Weekly Medical Tips

Can your neti pot kill you?

Many may not know what a neti pot is "well it aides in cleaning out your sinuses." It is a small kettle that is filled with water and saline it's placed at your nostrils and poured with the head tilted back into the nose and it flushes out the nose. Many use it for a stuffy nose and sinus headache. Well it seems that two people have died from using their neti pot. The reason for the deaths are from amoeba's parasites that eat the brain. 

The water must be sterilized by boiling or use distilled water when using your neti pot. The amoeba, Naegleria fowleri are found in lakes, ponds and contaminated tap water. When ingested it's fine, but when placed in the nose it can cause symptoms resembling bacterial meningitis:headaches, vomiting and sleepiness. When the amoeba has reached the brain 95% of the time it's fatal. Death usually occurs 1 to 12 days later. The infection is known as amebic meningoencephalitis.

Chat Me More has written about amoeba in the summer, due to three people dying when they swam in a lake. The amoeba went through their nose while swimming. 

If you click on the right to the summer months you will be able to view the article. 

If you must use a neti pot boil the water or use distilled water. If you must swim in lakes or ponds use nose plugs. 

http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/12/16/two-dead-in-louisiana-after-unclean-water-used-in-neti-pots/?hpt=he_c2

Weekly Medical Tips

Infants with Reflux

Chat Me More had a personal reason to inform parents what is reflux and what can help.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is the medical term for spitting up. It occurs when the stomach contents reflux back up into the esophagus or mouth and at times both. This is normal for infants and they may exhibit signs as refusing to eat, crying, arching the back and neck, choking and projectile vomit.

Studies have proven that 15 to 40 percent of infants with GER cannot tolerate milk protein. Infants that are experiencing these signs should talk to their pediatrician about formulas that eliminate milk and soy products. Thickening the formula can reduce the GER by adding rice cereal to the formula (1 tablespoon). 

Please speak to your pediatrician before changing formula and adding rice cereal.

http://www.uptodate.com/contents/patient-information-acid-reflux-gastroesophageal-reflux-in-infants

Weekly Medical Tips

Foster care children are being over medicated

Chat Me More found this article and news reports to be quite disturbing. Many parents are forced to put their children in foster care, due to circumstances. Parents are under the impression that their children are safe, but on the contrary children are being over medicated. The drugs that are in question are anti-psychotic medications and these drugs need to be monitored by a professional to limit suicidal thoughts in children. Many of these children are prescribed 5 drugs at a time and the doses are higher than FDA approval. The drugs are: Abilify, Seroquel, Risperdal and Zyprexa.  The most vulnerable are children that are less than a year old and foster children are twice as likely to be prescribed these drugs than non-foster children. A social worker from children services stated that "it is more cost effective to medicate these children than to spend $200 an hour for a therapist."

http://blogs.babycenter.com/mom_stories/12022011why-are-foster-children-overmedicated/ 

Weekly Medical Tips'

Avastin Breast Cancer drug is taken off the Market to Treat Breast Cancer

Unfortunately, this decision will effect many breast cancer patients.  The drug will continue to be used for colon, kidney, lung and brain cancer patients. So what does this mean? It means that breast cancer patients can still get the drug, but their insurance company's will not pay for it. A years treatment with Avastin can cost $100,000. Many breast cancer patients have stated "that Avastin stopped the spreading of their breast cancer, once it had spread to others areas of the body." The FDA reported that the drug can cause high blood pressure, bleeding, heart attacks or heart failure and tears in the stomach. Many doctors feel that drug has helped their patients and they feel that this will cause a battle with insurance companies now that it isn't approved to treat breast cancer. If you are a breast cancer patient being treated with Avastin and your insurance company is refusing to pay contact Genentech http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-57328595-10391704/avastin-decision-dismays-breast-cancer-patients/

CBS NEWS. health pop. (November 21, 2011). Avastin decision dismays breast cancer patients. Retrieved November 21, 2011, from Avastin decision dismays breast cancer patients - HealthPop - CBS News

Weekly Medical Tips

The first complete artificial heart transplant on the West Coast. 

Wednesday marks the first total artificial  heart transplant. Tammy Lumpkins 46-years-old  was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy 20 years ago. She went to USC in August because her heart and organs were failing. Two thirds of her own heart were replaced with plastic ones and are hooked up to an air compressor that can be transported in a backpack. The weight of her backpack is only 15 pounds allowing her to be mobile. She can live with the artificial heart for six years while she is on the heart transplant list. 

http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2011/11/10/artificial-heart-implant-marks-first-for-west-coast/

Weekly Medical Tips

Recently in the news it has been stated that all alcohol can increase breast cancer.

Chat Me More found a study that states that red wine can actually prevent the spread of breast cancer. The study was in October, 2011 in the issue of FASEB journal  that resveratrol found in red wine can stop the growth of breast cancer cells by blocking the growth of estrogen.  Here is two links to learn  more http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2011-09/foas-rwi092911.php

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/09/110929103222.htm

Weekly Medical Tips

There has been a recent DNA test done on the fish that the consumer thinks they are buying or eating and receiving a different specie.

This news is astounding, due to some of the risk associated with certain species of fish. Women who are at child bearing ages, pregnant, and children should not intake mercury. Certain fish have high levels of mercury and they are: shark, swordfish, king mackerel or tilefish. Mercury can affect the development of an unborn baby or a young child's nervous system. 

What is Mercury or Methylmercury?  

Mercury occurs naturally and is released into the air by industrial pollution and falls into streams and oceans. Then it is turned into methylmercury and fish absorb it while they feed and it builds up in the fish. The build up amount depends on the specie of the fish and what they eat. Larger fish contain higher levels, due to being around longer. Humans also can accumulate methylmercury  in their blood stream some is removed naturally, but it can take years to see a significant drop. This is the reason that warnings about certain fish puts a women in child bearing years at risk.

To find out more about what fish to eat and stay away from here is a link from FDA and the EPA.

http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/Product-SpecificInformation/Seafood/FoodbornePathogensContaminants/Methylmercury/ucm115644.htm

http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/fishshellfish/fishadvisories/index.cfm

EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency). (October 6, 2011). What You Need to Know about Mercury in Fish and Shellfish. Retrieved October 29, 2011, from http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/fishshellfish/outreach/advice_index.cfm#what

Weekly Medical Tips

A new test to detect Down Syndrome without amniocentesis

Many pregnant women fear when they are told that they have to get an amniocentesis, due to the risks associated with the test. Amniocentesis requires a needle to be inserted into the sac of the baby and fluid is drawn, and then tested with a 100% accuracy for Down Syndrome. This test can cause miscarriages, infections and trauma to the baby. A new blood test is being developed, which can detect down syndrome. The blood test recognizes an extra chromosome 21 within the DNA of the blood that is associated with Down Syndrome. The blood test is given at the 11th week of pregnancy with a 100% accuracy. The blood test will be available within a year.

Here is a link for more information http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43360386/ns/health-pregnancy/t/blood-test-down-syndrome-creates-ethical-debate/#.TqLdMDBDHfI

Modern Pregnancy Tips. (March 2011). New Blood Test for Down Syndrome May Replace Amniocentesis. Retrieved October 22, 2011, from  http://www.modernpregnancytips.com/prenatal-testing/new-blood-test-for-down-syndrome-may-replace-amniocentesis/

Weekly Medical Tips

Can your fingernails tell you if you have a disease?

A healthy nail should be smooth and have a half moon (circle) where the nail grows. The area is called "lunula." Many illnesses can be detected by the appearance of the fingernail. Beau's line crosses the nail and not with the growth of the nail. It starts  at the lunula and grows out with the nail. This may be a signs of syphilis, diabetes, heart disease, vascular disease, zinc deficiency, high fevers and chemotherapy.  Spoon shaped nails can be associated with iron deficiency, and the ends of  the fingers can grow into clubs with lung, heart, cirrhosis and thyroid diseases. Yellow nails can be a sign of lung disease and AIDS. Nails that are white or light pink and narrow with pink band at the end of the fingernail called " Terry's nails" can be a sign of diabetes, cirrhosis and heart failure.

Perry, A,. M.D. (2011). Fingernails Predict Health. The DR. Oz Show. Retrieved October 14, 2011, from  http://www.doctoroz.com/blog/arthur-perry-md-facs/fingernails-predict-your-health

Weekly Medical Tips

Pancreatic Cancer the 4th most deadly disease.

Chat me more researched this dreadful disease, after Steve Jobs passed away from Pancreatic cancer.  Steve Jobs lived with this disease for 7 years. The form of his disease was treatable and slow growing, but it also killed Patrick Swayze two years  ago. Jobs thought he was cured after surgery in 2004. Unfortunately, the disease returned 5 years later and he had lost weight and had a liver transplant. The reason for his passing is that his disease probably spread. A liver transplant sometimes can cure the form of cancer that Jobs had. Originally he was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumor and had surgery, which lead him to believe that he was cured.

The pancreas is a vital organ as our heart is.The pancreas is fish shaped and makes digestive enzymes, insulin and hormones that make energy for the body from food. In the United States 44,030 will be diagnosed with it and 37,660 will die this year in the U.S. according to the American Cancer Society. Pancreatic cancer has declined in numbers within the last 15 to 25  years due to less smokers, but those numbers changed in 2002 to 2007 by a 1 percent increase. 

Symptoms:

1.  fatigue
2. back pain
3. abdominal pain
4. weight loss
5. loss of appetite
6. jaundice
7. nausea

The cancer is usually not found until it's in advanced stages or has

spread. The survival rate is grim, 20% the first year and only 4 % after five years.

Men are at more risk than women and smokers have 2 to 3x the risk of developing the disease.  Obese people and non-exercisers are at risk of developing disease. Alcohol does play a factor heavy drinking can lead to diabetes, liver and pancreatic problems. A vaccine is in the making and hopefully will be in the future for this lethal disease.

Marchione, M. ( October 7, 2011). Pancreatic cancer 4th most deadly, treatment few. SFGate. Retrieved October 7, 2011, from  http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2011/10/07/national/a145842D53.DTL

Weekly Medical Tips

A scare of Listeria bacteria has been the deadliest food outbreak in 10 years in the United States:

Chat Me More really became concerned when it was reported that listeria can take up two months before symptoms occur. A new outbreak has been found in Romaine lettuce and 16 people have died from listeria bacteria that was traced to cantaloupes. A recent recall on bags of chopped Romaine lettuce has been issued. The lettuce is from True Leaf Farms of Salinas, California with a date to be used by September 29. It was distributed in Alaska by Church Brothers, LLC. The Cantaloupes were out of Colorado by Jensen Farms.
Listeria grows in moist muddy areas and is often carried by animals. The bacteria is usually found in unpasteurized foods and generally found in processed meats. Finding listeria in produce comes as a shock, in 1998 there was a outbreak of listeria that killed 21 people, but from deli meats and hot dogs. In 1985 another outbreak found in Mexican soft cheese and that killed 52 people.
Listeria can grow in room temperature and even in refrigerator temperatures and can linger even after the contaminates are gone.

To prevent the disease:

• Do not eat hot dogs, luncheon meats, or deli meats, unless they are reheated until steaming hot.
• Avoid getting fluid from hot dog packages on other foods, utensils, and food preparation surfaces, and wash hands after handling hot dogs, luncheon meats, and deli meats.
• Do not eat soft cheeses such as feta, Brie, and Camembert, blue-veined cheeses, or Mexican-style cheeses such as queso blanco, queso fresco and Panela, unless they have labels that clearly state they are made from pasteurized milk.
• Do not eat refrigerated pâtés or meat spreads. Canned or shelf-stable pâtés and meat spreads may be eaten.
• Do not eat refrigerated smoked seafood, unless it is contained in a cooked dish, such as a casserole. Refrigerated smoked seafood, such as salmon, trout, whitefish, cod, tuna or mackerel, is most often labeled as "nova-style," "lox," "kippered," "smoked," or "jerky." The fish is found in the refrigerator section or sold at deli counters of grocery stores and delicatessens. Canned or shelf-stable smoked seafood may be eaten.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-20113269-10391704.html?tag=contentMain;contentBody
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/09/30/health/main20113757.shtml
http://www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/communicable/listeriosis/fact_sheet.htm

Weekly Medical Tips

The new teen trend that can cause them their lives

It is inhaling freon. This is found in air coolants. It creates a rabid high as they huff freon with a bag over their head. It can cause freezing of the lungs, frostbite to the lungs, loss of conscious,  brain damage and sudden cardiac death. It caused the death of two teens in 2009 and 2,000 treated in the hospital. Parents if you feel that your child may be experiencing this get help immediately. Locks can be installed on the air condition unit.

Yahoo News! (September 22, 2011).  Inhaling freon is latest dangerous trend among teens. Retrieved September 23, 2011, from http://news.yahoo.com/video/phoenixktvk3tv-15751070/inhaling-freon-is-latest-dangerous-trend-among-teens-26595277.html

Weekly Medical Tips

Dr. OZ has brought media attention about apple juice containing arsenic.

Dr. OZ brought it to America's attention that the U.S. does not get their apples strictly from the U.S. , but instead from China and other countries. Many brands of apple juice may contain a higher level of arsenic then approved for water, which naturally occurs. The fear is that long term consumption can lead to cancer, kidney problems and possible learning problems. China uses pesticides that the United States doesn't and their levels of exposure to arsenic are a lot higher than what the  U.S. considers as safe. Do your home work check where the apple juice is being processed and look closely because this is hidden.

Chat Me More has a personal connection to this finding. Apple juice is consumed in large amounts within the household. If the label does not state where the apples are from look on the bottle and it will be stamped. Unfortunately, when you do this search you will find that many are from China. Martinelli's and TreeTop seem to be using U.S. apples according to the labels.

Alvarez, M., M.D. (September 14, 2011). Arsenic in Your Kids' Apple Juice? Fox News. Retrieved September 16, 2011, from   http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/09/14/is-your-kid-drinking-arsenic/

Weekly Medical Tips

Heroin is on the rise in the teenage population.

 

Santa Clarita, California has seen a rise in their youngster facing the addiction of heroin use. Last year there were 100 arrest in Santa Clarita for possession of heroin. There were 9 over dose deaths and 400 non- fatal over doses since 2009. 

CBS Los Angeles. (August 31, 2011). Santa Clarita Officials Work To Combat Rising Heroin Use Among Teens. Retrieved September 9. 2011, from http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2011/08/31/santa-clarita-officials-work-to-combat-rising-heroin-use-among-teens/

 

Heroin addiction starts out as a recreational drug. After using heroin for a period of time the body becomes dependent on it with physical dependency. Heroin users become prisoners of the drug and suffer serious and painful withdrawal. Heroin withdrawal effects the respiratory, circulatory and central nervous systems.  The effects on the lungs, heart and brain can be fatal when overuse occurs. Heroin use can lead to respiratory arrest, coma and even death. 

 

Waismann Method . (2011). Waismann Method Advanced Treatment of Opiate Dependency. Retrieved September 9, 2011, from  http://www.heroinaddiction.net/

 

Heroin Detox must be researched and a method might include drugs and a qualified physician. Parents, friends and loved ones this is a serious problem and must be treated with outside knowledgeable guidance. Do not attempt to conquer the problem on your own.

Weekly Medical Tips

A new drug for treating a certain type of lung cancer has shown to have great promise.

The is called crizotinib (Xalkori), manufactured by Pfizer and has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The medication is taken twice a day in capsule form. Patients that are treated have a unique gene that has an abnormal anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). The gene causes cancer growth. Sixty percent of patients had significant shrinkage within 10 months. The drug works by blocking the proteins from the ALK gene. The FDA approved a screening test for the gene by Abbott Laboratories. Patients that have the gene would be prescribe the medication. Some side effects from the crizotinib were vision disorders, nausea and edema. 

Patient Wigbels  partook in the study and his cancer had spread to his throat where he couldn't eat. After taking the drug for a week he was able to eat and scans showed he no longer had tumors. 

Another patient Richard Heimler who had a lung removed 7 -years-ago and had tumors in his brain and the other lung. He started taking crizotinib 15 months ago and tumors had disappeared, shrunk and are stabled. 

Francis, E. & Besser, R, M.D. (August 30, 2011). New Lung Cancer Pill Highlights Improved Wayof Treating Patients. Retrieved September 2, 2011, from http://abcnews.go.com/Health/CancerPreventionAndTreatment/lung-cancer-pill-crizotinib-highlights-improved-iding-treating/story?id=14414833

Johnson, L. (August 30, 2011). Pfizer: New cancer pill gives hope, new strategy. Retrieved September 2, 2011, from http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hUxz0RjY3uhYDQ_TORVzazkIsIRA?docId=07bdbea54c0c47fa8aa3676895fe59d2

Weekly Medical Tips

ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) Also know as "Lou Gehrig's Disease" 

 Is a progressive neurodegenerative disease. It affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. When the motor neurons die the brain no longer can send signals to control muscle movement. When this happens the person effected with ALS becomes paralyzed.

ALS Association. (2010). What is ALS? Retrieved August 26, 2011, from http://www.alsa.org/about-als/what-is-als.html

A recent breakthrough for what causes ALS is a broken down protein, which prevents the recycling of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. They can now test drugs to regulate the protein. This can possibly aid in also treating Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. This study can be found in the journal of nature by Northwestern University Feinberg School Medicine researchers.

xtri.com (August 2011). Significant ALS Research Breakthrough! Retrieved August 26, 2011, from
http://www.xtri.com/features/detail/284-itemId.511712816.html

Weekly Medical Tips

A brain eating bacteria has been lurking in our fresh water swimming holes for years and this week has been the only time that it has been brought to the public's attention. In 2007, the bacteria killed 6 boys and a young man. The heat increases the growth of the bacteria. The bacteria is called Naegleria fowleri and has killed 23 people in the United States, from 1995 to 2004. More reports  of deaths from this bacteria have recently been reported. The bacteria killed three people this summer, a 16- year-old girl, 9 year-old boy and a 20 year old. All living in different places, one in Florida, Virginia and Louisiana. The  bacteria thrives in warm water and can be found in lakes, rivers  hot springs and soil. The bacteria enters the nose and goes to the brain and that is where it eats the brain away. It will kill the victim within 2 weeks. Prevention is to stay out of fresh water swimming areas or wear a nose plug. Naegleria is microscopic amoebas found in the bottom of lakes and in the mud and temperatures that reach 80 degrees F. Symptoms: headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, lack of attention to people and surroundings, loss of balance and bodily control, seizures and halluncinations. 

msnbc.com. (September 28, 2007). 6 die from brain-eating amoeba after swimming. Retrieved August 19 2011, from http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21034344/ns/health-infectious_diseases/t/die-brain-eating-amoeba-after-swimming/#.Tk8MDeFBvfI

Gehibach S. ( June, 2011). Health officials warn of amoeba, bacteria dangers. my fox Orlando. Retrieved August , 19. 2011, from   http://www.myfoxorlando.com/dpp/health/061511-health-officials-warn-of-amoeba-dangers

Viegas, J. (August 18, 2011). Brain-Eating Amoeba Thrives In Warm, Fresh Water. DiscoveryNews.  Retrieved August 19, 2011, from http://news.discovery.com/human/brain-eating-amoeba-110818.html

Weekly Medical Tips

A great discovery in gene therapy a possible cure for certain cancers

A medical team from the University of Pennsylvania have possibly found a cure for leukemia. Three patients who were diagnosed with leukemia received treatment a year ago. Two of the treated are cancer free. Patient's T-cells are used to kill the leukemia cells.  They are a type of a white blood cell that keys the immune system. They are soldiers that defend cells that are "unknown, the invaders." The T-cells travel to the thymus gland in the neck and when they are completely developed into various types of T-cells. They become energetic in the immune system following a response to a hormone "thymosin." T-cells come in a variation and all their functions are unknown. T-cells can produce cytokines and interleukins that stimulate the immune response. T-cells activation measures the health of HIV/AIDS patients. The "T" in "T-cells" stands for thymus were they mature. 

 CBS Philly. (August 10, 2011). Penn Team Develops Gene Therapy Breakthrough In Fighting leukemia. Retrieved August 12, 2011, from http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2011/08/10/upenn-team-develops-gene-therapy-breakthrough-in-fighting-leukemia/

Medicine Net.com. (April 27, 2011). Definition of T cell. Retrieved August 12, 2011, from http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=11300

Weekly Medical Tips

The secrets of staying young According to Dr. Howard Murad the skin Guru

 *   Smoking and pollution can damage skin.
  *  The way you sleep can cause temporary lines to develop 
       on the face.   
    *  Dehydration
   *   Botox

Remedying the problems 

     *  Use products with Retin-A and glycolic peels, 
          vitamin C,  vitamin E.

     *   Don't forget to apply these on the chest and neck area.

     *   Botox can cause a ripple effect, due to the paralyzing of

           the skin.
      *   How to stay hydrated? Receive your water from raw
          fruits and vegetables because they have  
          anti-oxidants. 
      *   Ruffage can help cells to absorb water than if you
          drank a glass of water.  


 http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2011/08/05/skin-guru-dr-murad-reveals-what-lifestyle-choices-cause-wrinkles/

Weekly Medical Tips

Strokes during pregnancy and after childbirth have been on the rise. High blood pressure during pregnancy seems to be the culprit.  Research compared pregnancy related strokes during 1994-1995 and 2006-2007. Strokes in 1994-1995 totaled 4,000 or 2,000 per year. In 2006-07 totaled 6,000 equivalent to 3,000 per year. Younger women between 24-34 were more likely of having a stroke. Contributing factors that cause strokes are obesity, low physical activity, diabetes and blood clotting disorders. Treating high blood pressure during pregnancy is complicated. Women should consider their lifestyle and their physical being before becoming pregnant so they may decrease the risk of a stroke. Women should stop smoking, loose weight and keep their  diabetes under control before they become pregnant. They should maintain physical activity during pregnancy.

Doheny, K. (July28,2011).  Researchers Say Rising Rate of High Blood Pressure is a Factor in the increase in Stroke. health & pregnancy. Retrieved July 29, 2011, from   Strokes During Pregnancy, Childbirth on the Rise

Weekly Medical Tips

Rabid bats are in the news 10 were confirmed with rabies in Ventura, California

Several homes in Moorpark have been a breeding ground for rabid bats. 

 The average amount of rabid bats are ten to twelve per year, but in Ventura county 10 were  tested positive for rabies within the  last two months. The number may rise as more bats are found.

Steve Spence from Moorpark was bitten by a rabid bat as he was throwing out his garbage. He shook the bat off from his barefoot and there was a red mark where the bat bit his foot. His house is now under quarantine by the Ventura County Department of Public Health. He is being treated with vaccines and his dog an American bulldog was also bitten and he is not sure how. His dog is also being quarantined. Los Angeles County Department of Public Health have reported large amounts of rabid bats this summer. Twelve have been reported in Los Angeles and the majority of rabid bats have been focused in Spence's neighborhood in Moorpark.. 

Rabies is  a disease that effects the central nervous system. Rabies is carried through the saliva of the effected host and can be transmitted through a bite or a scratch. When gone untreated it is fatal to humans and animals. When a bat is seen during the day it may be an indication that the bat is rabid. People must stay away from the bat or any wild animal that appears aggressive or overly docile and call animal control or the health department.

CBS Los Angeles. ( July 21, 2011). Officials: Sharp Rise In Number Of Rabid Bats Found In SoCal. Retrieved July 22, 2011, from Officials: Sharp Rise In Number Of Rabid Bats Found In SoCal « CBS Los Angeles

Journalgazette.net. (September 15, 2011). Verbatim: Bats might pose Rabies risk. Retrieved July 22, 2011, from Verbatim: Bats might pose rabies risk | The Journal Gazette | Fort Wayne, IN

Los Angeles Times. Rabid bat bites Moorpark Man. Retrieved July 22, 2011, from Moorpark man infected by rabid bat - latimes.com

Weekly Medical Tips

A new study has shown that resveratrol an antioxidant found in red 

wines can slow muscle deterioration

Lack of exercise can lead to muscle atrophy, diabetes,  bone destiny and osteo problems that can occur during menopause. A study in the journal of the American Societies for Experimental Biology implied that resveratrol a phenol that is found in red wine, may inhibit the deterioration due to the lack of excerise. The study consisted of two rats that were exposed to the same environmental circumstances. One group was given resveratrol and the other none. The group that was given resveratrol did not show bone loss and  insulin resistance, which can lead to diabetes. Study suggest that if you have not made it to the gym in the past week have a glass of red wine and "Pinot noir has the highest concentration of the muscle-building nutrient."

Fontevecchia, A. (July 2, 2011). Didn't Have Time to Exercise? Drink Some Red Wine. Forbes. Retrieved July 15, 2011, from Looking For A Boost After Exercising? Sip Red Wine « CBS Los Angeles

CBS Los Angeles.com. (July 13, 2011). Looking For A Boost After Exercising? Sip On Reed Wine. Retrieved July 15, 2011, from      Looking For A Boost After Exercising? Sip On Red Wine « CBS Los Angeles

Weekly Medical Tips

Medical Marijuana and treating Autism 

A mother in California states that medical marijuana  has shown to improve her son's overall health. Her son Joey was deteriorating quickly  by the hour. Joey is severely autistic and had no interest in food and he was losing body mass. He only weighted 48 pounds at 10 years old and his appearance was frightening as if he was starving. His mother 'Mieko' said "it all changed when she fed him marijuana brownies." He is not only eating, but he is also communicating. She claims that "he never made noises until his first batch of brownies."
CBSNews. (2009). Mom: Marijuana Helps My Son's Autism. Retrieved July 8, 2011, from  Mom: Marijuana Helps My Son's Autism - CBS News

Another mother was running out of options when her  autistic son refused to eat. She gave her ten year old who only weighted 46 pounds brownies with marijuana and she saw major improvement in his eating and also behavior. He no longer is self inflicting himself and his aggressive behavior decreased.

A mother from Rhode Island had the same result when she fed her son marijuana in brownies. His aggressive behavior changed and began socializing.

Many parents have found that marijuana has been the antidote to change behavior of their autistic children.

NY Teachers. ( 2010). Medical Marijuana and Autism. Retrieved July 8, 2011, from
Medical Marijuana and Autism | NY Teachers

Weekly Medical Tips

The FDA voted against 'Avastin' a drug for breast cancer treatment

There appears to be a lot of controversy about the drug and many women have found that the drug has prolong their lives. This cancer drug is the best selling treatment around the world. The FDA does not want the drug to used on breast cancer patients. A panel of cancer experts have ruled against the drug for treating breast cancer patients and this will cause the government to remove its endorsements from the drug. Patients can still get the drug, but most likely their insurance will not cover the cost. The FDA has stated that "Avastin does not help breast cancer patients live longer or have an overall better life, but instead the drug can be fatal with cardiovascular problems and other side effects. Medicare will still cover payment for Avastin for breast cancer patients and hopefully private insurance will follow suit.

CBC Los Angeles. (June 29, 2011). FDA Panel Votes Against Avastin For Breast Cancer Treatment. Retrieved July 1. 2011, from   FDA Panel Votes Against Avastin For Breast Cancer Treatment « CBS Los Angeles

Staton, T. (July 1, 2011). Medicare won't drop Avastin for breast cancer. Retrieved July 1, 2011, from
 Medicare won't drop Avastin for breast cancer - FiercePharma

Zwillich, T. (June 29, 2011). FDA Panel Opposes Avastin for Breast Cancer. Retrieved July 1, 2011, from FDA Panel Opposes Avastin for Breast Cancer

Weekly Medical Tips

It seems that ticks carry other diseases other than Lyme

A disease that can be potentially deadly is occurring from ticks. The disease is called "Babesiosis" and is on the rise in the East Coast. There has been at least 1,000 cases in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut,  and New York. People that are immune compromised are at greater risk and it may even be fatal to them. The patients that are the most susceptible have HIV/AIDS, cancer  or the elderly. The deer tick is the culprit in transmitting Babesiosis and Lyme these two can occur simultaneously. Diagnosis may be difficult or even missed. Unfortunately, many may go without any symptoms and donating blood can transmit the disease. This disease has been frequently transmitted and has caused 12 deaths in the last 10 years. There has been at least six deaths in New York City in 2009. 

Symptoms: 

Chills

Sweats

Headaches

Muscle and joint pain

loss of appetite

fever

Incubation Period:
5-33 days

The parasites effect the red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia very similar to malaria. Many do recover and have mild symptoms and can even go unnoticed. When the disease is combined with Lyme the symptoms are more severe. In Europe, Babesiosis is an life threatening disease and it attacks the spleen
causing "Asplenia" (abnormal spleen function).

A CBC (blood test) will determine the severity of the disease.
Antibiotics "clindamycin and quinine, atovaquone and azithromycin may be used to treat the  disease.


Tick repellant may be a preventive measure and also wearing clothing that covers skin during tick season. 


MS Journal. Medical Surgical Encyclopedia. (May 4, 2007). Babesiosis. Retrieved June 24, 2011, from
MS Journal: Babesiosis

Sawyer, D. (June 22, 2011). Babesiosis: Backyard Killer Mimics Malaria and Is on Rise.   
abcNEWS/Health. Retrieved June 24, 2011, from
Page 2: Babesiosis, Tick-Borne Disease That Mimics Malaria and Can Be Fatal, Is on the Rise - ABC News

Should our teenagers get the Pertussis Booster?

It has been mandated that teenagers should get the Pertussis booster before school starts in August in the state of California


It seems that the rise in Pertussis cases (whooping cough) in California has caused for a booster to be part of protocol for a vaccination schedule in California. The controversial issue is why should our teenagers be vaccinated again with a booster, due to other countries not mandating vaccines in their country?

In 1970 - 1974, 37 infant deaths occurred after the DPT vaccination in Japan. The pediatricians boycotted the vaccine in Japan. When the vaccine was resumed the vaccination was not given until the children were 2 -years-old of age. Infant mortality decreased when the vaccine was administered at a later age. Japan moved from 17th place in infant mortality to the lowest rate in the world. In 1975 there were reports of brain damage from the vaccine and England halted the vaccine and brain damage decreased by 30% and in some areas it dropped 10%. In the past many vaccinators denied any adverse effects from vaccines, but ant-vaccination awareness has forced vaccinators that reactions do occur from mild to serious: fever, convulsions, hypotonic-hyporesponsive episodes, cerebral cry and even death. Unfortunately, reactions to a vaccine is only studied within 48 hours, but many reactions can be delayed starting 2-3 weeks after the vaccination. The pertussis vaccine when tested on animals developed encephalomyelitis or better known as the "Shaken Rat Syndrome" and with babies the "Shaken Baby Syndrome." Many medical staffers have blamed parents for "Shaken Baby Syndrome" when it could have been a reaction from the pertussis vaccine. Japan is quite liberal with their vaccination schedule should the U.S. get vaccinations because other countries don't and put our children at risk?


REFERENCES
Iwasa, Ishida, S., and Akama, K. 1985. Swelling of the brain in mice caused by pertussis vaccine - its quantitative determination and the responsible factors in the vaccine. Japan J Med Sci Biol; 38: 53-65.
Noble, G.R., Bernier, R.H., Esber, E.C., Hardegree, M.C., et al. 1987. Acellular and whole-cell pertussis vaccines in Japan: report of a visit by US scientists. JAMA; 257(10): 1351-1356.
Jenny Scott, 1990. Press & Sun Bulletin (taken from Los Angeles Times); March 1, 1990. Report: U.S. slips in fight to cut infant mortality.
Mason, J.O., 1991. Reducing infant mortality in the United States through "healthy start". Publ Health Reports (Sep-Oct).
McFarlane, A., 1982. Infant deaths after four weeks. Lancet (Oct 23).
Fine, P.E., and Clarkson,. J., A., 1982. The recurrence of whooping cough: possible implications for assessment of vaccine efficacy. Lancet (March 20): 666-669.
The Byron Shire Echo (June 22, 1994). SIDS cases quadruple in 13 years.
Scheibner, V., 1998. Shaken Baby Syndrome - the vaccination link. Nexus (August-September): 35-38 & 88.
Cherry, J.S., Brunell, P.A., Golden, G.S., and Karzon, D.T., 1988. Report of the task force on pertussis and pertussis immunization. Pediatrics (suppl): 939-984.
Madsen, T., 1933. Vaccination against whooping cough. JAMA; 101: 187-188.
Werne, J., & Garrow, I,. 1946. Fatal anaphylactic shock: Occurrence in identical twins following second injection of diphtheria toxoid and pertussis antigen. JAMA;131:730-735.
Griffith, A., H., 1978. Reactions after pertussis vaccine: A manufacturer's experience and difficulties since 1964. Br Med J; 1: 809-815.
Bernier, R.,H., Frank, J.AS., Dondero, T.J., Jr. 1982. Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis vaccination and sudden infant deaths in Tennessee. J Pediatr; 1982; 101: 419-421.
Baraff, L.J., Ablom, W.J., Weiss, R.C., et al. 1983. Possible temporal association between diphtheria-tetanus- toxoid-pertussis vaccination and sudden infant death syndrome. Pediatr Infect Dis; 2: 7-11.
Mortimer, E.A., Jr., Jones, P.K., and Adelson, L. 1983. DTP and SIDS. Pediatr Infect Dis; 2: 492.
Wilkins, J., 1988. What is 'significant' and DTP reactions. Pediatrics; 81(6): 912-913.

Torch, W.S., 1982. Diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT) immunization: a potential cause of the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Neurology; 32(4): A169 abstract).
Torch, W.C., 1986 a. Characteristics of diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT) postvaccinal deaths and DPT-caused Sudden Infant Deaths Syndrome (SIDS): a review. Neurology (suppl 1); 36: 148 (abstract).
Torch, W.C., 1986 b. Diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus (DPT) imunization may be an unrecognized cause of Sudden Infant Death (SIDS) and Near-Miss Syndrome (NMS): 12 case reports. Neurology (suppl 1); 36: 149 (abstract).
Steinman, L., Weiss, A., Adelman, N. et al. 1985. Pertussis toxin is required for pertussis vaccine encephalopathy. Proc Nati Acad Sci USA; 82: 8733-8736.
Kirschner,R.H., and Stein,R.J., 1985. The mistaken diagnosis of child abuse. A form of medical abuse? Am J Dis Child; 139: 873-875.
Pillemer, L., Blum, L., and Lepow, I.H. 1954. Protective antigen of Haemophilus pertussis. Lancet; 1: 1257-1260.
Olin, P., Rasmussen, F., Gustafsson, L., Hallander, H.O., et al. 1997. Randomised controlled trial of two-component, three-component, and five-component acellular pertussis vaccines compared with whole-cell pertussis vaccine. Lancet; 350: 1569-1577.
Olin, P., 1995. Acellular vaccines - a question of efficacy. J Hosp Infect; 30 (suppl): 503-507.Hutchins, S.S., Cochi, S.L.,, Brink, E.W., et al. 1988. Current epidemiology of pertussis in the United States. Tokai J exp din Med; 13 (suppl): 103-109.
[Scheibner]  [Vaccination]

Weekly Medical Tips

Chat Me More was reading an article and found it quite interesting and scary at the same time. We wanted to bring it to our follower's attention about a bacteria that can be found in your home aquarium. 


A teenager has been fighting with a rare bacterial infection for the last five years. Hannelle Cox contracted this disease when she had her hand in her fish tank and accidentally cut herself causing her to become infected with Mycobacterium marinum. Her hand swelled up from the bacteria and it had spread into the tissue and bone of her right hand and wrist. Cox was gymnast and her potential and dream was to make it to the Olympics. Unfortunately, she will not be able to, due to all the pain she is in. She has been on several medications and had two surgeries and nothing  has worked. She is more than likely to lose her hand and she is ready for the amputation to be free of pain.

CBS Los Angeles.com. (June 9, 2011). Hesperia Teen Might Lose Hand After Fish Tank Cut Gets Infected. Retrieved June 10, 2011, from Hesperia Teen Might Lose Hand After Fish Tank Cut Gets Infected « CBS Los Angeles

Mycobacterium marinum is a slow growing bacteria that is found in salt water and fish tanks (aquariums) or fish. Infections spread from a cut or a scrape on the skin. The first signs of the bacteria is red or tan bumps in a pattern called "sporotrichotic lymphangitis." Diagnosis and treatment is usually delayed and mistaken for Staphylococcus. When treatment is delayed it can travel to the tissue and bone then it becomes a serious problem as it did for Hannelle Cox.

Medicine net. com. Mycobacterium Marinum. Retrieved June 10, 2011, from    Mycobacterium Marinum Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - What is the prognosis for those infected with <i>Mycobacterium marinum</i> on MedicineNet

Weekly Medical Tips

Chat Me More would like to address recent media attention to brain cancer and cell phones


The risk of brain cancer from cell phones should be taken seriously but other cancers should also be considered. Placing a cell phone in a pocket may also affect different areas of the body. An Interphone study is an international population-based case-control study. The study consisted of 13 different countries:
Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, New Zealand Norway, Sweden and the UK. The Interphone study focused on tumours in people ages 30-59 this age group is considered the most heavily cell phone users. The study suggested that there was no higher risk for brain cancer. The study also concluded that more studies are needed due to the evidence of elevated glioma (a tumor that starts in the brain or spine) in the temporal lobe when the phone is placed on only one side when talking on the phone (changing the position of the phone from one ear to the other every few minutes may decrease the chance of tumor growth). The radiation that comes from cell phones is called non-ionizing compatible to low-powered microwave oven. Children must be considered a high risk because their skulls and scalps are thinner and penetration of exposure to radiation is more likely to occur. Just 50 minutes on a cell phone can increase the activity of brain cells. Many cell phone manufactures have warned consumers to keep cell devices away from the body. Apple iphone stated that the iphone should be 15 millimeters ( 5/8 inch). away from the body. Blackberry recommends to keep the device 0.98 inch ( 25 millimeters) from the body. Radiation is the highest when cell phones are connecting to cellular towers. Avoid using cell phones where signals are low such as: elevators, rural areas and buildings.
Cardia, E. (2010). Brain tumour risk in relation to mobile telephone use: results of the INTERPHONE internatioal case-control study. International Journal of Epidemiology 2010;1-20 doi:10.1093/ije/dyq079
Retrieved June 3, 2011, from http://www.oxfordjournals.org/our_journals/ije/press_releases/freepdf/dyq079.pdf
Dellorto, D. (May 31, 2011). WHO: Cell phone use can increase possible cancer risk. CNN Health. Retrieved June 3, 2011, from  WHO: Cell phone use can increase possible cancer risk - CNN.com

Weekly Medical Tips

Gastric Bypass surgery (GBP) has proven to control and cure diabetes

Gastric Bypass not only aids in obesity, but it has been proven that type II diabetes improved glycemic control even before weight loss had occurred. GBP long term effect is positive for resolution of type 2 diabetes and in preventing new cases and insulin resistance improved within 4 weeks and continued to 6 months. The study concluded that GBP significantly changes the degree of diabetes from eliminating the disease to an improved form over short and long term.  The changes that take place after postoperative  effect the GI peptide release. These peptides affect changes in food intake and glycemic control after GBP surgery.

Address correspondence and reprint requests to Erik Näslund, MD, PhD, Division of Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Danderyd Hospital, SE-182 88 Stockholm, Sweden. E-mail: erik.naslund@ki.se
Retrieved May 26, 2011, from Impact of Gastric Bypass Surgery on Gut Hormones and Glucose Homeostasis in Type 2 Diabetes

Weekly Medical Tips

Chat Me More wanted to share insightful information about our teenagers.

Adolescent years is one of the most difficult times for our children.  They are trying to fit in and be accepted into their own society. This is an awkward time for them with body changes and hormones heightened they may not always make the right decisions. Unfortunately this may include suicide and they may not seek solutions to their problems and the only end results for them is to terminate their lives. I bring this topic up due to the alarming statistics on teenage suicides. It is the third-leading cause of death in 15 to 24 years old. Mental illness may be a contributing factor followed by depression, but environmental circumstances can exacerbate and cause confusion that can lead to distorted thoughts by the young adult.

Research as proven that screening programs have aided in getting help for the individual. Intervention efforts will get the youth to a mental health facility and lives may be saved.  National suicide prevention  focuses on school education programs, crisis hotlines and screening programs. If your school does not have an intervention in place contact 1-877-726-4727 and they will provide your school or facility with proper material for prevention and it is free.


Signs to look for:

• Talking About Dying -- any mention of dying, disappearing, jumping, shooting oneself,
   or other types of self harm
• Recent Loss -- through death, divorce, separation, broken relationship, self-confidence, self-esteem,
   loss of interest in friends, hobbies, activities previously enjoyed
• Change in Personality -- sad, withdrawn, irritable, anxious, tired, indecisive, apathetic
• Change in Behavior -- can't concentrate on school, work, routine tasks
• Change in Sleep Patterns -- insomnia, often with early waking or oversleeping, nightmares
• Change in Eating Habits -- loss of appetite and weight, or overeating
• Fear of losing control - acting erratically, harming self or others
• Low self esteem -- feeling worthless, shame, overwhelming guilt, self-hatred,
  "everyone would be better off without me"
• No hope for the future -- believing things will never get better; that nothing will ever change

• Berman, A., Jobes, D., & Silverman, M., (2006) Adolescent suicide: Assessment and intervention (2nd ed.) Washington, DC: American Psychological Association, 456 pp.
  National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or 1-800-273-TALK
  National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center (NYVPRC) or call: (866) SAFEYOUTH
  Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE) or call: (800) SUICIDE

Weekly Medical Tips

Chat Me More wanted to address a trend that seems to be getting out of hand

It seems today on the news a mother allowed her 8 year old daughter to

receive Botox injections. A San Francisco mother injects her daughter herself with

Botox injections to get rid of wrinkles. The mother has her daughter convinced that she has wrinkles. The mother states the reason why she gives her daughter Botox, “she is trying to keep up with the  other pageant mothers.”

Watch this video:

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/

A study out of the University of Calgary and researchers from the Faculty Kinesiology are raising questions just how save is Botox? The study found that when animals were injected with Clostridium Botulinum (Botox). They experienced muscle weakness throughout their entire body. The study also included the long-term use of Botox caused muscle atrophy and loss of contractile tissue in the limb and that is not the area that was injected.  Botox is also used to treat conditions as cerebral palsy where muscle contractions can be controlled, due to weakness of the muscle.

When Botox is used cosmetically it causes muscles to become paralyzed and the

appearance of wrinkles to lessen or disappear.

 University of Calgary. "Botulinum toxin A creates muscle weakness and atrophy following long term use, study suggests." ScienceDaily, 2 Dec. 2010. Web. 12 May 2011.