October 10, 2008

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Other Health Topics Center   [ Home >  Other Health Topics >  More  Related Items ]   OTHER HEALTH TOPICS - ARTICLES More help needed for allergic rhinitis August 1, 2008 Allergies like rhinitis appear to be on the increase. The reason why is not clear, and people with allergic rhinitis are not well managed or treated. It may be time for specialized health workers or pharmacists to step into the breach. Smokers may quit together June 20, 2008 Social behavior is important in smoking. People who are close to those who quit are more likely to give up too, providing a new way of helping cessation efforts. Improved Treatment for Hay Fever February 14, 2008 Seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is a distressing but not serious condition. Treatment with a combination of an antihistamine nasal spray (Astelin®) and a corticosteroid nasal spray (Flonase®) has been shown to be significantly more effective than either of the two components given alone. Personal Medical Information Systems January 31, 2008 Getting your medical information act together! That would be a good New Year's Resolution. But it needn't be as difficult as it sounds. This article lists 5 software systems and 5 organizer workbooks that could be useful in helping you organize your medical information. Large Breasts and Back Pain January 31, 2008 Women who have overly large breasts may suffer from considerable back pain. In this article, Steve Hefferton, an experienced massage therapist, describes the problem, its diagnosis, and approaches to its treatment. Frailty - What Is It, Exactly? December 20, 2007 Many of us know someone who we would describe as "frail". Now geriatricians are trying to define a "frailty syndrome" - how to define it, diagnose it, and treat it. Here's a summary of a recent review of the topic. Advances in Cataract Surgery December 6, 2007 By the time they reach 75, as many as 70% of US people have cataracts that are significant enough to impair their vision. There are different options available for such patients. In this article, Dr LoPresti describes some of the types of cataract surgery available today. Hiking at High Altitude Can Be Risky August 14, 2007 Awareness of the risks, prevention, and treatment of high-altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness or AMS, leaves much to be desired. This is revealed in a survey conducted among trekkers in the Himalayas. Talking with Your Doctor about Embarrassing Problems October 10, 2006 In this article, Dr Vicki Rackner describes 6 steps that will help you find the right way to talk to your doctor about those things that seem too embarrassing to mention... An Introduction to Chinese Medicine June 19, 2006 Increasing numbers of people are becoming interested in Oriental Medicine as a possible alternative to more costly healthcare. Here is a short introduction to the philosophy and practice of Chinese Medicine written by a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, who trained in the USA. Obesity Surgery and High Blood Pressure April 24, 2006 Bariatric surgery (stomach surgery for obesity) is effective in reducing weight, the body mass index (BMI), and lowering high blood pressure. Some obese patients who had the procedure were able to come off their anti-hypertensive medications . . . Supplements: Science and Skepticism March 13, 2006 Supplements are becoming more and more popular, in spite of some negative reports from clinical studies. Here's a summary of some of the reasons why controversy over their effectiveness often arises. The Nine Major Risk Factors for Cancer December 19, 2005 An analysis of cancer mortality and nine modifiable risk factors makes it clear that a large proportion of deaths from cancer could be avoided. The greatest offenders are smoking, alcohol abuse, and insufficient fruit and vegetable intake. A healthy lifestyle should help most people avoid a cancer-related death . . . Bird Flu - The Risk of a Pandemic? October 24, 2005 Bird flu is rapidly spreading westward, and the chances of a human pandemic are rising. What can be done? The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are issuing regular bulletins to keep us informed. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - More Common Than Doctors Think? December 10, 2004 Doctors are not very good at diagnosing the chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), according to a new analysis of 90 cases. . . . . A New Risk with an Older Drug October 29, 2004 Erythromycin, a fifty-year-old antibiotic, has just been shown to interact with some other drugs in a way that can cause heart irregularities, and even sudden death in rare instances. This article summarizes the relevant study. Alcohol and Depression: Is There a Relationship? September 3, 2004 Depression and alcohol problems quite often occur together, and it's difficult to understand the relationship between the two. Dr Murphy's article clarifies this, showing that the presence of one increases the risk for the other. Lack of Iron Lowers Immunity April 8, 2004 Older people tend to have reduced immunity to infection, and also decreased iron stores. There seems to be a link . . . Got a Fever? Drink Lots of Fluids (?) March 26, 2004 Most of us with a respiratory infection (cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia) have been told "drink plenty of fluids". In fact, there's little or no evidence that this is a good thing, and it may, in fact, be harmful to small children. Older Folk and Food Poisoning February 27, 2004 Older people may be at increased risk of food poisoning for several reasons, as Dr Irene explains in this, the first extract from her book "Dr Irene's Nutrition Tidbits". Drinking Tea May Boost Immunity July 11, 2003 Ancient cultures may have known that tea has health benefits. Results from a recent study add to scientists' understanding of how tea may enhance immunity. Oral Thrush - What's Been Proved to Work June 5, 2003 Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) is a common fungal infection of the mouth and throat that's usually due to reduced immunity, such as that produced by blood cancer, treatment with chemotherapy or irradiation, and HIV/AIDS infection. This is a review of effective prevention and treatment methods. A Flu Shot Can Have 'Hidden Benefits' May 22, 2003 If you have a flu shot your chance of getting flu in the next season is dramatically reduced. In addition, however, your chances of being hospitalized or dying due to a cardiac or respiratory condition are also significantly reduced. The benefits are obvious . . . . Ugly Toenail - Is it Onychomycosis? March 21, 2003 A relatively easy in-office test is able to help the family doctor or podiatrist confirm if a fungus is causing the signs and symptoms of the nail disease known as onychomycosis. At about $1 a test, it can replace the $25 central lab tests usually employed, and the result is available within 2 weeks, too! Tip of the Month #3: How To Look After Your Feet March 21, 2003 Foot problems can creep up on us as we age, and may cause difficulties with mobility and independence. However, they can usually be avoided, in most cases. Here are some simple but important tips . . . How to Deal Better with Risk: The Case for Colorectal Cancer Screening (Part Two of Two) February 21, 2003 This third article on risk assessment continues the decision making process in screening for colorectal cancer. What to do, or not to do? Test your understanding of the actual screening process so that you can actively participate in the decision. Seniors, Gender Roles and Androgyny February 21, 2003 Times are changing, and the traditional gender roles are 'softening'. This is the topic of Dr Moghaddam's discussion of masculinity, femininity, and androgyny . . . Calcium and Vitamin D Aid Dental Health February 14, 2003 Can the same nutrients that are needed to maintain strong bones help seniors hold on to their teeth? It looks like it. How to Deal Better with Risk: The Case for Colorectal Cancer Screening (Part One of Two) January 31, 2003 This second article on risk assessment deals with practical questions using the example of a common cancer - colorectal cancer. Test your understanding of the actual disease risk based on screening test results. Risk Assessment - The Illusion of Certainty January 24, 2003 Taking the right decision on almost any matter requires a clear understanding of all the available facts. And often, in health matters, the facts are obscured in technical language or statistics. In this first article of a series, Dr Guy Heynen uses effective examples to help you through the decision-making process, so that you get to the right, or at least the best, solution. Patients' Health and Education: How Strong Is the Link? January 13, 2003 Health education, the Cinderella of medicine, improves health and needs lifelong involvement by citizens, patients, professionals and health authorities. In our ageing society, health education is a necessity for young and old. Tip of the Month #2: Looking After Your Teeth and Gums December 20, 2002 Good care of your teeth and gums as you get older is essential, for many reasons. Here are some tips on how to get the best results! Patients, Doctors and the Internet: a Question of Trust November 20, 2002 Trust between doctors and patients has declined. Patients are more demanding. The Internet is a powerful new information source. Trustworthy websites will actually improve relations between professionals and e-health seekers. Another Example of 'Use It or Lose It' October 25, 2002 People become frail as they get older, but it seems to be possible to slow this process down with a physical therapy program... Patient Education: the End of One-Way Traffic October 17, 2002 Health education is changing from regarding patients as information recipients to accepting their active participation. In the learning process: Motivation --> Access --> Information --> Understanding --> Application, trustworthy Internet sites play a key role. Smokers' Diets Short on Variety July 16, 2002 Habitual smokers often don't eat enough antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and family members (even those who don't smoke) often have the same poor eating habits. Treatment for Genital Herpes May 27, 2002 Genital herpes is becoming much more common, worldwide. Fortunately there are medications that can treat the symptoms and suppress the virus, but as yet there are none that can effect a complete cure. Following Doctor's Orders January 24, 2002 Following doctor's orders completely is sometimes a challenge for all of us, but for seniors it's complicated by numerous factors associated with aging. Here we present an overview of the problem, along with some tips on how to help seniors stick better with the recommended regimens. Holiday Food Safety January 11, 2002 Many people don't realize that holiday meals and parties set the stage for foodborne illness. Find out how to keep illness-causing bacteria away from holiday gatherings. Do You Intend To Be a 'Responsible' Patient? January 11, 2002 Responsible patients look after their health and avoid inappropriate consumption of health care resources. What are the limits of personal responsibility, and how can public policy motivate The Responsible Patient? Alcohol and Depression: Is There a Relationship? November 28, 2001 Depression and alcohol problems sometimes occur together in people who present for treatment. Up to now, it's been difficult to clearly understand the relationship between the two. A new study sheds light on this, showing that the presence of one disorder increases the risk for the other. Advertising Prescription Drugs Direct to Patients November 13, 2001 'Direct-to-Consumer' advertising of prescription drugs is permitted in the USA and New Zealand, but prohibited in Europe and elsewhere in the industrialized world. What's in the best interest of patients? What is Ageism, and How Should We Combat it? November 13, 2001 We are constantly being warned of the risks of racial or ethnic prejudice, but not all of us are even aware of 'ageism'. Here's a primer... Dentures Improve More Than Your Smile September 26, 2001 Healthy eating can be difficult for those with dental problems, but seniors who avoid 'hard to eat' foods may be missing out on some key nutrients. Treatments for Alcoholism - a Review of What Works September 12, 2001 Treatments for alcohol abuse and dependence have been around awhile, but only recently have they been subjected to rigorous clinical study. In October 2000, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism released its report to the public describing the results of this research. Summer Food Safety August 31, 2001 Don't let spoiled food ruin your summer outing. Some simple steps can keep food safer to eat during the hot summer months. Herbal Medicines Can Interfere with Surgery August 31, 2001 Patients slated for surgery often neglect to give their doctors some essential information - the kinds of herbal medicines they've recently taken. What's in a Name: The Rise of Newspeak in Medicine August 10, 2001 When you visit your physician, are you a patient or a client? Uncertainty reigns! The Negative Effects of Smoking on Bones, Joints and Healing August 3, 2001 Can smoking affect surgery, bone health and healing? Results of 44 studies say "yes" . . . . . Are Flu and Pneumonia Vaccines Worth It? July 2, 2001 Flu and pneumonia are major causes of illness and death in older people, especially for those with some sort of chronic illness. Vaccines against flu and pneumonia have been shown to be quite effective. In many countries, however, vaccination hasn't been widely used, partly because results of large vaccination programs are uncertain. Now the results of a large study in Sweden are available. Brush Up on Oral Health July 2, 2001 Plan ahead so that dental problems don't come between you and good nutrition. The Serious Side of Foodborne Illness July 2, 2001 Food safety is an ever-increasing health issue for seniors, but a few sensible precautions can reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Home Alone: Drinking as an Antidote to Loneliness July 2, 2001 When you are lonely, with no place to go and nothing to do, alcohol can become a cheap and easy companion. Here are some hints on how to recognize the signs of an alcohol problem in older persons and on how to prevent the loneliness that may lead inappropriate drinking. What can be done to help people with a gambling problem? July 2, 2001 Many people have friends or family members who have gambling problems. At its worst, pathological gambling can lead to antisocial behavior, loss of employment, and even criminal activity. Are there any recognized successful ways to help? Triumphing Over the Cigarette March 19, 2001 Quitters never win - except when it comes to smoking. Find out what some of the pitfalls are on the way to non-smoking and learn how to avoid them. How To Reduce Your Risk of Foodborne Illness February 20, 2001 Foodborne illness is a pressing health problem for all consumers, but is a particular concern for seniors. Seniors Urged to Use Alternative Medicines With Care February 8, 2001 An increasing number of seniors are treating themselves with herbs and other 'alternative' types of medicine. High Cholesterol Often Goes Undetected October 22, 2000 An article in a recent issue of the British Medical Journal warns physicians that those people at greatest risk for heart attack may have dangerously high blood levels of cholesterol. When you stop smoking October 11, 2000 Stopping smoking at any age is very hard to do. For relatively healthy young people, the prospect of avoiding a serious illness (e.g. lung cancer, a heart attack) is often too far off to act as a strong incentive. Is tube feeding the right way to go? October 9, 2000 The use of tube feeding for older people with a fatal illness is growing rapidly. But is it the best approach for such patients? A recent analysis of the outcome after the most common of these procedures (percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, or PEG) casts some doubt on its benefits. Medical Advice for Sale at the Health Food Store October 2, 2000 Salespeople are employed to sell goods; healthcare workers are employed to provide medical care. The line between the two becomes blurred, though, when health food store employees step out of their role. Should you visit an herbal practitioner? October 2, 2000 The use of medicinal herbs has increased considerably in recent years. The article summarized here is chiefly concerned with the practice of herbal medicine. Generics and You September 20, 2000 When your doctor prescribes a generic drug, are you pleased, indifferent or affronted? Or are you perhaps uncertain and wondering what exactly generic means and how it will affect you? A New Prescription for Healthy Teeth: Brush, Floss, and Get Enough Calcium September 7, 2000 Calcium has long been acknowledged for its role in the prevention of osteoporosis. A recent study has demonstrated that calcium-rich foods may also help to prevent some of the tooth loss that occurs with aging. I get dizzy! July 27, 2000 As many as one in three older people complain that they get dizzy spells. As dizziness leads to an increased likelihood of falling, it's important to try to find the cause, or causes, in each case. A recent study has analyzed the likely factors associated with dizziness in people aged 72 or older. How to handle food hygienically May 25, 2000 Our habitat is teeming with countless microorganisms that are invisible to the naked eye (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites). Many of these tiny creatures are harmless to humans. How to drink less May 12, 2000 Alcohol has a tradition in our society dating back thousands of years: as a 'social lubricant' at informal occasions, as a crowning supplement to culinary creations or as 'world champion. The catastrophic nature of the sudden need for long-term care April 14, 2000 Four days later, in the Neurological Intensive Care Unit, your attending physician explains that you've had a "cerebral vascular accident," a stroke. Talk will soon turn to post discharge planning, skilled nursing facilities, adult day care, speech therapy, and the "spend down" of your life savings. Your children, scattered across the country, and with families of their own, are torn between the need to protect the continuity of their own lives, and their roles as potential caregivers. Health Risk Factors March 24, 2000 Hundreds of years ago the occurrence of disease as one got older was accepted as inevitable. As we enter the 21st century it is pleasing to note that, with some exceptions. Gait and Immobility Assessment January 24, 2000 The purpose of this tool is to assist in the evaluation of the patient with a mobility disorder. Questions and Answers about Hip Replacement December 30, 1999 Hip replacement, or arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the diseased parts of the hip joint are removed and replaced with new, artificial parts. These artificial parts are called the prosthesis. The goals of hip replacement surgery are to improve mobility by relieving pain and improve function of the hip joint. Up and about! November 5, 1999 Doctors have been prescribing bed rest for centuries. In the last 75 years or so, it was the first line of treatment for heart attack (myocardial infarction, or MI) and acute low back pain (often called sciatica, or Hexenschusse) . Does ageism affect health care rationing ? September 16, 1999 The two concepts - 'ageism' and 'rationing' - are widely believed to exist in the health care systems of industrialised countries. Getting help (e.g. tools and structural changes) in the home August 24, 1999 Aids for the frail, elderly person living at home can be quite expensive. There are two sorts -- items like canes, walkers and answering machines, and structural changes in the home itself, such as adding ramps, lowering cabinets and replacing throw rugs with safer floor covering. Abuse of the elderly July 16, 1999 Mistreatment of the elderly, or "granny bashing" as the British called it, has been recognized as a medical and social problem for at least 20 years. However, because of differing definitions, poor detection and under-reporting, its extent is unknown.   RELATED ITEMS Improved Treatment for Hay Fever February 14, 2008 Drug Interactions in the Elderly September 28, 2007 Periodontitis - How it Causes Cardiovascular Problems March 22, 2007 Fitness Fights Colds December 4, 2006 It's That Time of Year - Flu Shot Time! October 19, 2006 No Need for Supplements? October 11, 2005 Smoking and Erectile Dysfunction April 15, 2005 The Metabolic Syndrome and the Risk of Alzheimer's December 22, 2004 Treating GERD Symptoms May Facilitate Pneumonia December 22, 2004 Take Vitamin E to Help Ward Off Colds! December 22, 2004 Yo-yo Dieting and Reduced Immunity September 17, 2004 Secondhand Smoke is Also Lethal September 3, 2004 Tooth Brushing, Flossing, AND a Mouthwash Can Help Prevent Stroke July 29, 2004 When Is Alcohol a Problem? July 16, 2004 HIV and AIDS Are Real Risks for The Over 50s July 2, 2004 Smoking Causes Mental Deterioration in Later Life May 19, 2004 Beauty in Everyday Life September 25, 2003 Beauty, Health, and Gender August 29, 2003 Health Signals Beauty July 18, 2003 Health, Beauty, and Seniors June 27, 2003 Senior Weddings May 22, 2003 A Flu Shot Can Have 'Hidden Benefits' May 22, 2003 Can Your Diet Prevent a Urinary Tract Infection? April 17, 2003 Can a Multivitamin a Day Keep Infections at Bay? April 17, 2003 'Senior Wisdom' and War April 17, 2003 Tip of the Month #3: How To Look After Your Feet March 21, 2003 What Genital Herpes Patients Need February 7, 2003 Regular Exercise Boosts Effectiveness of 'Flu Shot October 11, 2002 3-Cigarettes-a-Day Double a Woman's Risk September 5, 2002 Oral or Intra-Vaginal Tablets for Thrush? March 20, 2002 Looking After Grandmother March 7, 2002 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) March 7, 2002 Can a Wagging Tail Help Good Health Prevail? December 13, 2001 Choosing Herbal and Botanical Supplements September 26, 2001 Do Older Adults Need an Iron Supplement? August 14, 2001 The Negative Effects of Smoking on Bones, Joints and Healing August 3, 2001 Join the Aging Revolution July 2, 2001 Exercise May Boost Immunity July 2, 2001 Keeping Your Mouth Healthy May Help Prevent Stroke July 2, 2001 Shingles, when you're older April 10, 2001 Cooking For Yourself: You're Worth It! April 10, 2001 Some are more sensitive to salt than others March 19, 2001 How To Reduce Your Risk of Foodborne Illness February 20, 2001 Portion Control : It's In Your Hands January 22, 2001 Obesity May Increase Pneumonia Risk. December 15, 2000 Lycopene and Its Emerging Role in Disease Prevention. December 15, 2000 How To Consume Enough Calcium When You Are Lactose Intolerant. December 15, 2000 Reading the Tea Leaves: They Give A Fuzzy Message December 12, 2000 Zinc and Copper: Seniors May Not Be Getting All They Need December 12, 2000 Does Fiber Affect Colon Cancer Risk? November 7, 2000 Garlic: Do its medicinal properties match its gastronomic attributes? November 7, 2000 Antioxidants may keep eyes healthy November 7, 2000 Water fluoridation may benefit bones November 7, 2000 Can Carrots and Tomatoes Lower Lung Cancer Risk? November 7, 2000 Eating Fruits and Vegetables Year-Round is Key to Staying Healthy August 24, 2000 Soy As Part of a 'Heart Healthy' Diet August 24, 2000 Doctors Say 'Apple' Is Not the Shape for Men...or for Women August 24, 2000 Time for a colonoscopy? July 31, 2000 The hidden cost of caregiving July 21, 2000 Does smoking stop you getting Alzheimer's disease? June 29, 2000 How To Spot Caregiver Burnout June 8, 2000 How to eat and drink if you have kidney stones May 25, 2000 How to drink less May 12, 2000 Hunger and the Elderly February 7, 2000 Infections and arterial disease? January 4, 2000 Disability obviously can cause depression October 11, 1999 Intelligence and Aging: You Can Keep It With You July 3, 1999 Are cigars just as bad? June 29, 1999

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