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Wade Gibson Profile and Articles
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1). Having Trouble Staying "Regular"? New Medication May Offer Relief
Constipation may not be a topic that comes up in casual conversation. But if it did, you might be surprised to find out how many people are affected by this common and often frustrating gastrointestinal condition. Constipation affects more than 30 million Americans and is the cause of 2.5 million visits to physicians and 92,000 hospitalizations annually.
2). Understanding How Pain Medicines Work
There are many different types of pain medicines. Some only relieve pain. Some treat both pain and swelling. Here's a closer look at what you should know about some popular pain medicines.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) relieves pain and fever, but not swelling. Therefore it is often used to treat headaches or sinus pain. It is unclear exactly how acetaminophen works.
3). Could Those Creepy-Crawly Nighttime Leg Sensations Be A Treatable Medical Condition? One Woman's Search For Relief
For more than 10 years, Beth McFadden, a 44-year- old mother of three, lived with strange leg sensations that were not only difficult to describe, but were also uncomfortable and disruptive.
"At night, I would be lying in bed, just on the verge of going to sleep, and I would get these feelings in my legs that I needed to make go away. It was a tingling sensation-my legs would feel like something was crawling deep inside them.
4). Adjusting To An Aging Mind
As our brains age, we're less likely to think as quickly or remember things as well as we used to. Research is now showing how the brain changes and adapts with age. You can use what we've learned and follow a few simple tips to help remember things and avoid scams.
Dr. Denise C. Park, director of the Roybal Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Illinois, explains that the knowledge we gain from life experience can sometimes compensate for other changes in our brains as we age.
5). Will My Breast Cancer Come Back? Reducing the Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence After Surgery
More than 215,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. For many of them, surgery to remove the tumor is just the first step in the battle against the disease, often followed by radiation and/or chemotherapy. After that, these women may need to decide with their doctor whether to have "adjuvant therapy"-medication to help prevent their cancer from coming back.
6). Treating Alcoholism: A Chronic Disease
Lisa R. is a child of an alcoholic. She grew up in a nice home with a loving family who seemed to have everything. Inside her house there was a very different story that her family kept from friends and the community. Lisa's mother was an alcoholic who drank every single day and eventually died from liver disease when Lisa was just 22 years old. Now, at age 35, Lisa is in recovery from the very same disease.
7). Colorectal Cancer Trial Now Under Way
This year, more than 145,000 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in the United States. Colorectal cancer, which is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country, is a disease in which malignant cells form in the colon or rectum. Unfortunately, colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates have only moderately decreased or remained level over the past decade, and according to the American Cancer Society, more than 56,000 will succumb to the disease this year.
8). Improving Stiff Joints Through Cartilage Regeneration
The ability to move around is fundamental to our well-being. Yet, as we age, our ability to move independently is limited by changes in our joints. They begin to lose their flexibility and we see more stiffness in our everyday activities. These changes can be caused by chronic joint symptoms, America's leading cause of disability in people 15 years or older.
9). Aortic Dissection: Are You At Risk?
Not all chest pain is alike. It may be mild and attributed to noncardiac problems, including heartburn or stress. Or it may be much more severe and life threatening, such as when it is due to an aortic dissection (tear in the large artery near the heart).
Because aortic dissections are frequently mistaken for other, less serious conditions, even in hospital emergency departments, it is crucial that people know if they are at risk and how to prevent a tragedy.
10). Support Needed For People With Breathing Problems. Emotional Burden Of Chronic Bronchitis And Emphysema May Make Some Patients Reluctant To Seek Treat
Imagine how you'd feel if walking up even a few stairs made you so winded that you gasped for air and had to sit down to catch your breath. For millions of Americans with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, that scenario is part of their everyday lives, and the simple act of breathing can be a constant struggle.
COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a progressive respiratory disease characterized by a loss of lung function over time.
11). Don't Ignore Achilles Heel Pain
You don't have to be an elite athlete to suffer Achilles tendon injuries. They can occur even from performing minor household tasks, such as climbing a ladder. According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS), Achilles tendon weakness is common in adults and prompt treatment when symptoms occur can prevent more serious injury.
"The Achilles tendon is the longest and strongest tendon in the body, but is subjected to considerable wear and tear," said Gerald Travers, DPM, FACFAS, a foot and ankle surgeon in Colorado Springs.
12). New Therapy May Improve Vision After Stroke Or Brain Injury
The good news: A combined 10.1 million Americans, the American Heart Association and Centers for Disease Control estimate, have survived a stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI). The bad news: Of these, 1.5 million have experienced vision loss, a number increasing by more than 90,000 each year. These survivors often have difficulty with daily activities such as reading, walking and watching TV, which can affect their confidence and independence because these people see only part of everything they look at.
13). A WeatherBuilt Home Performs Better During Storm Season
In the event of severe weather, you can protect your home by considering the "science" behind home building. Building science-the study of the perfor-mance of buildings and building materials-has become increasingly important. Building materials are also more advanced, helping builders and homeowners construct more structurally sound homes.
Mark LaLiberte, a building science expert recognized internationally as a distinguished author and consultant, offers consumers these tips:
• Reduce wind impact.
14). The Heights Of Achievement
Close your eyes and picture the person who has become the youngest woman in history to conquer "The Seven Summits"-the highest mountain on each of the seven continents, and the youngest American to stand atop Mount Everest.
Did an image of a 20-year-old girl come to mind? Most likely not. The fact is, Danielle Fisher does not look or seem the part of a mountain climber who has scaled the renowned Seven Summits- the awesome alliance of peaks that includes 29,035-foot Mount Everest.
15). Mosquito Tips And Traps Take A Safer Bite Out Of Bug Season
Bug spray should repel insects, not your family-but some of the chemicals used in mosquito repellent can sometimes do exactly that. A recent study shows 60 percent of Americans shy away from any insect repellent, even when the mosquito-borne West Nile virus may be a serious threat.
Add to that a Centers for Disease Control Report stating that spraying pesticides is actually the least effective mosquito control technique and you may be scratching your head, wondering just how to keep biting bugs at bay.
16). Sleep ABZ's: Plain Talk About Insomnia Medications
Approximately 60 million people in the United States suffer from insomnia, and nearly half of American adults report experiencing at least one symptom of insomnia at least a few nights a week in the past year, yet the vast majority remains undiagnosed and untreated. Myths and misperceptions about insomnia and its treatment still persist that keep many sufferers from getting the sleep they need.
17). Information Overload-Consumers Seek Easy Ways To Understand Nutrition Information
Low fat, trans fat, no fat; the health benefits (or not) of chocolate, milk, nuts, coffee, etc.-all of this conflicting information is leaving Americans confused and mystified about how to take care of themselves. With the abundance of health and nutrition information in the news every day, it is no wonder that Americans are suffering from health information overload.
18). National Awareness Campaign Bringing Attention To A Rare Lung Disease
A new national disease awareness campaign called "Faces of PAH" is bringing attention to a rare, underrecognized lung disease known as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Created by the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA), the leading PAH advocacy organization, "Faces of PAH" seeks to raise PAH's profile in the United States, and provide insight into both the medical and personal aspects of this life-threatening disease.
19). The Truth About Herbs
Have you taken echinacea to stay healthy through the winter, ginseng for more energy or valerian to ensure restful sleep? If so, you're not alone. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, more than 38 million Americans take herbal supplements. With more Americans using herbs to improve their health, it's important to know how to choose and use them safely.
20). Improving Indoor Air Quality
Stepping out for some air could be a better idea than you might think. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, scientific evidence indicates that air in homes can be more seriously polluted than outdoor air. Considering that most Americans spend up to 90 percent of each day indoors-more than half of that time at home-you may be experiencing indoor air pollution without even knowing it.
21). FDA Approves New Formulation Of Migraine Headache Treatment
Imagine that it is 5 a.m. and you wake with a migraine headache. What can you take that will start to work fast on the pain? Or what if your migraine makes you nauseous or causes vomiting? What can you do to relieve your pain when you can't keep a pill down? Or what if you feel a migraine coming on and the pain of this migraine grows worse by the minute.
22). Tips For Seniors
Since January, millions of seniors have enrolled in the new Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit plan. However, the task of choosing a plan may seem daunting and can often be confusing for seniors even after they have enrolled.
The decision to participate is important, and careful consideration is vital to ensure a plan is chosen that best meets a customer's needs.
23). Recognizing Changing Symptoms In Parkinson's Disease May Help Patients To Better Manage Their Condition
Parkinson's disease (PD) affects about 1 million people in the United States and 50,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. As researchers learn more about the disease, improved treatment options are possible.
That's good news for people like Paul Ramirez, a World War II veteran and avid dancer. He was first diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1999, after his wife saw him shuffling his feet during their daily neighborhood walks.
24). Americans Fear Alzheimer's More Than Heart Disease, Diabetes or Stroke, But Few Prepare
Americans fear Alzheimer's disease more than any illness other than cancer-and for older people, concerns about Alzheimer's outrank even cancer. More than a third of all Americans know a family member or friend who has Alzheimer's, and nearly two-thirds of Americans believe they will have to provide care someday for someone with Alzheimer's.
These are just some of the results from a January 2006 MetLife Foundation/Harris Interactive poll of American adults.
25). Tips For Healthy Trips
You may want the first person you tell about an upcoming vacation to be your insurance agent. The U.S. Department of State recommends travelers check to see if their health insurance is valid in different destinations, before heading off on a trip. Doing so could help save you more than a few headaches while you're on the road. Try these additional tips for staying healthy while traveling:
Know Before You Go
Talk to your doctor about the places you plan to visit and find out if you need any vaccinations before going.
26). Ask the Doctor
Dear Dr. Hansen: I lead a very active lifestyle and am constantly outdoors. How do I best take care of my eyes during outdoor activities?
Protect your eyes from the environment, not just the sun. There's a high risk for injury with many outdoor sporting activities. It's paramount that you have effective sunglasses to protect eyes from flying objects and from ultraviolet (UV) rays.
27). Allergy Season: It's Nothing To Sneeze At
Almost 40 million Americans face seasonal allergies, which usually begin in the spring and can last through the first frost. They're often triggered by pollens, molds or other airborne allergens. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Americans spend as much as $4.5 billion annually on medications and doctor visits to treat their allergies.
28). Vitamin D And…Kidney Disease? The Hidden Connection With Serious Consequences
You may know that the sun and certain foods are good sources of vitamin D. But did you know that due to chronic kidney disease, millions of Americans can't convert the form of vitamin D produced by the sun or found in food and over-the-counter vitamins into the active form of vitamin D used by the body? This means that even if you're taking vitamin D pills, getting adequate sunlight or eating foods rich in vitamin D, your bones and organs may be at risk due to a deficiency in "active" vitamin D.
29). Can't Quit Gambling? Don't Bet On It
A preoccupation with gambling may cause some people to risk more than money. They may be gambling their health, happiness and their family's welfare.
That's the opinion of experts who define problem gambling as gambling behavior that causes a disruption in any major area of a person's life. It's estimated that 2 to 3 percent of the U.S. population suffers from a gambling problem.
30). Conquer Allergies In The Great Indoors Tricks To Help Asthma And Allergy Sufferers Take Back Their Homes
More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies and 20 million suffer from asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. While Americans can't control the allergens lurking in the great outdoors, there are many ways for them to take action inside the home to improve their indoor air quality and help reduce the severity of their symptoms.
31). The Answer To High Drug Prices?
Have you ever considered splitting your prescription medications to make them last longer? Many people are looking for ways to control their health care costs, especially since the Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that spending on prescription drugs in the United States rises more than 10 percent a year.
Pill splitting is now being recognized as a legitimate way for patients to get the medications they need while saving money.
32). Chronic Illness Grows
By age 65, nearly nine out of 10 Americans will have at least one chronic condition; but a survey conducted by Roper/GfK finds that most people sorely underestimate that figure, reports the Alliance for Aging Research.
Furthermore, the survey demonstrates a lack of knowledge among Americans when it comes to their chances of getting cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease as they age.
33). Former PGA Champion Struggles With His "T"
Most famous for his "shot heard round the world," professional golfer Shaun Micheel catapulted his career into full swing with his victory at the 2003 PGA Championship.
Yet, after his victory, Micheel, 37, began struggling with an unusual lack of energy, fatigue and depressed mood, which not only affected his golf game, but his overall well-being. He suffered for over a year before finding out that his symptoms were the result of a serious medical condition: hypogonadism, also known as low testosterone or just "low T.
34). Improving Doctor-Patient Relationships
At its very best, medical technology does more than provide a clear diagnosis. It can help strengthen the doctor-patient relationship.
However, technology is often seen as distancing patients from their doctors, especially when doctors have to refer patients off-site to other medical facilities for diagnostic tests.
Fortunately, the latest in small, high-tech devices allows doctors to have the highest quality of diagnostic equipment right in their own office.
35). How To Control Your Diabetes For Life
Here's what researchers know about controlling blood glucose (blood sugar) in people with diabetes: It's not easy, but it can be done. It takes hard work. And it can save your life.
An important new study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shows that tight control of blood glucose can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes-the number one killer of people with diabetes-by more than half.
36). One Simple Test Can Help You Fight The Battle Against Colon Cancer
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States for both women and men. This disease surpasses both breast and prostate cancer in mortality, second only to lung cancer in the number of cancer deaths. Despite the fact that it is highly preventable, it is estimated that 148,610 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed and 55,170 people will die from the disease in 2006.
37). Problem Gambling: What You Should Know
Americans spend more on gambling than all other recreation combined. For most, it's a fun diversion but for a few, gambling can become a serious, life-altering problem.
Problem gambling is behavior that causes disruptions in any major area of a person's life. It affects as many as six to nine million Americans.
Would you recognize a gambling problem in someone you know? It may be easier if you know the signs.
38). Preparing Your Family's Emergency Supply
With a little planning and common sense, you can be better prepared for the unexpected-including disasters. That's why, increasingly, families are being encouraged to prepare for emergencies by assembling supplies and developing a family communications plan. See www.Ready.gov.
Experts say a family emergency reserve should contain one gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation, and a three-day supply of nonperishable food.
39). Who's Your Reason?
Every 21 seconds, someone is diagnosed with diabetes. Every 21 seconds, there is a new reason to walk. Who's your reason? The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has launched a new theme designed to bring the reality of the diabetes epidemic into perspective. The "Every 21 Seconds" message will be the main theme at America's Walk for Diabetes events across the country.
40). LASIK Doesn't Stop Your Eyes From Aging
LASIK is a surgical procedure that is capable of correcting a wide range of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. More than 1 million patients undergo the LASIK procedure in the United States each year.
Most patients notice an improvement in their vision immediately upon completion of their surgery. By the next day, vision is often dramatically improved.
41). Stroke is the Nation's Number Three Killer. Know the Signs. Act in Time.
Stroke is the nation's number three killer and the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States. More than 700,000 Americans will suffer a stroke this year. Yet many Americans do not know the symptoms or what to do when they witness someone having a stroke. The following information is provided to you by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), part of the National Institutes of Health.
42). Skin Cancer Screening Tour Is Making A Difference
More than one million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year. Moreover, the incidence of skin cancer is on the rise, making early detection and treatment more critical than ever. To raise awareness and encourage regular skin examinations with a dermatologist, Doak Dermatologics, a leading specialty pharmaceutical company, and The Skin Cancer Foundation have joined forces on an innovative public service campaign called The Skin Cancer Screening Tour.
43). New Survey Reveals Insights To Successful Asthma Management
A new survey, the Global Asthma Physician and Patient (GAPP) Survey, offers new insights into asthma management by examining disconnects between asthma patients and physicians. This chronic disease, which affects more than 20 million Americans, causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. In fact, asthma ranks within the top 10 conditions causing limitation of activity, and costs our nation $16.
44). Keeping Roofs In Top Shape There are ways to protect roofs from algae stains and damage.
Don't get caught streaking-on your roof, that is. Green and black algae can be a major headache for homeowners. Algae not only make a roof look bad, but will likely shorten its life as well.
Commonly called fungus, algae create unsightly dark brown, green or black streaking on shingles. Sometimes these streaks are mistaken for soot, dirt, moss or tree droppings.
45). Heart Failure: Frequently Asked Questions
According to the American Heart Association, nearly five million Americans are living with heart failure and 550,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Heart failure is a serious condition that often is misunderstood. The questions below are intended to help clear up some misperceptions about this condition and its complications.
Q. What is heart failure?
A.
46). Encouraging News For Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
For the more than 2.1 million Americans affected by rheumatoid arthritis, there is encouraging news about how antibiotic therapy can be a safe, low-cost way to manage many of the symptoms of the disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis causes pain, stiffness, warmth, redness and swelling, affecting many different joints.
A recent survey of nearly 200 people.
47). Prevent Medical Errors: Control Your Own Health Care
The good news: There's been an unprecedented focus on patient safety in the past five years.
The bad news: Medical errors are the eighth leading cause of death in the U.S., responsible for as many as 98,000 deaths each year.
The better news: According to the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), while many errors result from the complexity of health care systems, patients can protect themselves by taking control of their health care.
48). Keeping An Eye On Vision Health
Doctors say maintaining vision health can be especially important for women. In fact, a new report from the National Women's Health Resource Center: Women and Healthy Vision shows that women are at higher risk than men of having vision problems-including blindness-as they age. Fortunately there are ways to keep your eyes healthy. Try these tips:
1.
49). Overcoming Barriers To Pain Relief
Calling the under-treatment of pain in America a "human, healthcare, and economic crisis," the American Pain Foundation wants to raise public awareness about pain relief.
More than 75 million Americans suffer from acute or chronic pain every year. Acute pain can be caused by surgery, injury or infection and usually goes away when the underlying problem is treated.
50). Consumers Urged To Learn More About Their Eye Care Providers
Melissa Baker was diagnosed with nearsightedness early in childhood-an unremarkable diagnosis. But with each regular visit to her family optometrist, she became more nearsighted and her glasses became thicker. It wasn't until a skiing accident led Melissa to an ophthalmologist at age 15 that she learned her true diagnosis: glaucoma, a disease that rarely affects the young.
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