Re: Breast Cancer, Prevention
Fr: fwd email fr dandount@hotmail.com. “Bra & Health.” 2008 Jan 24 (undercore mine)
… For years, a lot of articles with regard to the causes of breast cancer point to an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise as the major links to this disease which happens to be the biggest killer among women during these last two decades.
These studies would have been most credible if it were not for the fact that several women including Linda McCartney who have been religious vegetarians and exercise-freaks have also been unfortunate in suffering breast cancer.
Perhaps the most convincing article I have ever read with regard to this matter is one which links breast cancer to the wearing of bras.
In the "Bra and Breast Cancer Study" in the United States, it was discovered that women with breast cancer had a history of sporting tighter and longer bra-wearing than did the women who had not (yet) developed the disease.
In fact, virtually the entire cancer group wore bras over 12 hours.
When a woman wears a tight bra, she subjects her breasts to pressure, closing off the lymphatic pathway from the breast to the nodes.
This causes fluid built-up swelling, tenderness and cyst formation.
Toxins must be flushed out via the lymphatic pathway.
However, a bra-constricted breast cannot adequately perform this cleansing process, resulting in toxin accumulation in the breast.
Truthfully, bras are creating droopy, weak breasts......the breast relies on the bras for artificial support; the body loses its ability to support the breast by itself.
This is why many women feel uncomfortable without the bra.
What is the solution to breast cancer then?
DON'T WEAR A TIGHT BRA!
And maybe sleep without them.
There is a remarkable success rate for recovery from fibrocystic breast disease within 10 days to two weeks of going bra-free.
Many women have tried going bra-less and recorded a miraculous improvement in their health!...
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Thursday, January 17, 2008
medicines for colds and cough: caution
Re: Colds and Cough, Treatment in Children; Caution
Fr: Excerpted from Associated Press (2008 Jan 17). “FDA: Cold medicines too risky for tots.” http://news.yahoo.com/sap/20080117/ap_on_re_me /cold_ medicines (underscore mine)
• WHAT
“Washington – Parents should not give sniffing babies and toddlers over-the-counter cough and cold medicines – they’re too risky for tots so small, the government will declare Thursday.
“… the Food and Drug Administration [FDA] is issuing a public health advisory on Thursday to warn parents to avoid these drugs for children under age 2 ‘because serious and potentially life-threatening side effects can occur.’
“… last October…. the FDA’s own scientific advisers voted that the drugs don’t even work in small children and shouldn’t be used in preschoolers, either – anyone under age 6.
“… the FDA is asking an even bigger question: are over-the-counter cold remedies safe and effective for children under 12? The agency’s advisers last fall stopped short of recommending no use by children ages 6 to 11, but they did call for more research….
• WHY
“… decades ago,… scientists thought that what worked in adults would automatically work in children. Scientists today know that is not always the case.
“There’s no evidence that these oral drugs actually ease cold symptoms in children so young – some studies suggest they do no good at all. And while serious side effects are fairly rare, they do occur. Indeed, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention last year reported that more than 1,500 babies and toddlers wound up in emergency rooms over a 2-year period because of the drugs.
• WHAT NOW
Give lots of liquids to them.
“Meantime, the FDA’s advice for children over 2:
-- If you use these drugs, carefully follow label directions.
-- If you give two medicines that have the same or similar ingredients, a child could overdose.
-- Understand that these drugs only treat symptoms. Colds are viruses, and the drugs will not make them go away any faster….”
Fr: Excerpted from Associated Press (2008 Jan 17). “FDA: Cold medicines too risky for tots.” http://news.yahoo.com/sap/20080117/ap_on_re_me /cold_ medicines (underscore mine)
• WHAT
“Washington – Parents should not give sniffing babies and toddlers over-the-counter cough and cold medicines – they’re too risky for tots so small, the government will declare Thursday.
“… the Food and Drug Administration [FDA] is issuing a public health advisory on Thursday to warn parents to avoid these drugs for children under age 2 ‘because serious and potentially life-threatening side effects can occur.’
“… last October…. the FDA’s own scientific advisers voted that the drugs don’t even work in small children and shouldn’t be used in preschoolers, either – anyone under age 6.
“… the FDA is asking an even bigger question: are over-the-counter cold remedies safe and effective for children under 12? The agency’s advisers last fall stopped short of recommending no use by children ages 6 to 11, but they did call for more research….
• WHY
“… decades ago,… scientists thought that what worked in adults would automatically work in children. Scientists today know that is not always the case.
“There’s no evidence that these oral drugs actually ease cold symptoms in children so young – some studies suggest they do no good at all. And while serious side effects are fairly rare, they do occur. Indeed, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention last year reported that more than 1,500 babies and toddlers wound up in emergency rooms over a 2-year period because of the drugs.
• WHAT NOW
Give lots of liquids to them.
“Meantime, the FDA’s advice for children over 2:
-- If you use these drugs, carefully follow label directions.
-- If you give two medicines that have the same or similar ingredients, a child could overdose.
-- Understand that these drugs only treat symptoms. Colds are viruses, and the drugs will not make them go away any faster….”
Saturday, November 17, 2007
health tips: brain and liver
Re: Health Tips, Brain and Liver
Fr: fwd by dandount@hotmail.com, 2007 nov 12
BRAIN DAMAGING HABITS
1. No Breakfast
People who do not take breakfast are going to have a lower blood sugar level.
This leads to an insufficient supply of nutrients to the brain causing brain degeneration.
2. Overeating
It causes hardening of the brain arteries, leading to a decrease in mental power.
3. Smoking
It causes multiple brain shrinkage and may lead to Alzheimer disease.
4. High Sugar consumption
Too much sugar will interrupt the absorption of proteins and nutrients causing malnutrition and may interfere with brain development.
5. Air Pollution
The brain is the largest oxygen consumer in our body. Inhaling polluted air decreases the supply of oxygen to the brain, bringing about a decrease in brain efficiency.
6. Sleep Deprivation
Sleep allows our brain to rest. Long term deprivation from sleep will accelerate the death of brain cells.
7. Head covered while sleeping
Sleeping with the head covered, increases the concentration of carbon dioxide and decrease concentration of oxygen that may lead to brain damaging effects.
8. Working your brain during illness
Working hard or studying with sickness may lead to a decrease in effectiveness of the brain as well as damage the brain.
9. Lacking in stimulating thoughts
Thinking is the best way to train our brain, lacking in brain stimulation thoughts may cause brain shrinkage.
10. Talking Rarely
Intellectual conversations will promote the efficiency of the brain
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The main causes of liver damage are:
1. Sleeping too late and waking up too late are main cause.
2. Not urinating in the morning.
3. Too much eating.
4. Skipping breakfast.
5. Consuming too much medication.
6. Consuming too much preservatives, additives, food coloring, and artificial sweetener.
7. Consuming unhealthy cooking oil. As much as possible reduce cooking oil use when frying, which includes even the best cooking oils like olive oil. Do not consume fried foods when you are tired, except if the body is very fit.
8. Consuming raw (overly done) foods also add to the burden of liver.
Veggies should be eaten raw or cooked 3-5 parts. Fried veggies should be finished in one sitting, do not store.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We should prevent this without necessarily spending more. We just have to adopt a good daily lifestyle and eating habits. Maintaining good eating habits and time condition are very important for our bodies to absorb and get rid of unnecessary chemicals according to "schedule."
Because:
Evening at 9 - 11pm: is the time for eliminating unnecessary/toxic chemicals (detoxification) from the antibody system (lymph nodes). This time duration should be spent by relaxing or listening to music. If during this time a housewife is still in an unrelaxed state such as washing the dishes or monitoring children doing their homework, this will have a negative impact on health.
Evening at 11pm - 1am: is the detoxification process in the liver, and ideally should be done in a deep sleep state.
Early morning 1 - 3am: detoxification process in the gall, also ideally done in a deep sleep state.
Early morning 3 - 5am: detoxification in the lungs. Therefore there will sometimes be a severe cough for cough sufferers during this time. Since the detoxification process had reached the respiratory tract, there is no need to take cough medicine so as not to interfere with toxin removal process.
Morning 5 - 7am: detoxification in the colon, you should empty your bowel.
Morning 7 - 9am: absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, you should be having breakfast at this time. Breakfast should be earlier, before 6:30am, for those who are sick. Breakfast before 7:30am is very beneficial to those wanting to stay fit. Those who always skip breakfast, they should change their habits, and it is still better to eat breakfast late until 9 - 10am rather than no meal at all.
Sleeping so late and waking up too late will disrupt the process of removing unnecessary chemicals. Aside from that, midnight to 4:00 am is the time when the bone marrow produces blood. Therefore, have a good sleep and don't sleep late.
TAKE CARE ABOUT YOUR HEALTH.................
Fr: fwd by dandount@hotmail.com, 2007 nov 12
BRAIN DAMAGING HABITS
1. No Breakfast
People who do not take breakfast are going to have a lower blood sugar level.
This leads to an insufficient supply of nutrients to the brain causing brain degeneration.
2. Overeating
It causes hardening of the brain arteries, leading to a decrease in mental power.
3. Smoking
It causes multiple brain shrinkage and may lead to Alzheimer disease.
4. High Sugar consumption
Too much sugar will interrupt the absorption of proteins and nutrients causing malnutrition and may interfere with brain development.
5. Air Pollution
The brain is the largest oxygen consumer in our body. Inhaling polluted air decreases the supply of oxygen to the brain, bringing about a decrease in brain efficiency.
6. Sleep Deprivation
Sleep allows our brain to rest. Long term deprivation from sleep will accelerate the death of brain cells.
7. Head covered while sleeping
Sleeping with the head covered, increases the concentration of carbon dioxide and decrease concentration of oxygen that may lead to brain damaging effects.
8. Working your brain during illness
Working hard or studying with sickness may lead to a decrease in effectiveness of the brain as well as damage the brain.
9. Lacking in stimulating thoughts
Thinking is the best way to train our brain, lacking in brain stimulation thoughts may cause brain shrinkage.
10. Talking Rarely
Intellectual conversations will promote the efficiency of the brain
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The main causes of liver damage are:
1. Sleeping too late and waking up too late are main cause.
2. Not urinating in the morning.
3. Too much eating.
4. Skipping breakfast.
5. Consuming too much medication.
6. Consuming too much preservatives, additives, food coloring, and artificial sweetener.
7. Consuming unhealthy cooking oil. As much as possible reduce cooking oil use when frying, which includes even the best cooking oils like olive oil. Do not consume fried foods when you are tired, except if the body is very fit.
8. Consuming raw (overly done) foods also add to the burden of liver.
Veggies should be eaten raw or cooked 3-5 parts. Fried veggies should be finished in one sitting, do not store.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We should prevent this without necessarily spending more. We just have to adopt a good daily lifestyle and eating habits. Maintaining good eating habits and time condition are very important for our bodies to absorb and get rid of unnecessary chemicals according to "schedule."
Because:
Evening at 9 - 11pm: is the time for eliminating unnecessary/toxic chemicals (detoxification) from the antibody system (lymph nodes). This time duration should be spent by relaxing or listening to music. If during this time a housewife is still in an unrelaxed state such as washing the dishes or monitoring children doing their homework, this will have a negative impact on health.
Evening at 11pm - 1am: is the detoxification process in the liver, and ideally should be done in a deep sleep state.
Early morning 1 - 3am: detoxification process in the gall, also ideally done in a deep sleep state.
Early morning 3 - 5am: detoxification in the lungs. Therefore there will sometimes be a severe cough for cough sufferers during this time. Since the detoxification process had reached the respiratory tract, there is no need to take cough medicine so as not to interfere with toxin removal process.
Morning 5 - 7am: detoxification in the colon, you should empty your bowel.
Morning 7 - 9am: absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, you should be having breakfast at this time. Breakfast should be earlier, before 6:30am, for those who are sick. Breakfast before 7:30am is very beneficial to those wanting to stay fit. Those who always skip breakfast, they should change their habits, and it is still better to eat breakfast late until 9 - 10am rather than no meal at all.
Sleeping so late and waking up too late will disrupt the process of removing unnecessary chemicals. Aside from that, midnight to 4:00 am is the time when the bone marrow produces blood. Therefore, have a good sleep and don't sleep late.
TAKE CARE ABOUT YOUR HEALTH.................
Sunday, November 11, 2007
feet: importance
re: "how to save your sole"
fr: 7days (2007 nov 11), p. 21.
"home to 33 joints, 107 ligaments, 19 muscles and 26 bones -- a quarter of all the bones in our body -- our FEET set the alignment for the rest of our body. and if our feet are not right, repercussions can be felt all the way up the jaw.
"the pressure generated on the foot from wearing very high or very low shoes can lead to all sorts of deformities and problems, like HEEL pain, hammer TOES (when one toe bends downward) or claw FOOT (when a toes bends downward and another upward). the problem then ricochets quickly up the kinetic chain of the body to the KNEE, affecting the gait cycle when you walk, the way that the HIP moves, teh position of the PELVIS and the direction of the SPINE. your foot's alignment can even address symptoms as high as the NECK and the JAW."
reflection:
the feet psychologically symbolize stability. foundation. rootedness. in architecture, the whole structure can solely depend on the foundation.
fr: 7days (2007 nov 11), p. 21.
"home to 33 joints, 107 ligaments, 19 muscles and 26 bones -- a quarter of all the bones in our body -- our FEET set the alignment for the rest of our body. and if our feet are not right, repercussions can be felt all the way up the jaw.
"the pressure generated on the foot from wearing very high or very low shoes can lead to all sorts of deformities and problems, like HEEL pain, hammer TOES (when one toe bends downward) or claw FOOT (when a toes bends downward and another upward). the problem then ricochets quickly up the kinetic chain of the body to the KNEE, affecting the gait cycle when you walk, the way that the HIP moves, teh position of the PELVIS and the direction of the SPINE. your foot's alignment can even address symptoms as high as the NECK and the JAW."
reflection:
the feet psychologically symbolize stability. foundation. rootedness. in architecture, the whole structure can solely depend on the foundation.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
body mass index calculator
BMI online calculator:
http://www.healthcentral.com/diet-exercise/index-1688-143.htm/?c=101012
http://www.healthcentral.com/diet-exercise/index-1688-143.htm/?c=101012
Sunday, October 7, 2007
medrol
Re: Medicines; Steroids; Methylprednisolone (Medrol tabs)
Fr: Pharmacia
• Properties
Group: synthetic glucocorticoids*
Effect: on inflammatory and immune process; also on carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism; also act on cardiovascular system, skeletal muscles, and the CNS
---------------
*properties of glucocortisoids:
(1) ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
(2) IMMUNOSUPRESSIVE
(3) ANTI-ALLERGIC
• Indications
A. Endocrine D/Os – adrenocortical insufficiency, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, nonsuppurative thyroiditis, hypercalcemia associates with cancer
B. Nonendocrine D/Os – rheumatic d/o (ex: rheumatoid arthritis), collagen d/e (ex: systemic lupus erythematosus), dermatologic d/e (ex: severe psoriasis), allergic states (ex: bronchial asthma), opthatmic d/e (ex: herpes zoster ophthalmicus), respiratory d/e (ex: aspiration pneumonitis), hematologic d/o (ex: RBC anemia), noeplastic d/e (ex: leukemias & lymphomas in adults), edematous states, gastrointestinal d/e (ex: ulcerative colitis), nervous system (ex: acute exacertabtions of MS), miscellaneous (ex: tuberculous meningitis), organ transplantation
• Dosage and administration
- Variable, individualized on the basis of d/e and px’s response
- Gradual withdrawal
- Constant monitoring needed
- Dosage adjustment situations:
(a) clinical status secondary to remissions or exacerbations
(b) px’s individual drug responsiveness
(c) “the effect of px exposure to STRESSFUL+ situations not directly related to the d/e….”
- ADT (alternate day therapy) to minimize undesirable effects, incl pituitary-adrenal suppression, the Cushingoid state*, corticoid withdrawal & growth suppression in children
• Contra-indications
- systemic fungal infections
- known hypersensitiviety to methylprednisolone
• Adverse reactions
- fluid & electrolyte disturbances – sodium retention, congestive heart failure in susceptible patients, hypertension, fluid retention, potassium loss and hypokalemic alkalosis
- musculoskeletal – steroid mypathy, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, pathologic fractures, vertebral compression fractures and aseptic necrosis
- gastrointestinal – peptic ulceration with possible perforation and hemorrhage, gastric hemorrhage, pancreatitis, esophagitis & perforation of the bowel
- dermatologic – impaired wound healing, petechiae & ecchymosis, & thin fragile skin
- metabolic – negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism
- neurological – increased intracranial pressure, pseudotumor cerebri, psychic derangements & seizures
- endocrine – menstrual irregularities, development of Cushingoid state*, suppression of pituitary-adrenal axis, decreased carbohydrate tolerace, manifestation of latent diabetes mellitus, increased requirements from insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics & suppression of growth in children
- ophthalmic – posterior subcapsular cataracts, increased intraocular pressure and exophthalmos
- immune system – masking of infections, latent infections becoming active, opportunistic infections, hypersensitivity reactions during anaphylaxis & may suppress reactions to skin tests
• Special precaution
“In pxs on corticosteroid therapy subject to UNUSUAL STRESS+, in creased dosage of rapidly acting corticosteroids before, during & after the stressful situation is indicated.”
- there may be decreased resistance & inability to localize infection
- prolonged use may produce posterior subcapsular cataracts, glaucoma with possible damage to the optic nerves & may enhance the establishment of secondary ocular infections due to fungi or viruses
- allergic reactions (ex: angioedema) may occur
- may cause elevation of blood pressure, salt & water retention & increased excretion of potassium and calcium
- NB: no vaccination against smallpox & other immunization procedures while under therapy due to possible neurologic complications & lack of antibody response
- osteoporosis is a common but infrequently recognized adverse effect associated with a long-term use of large doses of glucocorticoids
- with impaired host defenses, susceptibility to fungus and bacterial and viral infections increases
- “Drug-induced adrenocortical insufficiency may be minimized by gradual reduction of dosage. This type of relative insufficiency may persist for months after discontinuation of therapy; therefore, in any situation of STRESS+ occurring during that period, hormone therapy should be reinstituted….”
- psychic derangements may appear ranging from euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes & severe depression to frank psychotic manifestations. also, existing emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroids.
- “Corticosteroids should be used with caution in nonspecific ulcerative colitis if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess or other pyogenic infection, verticulitis, fresh intestinal anastomoses, active or latent peptic ulcer, renal insufficienty, hypertension, osteoporosis, or MYASTHENIA GRAVIS.
NB: “Because complications of treatment with glucocorticoids are dependent on the size of the dose and the duration of treatment, a RISK/BENEFIT DECISION must be made in each individual case as to dose and duration of treatment and as to whether daily or intermittent therapy should be used.”
• Pregnancy and lactation
- some animal studies showed fetal malformations when corticosteroids were administered to the mother at high doses
• Overdose
- no clinical syndrome of acute overdosage; repeated frequent doses over a protracted period may result in a Cushingoid state* & other complications or chronic steroid therapy.
• Storage
- room temperature below 25 degrees centigrade
_____________
*Cushing’s Syndrome = A syndrome caused by an increased production of ACTH from a tumor of the adrenal cortex or of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, or by excessive intake of glucocorticoids. It is characterized by obesity and weakening of the muscles. [After Harvey Williams CUSHING = The American neurosurgeon Harvey Williams Cushing (1869-1939) who developed operative techniques that made brain surgery feasible..]
Cuhing's disease was first described by him. It is a disorder attributed to hyperactivity of the cortex of the adrenal glands and affects women more than men. The symptoms include obesity (moonface, an accumulation of fat at the back of the neck called buffalo hump, and abdominal protrusion), hypertension, hirsutism [abnormal hair growth], and easy bruisability. Treatment is by X-ray therapy if the pituitary body is involved or by surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands.
Symptoms of cortisol excess+ (resulting from medication or from the body's excess production of the hormone) include:
• weight gain
• an abnormal accumulation of fatty pads in the face (creating the distinctive "moon face" of Cushing's syndrome); in the trunk (termed "truncal obesity"); and over the upper back and the back of the neck (giving the individual what has been called a "buffalo hump")
• purple and pink stretch marks across the abdomen and flanks
• high blood pressure
• weak, thinning bones (osteoporosis)
• weak muscles
• low energy
• thin, fragile skin, with a tendency toward both bruising and slow healing
• abnormalities in the processing of sugars (glucose), with occasional development of actual diabetes
• kidney stones
• increased risk of infections
• emotional disturbances, including mood swings, depression, irritability, confusion, or even a complete break with reality (psychosis)
• irregular menstrual periods in women
• decreased sex drive in men and difficulty maintaining an erection
• abnormal hair growth in women (in a male pattern, such as in the beard and mustache area), as well as loss of hair from the head (receding hair line)
- sources: http://www.answers.com/topic/cushing-s-syndrome?cat=health, http://www.answers.com/topic/harvey-cushing?cat=health
_______________
+cortisol = the “stress hormone”
personal comment:
today is 2007 oct 7 (feast of our lady of the rosary). coincidentally, it is also the death anniversary of the dr. Cushing (may his noble soul rest in peace!), the discoverer of Cushing’s disease and syndrome which reflect my medication’s (medrol or prednisone) side effects!
Fr: Pharmacia
• Properties
Group: synthetic glucocorticoids*
Effect: on inflammatory and immune process; also on carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism; also act on cardiovascular system, skeletal muscles, and the CNS
---------------
*properties of glucocortisoids:
(1) ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
(2) IMMUNOSUPRESSIVE
(3) ANTI-ALLERGIC
• Indications
A. Endocrine D/Os – adrenocortical insufficiency, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, nonsuppurative thyroiditis, hypercalcemia associates with cancer
B. Nonendocrine D/Os – rheumatic d/o (ex: rheumatoid arthritis), collagen d/e (ex: systemic lupus erythematosus), dermatologic d/e (ex: severe psoriasis), allergic states (ex: bronchial asthma), opthatmic d/e (ex: herpes zoster ophthalmicus), respiratory d/e (ex: aspiration pneumonitis), hematologic d/o (ex: RBC anemia), noeplastic d/e (ex: leukemias & lymphomas in adults), edematous states, gastrointestinal d/e (ex: ulcerative colitis), nervous system (ex: acute exacertabtions of MS), miscellaneous (ex: tuberculous meningitis), organ transplantation
• Dosage and administration
- Variable, individualized on the basis of d/e and px’s response
- Gradual withdrawal
- Constant monitoring needed
- Dosage adjustment situations:
(a) clinical status secondary to remissions or exacerbations
(b) px’s individual drug responsiveness
(c) “the effect of px exposure to STRESSFUL+ situations not directly related to the d/e….”
- ADT (alternate day therapy) to minimize undesirable effects, incl pituitary-adrenal suppression, the Cushingoid state*, corticoid withdrawal & growth suppression in children
• Contra-indications
- systemic fungal infections
- known hypersensitiviety to methylprednisolone
• Adverse reactions
- fluid & electrolyte disturbances – sodium retention, congestive heart failure in susceptible patients, hypertension, fluid retention, potassium loss and hypokalemic alkalosis
- musculoskeletal – steroid mypathy, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, pathologic fractures, vertebral compression fractures and aseptic necrosis
- gastrointestinal – peptic ulceration with possible perforation and hemorrhage, gastric hemorrhage, pancreatitis, esophagitis & perforation of the bowel
- dermatologic – impaired wound healing, petechiae & ecchymosis, & thin fragile skin
- metabolic – negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism
- neurological – increased intracranial pressure, pseudotumor cerebri, psychic derangements & seizures
- endocrine – menstrual irregularities, development of Cushingoid state*, suppression of pituitary-adrenal axis, decreased carbohydrate tolerace, manifestation of latent diabetes mellitus, increased requirements from insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics & suppression of growth in children
- ophthalmic – posterior subcapsular cataracts, increased intraocular pressure and exophthalmos
- immune system – masking of infections, latent infections becoming active, opportunistic infections, hypersensitivity reactions during anaphylaxis & may suppress reactions to skin tests
• Special precaution
“In pxs on corticosteroid therapy subject to UNUSUAL STRESS+, in creased dosage of rapidly acting corticosteroids before, during & after the stressful situation is indicated.”
- there may be decreased resistance & inability to localize infection
- prolonged use may produce posterior subcapsular cataracts, glaucoma with possible damage to the optic nerves & may enhance the establishment of secondary ocular infections due to fungi or viruses
- allergic reactions (ex: angioedema) may occur
- may cause elevation of blood pressure, salt & water retention & increased excretion of potassium and calcium
- NB: no vaccination against smallpox & other immunization procedures while under therapy due to possible neurologic complications & lack of antibody response
- osteoporosis is a common but infrequently recognized adverse effect associated with a long-term use of large doses of glucocorticoids
- with impaired host defenses, susceptibility to fungus and bacterial and viral infections increases
- “Drug-induced adrenocortical insufficiency may be minimized by gradual reduction of dosage. This type of relative insufficiency may persist for months after discontinuation of therapy; therefore, in any situation of STRESS+ occurring during that period, hormone therapy should be reinstituted….”
- psychic derangements may appear ranging from euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes & severe depression to frank psychotic manifestations. also, existing emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroids.
- “Corticosteroids should be used with caution in nonspecific ulcerative colitis if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess or other pyogenic infection, verticulitis, fresh intestinal anastomoses, active or latent peptic ulcer, renal insufficienty, hypertension, osteoporosis, or MYASTHENIA GRAVIS.
NB: “Because complications of treatment with glucocorticoids are dependent on the size of the dose and the duration of treatment, a RISK/BENEFIT DECISION must be made in each individual case as to dose and duration of treatment and as to whether daily or intermittent therapy should be used.”
• Pregnancy and lactation
- some animal studies showed fetal malformations when corticosteroids were administered to the mother at high doses
• Overdose
- no clinical syndrome of acute overdosage; repeated frequent doses over a protracted period may result in a Cushingoid state* & other complications or chronic steroid therapy.
• Storage
- room temperature below 25 degrees centigrade
_____________
*Cushing’s Syndrome = A syndrome caused by an increased production of ACTH from a tumor of the adrenal cortex or of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, or by excessive intake of glucocorticoids. It is characterized by obesity and weakening of the muscles. [After Harvey Williams CUSHING = The American neurosurgeon Harvey Williams Cushing (1869-1939) who developed operative techniques that made brain surgery feasible..]
Cuhing's disease was first described by him. It is a disorder attributed to hyperactivity of the cortex of the adrenal glands and affects women more than men. The symptoms include obesity (moonface, an accumulation of fat at the back of the neck called buffalo hump, and abdominal protrusion), hypertension, hirsutism [abnormal hair growth], and easy bruisability. Treatment is by X-ray therapy if the pituitary body is involved or by surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands.
Symptoms of cortisol excess+ (resulting from medication or from the body's excess production of the hormone) include:
• weight gain
• an abnormal accumulation of fatty pads in the face (creating the distinctive "moon face" of Cushing's syndrome); in the trunk (termed "truncal obesity"); and over the upper back and the back of the neck (giving the individual what has been called a "buffalo hump")
• purple and pink stretch marks across the abdomen and flanks
• high blood pressure
• weak, thinning bones (osteoporosis)
• weak muscles
• low energy
• thin, fragile skin, with a tendency toward both bruising and slow healing
• abnormalities in the processing of sugars (glucose), with occasional development of actual diabetes
• kidney stones
• increased risk of infections
• emotional disturbances, including mood swings, depression, irritability, confusion, or even a complete break with reality (psychosis)
• irregular menstrual periods in women
• decreased sex drive in men and difficulty maintaining an erection
• abnormal hair growth in women (in a male pattern, such as in the beard and mustache area), as well as loss of hair from the head (receding hair line)
- sources: http://www.answers.com/topic/cushing-s-syndrome?cat=health, http://www.answers.com/topic/harvey-cushing?cat=health
_______________
+cortisol = the “stress hormone”
personal comment:
today is 2007 oct 7 (feast of our lady of the rosary). coincidentally, it is also the death anniversary of the dr. Cushing (may his noble soul rest in peace!), the discoverer of Cushing’s disease and syndrome which reflect my medication’s (medrol or prednisone) side effects!
rheumatoid arthritis: intro
Re: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Introduction
Fr: “It’s a real pain!” Friday (2007 Oct 5-11), pp. 58-62.
• Diagnosis
“RA is a chronic autoimmune disease (i.e.,… the immune system attacks the joints and surrounding soft tissues) that causes stiffness, pain, loss of mobility, inflammation and erosion (deterioration) in the joints.”
“… Normally, once our body clears out an infection, inflammation stops. In RA, however, the body’s immune system mistakes some organs as foreign and attacks them. This causes damage to the joints and other organs [… a SYSTEMIC disease].
Other symptoms:
- fatigue, fever, nodules under the skin (esp in elbows), & a sense of not feeling well (malaise)
- possible: anemia, vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels), systemic complications, and other co-existing autoimmune disorders; dry eyes and mouth (seen in Sjogren’s syndrome)
Rate:
- about 1% of the population; 75% women; usually 30-50 years old
Tests:
- no definitive test; usually blood test (ESR = erythrocyte sedimentation rate and CRP = C-reactive protein: to measure level of body inflammation)
Risk factors:
- smoking increase the risk factor for RA (p. 60)
• Course
Varied: (1) one joint, then others; (2) all joints at once
• Prognosis
RA is a PROGRESSIVE DISEASE: erosion and disintegration of lining of joints cartilage bones. Deterioration is IRREVERSIBLE. Damage is PERMANENT. Medicines don’t affect the disease process causing damage. May be POTENTIALLY FATAL.
“Left untreated, RA can shorten a person’s lifespan and can, within a few years, leave about 30-40% of those affected too disabled to work.
“Once STRUCTURAL DAMAGE sets in, it’s beyond repair. You can only prevent further deterioration.” (pp. 60 & 62)
emotional impact: depression and low self-esteem, especially in later stages, i.e., feels helpless, crippled and dependent
• Treatment:
- drug therapy
(1) DMAD = disease modifying antirheumatic drugs – used earl in treatment; for symptom relief; side effects to be monitored
(2) Biologics = Biologic Response Modifiers – reduce inflammation and relieve pain while fighting the disease; help slow progression of RA; prescribed if DMARD treatment goals not reached, or for additional benefits with DMARD; really effective in most cases but prohibitively expensive
- exercise
can sometimes help alleviate the condition, but depends on the patient and needs to be discussed with the doctor and physiotherapist; but strenuous exercise never advised!
- rest
- joint protection
- physical and occupational therapy
- surgery (when necessary)
Fr: “It’s a real pain!” Friday (2007 Oct 5-11), pp. 58-62.
• Diagnosis
“RA is a chronic autoimmune disease (i.e.,… the immune system attacks the joints and surrounding soft tissues) that causes stiffness, pain, loss of mobility, inflammation and erosion (deterioration) in the joints.”
“… Normally, once our body clears out an infection, inflammation stops. In RA, however, the body’s immune system mistakes some organs as foreign and attacks them. This causes damage to the joints and other organs [… a SYSTEMIC disease].
Other symptoms:
- fatigue, fever, nodules under the skin (esp in elbows), & a sense of not feeling well (malaise)
- possible: anemia, vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels), systemic complications, and other co-existing autoimmune disorders; dry eyes and mouth (seen in Sjogren’s syndrome)
Rate:
- about 1% of the population; 75% women; usually 30-50 years old
Tests:
- no definitive test; usually blood test (ESR = erythrocyte sedimentation rate and CRP = C-reactive protein: to measure level of body inflammation)
Risk factors:
- smoking increase the risk factor for RA (p. 60)
• Course
Varied: (1) one joint, then others; (2) all joints at once
• Prognosis
RA is a PROGRESSIVE DISEASE: erosion and disintegration of lining of joints cartilage bones. Deterioration is IRREVERSIBLE. Damage is PERMANENT. Medicines don’t affect the disease process causing damage. May be POTENTIALLY FATAL.
“Left untreated, RA can shorten a person’s lifespan and can, within a few years, leave about 30-40% of those affected too disabled to work.
“Once STRUCTURAL DAMAGE sets in, it’s beyond repair. You can only prevent further deterioration.” (pp. 60 & 62)
emotional impact: depression and low self-esteem, especially in later stages, i.e., feels helpless, crippled and dependent
• Treatment:
- drug therapy
(1) DMAD = disease modifying antirheumatic drugs – used earl in treatment; for symptom relief; side effects to be monitored
(2) Biologics = Biologic Response Modifiers – reduce inflammation and relieve pain while fighting the disease; help slow progression of RA; prescribed if DMARD treatment goals not reached, or for additional benefits with DMARD; really effective in most cases but prohibitively expensive
- exercise
can sometimes help alleviate the condition, but depends on the patient and needs to be discussed with the doctor and physiotherapist; but strenuous exercise never advised!
- rest
- joint protection
- physical and occupational therapy
- surgery (when necessary)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)