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My grandfather used to say “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” It turns out that he was probably right, at least in terms of antibodies and the Swine Flu. The 2009 H1N1 Swine Flu epidemic infected an estimated 60 million people and hospitalized more than 250,000. Those who were sick and then recovered from the pandemic H1N1 flu may have been rewarded for their suffering with extraordinary flu immunity, U.S. researchers report. [Read more...]
Here are this weeks special features from our sister sites at Dermatologist.org and Cardiologist.Org
Calcium channel blockers are heart disease drugs that increase the blood and oxygen supply to the heart, while lessening the heart’s workload. Examples of brand name calcium channel blockers include: Norvasc, Plendil, Cardizem, Calan, Adalat, Cardene, Sular, Vascor, Virapin and Isoptin. What Conditions Do These Blockers Help? For a variety of heart conditions including: coronary artery disease, coronary spasm, angina, abnormal heart rhythms, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, diastolic heart failure, and migraine headaches. Calcium channel blockers read more
This condition occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is decreased by a blockage of an artery. Myocardial ischemia is also known as cardiac ischemia, and it has the ability to damage your heart muscles, reducing its ability to efficiently pump blood. Severe blockages of certain coronary arteries may lead to a heart attack. Myocardial ischemia can also cause serious arrhythmias. Treatment for myocardial ischemia is meant to help improve blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatments can come in the form of medications, procedures that open read more
Beta blockers are also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents. They treat a variety of conditions including hypertension (high blood pressure), glaucoma, and migraines. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of epinephrine, the hormone that produces adrenaline. The beta blockers will reduce heart beats with less force, thus reducing blood pressure. They also help to open up blood vessels to improve blood flow. Examples of beta blockers include: Acebutolol Atenolol Bisoprolol Carvedilol Metoprolol Nadolol Nebivolol Propranolol Beta read more
Also known as ketoconazole topical cream, brand name Nizoral is a medication used to treat skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, and dandruff. It can also be used to treat a skin condition called pityriasis, a fungal infection that causes a lightening or darkening of the skin. Nizoral is an azole antifungal that works to prevent growth of fungus. To use this topical medication, clean and dry the affected area and apply a thin film of cream to skin once or twice a day. Dosage and strength will be up to your dermatologist’s read more
Also known as Metrocream, Metrolotion, and Noritate, Metrogel is a topical cream with a main ingredient called metronidazole, used on the skin to treat rosacea. This medication is an antibiotic that helps decrease redness, inflammation, and the number of pimples caused by rosacea. Some versions of this medication also contains sunscreen protection. To use Metrogel, apply onto the affected area. Wash and dry your hands before and after applying the medication. Also wash and dry the area to be treated. Wait about 10-15 minutes before applying a read more
Sculptra Aesthetic, also known as injectable poly-L-lactic acid, is a cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance of aging skin folds, indented chin surfaces, hollow cheeks, and sunken eyes. The Sculptra treatment is performed in the plastic surgeon’s office, typically for patients ages 35 to 60. It is very quick and almost painless. The overall process takes about 15 to 30 minutes; patients get to return home within minutes after it is done. The main ingredients in Sculptra has been commonly used in dissolvable stitches and soft tissue read more
Here are this weeks special features from our sister sites at Dermatologist.org and Cardiologist.Org
Calcium channel blockers are heart disease drugs that increase the blood and oxygen supply to the heart, while lessening the heart’s workload. Examples of brand name calcium channel blockers include: Norvasc, Plendil, Cardizem, Calan, Adalat, Cardene, Sular, Vascor, Virapin and Isoptin. What Conditions Do These Blockers Help? For a variety of heart conditions including: coronary artery disease, coronary spasm, angina, abnormal heart rhythms, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, diastolic heart failure, and migraine headaches. Calcium channel blockers read more
This condition occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is decreased by a blockage of an artery. Myocardial ischemia is also known as cardiac ischemia, and it has the ability to damage your heart muscles, reducing its ability to efficiently pump blood. Severe blockages of certain coronary arteries may lead to a heart attack. Myocardial ischemia can also cause serious arrhythmias. Treatment for myocardial ischemia is meant to help improve blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatments can come in the form of medications, procedures that open read more
Beta blockers are also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents. They treat a variety of conditions including hypertension (high blood pressure), glaucoma, and migraines. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of epinephrine, the hormone that produces adrenaline. The beta blockers will reduce heart beats with less force, thus reducing blood pressure. They also help to open up blood vessels to improve blood flow. Examples of beta blockers include: Acebutolol Atenolol Bisoprolol Carvedilol Metoprolol Nadolol Nebivolol Propranolol Beta read more
Also known as ketoconazole topical cream, brand name Nizoral is a medication used to treat skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, and dandruff. It can also be used to treat a skin condition called pityriasis, a fungal infection that causes a lightening or darkening of the skin. Nizoral is an azole antifungal that works to prevent growth of fungus. To use this topical medication, clean and dry the affected area and apply a thin film of cream to skin once or twice a day. Dosage and strength will be up to your dermatologist’s read more
Also known as Metrocream, Metrolotion, and Noritate, Metrogel is a topical cream with a main ingredient called metronidazole, used on the skin to treat rosacea. This medication is an antibiotic that helps decrease redness, inflammation, and the number of pimples caused by rosacea. Some versions of this medication also contains sunscreen protection. To use Metrogel, apply onto the affected area. Wash and dry your hands before and after applying the medication. Also wash and dry the area to be treated. Wait about 10-15 minutes before applying a read more
Sculptra Aesthetic, also known as injectable poly-L-lactic acid, is a cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance of aging skin folds, indented chin surfaces, hollow cheeks, and sunken eyes. The Sculptra treatment is performed in the plastic surgeon’s office, typically for patients ages 35 to 60. It is very quick and almost painless. The overall process takes about 15 to 30 minutes; patients get to return home within minutes after it is done. The main ingredients in Sculptra has been commonly used in dissolvable stitches and soft tissue read more
Summer is over, Labor Day has passed. Sundown comes earlier each day as the leaves of fall hint at changing colors to come. Here’s a quick taste of what our editors are covering this week over at Cardiologist.Org and Dermatologist.Org
Dilated cardiopathy, also known as DCM, is when the heart’s rate of pumping blood is decreased due to the heart’s left ventricle being enlarged. It causes a decrease in the amount of blood pumped out with each heart beat. Sometimes, it prevents the heart from taking in the normal amount of blood. Symptoms of DCM include heart failure symptoms, swelling of the lower body, fatigue, weight gain, fainting, palpitations, dizziness, blood clots, and chest pain. What causes DCM? It is mostly inherited; however, a variety of other factors includes read more
Heart-healthy foods provide the body with a powerful nutrient called phytonutrients, which prevents cell damage. This is the essence of preventing heart disease. So, what are these so-called foods? It’s in the colorful fruits and vegetables, the whole grains, beans, and legumes that offer all kinds of complex yet heart-protective nutrients. Everyone’s looking for one food that will do the trick. However, heart-healthy is more than just oatmeal and omega 3′s. You have to come at it from a holistic view. The Cleveland Clinic and the American read more
What are the heart benefits and side effects of arginine? Lately, arginine has gotten a lot of attention for its potential heart-healthy benefits. It is also abundant in many types of food such as red meat, fish, poultry, wheat germ, grains, nuts, seeds, and dairy products. Its benefits include wound healing, helping the kidneys remove waste products and maintaing a good immune system. It’s heart benefits include nitric oxide, which is a powerful neurotransmitter that helps blood vessels relax and also improves the circulation. Arginine can read more
Sculptra Aesthetic, also known as injectable poly-L-lactic acid, is a cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance of aging skin folds, indented chin surfaces, hollow cheeks, and sunken eyes. The Sculptra treatment is performed in the plastic surgeon’s office, typically for patients ages 35 to 60. It is very quick and almost painless. The overall process takes about 15 to 30 minutes; patients get to return home within minutes after it is done. The main ingredients in Sculptra has been commonly used in dissolvable stitches and soft tissue read more
Are you embarrassed of that so-called “muffin top”? Wondering what to do with that “food baby”? In our generation, many of us have battled long and hard with our unwanted bulges—also known as fat. When diet and exercise are no longer an option, there is the possibility of liposuction. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes small bulges of fat. The most common areas for liposuction are the hips, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and face. A good candidate for liposuction should possess these qualities: Average height Firm, elastic skin Good read more
The Cool Laser is a treatment that removes and decreases the appearance of acne scarring or wrinkles. It also improves the overall color and skin texture of the face, neck, and hands. The Cool Laser, based on its name, is much less painful than traditional laser techniques. It’s usually performed under local anesthesia and has a faster recovery time. How It Works Your skin cells will absorb the laser light. The absorption will destroy the cells and remove the tissues. Damaged skin is removed, and new skin grows quickly in its place. The pain read more
Summer is over, Labor Day has passed. Sundown comes earlier each day as the leaves of fall hint at changing colors to come. Here’s a quick taste of what our editors are covering this week over at Cardiologist.Org and Dermatologist.Org
Dilated cardiopathy, also known as DCM, is when the heart’s rate of pumping blood is decreased due to the heart’s left ventricle being enlarged. It causes a decrease in the amount of blood pumped out with each heart beat. Sometimes, it prevents the heart from taking in the normal amount of blood. Symptoms of DCM include heart failure symptoms, swelling of the lower body, fatigue, weight gain, fainting, palpitations, dizziness, blood clots, and chest pain. What causes DCM? It is mostly inherited; however, a variety of other factors includes read more
Heart-healthy foods provide the body with a powerful nutrient called phytonutrients, which prevents cell damage. This is the essence of preventing heart disease. So, what are these so-called foods? It’s in the colorful fruits and vegetables, the whole grains, beans, and legumes that offer all kinds of complex yet heart-protective nutrients. Everyone’s looking for one food that will do the trick. However, heart-healthy is more than just oatmeal and omega 3′s. You have to come at it from a holistic view. The Cleveland Clinic and the American read more
What are the heart benefits and side effects of arginine? Lately, arginine has gotten a lot of attention for its potential heart-healthy benefits. It is also abundant in many types of food such as red meat, fish, poultry, wheat germ, grains, nuts, seeds, and dairy products. Its benefits include wound healing, helping the kidneys remove waste products and maintaing a good immune system. It’s heart benefits include nitric oxide, which is a powerful neurotransmitter that helps blood vessels relax and also improves the circulation. Arginine can read more
Sculptra Aesthetic, also known as injectable poly-L-lactic acid, is a cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance of aging skin folds, indented chin surfaces, hollow cheeks, and sunken eyes. The Sculptra treatment is performed in the plastic surgeon’s office, typically for patients ages 35 to 60. It is very quick and almost painless. The overall process takes about 15 to 30 minutes; patients get to return home within minutes after it is done. The main ingredients in Sculptra has been commonly used in dissolvable stitches and soft tissue read more
Are you embarrassed of that so-called “muffin top”? Wondering what to do with that “food baby”? In our generation, many of us have battled long and hard with our unwanted bulges—also known as fat. When diet and exercise are no longer an option, there is the possibility of liposuction. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes small bulges of fat. The most common areas for liposuction are the hips, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and face. A good candidate for liposuction should possess these qualities: Average height Firm, elastic skin Good read more
The Cool Laser is a treatment that removes and decreases the appearance of acne scarring or wrinkles. It also improves the overall color and skin texture of the face, neck, and hands. The Cool Laser, based on its name, is much less painful than traditional laser techniques. It’s usually performed under local anesthesia and has a faster recovery time. How It Works Your skin cells will absorb the laser light. The absorption will destroy the cells and remove the tissues. Damaged skin is removed, and new skin grows quickly in its place. The pain read more
Summer is over, Labor Day has passed. Sundown comes earlier each day as the leaves of fall hint at changing colors to come. Here’s a quick taste of what our editors are covering this week over at Cardiologist.Org and Dermatologist.Org
Summer is over, Labor Day has passed. Sundown comes earlier each day as the leaves of fall hint at changing colors to come. Here’s a quick taste of what our editors are covering this week over at Cardiologist.Org and Dermatologist.Org
Dilated cardiopathy, also known as DCM, is when the heart’s rate of pumping blood is decreased due to the heart’s left ventricle being enlarged. It causes a decrease in the amount of blood pumped out with each heart beat. Sometimes, it prevents the heart from taking in the normal amount of blood. Symptoms of DCM include heart failure symptoms, swelling of the lower body, fatigue, weight gain, fainting, palpitations, dizziness, blood clots, and chest pain. What causes DCM? It is mostly inherited; however, a variety of other factors includes read more
Heart-healthy foods provide the body with a powerful nutrient called phytonutrients, which prevents cell damage. This is the essence of preventing heart disease. So, what are these so-called foods? It’s in the colorful fruits and vegetables, the whole grains, beans, and legumes that offer all kinds of complex yet heart-protective nutrients. Everyone’s looking for one food that will do the trick. However, heart-healthy is more than just oatmeal and omega 3′s. You have to come at it from a holistic view. The Cleveland Clinic and the American read more
What are the heart benefits and side effects of arginine? Lately, arginine has gotten a lot of attention for its potential heart-healthy benefits. It is also abundant in many types of food such as red meat, fish, poultry, wheat germ, grains, nuts, seeds, and dairy products. Its benefits include wound healing, helping the kidneys remove waste products and maintaing a good immune system. It’s heart benefits include nitric oxide, which is a powerful neurotransmitter that helps blood vessels relax and also improves the circulation. Arginine can read more
Sculptra Aesthetic, also known as injectable poly-L-lactic acid, is a cosmetic treatment used to improve the appearance of aging skin folds, indented chin surfaces, hollow cheeks, and sunken eyes. The Sculptra treatment is performed in the plastic surgeon’s office, typically for patients ages 35 to 60. It is very quick and almost painless. The overall process takes about 15 to 30 minutes; patients get to return home within minutes after it is done. The main ingredients in Sculptra has been commonly used in dissolvable stitches and soft tissue read more
Are you embarrassed of that so-called “muffin top”? Wondering what to do with that “food baby”? In our generation, many of us have battled long and hard with our unwanted bulges—also known as fat. When diet and exercise are no longer an option, there is the possibility of liposuction. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes small bulges of fat. The most common areas for liposuction are the hips, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and face. A good candidate for liposuction should possess these qualities: Average height Firm, elastic skin Good read more
The Cool Laser is a treatment that removes and decreases the appearance of acne scarring or wrinkles. It also improves the overall color and skin texture of the face, neck, and hands. The Cool Laser, based on its name, is much less painful than traditional laser techniques. It’s usually performed under local anesthesia and has a faster recovery time. How It Works Your skin cells will absorb the laser light. The absorption will destroy the cells and remove the tissues. Damaged skin is removed, and new skin grows quickly in its place. The pain read more
Many Americans know to associate fever with illness. But healthcare professionals know that, when it comes to diabetes, every part of a patient’s body, from their hair to their toes, can aid in diagnosis.
Eight percent of the U.S. population has diabetes, but nearly six million people remain undiagnosed. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), foot problems can help doctors discover diabetes. Diabetes can cause nerve damage in people’s feet, which can easily lead to amputation.
In the U.S., more than 60 percent of the patients who receive non-traumatic lower-limb amputations have diabetes. In 2004, almost 71,000 American diabetics needed amputations. Luckily, most diabetic amputations can be prevented through vigilant footcare.
”Diabetes can cause patients to lose sensation in their extremities, therefore a person with diabetes might not notice injuries to their feet until serious infection occurs,” said Ross Taubman, D.P.M., president of APMA. ”In most cases, patients can avoid amputation by working regularly with a podiatrist.”
Once diagnosed, patients with diabetes can prevent amputation by creating a footcare plan. Plans should include annual checkups with a podiatrist and daily foot inspections. Diagnosed diabetics need to be especially careful about footcare and should work with a podiatrist to determine the best preventative treatments.
Early diagnosis helps prevent severe nerve damage. For patients at risk for developing diabetes, foot conditions can be an early warning sign. According to the APMA, patients should see a podiatrist if they notice the following conditions:
For more information on preventing diabetes complications to the feet, visit the APMA’s website at www.apma.org.
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