoxical emboli and migraines.

• Decompression sickness – ASDs are a predisposing risk factor for decompression sickness in divers. If a diver is suffering decompression sickness, blood carrying inert gases like helium and nitrogen does not pass through the lungs. This can cause large gas bubbles to form in the blood stream causing decompression sickness.

• Paradoxical emboli – Put simply, paradoxical emboli are blood clots in the veins. When the blood clot enters the arterial stream, the necessary blood flow can be blocked to parts of the body leading to stroke.

• Migraine – Other studies suggest that ASDs could be predisposing factor to migraines. But the statistical anomalies surrounding the causes of migraines prevent this from being listed as a possible side effect.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHOICES

If you’ve never taken Paxil, your choices are simple…don’t take it. But what if you’ve been taking it for years and you’ve come to depend on the mood stabilizing benefits Paxil provides. If this is the case, you need to weigh the pros and cons of the possible side effects of Paxil and determine your best course of action. But at lease now you have the information at hand and are better prepared.

Antidepressants and Craniosynostosis

2007-05-04T04:01:00.001-07:00

Paxil and Craniosynostosis Paxil is a drug manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline and is mostly used to treat depression and related ailments. Paxil’s generic name is Paroxetine Hydrochloride and up until December of 2003 it was a very well received, well used and extremely popular antidepressant drug. In December of 2003 the FDA issued a mass warning against its use, especially by young children as well as women in the middle of a pregnancy. The mass warning served to attract a lot of media and scientific attention to possible side effects through the use of the Paxil drug.

The PDA warning was a wake up call following the results of a number of medical research studies carried out by the National birth Defects Prevention Study of Infants (NBDPSI). The results stated that babies born to women who had used this drug when they were 20 weeks pregnant or later were more likely to suffer very serious congenital birth defects. One of the most common congenital defects suffered was craniosynostosis.

Craniosynostosis Craniosynostosis is an extremely serious congenital defect. It is a cranial defect and is caused by the use of the Paxil during pregnancy. Many women have taken Paxil during their pregnancies and many women gave birth to infants with the craniosynostosis defect.

It is a very serious side effect that leads to a very abnormal looking skull in the newborn baby. Such a problem is caused when the baby’s skull sutures closed much earlier than would otherwise be typical. This ultimately results in an abnormally shaped skull.

A suture is a connection that ties up the many different skull bones in a developing fetus or newborn human being. Sutures normally take a long time to close and this is an evolutionary mechanism that allows the head to be shaped and formed into the normal ovular shape that is common amongst individuals. When the sutures close prematurely it not only affects the shape of the skull but it also serves to put a roadblock in the way of proper cranial (i.e. Brain) formation and development.

The skull tends to stop growing in places where the sutures have closed and because of this expands further in places where they are still open. This tends to pull the skull into a very elongated shape with emphasis on the areas where sutures are still open. Additionally this abnormal development might result in the build up of excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain cavity, thereby complicating things further.

Symptoms of Craniosynostosis include developmental delays, blindness, acute intra-cranial pressure, seizures, mental retardation and in some extreme cases even death may occur.

The treatment for craniosynostosis is surgery. Sometimes this is conducted on a baby before he/she completes three months of age because the procedure can be completed with the minimum possible invasion, i.e. through microscope. This would also mean less blood loss, infection threat and stay in the hospital. Generally, every baby born with this congenital defect would require emergency life saving treatment in the first two-three weeks of life.

The surgical correction may need to be repeated at later ages as the baby grows, depending upon the shape of the skull the child has. Though there is no upper limit of age for this procedure (surgery is usually done until the shape of the head is totally corrected), generally the last would be when the child reaches about 4-5 years of age.

Arthritis Pain Relief - What You Need To Know About Natural Treatments

2007-05-04T04:00:00.001-07:00

There is a little-known natural solution to curing oneself of arthritis pain, which I discovered many years ago. Getting rid of arthritis pain, without drugs, was one big relief for me.

Arthritis pain can be experienced whenever a stiff or swollen joint is used. There are more than 100 different types of medical conditions that can affect your joints; it'll be difficult to treat your condition effectively unless you know exactly what your diagnosis is; get diagnosed. Sometimes arthritis occurs in the wrist, elbows, shoulders, and jaw but you generally don't find it there.

The ability to make repairs to cartilage becomes limited as cartilage cells age. Joints are designed for normal and painless movement and are primarily supplied by the synovium and cartilage. Collagen is the main protein found in all connective tissues in the body, including the muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Aging cells may be a factor in the development of arthritis. One possible cause of arthritis is the inflammatory response due to the over-reaction of the immune system to an injury or other assault in the body, like an infection. It's generally thought that inflammation plays a minor role in osteoarthritis and is more likely to be a result, not a cause, of arthritis.

With natural treatments there will be fewer, if any, side effects or adverse reactions. Many have told me that going off dairy products and gluten containing foods relieved their arthritis pain entirely. Not a food, but many, including one well-known professional golfer, still wear copper bracelets and swear by them.

Watch your diet closely - load-bearing joints are affected by excessive weight; they are the hips, knees, feet and spine. For natural treatment for arthritis make an appointment with a naturopathic doctor, called a naturopath; ask around for referrals. A study in Great Britain touted the beneficial effects of cod liver oil on osteoarthritis; relieving pain and stiffness, and reversing the destruction of joint cartilage within 24 hours.

For snacks, choose raw nuts without salt instead of lifeless roasted nuts. And avoid all inflammatory foods, if you can.

Try massaging your fingers or other affected joints with coconut oil twice a day. If you really want to get rid of your arthritis pain forever it may take a radical change in your diet and ongoing commitment.

Important exercises for arthritis are range-of-motion exercises, isometrics, and some weight bearing exercises. For arthritic fingers, a good exercise is to put your finger tips together and press hard and release, then repeat several times. Even if you don't think you can exercise, you can do some movements. At bedtime try putting on a pair of stretch gloves to help reduce the pain and swelling in your fingers for those of you who have arthritic fingers.

Whatever you do, keep moving; don't sit when you can stand, don't stand when you can walk. Try to keep painful joint areas in motion, even in a limited manner. A good exercise routine is the key to beating arthritis and arthritis pain - keep moving.

Conventional doctors may suggest the standard protocol for your joint pain; they tell you to take over-the-counter NSAIDS or prescribe COX-2 inhibitors, of which all have side effects.

If you're planning to take any of the non-prescription NSAIDS for arthritis, make sure you understand what bad effects they can have on the stomach, liver and/or kidneys and discuss this with your doctor. For conventional treatment of arthritis - if you do choose to take drugs or medications, be very careful and read the labels thoroughly.

One should not only search for relief of arthritis pain but work on preventing it. Knowing more about arthritis and how it works will ultimately help contribute to the relief of your arthritis pain. More and more conventional doctors are investigating the benefits of diet and alternative therapies

Save Your Life From Pneumonia - Get A Nebulizer

2007-05-04T03:59:00.000-07:00

Keep in mind that over time, your needs may change. Technology will also undoubtedly change, meaning that you should change your equipment of choice when newer and much more advanced versions of nebulizers come out on the market. Do not be mislead by size. Take into account the effectively as well as convenience of the equipment in relation to your lifestyle.

Types of nebulizers:

1. Non Portable Nebulizer

A large sized nebulizer for use in the home. These units are excellent for individuals who can use this at home and uses inhalers on the go and for small children who are still not capable of using a metered dose inhaler. Although they can be carrier when traveling, these units are not the best choice since they are bulky and needs a power source that require A/C exclusively.

2. Portable Nebulizer

These units are small and handy, ideal for the individual who is always on the go, preferring to use a nebulizer than an inhaler. Battery operated, they can be used conveniently anywhere, anytime.

3. Standard Jet Nebulizer

These units are the common type of nebulizer. Air pressure is used to turn medication into mist that can be inhaled through a mouthpiece or a mask.

4. Ultrasonic nebulizer

Similar to the standard jet nebulizer, produces more particles that are of the same size compared to compressor nebulizers. If particles are uniform in size, it allows better aerosol penetration into the lungs.

5. Spacers For Metered Dose Inhalers

This type increases the space between the mouth and the metered dose inhaler. Spacers aid in the inhalation of more medication into the lungs, avoiding depositing of medications on the back of the user’s throat. Spacers are recommended for all users of Metered dose inhalers and specially to individuals having coordination problems when breathing while at the same time depressing the inhaler gradually. If respiratory medication needs to be transported to the lungs directly, this can be done through the use of a nebulizer if prescribed by your doctor. Signs for this treatment include:

- Tightness in chest

- Increased or thick secretions

- Pneumonia (congestion)

- Atelectasis

6. Avoid Treatment If:

- Autonomic hyperreflexia, or an increase in the individual’s blood pressure

- Increased pulse

- When the individual has a history of harmful reactions when taking medications.

7. How to use a nebulizer?

- Place the unit in a sturdy table.

- Wash your hands well with soap and water.

- Take off the cup portion of the nebulizer

- Draw up the amount that is prescribed of the mediation in a syringe or an eye dropper.

- Put the medication inside the medicine cup with normal saline of 3cc.

- Close the cup to the nebulizer.

- The oxygen tubing is to be attached on the nipple on the nebulizer and fasten the other end unto the oxygen tank or compressor.

- Make sure that the patient is well seated and comfortable on a chair.

- Turn the compressor or tank on, until the mist is seen that is coming out of the nebulizer’s mouthpiece.

- Check the pulse

- Placing the mouthpiece in the patient’s mouth (place it between the teeth, sealing it with the lips), slow deep breaths should be taken. Hold your breath for two seconds then breathe out. This permits that the medication is settled to the airways.

- Continue the breathing process until such time that there is no more mist coming out of the mouthpiece or mask.

- Turn the machine off, take off the tube and mouthpiece.

- Clean tube and mouthpiece with warm soapy water water after each use.

8. Nebulizer Care:

- Rinse the tube and the mouthpiece of the nebulizer after each treatment, with warm soapy water then rinse with warm water. Shake off excess water and place it on a clean towel to dry.

- Disinfect the equipment every three days with the use of vinegar and water solution or any disinfecting spray that the supplier suggests.

9. Care of Compressor:

- When not in use, the compressor should be covered with a clean cloth. To keep it clean, wipe it with a damp and clean cloth as needed.

- The air compressor should never be put on the floor for whatever purpose. Be it for treatment or for storage.

- Frequent examination of the air compressor's filter is needed. Replace very dirty filters or clean it following the instruction manual.

- Always keep an extra nebulizer cup, mask and mouthpiece handy.

- Medicines must be stored in a cool, dry place. Check on them often. Throw away any medication that has changed in color.

Popular Cholesterol Medication Receives Extended Patent for "New Uses"

2007-04-30T03:23:00.001-07:00

Pfizer’s blockbuster drug Lipitor was approved for the additional uses of reducing patients risk of non-fatal heart attacks and strokes as well as hospitalization for heart failure. This comes as no surprise being that Lipitor lowers cholesterol, which goes hand in hand with heart health.

For those of you who aren’t aware of the big drug company nuances, this is a common tactic in the pharmaceutical business. Instead of getting a drug approved for all its uses when drug makers seek first approval from the FDA, they get it approved for one limited use in order to use the additional uses later to extend the drugs patent life. Just before the drug patent expires, they seek approval for the additional uses, extending their patent and negating any possible competition from generic manufacturers.

In this case, Pfizer’s patent was set to expire on May 30 2006, but after it received approval for the additional uses, extended its monopoly on the market 1,213 days. Extending the patent for roughly 2 years may not seem like that long, but when the drug is pulling in billions of dollars each year, it makes a big difference to Pfizer.

So whats the big deal, drug companies need to make money too, right? Sure, but using these manipulative practices isn’t just hurting the consumers pocketbook, it’s depriving the of medicine that they could have been receiving the entire time to the medication has been on the market. If big pharma would focus on helping people instead of manipulating the system, they earn the trust of the consumer and make even more money than they do now.

Why does the FDA allow this type of manipulation? Because big pharma is who pays the bills. The FDA cannot bite the hand that feeds them. To give unbiased regulation of the pharmaceutical industry, the FDA and the pharmaceutical industry must be separated. As long as the FDA is financially dependant on the pharmaceutical industry we will see this kind of corruption and lack of regulation.

Who Will Fill Their Shoes?

2007-04-30T03:22:00.002-07:00

OK, I quit!

I’m tired of beating my head against the wall in a healthcare system that believes that its most valuable resource, the healthcare professional is indiscriminately disposable.

Let’s face it; nurses have the hardest job in healthcare today. Hours are getting longer; job duties now include public relations, maid services, complaint resolution, cryptography and social work. Nurses are absolutely abused by the very hospitals that are in desperate need of nurses now and will soon discover the true meaning of the phrase “nursing shortage.”

The baby boomers are aging and the current generation of healthcare professionals is aging with them. Healthcare needs more geriatricians, those physicians who specialize in the care and treatment of patients over 55 years of age, but as our physicians age, we will need more not only to replace those retiring, but also to participate in disaster care.

I’m a geriatrician as well as emergency medicine and disaster medicine and I’m out!

I’ve taught medical students and residents; given my specialties it will take 3 of them to fill my shoes. The problem is that most medical students are now gravitating towards the high pay, low stress, low time demand specialties. Surgical, Pediatric, Obstetrical, and Primary Care specialty residencies are closing for lack of applicants. In short, there is no one to fill my 3 sets of shoes.

Now I am not prone resigning from the field of battle. I’ve earned multiple degrees and multiple certifications. I’ve worked at the scene of many disasters at all levels of care. I’ve served every deployment to the end regardless of personal or professional issues that may have arisen. But enough is enough.

I have recently seen healthcare take a turn that is not only unprofessional, but immoral and unethical. Money has always been a necessary evil in healthcare and I do not mind making a very comfortable living in medicine, but when outright extortion determines care, staffing and caregivers available, the stench of the system has become too great to stand.

I am not alone. I have spent the past several weeks with healthcare professionals from around the nation at a number of venues. The recurrent theme, they quit or are in the process of “phasing out.” Physicians are willing to spend well over $5000 per weekend for seminars on “Alternatives to Clinical Practice” but whine about spending less than $500 for continuing medical education. Programs in law, business and research aimed at nurses are full across the nation. None of these professionals are planning on returning to the healthcare industry after they graduate, they plan on non-healthcare careers.

Why are so many leaving? The same reasons I am, because our focus is no longer healthcare, its money. We are no longer partners with those who run the business side of healthcare; we are their opponent or their victim. Problems are no longer discussed; the business people mandate a specific solution and the healthcare professionals are expected to comply.

The latest odious trend is policies that state that an individual nurse may NOT determine that he or she is in a patient care situation that endangers their license and the life of those for whom they care. This is absolutely contrary to basic safety operations. On a railroad, on an airline, or in a mine, anyone from the baggage carrier to the captain of the jet can stop all operations for safety reasons. The Institutes of Medicine in 1999 pointed out the fact that medicine is the only safety sensitive industry in America where the ability to determine what is safe is restricted to those also charged with keeping the income flowing. This is an irreconcilable conflict of interest.

Healthcare professionals are also leaving because they are tired of being cannon fodder. With the coming pandemic those of us in healthcare know we will die in the line of duty just as our colleagues did in Toronto with SARS. We simply won’t sacrifice our lives for a system that no longer values us, our positions, our education or our experience.

What impact will all this have on healthcare? If I am the only one who leaves, no one will care, but I’m not alone and the pandemic is coming.

Will you let us leave?

If you do, who will fill our shoes?

No More Wrong Site Surgery

2007-04-30T03:22:00.001-07:00

In 1991, a major medical training hospital made the national news after the wrong leg was amputated twice in one week. Despite “an abundance of care” two unfortunate people entered the hospital expecting to lose one leg and walk out with a prosthesis and ended up loosing both legs and leaving in a wheelchair.

In 1999, the Institute of Medicine published a landmark report on patient safety titled: To Err is Human and the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) began championing the cause of patient safety and the prevention of wrong site surgery. Over the past 16 years, hospitals, doctors, nurses and many, many others have developed and implemented procedures designed to stem the rising tide of tragic errors.

In 2007 at a conference on patient safety, the CEO of JCAHO disclosed that despite tremendous effort, expense and study, the number of wrong site surgeries has risen unabated and exponentially since 1991. Every attempt to change this horrific reality has failed!

How can this be?

The title of the 1999 report summed it up: To Err is Human.

Think about modern surgery. You, the patient, are moved to an operating room. Your identification band confirms that you are the patient scheduled for surgery.

This is the first possible point of error, wrong name on the surgery schedule.

Once the operating room staff ensures you are you, the site of surgery is confirmed in the chart and marked. You may even be asked to confirm that they are marking the correct spot.

This is the next possible point of error, wrong site listed in the chart or told to you.

Once your surgery site is marked, you receive medication (if you didn’t earlier). Your surgery site is washed and “prepped” further entrenching this as the “correct side.” Then your entire body is covered by surgical drapes and other items that reduce you to an unidentifiable pile of cloth with a small window of skin.

This is an opportunity to reinforce prior error by eliminating the ability of the surgeon to recheck each of the above steps easily.

The surgeon arrives and prepares to begin cutting. The surgeon confirms that you were identified and the correct surgical site was marked. The amputation is completed and the surgery team removes the surgical drapes and discovers your diseased leg was NOT amputated!

So is there a solution?

Perhaps, imagine if you could mark the surgical site days or even weeks before surgery without risk of changing the marking. Imagine a pre-operative marking system that provided a unique identifier for the surgical site that is not affected by the process of washing, prepping and draping. Imagine a patient and surgical identifier that can be checked repeatedly from the point of admission through the pre-operative procedure, during the operation and even after the correct limb were amputated.

Impossible?

Technology has the solution. Implantable RFID chips are currently in use as unique medical record identifiers for patients and disaster responders world wide. Contrary to popular myth, there is no GPS tracking system or other privacy issue created by these passive electronic numbers.

RFID chips are biologically inert and implanted through a small needle as easily as giving an antibiotic shot. These are the ideal characteristics for a wrong site surgery solution.

Think about RFID assisted surgery. You, the patient, see your doctor weeks before the surgery. Your regular doctor has determined that you require surgery. An RFID chip is implanted in the fat of the diseased leg and you are sent to see the surgeon.

You see the surgeon several days later, but your medical records have not yet arrived. Instead of rescheduling your appointment, the surgeon scans your leg with an RFID receiver and gets your medical record number. You authorize immediate release of the medical records and your surgeon schedules surgery.

You are admitted to the hospital and the first human error occurs as your healthy leg is entered into the medical record as requiring surgery.

The day of your surgery, the second human error occurs as your roommate is moved to the operating room. Instead of amputating the wrong leg from the wrong person, your roommate is scanned for an RFID chip and the unique identifier reveals that you and your roommate received the same wristband.

You are moved to the operating room. Your identification band confirms that you are the patient scheduled for surgery. Once the operating room staff ensures you are you, the site of surgery is confirmed in the chart and marked. You may even be asked to confirm that they are marking the correct spot. The chart indicates your healthy leg is the surgery site. You have already received medication and agree as a result of the sedation.

Once your healthy leg is marked, your healthy leg is washed and “prepped” further entrenching this as the “correct side.” Then your entire body is covered by surgical drapes and other items that reduce you to an unidentifiable pile of cloth with a small window of skin.

The surgeon arrives and prepares to begin cutting when the final RFID chip scan is performed. No RFID chip can be found in the leg about to be amputated. The surgery team immediately removes all the surgical drapes and scans your diseased leg. The RFID chip is found and the correct leg is washed, prepped, draped and amputated.

Tragedy averted!

There is No Nursing Shortage

2007-04-30T03:21:00.002-07:00

An interesting conversation took place recently between a 45 year nursing veteran and her family. The topic of the day was the nursing shortage and the veteran nurse surprised all by announcing, “There is no nursing shortage, there is a hospital nursing shortage.”

She went on to explain that in the home health and non-institutional nursing fields, there is an adequate supply of nurses willing to work for employers who respect and value their services. According to this nurse who had worked in hospitals for much of her career, the problem today is that hospitals and other institutions see nurses and other professionals as replaceable rather than precious.

“No nurse my age is going to work for some young supervisor who believes that you manage people by threatening them or their license. There are too many jobs out there to deal with that nonsense.”

This veteran nurse struck on the key factor in any employee shortage, the relationship between employer and employee. Two contrasting examples of the value of the employer/employee relationship demonstrate the promise and peril facing healthcare in the future.

Steeley Corporation:
One of the two largest employers in a north Florida community, Steeley Corporation had once been one of the two most reliable employers in the region. Steeley Corporation was the unrivaled market leader in their niche and pay at Steeley Corporation was second only to pay at the paper mill. Steeley Corporation management was exclusively hand picked individuals who had proven their willingness to follow any order given by the company president. Steeley Corporation management believed in an authoritarian management model and the lack of other good paying jobs ensured that employees remained despite the poor employer/employee relationships.

As the economy of the area shifted from manufacturing to tourism, Steeley Corporation began to suffer financial difficulties. Convinced that the company could be profitable again if the employees would stand with the organization, mandatory overtime and shortened breaks were instituted to “save jobs.” Employees unwilling or unable to work past the end of shift were terminated and management further retaliated by giving poor references. As the company spiraled downward, payroll checks began to bounce and managers began threatening licensed employees with “reports to the state.” Employee resignations skyrocketed and families began leaving the community. Finally, the company collapsed and disappeared overnight. In the aftermath, hundreds of employees were owed millions of dollars.

Intuit
The early days of the “dot-com” craze were characterized by a many great ideas that would flounder for years until rediscovered by a bigger company. Small software houses would create a fantastic product, but without the funds to run a start-up business, these products would either disappear or be purchased by larger companies. Microsoft was the biggest buyer of such innovative technology. It was into this environment that a small company with an electronic checkbook was born. Intuit began in a garage and grew quickly on money borrowed by the founders.

The brightest days for Intuit were quickly followed by sudden financial darkness. As larger software developers entered the “personal finance” market, Intuit found itself in financial trouble. The company founders made the employees an extraordinary offer based on the value they placed on the employees and the relationship with each as a person. The employees were offered an opportunity to work for partial ownership of the company. Those who chose this option would become shareholders with the potential of making millions if the company survived to be a publicly traded company. Employees who could not afford to forego being paid received a guarantee that their job would be available if they chose to return when the company was again solvent.

Intuit management had cultivated caring relationships based on mutual respect with each employee. There was no “management by intimidation” at Intuit and the company was rewarded when financial disaster loomed large on their horizon. Most key company employees opted to stay, unpaid, in exchange for ownership. A small group of employees were unable to forego an income. Intuit management guaranteed their jobs and honored these guarantees when these employees returned. Over time, Intuit became the dominate personal and business finance software manufactured, even staving off a take over attempt by Microsoft.

Healthcare has become a split marketplace with institutional care (hospitals and nursing homes) separated from non-institutional care. Nurses are gravitating to non-institutional care despite lower pay because of the factors that Intuit and others have come to appreciate. Employees care more about the relationships than the money. Veteran nurses remember being respected and appreciated for long hours and selfless dedication. It was not expected or required, it was given freely and accepted graciously. Even in a “materialistic society” people want to be loved and cared for, respected and valued.

There is no nursing shortage, there is a relationship shortage.

I Will Watch My Friends Die

2007-04-30T03:21:00.001-07:00

The most ominous words ever uttered by a disaster preparedness expert were voiced during a deep background interview. This expert stated simply that given the current state of hospital preparedness and the current rate at which facilities are becoming disaster ready, there will be no meaningful level of preparedness in this decade unless someone blows up a hospital. This may seem a bit extreme, but declassified documents show that Al Qaeda seeks to steal an ambulance and blow it up at a major American trauma center.

Unfortunately, this scenario is based on the lesser of the threats currently facing healthcare. History over the last three centuries has taught us that novel avian pandemic flu occurs every 91 years (plus or minus 3.5 years for antigenic drift). Given that the last major pandemic was the 1917/1918 Spanish flu this means that we can expect a pandemic flu outbreak between 2006 and 2013.

It is a mathematical certainty.

Dr. Richard Garden and others have begun to discuss the impact on the healthcare workforce in accurate terms. These pundits are absolutely correct that up to 50 percent of the workforce may not report to duty. The reasons are well demonstrated in the history of pandemics.

The true impact of this disease lies in the numbers. In 1918 100 percent of the entire world was exposed to what would later be called the Spanish Flu. This new strain of avian flu had never been encountered before by a human population, and as a result, there was no immunity to this particular strain. Of that world population, one third would ultimately fall ill, in fact, 50 to 80 percent of the youngest, healthiest, and strongest would fall ill when future generations would divide out the victims.

When these ominous numbers were scrutinized further, a far more dire picture evolved. Research into the 1918 pandemic, as well as pandemics before and since 1918, have shown that the majority of illness and death occurred not in the very old or the very young, not in the sick and infirm, but in those who are in the "prime of life"; those age 18 to 40.

But there is a bigger problem.

Because of the way that novel avian viruses (pandemics) attack the lungs and cause "immune system storms", the ultimate irony of a pandemic is that the younger and stronger you are the more likely you are to die. In 1918 fully two-thirds of all those who became ill were in the age range of 18 to 40. More distressing is the fact that 98 percent of all of those who died were age 18 to 40 years. In fact, those over age 55 had no greater rate of illness or death during the pandemic of 1918 than they did in any other flu season in the years immediately before or after that great pandemic. Similarly, those less than 18 years of age suffered no increase in death rate.

The implications for America's hospitals and healthcare institutions are inescapable. Fully two-thirds of the active workforce will fall ill during the 16 to 18 months of the disease throughout the pandemic. Twenty-five percent of the young workforce (the 18 to 40 years) will die in that 18 months. Who will replace them?

Dr. Garden is also correct that correctional institutions as well as the disabled and children have not been considered in local, regional or state pandemic planning. In fact they are barely mentioned even in federal planning. In June of 2006 the Institute of Medicine published reports on the state of preparedness but pointed out that even emergency services had been left out of much planning.

It is imperative that healthcare professionals of all stripes become expert not only in pandemic planning but in the "All Hazards" approach to disaster and catastrophic event planning. Whether it is a pandemic, a hurricane, an earthquake, a forest fire, or a terrorist event that threatens the community, bitter experience has taught us that concentrations of individuals living in institutional settings whether in prisons, military barracks or university dormitories become the "cave canaries" of society.

In 1918 Spanish flu outbreaks, which actually began in Kansas, were first seen in epidemic form in U.S. military barracks. The outbreaks of measles in the 1980s were first seen in university dormitories across the United States. And the largest concentrations of the recurrence of tuberculosis, as we all know, is seen in correctional institutions.

The 2003 SARS outbreak also provided us a small scale example of the effects for a pandemic on healthcare. Following the outbreak of SARS in Canada, healthcare workers in 4 Toronto area hospitals began to fall ill. Soon nurses and doctors were looking through protective equipment at colleagues and friends. The disease had changed the normal “us and them” relationship to “us and me.” These professionals watched their friends die. The result of SARS on the healthcare professionals who worked in these 4 Toronto hospitals was that 50% left healthcare entirely.

What does all this mean for the healthcare industry?

* During the outbreak, up to 50% healthcare workforce absenteeism

* During the outbreak, up to 25% healthcare professionals death rate

* Following the outbreak, 75% of healthcare professionals still alive

* Following the outbreak, 50% of remaining healthcare workforce quits

The final outcome for healthcare:

* 25% will die

* 37.5% will resign

* 37.5% will remain

Lest healthcare embrace the lessons for preparedness this is the fate of us all.

Play Safe With Your Online Drug Purchase

2007-04-25T05:08:00.002-07:00

Rocketing prices of prescription drugs have compelled the US citizens to look for cheaper alternatives. Thanks to online Canadian pharmacies that have provided Americans with an easier and better solution! Canadian pharmacies do not compromise on the quality of drugs in spite of their reduced prices. This is one of the principle reasons for its overgrowing demand in recent years. However, there have been some disconcerting reports, which have raised eyebrows about the authenticity of certain drugs labeled under Canadian pharmacies. Americans now have a two-fold task on their hands- approach the right Canadian pharmacy, and demand an assurance of the quality of the drugs offered.

There have been few cases where drugs purchased by Canadian pharmacies have turned out to be fake ones. In August 2005, an operation conducted by the FDA found several prescription drugs sent from India, Costa Rica (supposedly to be imported from Canada). 85 percent of the drugs, which claimed to be from Canada, actually were manufactured in 27 different countries. Such cases have raised concern about the risks associated with unsafe drugs. It's very important for the people to be enlightened about such issues and take complete precaution prior to making such purchases online.

The first step towards making your choice is to approach a licensed online Canadian pharmacy that has high standards of safety and consumer service. Canadian pharmacy experts suggest some of the best possible ways for choosing the some of the best online pharmacies:

1) A good Canadian pharmacy should provide its license number on its website along with the name of the Canadian regulatory agency as an evidence of its authenticity.

2) An authentic Canadian pharmacy should display its seals of approval by organizations (such as CIPA or IMPAC) that set the standards of safety and service among Canadian mail-order pharmacies that sell to Americans.

3) Reputable Canadian pharmacies always ask for your doctor's prescription before supplying your order. In case you fax your prescription, your doctor is required to confirm it over the phone. If this is not fulfilled, then the pharmacy waits until your original prescription arrives.

4) It is essential for you to submit your medical history and go through the transaction policies prior to the purchase of drugs from a recognized online Canadian pharmacy.

5) A good Canadian pharmacy requires you to consume its drug for at least a month to confirm that the medication suits you. Once confirmed, your medication is mailed immediately.

6) Reputed Canadian pharmacies always display their full mailing address and phone numbers on their websites for any consultation with the pharmacists, emergency or otherwise.

7) Trusted Canadian pharmacies explain the difference between American and Canadian pharmacies and also provide the reason for the unavailability of certain drugs.

8) Normally, the drugs sent by a good Canadian pharmacy are contained in the original manufacturer's container. However, drugs may be mailed in ordinary bottles if the quantity of pills in the manufacturer’s container exceeds a 90-day supply.

9) Authentic Canada pharmacy drug is supplied with appropriate labels that include its strength, dosing directions, expiration date, appropriate warnings and a Drug Identification Number (DIN) that shows the drug has been approved by the Canadian government health authorities.

10) Besides, good Canada pharmacies offer secure (encrypted) online payment for credit cards, alternative options for payment (such as electronic fund transfers and regular checks) and do not charge any separate fees except for shipping. The customer is charged only when the mail order has been placed first. In case of unsuccessful delivery of the mail order, the entire amount is refunded by pharmacy.

So make your online drug purchase keeping the above points in mind. The market of online Canadian pharmacy is great and it needs proper discretion on part of the customers to make the right choice. A little caution can go a great way to treating you of ill health as well as keeping you safe from unnecessary hassles.

Tennis Elbow

2007-04-25T05:08:00.001-07:00

The exact cause of lateral epicondylitis is not absolutely certain. Common theory is that that lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow is the result of consistent use or overuse of the limb. This condition presents with miniscule tearing of the tissues in the tendons that connect the muscles of the forearm to the joint at the elbow. Wrist extensors, a group of muscles, are the muscles involved when you have lateral epicondylitis. This group of muscles functions to move or lift the wrist. If you can not cock your wrist back – the pain may be related to tennis elbow.

Believe it or not, tennis elbow is the most likely diagnosis a patient will receive if he or she is complaining of elbow pain. In technical terms, the extensor carpi radis brevis is the most likely suspect in the causation of the symptoms of lateral epicondylitis. The symptoms of tennis elbow are as follows: pain that occurs when lifting objects, pain over the outside of the elbow, pain that seems to radiate from the wrist and down the forearm.

There are specific muscle groups that become damaged and involved in this type of injury as well as specific treatments that will help someone heal completely for his or her tennis elbow. Therefore, any injury many be saddening and concerning to someone who has developed it – but the good news is that tennis elbow is treatable.

It is believed that tennis elbow is a gradually developing condition. The pain is not immediately recognizable. It is, on the other hand, a progressive phenomenon. When his or her pain becomes too unbearable is when most people will finally have their tennis elbow checked out. However, as with virtually all medical conditions in existence, the sooner you know it is there the better (and more effectively) your treatment will help heal you and prevent further damage. Most often, workers such as manual laborers and sports playing enthusiasts will suffer from Most consistently lateral epicondylitis is the definitive diagnosis for manual labor workers such as plumbers, painters, gardeners, carpenters, from moving furniture, to computer repair and many more occupations. These individuals usually visit their doctors once they are finally exhibiting the more severe symptoms of lateral epicondylitis mentioned above.

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is not just an inflammation of tendons around the joint, the condition is degenerative. A degenerative process such as this is believed to be the result of aging or the repetitive use of these particular muscle groups. If you have lateral epicondylitis and receive x-rays, the results will come back normal. Sometimes your doctor will request an EMG just to be certain that the diagnosis is definitive. The symptoms may be the result of an incomplete healing response in your body. When an affected area of the arm does not have enough blood flow it does not receive the nutrients (especially oxygen) degeneration of the tendons begins, causing small and painful tears. Let your doctor know if you notice anything unusual such as significant swelling, bruising and pain in the joint, wrist or arm. If you have trouble carrying heavy objects without hurting your arm, or elbow pain that occurs at night or when you are at rest and not even using the arm. As a matter of fact, it is recommended that you get your elbow checked out right away if you are at all concerned and your elbow pain continues for several days. There are other diseases with very similar symptoms as lateral epicondylitis such as arthritis, joint instability, and even conditions such as radial tunnel syndrome.

New Study Finds Big Pharma Hides Doctor Payoffs Well

2007-04-25T05:07:00.002-07:00

A new study by JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) found that even in states such as Minnesota and Vermont where gifts given to doctors by pharmaceutical companies are publicly viewable, documentation is hard to obtain and even harder to decipher.

The new study was aimed to determine the “accessibility and quality of disclosure data and the number, value, and type of payments of $100 or more to physicians.” After research, the study found that in Vermont, drug companies did not release 61% of the payment details to doctors, because they were designated “trade secrets”. Of the payments that were released, 75% of them were “missing information necessary to identify the recipient”. In Minnesota, only 25% actually reported in each of the 3 years.

JAMA found that, “in Vermont, among 12,227 payments totaling $2.18 million publicly disclosed, there were 2416 payments of $100 or more to physicians; total, $1.01 million; median payment, $177 (range, $100-$20,000). In Minnesota, among 6946 payments totaling $30.96 million publicly disclosed, there were 6238 payments of $100 or more to physicians; total, $22.39 million; median payment, $1000 (range, $100-$922,239). Physician-specific analyses were possible only in Minnesota, identifying 2388 distinct physicians who received payment of $100 or more; median number of payments received, 1 (range, 1-88) and the median amount received, $1000 (range, $100-$1 178,203).”

This could affect you in several ways. First, gifts received by doctors sway what medication doctors are prescribing their patients, not based on the medical need of the patient, but on the personal greed of the physician. Second, excessive advertising to both the consumer and doctors has led to the over inflated price of prescription medication in America.

New Procedure in UK Uses HIV Virus to Fight Cystic Fibrosis

2007-04-25T05:07:00.001-07:00

A scientist in the UK is looking to use HIV to correct faulty genes in un-born babies which have cystic fibrosis.

The scientist is Suzanne Buckley from University College in London and she has successfully used HIV as a genetic material carrier to fix faulty cystic fibrosis genes in the lungs of mice.

Suzanne Buckley will be presenting her findings at the British Society for Gene Therapy conference in Warwick. The title of her findings will be labeled, “Significant lung transduction after in utero and neonatal 30 administration of lentiviral vectors”.

According to Medical News Today, “In 1989 an international team of scientists identified the CF gene, and established that it sits on chromosome number 7. Each human cell has 23 pairs of chromosomes, each in the pair coming from each parent and carrying about 30,000 genes. The CF gene instructs the production of a protein called CFTCR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator) which moves salt and water in and out of cells lining the lungs and the digestive tract. However, in people with cystic fibrosis the CF gene is faulty and causes too much salt and too little water to be transported which produces the sticky mucous that clogs the lungs.”

The HIV virus is used as a carrier or “vector” because they invade the cells of living organisms, and make the hosts DNA obey and help the virus to replicate. It also inserts its own RNA and merge it with the genetic material of the host. The key is to control and manipulate the virus to deliver the results the scientist wants.

Visit this Consumer Advocacy website for more information on ordering from an online Mexican pharmacy.

The Benefits Of Bio Identical Hormones

2007-04-25T05:06:00.000-07:00

The forties and fifties can be some of the best years in a woman's life. You are past all of the insecurities and uncertainties of your twenties, and you are past the grind of trying to get everything accomplished in your thirties. Your forties and fifties are when you are comfortable enough with yourself that you can start to realize your dreams. Also at this age women begin to consider HRT, or hormone replacement therapy. Yet, there are several studies with conflicting findings, so before you start this therapy you will want to consult with your family physician and your pharmacist. Bio-Identical Hormones are structured exactly the same as hormones produced by the human body. Some of the differences in structure among human, synthetic and animal hormones might cause side effects that occur when non-bio-identical hormones are taken for hormone replacement therapy.

If you would like help with understanding what your options are in terms of Bio-Identical Hormones, You should seek the expertise of highly-trained pharmacists, your local Pharmacy can create a customized dosage form of medication, which is called compounding. The compounding of Bio-Identical Hormones helps you get the exact strength and form to work properly in your unique body, as your doctor intended.

In Torrance a supplier of Bio-Identical Hormones is the Medical Centre Compounding Pharmacy, who brings over thirty years of experience working with Torrance doctors, therapists, and other health care professionals to ensure that you receive medications suited to your personal medical needs. The highly trained all-female professional staff can help answer all your questions about hormone therapy, including Bio-Identical Hormones.

As with any treatment you need to fully educate yourself on all the benefits and drawbacks that come with Bio-Identical Hormones. Therefore when you locate a pharmacy that supplies Bio-Identical Hormones make sure the pharmacy has a large depth and breadth of knowledge with Bio-Identical Hormones. In addition, this pharmacy should have doctors on staff that have the expertise with the Bio-Identical Treatment to assist you with your hormone replacement therapy. Finally, the pharmacy should be able to make your life easy by billing Medicare and being able to deliver the medication to your nursing home.

As a patient you need to seek only the highest trained, licensed consultants and technicians that will provide you with the personal service you need when you are purchasing Bio-Identical Hormones. To achieve the best possible results with bio-identical hormones it is critical to find an expert in the field who can develop a program of medication designed specifically for your bodies needs. Don’t skimp by going to a cheap, unknown source,seek out true experts who will guide you with care.

How Do Drugs Work in Your Body?

2007-04-23T04:21:00.001-07:00

In life-threatening situations, the use of certain drugs may be necessary to save or prolong life. Notwithstanding this caveat, pharmaceutical drugs are manufactured chemicals; they are not natural to the body. They lack living energy and have electrical configurations that are incompatible with those of the body.

Drugs are toxic, and cannot be incorporated into the body's cellular structure to build tissue and promote health. Drugs cause the body to react. It reacts in a protective manner to eliminate the toxic substances.

Drugs work because the poisons they contain create a stress in the body that is more serious than the symptom for which they were taken. In this process, the symptom is relieved. For example, acetylsalicylic acid, used as a painkiller, causes bleeding in the stomach or small intestine.

Another top-selling painkiller causes similar stress in the liver. They relieve a symptom because they create a greater stress in another area of the body that forces it to divert its attention to the new threat. The body always tries to deal with the most serious problem first. Strong poisons taken into our bodies are viewed as life-threatening.

The body draws on all its energy resources, including the energy that is keeping us conscious, if necessary, to eliminate the threat. It goes into triage mode, and shuts down all our awareness centers.

This is what happens when systemic anesthetics are administered before a surgical operation. If too much anesthetic is given, the energy required to eliminate it is greater than the body has and the person dies. That is why the work and monitoring of the anesthetist is so critical. He or she must walk the fine line between the unconsciousness or death of the patient.

Antibiotics kill both harmful bacteria and friendly bacteria; they do not discriminate. The body requires friendly bacteria to maintain a healthy balance in the colon, and to manufacture certain vitamins and antibiotics of its own.

Our intake of antibiotics is not only from prescription sources. Approximately 2.4 million pounds of antibiotics are given each year to farm animals-mainly cattle, pigs, and chickens-as a preventative to infection. This is more than eight times the amount administered to humans.

Jane Goodall, in her book Harvest for Hope, warns of the dangers and short-term folly of eating farm-raised seafood. According to her research, commercial seafood farms use massive amounts of pesticides, antibiotics, and disinfectants to combat disease in the crowded environments where the fish and tiger prawns are raised. To make them grow faster and larger, their diet includes growth hormones.

Farmed salmon are fed pink dye to colour their flesh. In addition, these chemically-laden farms are devastating surrounding sea life, causing deadly water pollution and ruining the land on which the seafood farms are set up, with the consequent ruination of fishermen and farmers who depended on these areas for their livelihood.

When we eat these animal and seafood products,antibiotics,and growth hormones and chemicals, end up in our body systems. Over time, bacteria are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics. Scientists are warning that this could pose increasingly serious problems for humans, as available antibiotics are rendered ineffective against certain new bacterial strains.

Drugs only deal with symptoms.They do not correct the cause of symptoms. Natural and complete healing does not take place with drug use. In order to deal with a toxic drug, the body is forced to put the cause of the pain or infection "on hold." If the body has enough energy after the episode, the symptomatic condition returns at a later date as the body attempts to heal and correct the basic problem again.

If the drug is too devitalizing, the symptom may not return because the body no longer has sufficient energy to mount another healing attempt. That is, the symptom cause has been suppressed, but may return later as a more chronic disease.

There is no free ticket.We cannot get something in health without consciously working for it.We can take the quick fix, but there is a consequence to pay later. That consequence is usually reduced quality of life as we grow older.

Ask yourself this: Does it make sense that a person can be poisoned back to health? The problem with drug treatment is that it diverts the body's attention from working on its own priorities for healing.

Drugs send the body down a spiral, increasing in speed-like a whirlpool- toward degenerative disease. Eventually, as the body becomes less able to defend itself and correct the cause of malfunctions, it succumbs to critical disease.

What You Need to Know about Using an Online Pharmacy (18 times)

2007-04-23T04:20:00.002-07:00

When using an online pharmacy you will generally be able to shop for all of the typical pharmacy items you are accustomed to like vitamins, over the counter medicines, diabetic supplies, and the like. Also, you will be able to have your prescription filled by the online pharmacy and either pick it up in store or have it mailed to you. Different pharmacies have different rules regarding mailing prescription drugs, so you should check with your online pharmacy regarding any special rules.

Once you have entered all of your information from prescription number to your name and address, as well as other identifying factors, the online pharmacy website will ask you for your insurance payment information as well as how you want to pay for the prescription. Some online pharmacies will allow you to either pay online or at the store for in store pickup. However, if you are ordering for delivery from the online pharmacy you will have to pay online.

Always be sure your online pharmacy has a secure checkout system. You can be sure of this if in the direction bar it says https:// rather than just http://. That extra s means the page is secure and you can enter your payment information without the stress of wondering whether your information will be stolen while using the online pharmacy.

An online pharmacy is generally the web presence of your general pharmacy. However, you should always check for verification of your online pharmacy before you place any orders. You will want to make sure your online pharmacy is a Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site as is defined by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. If you have any questions or concerns about an online pharmacy then find another online pharmacy that seems more legit or can at least answer your questions.

When you search for online pharmacy on the Internet you will get plenty of results from some of the bigger chains. If you are familiar with these pharmacy chains then you should trust their online chain as well. Remember, never enter any credit or bank information on an online pharmacy website unless the site is secure.

Cholesterol-Lets Do A Quick Cholesterol Quiz

2007-04-23T04:20:00.001-07:00

Cholesterol slowly but silently works on us from the inside out. I am talking about the bad cholesterol. Think about this. The only way that bad cholesterol enters our body we have to put it in. Take your time with this now. Do not race through this article.

Every disease that has anything to do with bad cholesterol is preventable. Each disease is within your power to avoid.

You are what you eat. If you did not eat you would not grow. If you did not eat you would die. You are what you eat. How else did you get as big as you are?

Your life depends on what you do and do not know about cholesterol. That is why we are going to have a fun quiz.

Pull out your pencil and pad. We are going to do a quick quiz on cholesterol. Do not look at the bottom of the article yet. Keep your eyes up on this section. Okay you may begin.

1. The National Institutes of Health said that we should protect ourselves by keeping a
close check on which cholesterol item A, B, C, or D?

A. Total

B. LDL

C. HDL

D. None of These

2. They say that exercise can help you lower LDL cholesterol. What do you think?

A. True

B. False

3. Cholesterol is definitely found in only one of these foods. If you know all there is to
know about cholesterol which one is it?

A. Oranges

B. Tuna

C. Broccoli

D. Peanuts

4. In order for exercise to be beneficial we must exercise at least 30 minutes a day all at
once.

A. True

B. False

5. This is the hard question. Whenever plaque is found inside the arteries it is mainly
made up of LDL cholesterol? Is that true or false?

A. True

B. False

Bonus

Everyone loves a bonus question. I refuse to disappoint you. Here goes.

Go back up to question #1 and answer this. When considering cholesterol what do the initials in B. and C. stand for?

Are you ready for the answers? Here goes!

1. The National Institutes of Health said that we should protect ourselves by keeping a
close check on which cholesterol item A, B, C, or D?

The correct answer is (B).

The National Institutes of Health said that we should watch the bad cholesterol. You should always know this figure. What is your LDL cholesterol as you read this?

2. They say that exercise can help you lower LDL cholesterol. What do you think?

The correct answer is (A).

Exercise does help lower LDL cholesterol (bad). Losing weight also helps lower LDL cholesterol.

How are you doing so far? Two for Two? Great! Carry on.

3. Cholesterol is definitely found in only one of these foods. If you know all there is to
know about cholesterol which one is it?

The correct answer is (Tuna). Give yourself a pat on the back. Your batting average will put you in the record books. If a food comes from a plant, chances are it does not contain cholesterol.

Seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables and fruits are great for your high cholesterol. Animal products and animal by products all contain cholesterol.

4. In order for exercise to be beneficial we must exercise at least 30 minutes a day all at
once.

The correct answer is (false). You can break your aerobic activity down to 10 to 15 minute workouts. You do not have to get your exercise all at once.

5. This is the hard question. Whenever plaque is found inside the arteries it is mainly made up of LDL cholesterol? Is that true or false?

The correct answer is (A). If plaque is found inside the arteries it is mainly made up of LDL cholesterol.

How did you do with the questions? The object of this fun cholesterol quiz is to test your knowledge about the silent killer LDL cholesterol. The answer to the bonus question is LDL - Low-density lipoprotein. HDL - high-density lipoprotein.

Some Facts About Fen Phen Lawsuit

2007-04-23T04:19:00.002-07:00

Redux,and pondimin are the drugs that resulted in the formulation of Fen Phen drug. This drug was used to fight against obesity. Do not think that it served as a magic wand on your physique. It was to control obesity but at the cost of suppression of appetite. This drug had a reverse effect, instead of shaping your physique and making you look attractive it was potent enough to cause heart troubles.

It was found that the drug fen phen is responsible for serious problems like damages of heart valves. This was the reason behind Phen fen lawsuit. Though the manufacturers were aware of the health hazards this drug can cause even then they hid the fact form the public. The lawsuit has brought such an allegation. Echocardiograms detect the severe heart damages caused by this dangerous drug.

In order to begin the legal battle an experienced attorney who is quite aware of the health hazards caused by the drug should be appointed. Generally in case of
individual lawsuit of Phen fen the entire cost not only of diagnosis but also of treatment is incorporated. However if this type of lawsuit denotes long - term of damages of heart it is bound to be provided with proper finance that incorporates the medical treatment that is needed.

Few of the major difficulties that occur due to the dangers of this drug are with mitral valves and aortic valves. Thus problems arise with the impairment of the heart. Symptoms of the harmful effect of the drug Fen Phen arise with severe pain in chest accompanied by breathing problem. Besides heart valve defects primary pulmonary hypertension is also caused by this drug.
If affected by the drug one may often have bluish skin and lips , or be a bit tired or even faint due to weakness. Swelling of ankles may also be another symptom during the initial stage. It is not easy to detect and this disease can even take one's life. So you can well understand the horrors of this drug.

Near about 40,000 people suffered from the heart hazards caused by the intake of Fen Phen pills and as a consequence this drugs were not sold in the market in the year 1997.The court settlement of the federal judge showed that it will cover 40,000 people who had suffered from this drug.

Wyeth is the company that had created such a deadly drug. However the judge's decision did not calm the affected families though according to the amendment $1.28 billion in the form of fund for those who were affected. The people claimed that the company should give larger amount of money individually. However the amendment will see to such difficult claims imposed on the company.

Help For The Common Cold

2007-04-23T04:19:00.001-07:00

We all suffer on occasion from the discomfort of the common cold. There has been open discussion as to whether the medicine that we have come to rely on for relief is successful at actually diminishing the length of the illness. Many health professionals openly reject the effectiveness of these products based on the questionable results in shortening the duration of the symptoms. We contend, that it may be true, they do not shorten the length of the ailment, however, they do diminish the severity of your discomfort. With this in mind we have made our recommendations.

Many cold medications contain pain relief along with the medicine intended to help the consumer find relief from the cold symptoms. Such a product will alleviate some pain, as well as giving relief from the discomfort associated with the cold. We have chosen a product (for daytime discomfort) that does not contain pain relief for several reasons. Pain medication can be taken as you usually do separately. Most of them contain between 250 to 500 mg of Tylenol.

It is worthwhile noting that most of us take 1000 mg for our standard aches and pains. With this in mind, ask your health care professional if you can add a dose of Tylenol to accommodate the discrepancy between the amount of pain relief ingested with the cold medicine, and what is common to take for general discomfort and pain (for example, taking two 350mg tablets or one 500mg tablet in addition to the 250mg to 500mg Tylenol that was taken in the cold medicine.)

Decongestants have become an effective choice for the relief of cold symptoms during the daytime, as they are non drowsy. Many decongestants that are marketed as Daytime Relief are
in actuality the exact same product as the nonspecific Decongestant crowding the shelves alongside them.

There are many products on the market that work in the same manner of the product we have chosen. We have chosen Sudafed 12 hour and Sudafed 24 hour. We have found the convenience of taking one or two pills daily, rather than several times a day very helpful. This product is recommended highly for daytime use. It will help relieve you from the symptoms in order to assist you in getting through the day when suffering from the common Cold. There is an assortment of other products that work similar to this one. There are many options regarding how the medicine is consumed as well.

Physicians Specializing In Bio-Identicals

2007-04-20T03:07:00.001-07:00

If you are a woman in the middle years of life, then you might have noticed some changes beginning to happen to your body. Perhaps you have hot flashes or night sweats, or seem to be forgetful or have headaches often. These, along with other signs, can be symptoms of estrogen decline. One way that women choose to gain control of hormonal imbalances is to start hormone replacement therapy, or HRT. Hormones can be natural to humans, and these types are called bio-identical hormones. Others are synthetic hormones. Bio-identical hormones have a chemical structure that is the same as naturally-occurring hormones found in the human body, whereas synthetic hormones do not have the same structure and may be responsible for side effects that can occur with hormone replacement therapy.

When you are considering hormone replacement therapy, you will want to consult Physicians specializing in bio-identicals. When choosing a pharmacy you should look for a pharmacy that does compounding medications which will customize your medications to better meet your needs and your bio-identicals prescribed by your physician. They can create a special dosage strength or form in a way that large pharmaceutical companies do not offer in the mass quantities. Physicians specializing in bio-identicals have come to rely a compounding pharmacy because they know that their patients will be taken care of properly, and that they can fine-tune a medication so that it will do the most good for each and every patient that they help.

Women are not the only ones who might notice symptoms of hormone imbalances. This can occur with men as well. Androgen, estrogen, and cortisol levels can rise or decline starting in a man's middle years, as they can for women. Some of the symptoms can include feeling tired, increased sweating, depression, bone loss, high cholesterol, hot flashes, and a loss of muscle mass. If you have noticed these symptoms, it might be a good idea to seek out a Physician specialist who can determine if hormone replacement therapy could help you feel better. Physicians specializing in bio-identicals have the knowledge about bio-identical hormones, and when you take your prescription to be filled at the Pharmacy, that will customize your specific medications to meet your precise health needs.

Side Effects With Using Hydrocortisone Cream As Eczema Treatment

2007-04-20T03:06:00.002-07:00

In my teens, I was first introduced to using hydrocortisone cream for my eczema treatment. Since then, every time I had an outbreak, I would turn to it. This continued for more than ten years. However, in the last few years, I noticed that increasingly applying hydrocortisone creams on my affected skin is not as effective as before. In fact, it got harder and harder to control my eczema. My affected skin also got thinner and I would get abrasions very easily. I then decided to find out the truth behind the side effects of using hydrocortisone creams.

Hydrocortisone cream (1%) is one kind of topical corticosteroids and is easily available at your local store without prescription. They are packaged in various forms such as creams and lotions and are marketed under different brands.

Corticosteroid creams are topical skin applications which are used for skin itching, redness, discomfort and other skin-related problems. They come in varying strengths. Stronger ones are only available via prescription by your doctor. Corticosteroids are referred to as steroids. The term steroids often have a negative ring to it because of a number of side effects that this drug is known to bring. Corticosteroids for eczema are different from anabolic steroids, which are used by some athletes to increase their endurance.

However, just like any other type of drugs, hydrocortisone cream for eczema treatment also has its own side effects especially if you do not administer it properly. You should always check to see if you are allergic to steroids in the first place. Ask your doctor if in doubt. Secondly, as I have found out, prolonged use can cause skin to thin out. This is a condition known as atrophy. Because your skin is now more sensitive due to thinning out, you are more prone to skin abrasion and infection. That is why if you have eczema and have used hydrocortisone cream for weeks or months, you are more susceptible to a fungi and bacteria infection. With an infection, your eczema symptoms are sure to worsen.

You also get the appearance of stretch marks with prolonged use. Your blood vessels swell and there is loss of skin pigment in the affected areas. Your bloodstream may also absorb the strong steroids and this can affect other body systems. In the worst case scenario, it can also suppress the production of your natural adrenaline, thus causing you to be prone to a lot of illness including Cushing's syndrome.

In all situations, it is in your best interest to minimize the use of hydrocortisone creams or corticosteroids for your eczema treatment. If you need to use them, do so sparingly and use only as directed. If you find that your medication is not working within a week, stop its usage and see a skin doctor right away. You may need a stronger prescription. It is far better to treat your eczema with an appropriate strength medication than to use one that is not effective. A stronger prescription also allows you to get your eczema treated within a shorter period of time. In addition, look for alternative eczema treatment options which are natural and potentially produce fewer or no side effects.

Understand How Homoeopathy Can Cure Your Ailments

2007-04-20T03:06:00.001-07:00

The principle of homeopathy is that it treats the patient as a whole rather than only locally treating the unwell parts. The physical, mental, emotional, social spheres of a person is considered for a permanent cure. When someone is healthy, there is some kind of vital energy that maintains the equilibrium of mind, body and soul. And when there is a derangement of this vital energy then that person will fall sick.

When the vital energy gets disturbed there will be external manifestations in the form of signs and symptoms. The imbalance in the body functions makes a shelter for foreign organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa etc. This allows the organisms to proliferate and results in diseases. Homeopathy believes that the real disease comes before the bacteria and viruses, hence the root cause of the disease has to be treated for a permanent cure. The antibacterial and antiviral agents only remove the secondary causes mentioned above.

Preparation of medicine in homeopathy

In homeopathy medicines are prepared from different sources like minerals, plants, animals, toxins, diseased parts etc. Medicines are prepared from these substances by a special process called potentisation. Here the soluble substances are potentised by diluting with spirit and insoluble substances by grinding with sugar of milk.

The crude drug substance is first mixed with a calculated quantity of spirit and water and kept for few days. From this mixture extract is taken and is called mother tincture. From this mother tincture dilutions are prepared by potentisation, which is a mathematical process by which the quantity of original drug substance reduces but medicinal power increases. There are different potencies for each ratio of quantity of drug substance and vehicle(spirit or sugar of milk), which can be found after the name of every medicine. Suitable potency is selected according to so many factors like severity, depth of disease, condition of the patient, nature of disease, type of symptoms, age of patient and etc.

Antibiotics Enable Bacterial Mutations

2007-04-20T03:05:00.002-07:00

There are millions of nursing home patients in the United States. So many times when a nurse calls a physician regarding a patients cold symptoms or slightly elevated temperature, a doctor gives an order for an antibiotic to treat these symptoms, and usually a nurse is calling the physician to request a cough syrup, or to just inform the doctor of the patients condition. But why do the doctors order antibiotics so frequently over the phone, just because nurses have to inform them of changes in a patients condition? And if the nurses did not report these changes, which are common in the elderly, and a patient had a serious life threatening condition, the nurse would be neglecting the patient.

It is no wonder that in a few weeks, we are checking these patients for Clostridium Difficile Infection. Antibiotic sickness is at an all time high. If you take your infant to the pediatrician, because of cold symptoms, they will usually tell you it is a virus, and they are usually right, your child will probably fight the virus and improve. But, in the elderly, it is unusual for a physician to let the elderly patient fight off the virus on their own, this may be due to the fact that the physician is unable to see the patient, or the families are insisting on antibiotic treatment.

We need serious change here, because your child may need the antibiotic that is so frequently over prescribed by these doctors, for these common colds in the elderly population. By the time your child needs this frivolously prescribed antibiotic for an ear infection or a life threatening infection to save his or her life, the bacteria your child has may be resistant to this particular antibiotic because of overuse of this medicine. If they would order a chest x-ray or a urine culture first, or whatever testing would be indicated according to the symptoms, that would be a start in the war against over prescribing antibiotics. We already have a problem with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium Difficile Infection and Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus, what is next? Serious guidelines for prescribing antibiotics must be enforced.

Psoriatic Arthritis Drug Approved To Fight Chrohn's Disease

2007-04-20T03:05:00.001-07:00

The popular drug Humira which is currently used to treat Psoriatic Arthritis was approved on Feb. 27 by the FDA to treat adult Chrohn’s disease.

According to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), “Chrones Disease Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease, the general name for diseases that cause swelling in the intestines.

Crohn’s disease can affect any area of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine, called the ileum. The swelling extends deep into the lining of the affected organ. The swelling can cause pain and can make the intestines empty frequently, resulting in diarrhea.”

Chrohn’s disease afflicts around 500,000 people in the United States. Symptoms experienced by those with the disease include abdominal cramps, persistent diarrhea, fever, pain, and fatigue.

According to the FDA, “Humira works to reduce levels of human tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha, a chemical that plays a role in abnormal responses from the body's immune system.”

Most people infected with the disease are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 35. Some of the side affects of Humira include serious the risk of infections such as tuberculosis or blood infections. Less severe side affects include upper respiratory infections, sinusitis, and nausea.

Humira was approved originally by the FDA to treat Psoriatic Arthritis in October of 2005 and was later approved to treat moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis.

Visit this Consumer Advocacy website for more information on ordering from an online Mexican pharmacy