MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'fatigue'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:53:29 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181908&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34761&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedblitz.com%2F%7E%2F26991622%2F0%2Fneuromarketing%7ESales-Secret-The-Best-Time-to-Close.htm Want to close a sale? When choosing a time to meet with your customer, don’t just take the first appointment time offered to you. A recent study looked at decisions by judges, and revealed startling differences in outcomes at different times of day. Researchers at Columbia University and Ben Gurion University examined the decisions made [...] CommentsI don't doubt that a tipsy customer could be more pliable and ... by Roger Dooley“I’m not gonna suggest that we liquor a customer up and ... by Aman Basanti | Age of MarketingPlus 5 more...Related StoriesWhat’s Better Than an Excited Customer?Prediction Power: Asking Gets ResultsTime to Get Touchy? (Source: Neuromarketing) Neuromarketing blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181908 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 16:03:28 +0100 5181908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182096&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fthe-multiple-sclerosis-spell-checker%2F The more I write about multiple sclerosis, the more I realize that I’m smarter than my computer about said topic. Sometimes I feel like my spell-checking software hasn’t caught up with the vernacular of our disease. Other times, I feel like we’re just making up words for stuff — oft, we are! Myelin, Cog-Fog, Assistive, PML, CCSVI… not something your everyday word processing program recognizes; and I need it too! In my current state, I find myself relying more and more on the brain under my fingertips more than I trust my own T-Cell infested gob but squiggly red, blue or green highlights (GREAT! Now I’m to understand color-coding as well) splash their way across my screen as I type. I once mentioned, a few years ago now my issue with typing my passwords when my fingers aren�... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182096 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 13:13:11 +0100 5182096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158990&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcan-decision-fatigue-lead-to-medical-errors%2F2011.08.26 This article adds to that understanding: Our decision-making abilities appear to be powerfully affected by the demands of repeated decision making as they interact with depleted blood glucose levels. That fatigue mounts over a day of making decisions and as blood glucose levels fall between meals. In response, we tend to either make increasingly impulsive decisions without considering the consequences or to make no decisions at all. Tierney describes a study analyzing 1,100 parole decisions by judges over the course of a year:  “Prisoners who appeared early in the morning received parole about 70 percent of the time, while those who appeared late in the day were paroled less than 10 percent of the time.” The effects reported in the article were (more…) *This blog post ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158990 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 12:00:44 +0100 5158990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159493&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fthe-mental-exacerbation%2F I promise I’ll read this post through an extra time or two — and have Rose comb it as well — as I’m experiencing something very new to me and my MS. I’m calling it a “mental exacerbation.” I have met a few people whose executive function, memory, and even general cognition have taken a direct hit from our old nemesis: multiple sclerosis. I can remember a few conversations in these pages having to do with increased difficulty with multitasking and attention, and I’ve lived with some of those issues for many years now. What I am now experiencing is beginning to frighten me quite a bit, but, as odd as it may seem, I also feel great comfort as well. The past few days have found me completely overwhelmed by even the smallest list, stack, or process. Time managem... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159493 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 20:48:36 +0100 5159493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5139876&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F18%2Fwhy-you-cant-make-a-good-decision-at-500-pm-decision-fatigue%2F We live in the most prosperous society on Earth at this moment. You can walk into any Gap or Target store and choose from more than 2 dozen different types of jeans (and in some cases, more than 3 dozen). All of that choice comes at a price, however. It’s called “decision fatigue” and its full impact is only starting to be fully understood by psychologists and researchers. Our brains can suffer from “mental fatigue,” just as our bodies can become physically fatigued after a long workout. What is so surprising about this phenomenon is just how little people appreciate the importance of mental fatigue and its resulting decision fatigue — even when making decisions that can be life-changing. John Tierney in The New York Times has the lengthy story (5,350 w... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5139876 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 13:17:30 +0100 5139876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118641&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fbeing-a-doctor-is-a-lot-like-being-a-parent-you-cant-tap-out%2F2011.08.11 The American College of Graduate Medical Education has enacted further restrictions on resident work hours.  No more than 80 hours per week of work for resident physicians, averaged over one month.  And no more than 16 hours of continuous work for first year residents (24 after that), which includes patient care, academic lectures, etc. Whenever they do this sort of thing, everyone seems excited that it will make everyone safer.  After all, residents won’t be working as much, so they’ll be more rested and make much better decisions.  It’s all ‘win-win,’ as physicians in training and patients alike are safer. I guess.  The problem of course is that after training, work hours aren’t restricted.  There is no set limit on the amount of work a physician can be expected to do, ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118641 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 18:05:30 +0100 5118641 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118831&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Feverything-takes-longer-with-ms%2F As I make final preparations for our annual camping trip to the San Juan Islands, I find myself behind the 8-ball. No matter how well I make lists, how ardently I schedule things and how prepared I think I’ve made myself; EVERYTHING just takes longer these days. I’m going to have to keep this post short, as I’m further behind this morning than when I went to sleep last night. This week has seen me muck up two meetings because I’d written them on next week’s schedule. I’ve needed at least as much time (sometimes more) to get tasks completed than I had expected — and I gave myself extra time! Physical ‘stuff’ has taken more out of me than I budgeted and the relaxing time ahead can’t seem to come into view as I look through the haze of what has yet to be done. My days ... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118831 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 17:26:53 +0100 5118831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5107795&cid=t_105959_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F4yVzP4tkVKE%2F We all want to be that woman–you know, the one who never lets a day pass without posting about her five zillion accomplishments on Facebook. The woman who got up at 5am, did a two-hour workout, dressed in her perfectly-pressed suit, worked all day (in heels, no less), stopped at the bank, the grocery store and Target on her way home, did a quickie change of clothes, met friends out for dinner and made it home just in time to pay some bills, do the laundry and read three more chapters of her favorite book before getting up the next day to do it all over again. If this doesn’t sound like your day—or your energy level, you’re not alone. According to Health magazine, women are exhausted. In fact, we are four times more tired than men. And it has nothing to do with our incre... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5107795 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:12:56 +0100 5107795 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086380&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fstanding-up-with-multiple-sclerosis%2F It’s not uncommon for me to use alliterations and metaphor when I write about MS. Today, however, I write about the actual difficulties of “standing up” when you have multiple sclerosis. Difficulties with the vertical posture come in many colors, shades, and tones for those of us on different places on the MS rainbow. When I was first diagnosed, and trying to keep my jet-set, full-time employment, my boss in Germany told me of a dear friend of his with MS. Your man had apparently had MS for years and the only way you might notice anything is that he couldn’t stand for very long at a cocktail party. If that is the “infrared” end of the MS standing spectrum, “ultraviolet” would be those who cannot stand at all. I recognize that there are many in our Life With MS Blog communit... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086380 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 21:00:32 +0100 5086380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069662&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fsome-days-ms-makes-it-hard-to-get-out-of-my-own-way%2F Because of the Life With MS Blog community, I know that I am not alone. I am not alone in the way that heat can affect my multiple sclerosis. I am not alone in the occasional question whether or not I really have MS. I am not alone in trying (and sometimes failing) to lead a “normal” life; MS or not. I know, also, that I am not alone when I say that some days I just can’t seem to get out of my own way! This past weekend (or really nearly a week now), as you might have gathered from my lack of posts on both this blog and our companion Facebook page I’ve been under something of an MS blanket. I wake in the mornings with legs that feel a combination of reinforced concrete and sunburn caressed with sandpaper. I haven’t been 100 percent in the mental faculties either, as I’m... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069662 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 03:31:37 +0100 5069662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968487&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fwhy-only-some-people-experience-high-altitude-sickness%2F2011.06.26 Hi! Greetings from Breckenridge, Colorado. At 10,000 feet, I am told it is the highest resort town in North America. The Rocky Mountain scenery is breathtaking. But there’s a problem for about one in four of us who visit here, especially people like me who live at sea level. We can get hit with high altitude sickness and a few days ago, I was one of the unlucky ones. What happens is your body isn’t used to the thin air and your blood has difficulty getting enough oxygen to your body. It usually happens at altitudes over 8,500 feet. You get an ongoing headache, you feel tired, you have insomnia (I was sleepless for two nights!), you could have nausea and certainly fatigue. Drinking lots of water and passing up alcohol can help, but even then some people have problems. When I finally sa... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968487 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:00:35 +0100 4968487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934648&cid=t_105959_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FdMtEbEqcnnw%2F Dehydration is a common problem for passengers when flying, due to the lack of humidity in the air within the plane. Besides the uncomfortable thirsty feeling dehydration brings, it can increase your feelings of travel fatigue and your risk of catching a cold. 1Above is a new product billing itself as “the world’s first aerotonic flight beverage.” In non-marketing speak, that means “drink to keep you hydrated while flying” (seriously, aerotonic is not even a real word, guys). The New Zealand-based company claims 1Above will deliver “electrolyte-enhanced hypotonic hydration, GRAPELO (a unique blend of circulation-supporting polyphenol extracts like those found in red wine), and essential daily nutrients.” Our advice? Skip the space-age tonics (1Above is currently only availa... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934648 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:32:36 +0100 4934648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911412&cid=t_105959_86_f&fid=38272&url=http%3A%2F%2Flaikaspoetnik.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F06%2F07%2Fto-retract-or-not-to-retract-thats-the-question%2F In the previous post I discussed [1] that editors of Science asked for the retraction of a paper linking XMRV retrovirus to ME/CFS. The decision of the editors was based on the failure of at least 10 other studies to confirm these findings and on growing support that the results were caused by contamination. When the authors refused [...] (Source: Laika's MedLibLog) Laika's MedLibLog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911412 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:34:25 +0100 4911412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4901815&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F6ejjjJ3bpj0%2F Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, Rich Condit, and Stephen Goff Retrovirologist Stephen Goff joins Vincent, Rich, and Alan for a discussion of recent papers on the retrovirus XMRV and its association with chronic fatigue syndrome and prostate cancer. Click the arrow above to play, or right-click to download TWiV #136 (61 MB .mp3, 84 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, by email, or listen on your mobile device with the Microbeworld app. Links for this episode: Recombinant origin of XMRV (Science Express) No evidence of gammaretroviruses in XMRV-positive CFS patients (Science Express) Editorial expression of concern (Science) Absence of XMRV in CFS patients (J Virology) TWiV on Facebook Letters read on TWiV 136 Weekly Science ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4901815 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 03:00:09 +0100 4901815 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893338&cid=t_105959_86_f&fid=38272&url=http%3A%2F%2Flaikaspoetnik.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F06%2F02%2Fscience-asks-to-retract-the-xmrv-cfs-paper-it-should-never-have-accepted-in-the-first-place%2F Wow! Breaking! As reported in WSJ earlier this week [1], editors of the journal Science asked Mikovits and her co-authors to voluntary retract their 2009 Science paper [2]. In this paper Mikovits and colleagues of the Whittemore Peterson Institute (WPI) and the Cleveland Clinic, reported the presence of xenotropic murine leukemia virus–related virus (XMRV) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells [...] (Source: Laika's MedLibLog) Laika's MedLibLog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893338 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 21:34:34 +0100 4893338 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4882968&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FpvidiGD_uZ4%2F The novel human retrovirus XMRV has been associated with prostate cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome. The nucleotide sequence of XMRV isolated from humans indicates that the virus is nearly identical with XMRV produced from a human prostate tumor cell line called 22Rv1. This cell line was derived by passage of human prostate tumor tissue in nude mice. Sequence analyses reveal that the genomes of these mouse strains contain two different proviral DNAs related to XMRV. These viral genomes recombined to produce XMRV that has been isolated from humans. XMRV was originally isolated from a human prostate cancer in 2006, and subsequently associated with ME/CFS. The human cell line 22Rv1, which was established from a human prostate tumor (CWR22), produces infectious XMRV. An important question is... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4882968 Tue, 31 May 2011 14:45:14 +0100 4882968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4797801&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F07%2Fa-stress-relieving-article-for-professionals%2F I was trying to do it all on my own: I know how to meditate. I know how to do my job. I am an addictions counselor. I arrived at the UVA mindfulness meditation meeting because something inside me told me that I wasn’t OK. I was in a lot of internal pain — otherwise known as being extremely stressed. I take my life experiences very seriously. I try not to let them get by without noticing. I don’t always know how to ask for help, or know if I even need help at times. I didn’t consciously know what I was asking for that night, I just showed up, along with a few others, both meditation teachers showed up… and Help showed up. Lessons learned while sitting… Letting go. I listened as the lady across from me explained her work as walking in deep water wearing cloak upon c... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4797801 Sat, 07 May 2011 13:18:43 +0100 4797801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4794953&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fgreed-grief-and-the-choices-of-a-lifetime%2F As most of you already know, my daughter, Beth and I have just returned from a working trip to the high desert region of California. My sweet mother-in-law passed away last May and due to other family matters it has taken us a year to make it down there to clean out her home. The weather is also a factor because I cannot tolerate heat or sun. When we left home it was drizzling here in beautiful, green yet soggy Oregon. The contrast to the high desert is startling. Yucca trees, a few evergreens and lots of brown greeted us. It was also 90 degrees. I got out the sunscreen but still have many fever blisters. You all know I have trouble sitting, and had to go to the hotel and just lie down after the trip. We had drawn row 12 on our small commuter plane and got stuck right in front of the emerg... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4794953 Fri, 06 May 2011 20:36:00 +0100 4794953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4788639&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F672LnNviqFM%2F Since the first association of the retrovirus XMRV with chronic fatigue syndrome in 2009 in the US, subsequent studies have failed to detect evidence of infection in patients from the US, Europe, and China. These studies were potentially compromised by a number of factors, such as differences in patient characterization, geographic locations, clinical samples used, and methods used to detect the virus. These and other potentially confounding conditions have been addressed in the most comprehensive study to date on the association of XMRV with CFS. In the introduction to their paper, published in the Journal of Virology, the authors note other problems with many of the studies of XMRV in CFS patients: Too small control populations Patient and control samples collected at different times ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4788639 Wed, 04 May 2011 15:26:33 +0100 4788639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4775442&cid=t_105959_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FpkZtk0v2_FI%2F If you’re tired of feeling tired all the time (both physically and mentally), as well as particularly stressed out with no energy level to speak of, I may just have the answer for you. Or rather, Linda Hawes Clever, M.D., author of the new book The Fatigue Prescription: Four Steps to Renewing Your Energy, Healthy, and Life may just have the answer for you. (And guess what? The answer is not balance!) This book is no pretentious meditation on the concept of fatigue: It’s a practical, no-nonsense guide filled with concrete tips on how to make your life better. And what could be better than that? (Besides feeling less fatigued, of course, and Dr. Clever also helps us with that dilemma.) The Fatigue Prescription is an interactive workbook both because of the way it’s laid out... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4775442 Mon, 02 May 2011 21:45:55 +0100 4775442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4762858&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fthe-assologist-is-evolving%2F After writing this blog for almost five years, I find I have few secrets. My life is an open book. I’m one of those irritating women who talk to you in line at the market, have total strangers pick me out of a crowd to ask directions and always pet friendly, furry dogs at street fairs. I’ve always had a tongue that had a life of it’s own but now I’m far worse. My life changed about half-way through when, over a period of a few months, I developed two strange symptoms. Those two irritating and eventually painful problems changed my life forever. When I look back on the last 20+ years, I no longer recognize the woman I used to be. There is something about having chronic pain everyday of your life that causes you to evolve. I decided long ago it was up to me to decide if that evolutio... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4762858 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 21:08:12 +0100 4762858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4753757&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F26%2F7-tips-for-coping-with-finals%2F It’s that time again if you’re a college or graduate student — time for finals. It’s also time to self-sabotage, to get in your own way in terms of effective studying. We stress out more than usual, even when we’re on top of the material, because of the anxiety surrounding test-taking. But you don’t have to stress out about final exams. You can actually do better (and feel better about your performance) if you keep the stress at bay and focus on simple study skills over the next few weeks. Here’s a few tips for coping with finals to get you started. None of these are going to be eye-opening or stuff you don’t already know… But sometimes we need to be reminded of the things we already know, to drive home their importance. 1. Schedule yo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4753757 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:45:49 +0100 4753757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4742544&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fsues-official-rules-for-whining%2F When you’ve had chronic pain for many years whining becomes an art form, a sacred ritual while also becoming a bit repetitive. That’s why you have to jazz it a bit by coming up with new ways to whine. Sure, it sounds easy. If you’re new to all this you might think all you have to do is be the victim, I mean patient, then spot another victim, also known as the listener and you’re all set to go. It’s much more complex than that. Let me see if I can sum it up for you. You know I love a list so let’s try, shall we? Never whine when you’re with someone sicker than you are. They don’t give a rat’s ass and you will find it very unfulfilling. Whining is not a contest but if it were, you’d have to find someone without any problems of their own. Good luck with that. You might a... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4742544 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 21:36:19 +0100 4742544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4734378&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-didnt-give-us-nuttin-we-took-it%2F The funeral mass for the first person I ever knew to have multiple sclerosis took place today. She lived a good life, a happy life, a full life. She’s remembered today for her love of family, of friends, and of travel. Goldine’s life with MS taught me much — likely far more than she would have ever known. Her love of travel in particular (oft with one of her daughters to help) made me look at my life with MS differently from the start. And today, in her honor, I state plainly that MS didn’t “give” us anything. If there is goodness in our life after MS that wasn’t there before; we took it! MS is a sly and evil thief. I’ll never give it the power of saying ‘MS gave me…’ and I think that if we do say something like that, we give too much credit to the disease... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4734378 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 21:25:56 +0100 4734378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4734379&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-news-from-the-aan-meetings-significant-risks-from-tysabri-identified%2F The world’s largest gathering of neurological professionals took place in Honolulu, Hawaii last week. Unlike when the American Academy of Neurology meeting took place on my back doorstep in 2009, I did not attend the meetings in order to report back “live” (but it wasn’t for lack of trying…). Then, when I tracked the news as it rolled out from the meetings and was kept abreast in their virtual press room, I waited until the meetings were over so I could digest the skeins of data before relaying information via the Life With MS Blog. Once again this year, multiple sclerosis information, seminars, posters, and study results overwhelmed the proceedings. I used nearly an entire highlighter on my copy of the advanced program! It is our intention to spend several of the next few weeks�... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4734379 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 20:06:42 +0100 4734379 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4719986&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fgone%2F Life is filled with constant change As we grow, mature and learn Unfortunately it’s not all mental as Our bodies sometime take a turn. Yet, each of us is amazed Because life doesn’t stay the same; Relationships, jobs and health In a flash can rearrange. Each time the hand of fate comes down We face surprise and shock Because we want it all to stay the same We learn early how to pitch a squawk. Accidents, bad planning and stupidity Can throw us into a spin; It seems we’re always trying to cope, To adjust, never dreaming we could win. As we struggle to adjust our Rubik’s cube We blame ourselves when struck by fate, And we face fear, self-blame and loathing And try to give up, “That’s it, it’s just too late.” Yet, deep within us, after the initial surprise Is this glim... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4719986 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 15:15:00 +0100 4719986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4709207&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fmedical-fatigue-hitting-the-wall%2F2011.04.13 How is it that a person with an illness forgets to take their medicine, or refuses to get a treatment, or forgoes important monitoring? I’ve been thinking about that because someone close to me has hit that “medical fatigue” wall. There has been no effective treatment for their digestive system illness and they are tired of the prods, pokes, and special exams. They just want to live their life and “cope.” One can understand – especially in a child or teenager. Imagine someone with diabetes. Diet, exercise, monitoring, medication. It can be so tiring. If only the illness – the boogieman or what some call “the beast” could just go away! But it can’t and it doesn’t. And medical treatments may well be imperfect. They probably are. So do you give up? There is no “right a... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4709207 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:00:52 +0100 4709207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4696980&cid=t_105959_180_f&fid=38619&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FALifeCoachsBlog%2F%7E3%2FdvkbaBuSyIU%2F If you didn’t read my last post ‘You’re Depressed! – The Medical History of a Life Coach‘, this is going to make zero sense to you, so go and check it out now and I’ll be waiting for you to return. It was cool to know that my latest lump wasn’t about to eat half my face away and that it was connected to my hemochromatosis. Even so it still sucked knowing that there was nothing I could do to stop the recurring abscesses other than maintain a regime of phlebotomies. I suggested a course of leaches to my oncologist and Helen added that she’d be happy to vacuum them up when they got full and fell off me, but he didn’t seem to think it was that funny. Phlebotomies it is then. 2010 By now I have resigned myself to the fact that this is how it is, and there’s not a lot... Life Coach Blog: The Discomfort Zone : blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4696980 Sun, 10 Apr 2011 17:43:00 +0100 4696980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4696707&cid=t_105959_111_f&fid=39123&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fnursingcomments%2Ftdtc%2F%7E3%2Ff7IaZdMz4yc%2F    Tuberculosis Bacteria           Is tuberculosis a contagious killer?  Well, it depends on which type of tuberculosis (commonly called TB) we are talking about, active or inactive.  Active tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease.  Just like the common cold, it spreads through the air, but only people who are sick with TB in their lungs are infectious.  This type of TB means the bacteria are active in the body and the immune system is unable to stop them from causing illness.  People with active tuberculosis in their lungs can pass the bacteria on to anyone they come into close contact with.  When a person with active tuberculosis coughs, sneezes, talks, spits or even sings, people nearby can breathe in the tuberculosis bacteria and become infected.  If the disease re... Nursing Comments blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4696707 Sat, 09 Apr 2011 16:49:58 +0100 4696707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4677050&cid=t_105959_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fpipe-dreams.html Thyroid cancer is a long-term commitment. I remember being told, "This is something you will live with for the rest of your life." But those words don't soak in at 29 when you are holding your 8-week-old baby, nursing him, trying to picture what having surgery will look like. You simply can't fast-forward years into the future to imagine the rest of your life. And today the forever part is here, and I am wasted-exhausted, the wrung out dirty dish rag hanging limp over the lip of the stainless steel sink. I am the dead grass, the wilted weed, the dry and curly leaf hopelessly clinging. Hyperthyroid because spring is here, and my body uses all it's energy to keep on chugging, none left over for the extra things like cooking, laundry, loving, working.The yellow of my dad's cattail stained gla... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4677050 Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:34:00 +0100 4677050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4631568&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fattitude-is-everything-in-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F I frequently run into individuals — as I did in my past as an RN — who thought they were the only ones who were suffering. What is this whole living with pain business, some morbid contest to see who’s suffered the most? It’s far too easy to slide down into that hole of depression and self-pity and think you’re the most unfortunate, the most tortured, and the most miserable of them all. If that’s your approach you’ll get a prize for certain; all you have to do is win. Your prize is a life of darkness engulfed in pain and suffering. Your attitude will stink. Your friends and family will eventually resent you and remember, it can get awfully dark down in that hole. I have many goals and hopes for this blog, but the big one is to avoid the whole contest idea. I know as ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4631568 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 20:32:34 +0100 4631568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4605939&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-awareness-week-day-4-st-patricks-day%2F This is MY day; Patrick’s Day! I usually try to rise before 5:00am so that the scones will be hot when Caryn wakes. Then, in goes the wheaten bread (a whole wheat soda bread from the North of Ireland). Then, I pack it all up and begin deliveries to a few local haunts before tucking in for some fine music, a Guinness or so and some good craic! Today when the alarm rang, my MS had been at work all night. New symptoms of right arm/hand spasticity and pain came from nowhere. I couldn’t roust myself until well after 8:00. Things are much slower around here this morning. The baking will get done (I prepared everything last night — dry ingredients measured & sifted, wed scaled, etc.) It will just take longer. In honor of the day, Everyday Health listed a bunch of “green” foods which... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4605939 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 18:04:36 +0100 4605939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4600684&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-awareness-week-day-3-care-partners%2F Multiple sclerosis is a family disease. Even if you are the only one in your family living with a diagnosis of MS — like I was for the first decade after my diagnosis — your family lives with MS as well. Some people live well with MS, some struggle and suffer (in their own ways). The same holds true for family members and friends of people with MS. Today, as part of our week-long series dedicated to MS Awareness Week, I’d like to call out our care partners. It’s not easy to live with someone with MS. It’s not possible to read our minds. It’s not always pleasant to be around us when we require (and sometimes don’t ask for) extra help, but our care partners do it. Some care partners are friends we pay — nursing assistants, home health aides, and the like. Others are friends o... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4600684 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 19:15:23 +0100 4600684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4592548&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fmultiple-sclerosis-awareness-week-day-2-ms%2F It’s Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week in the United States. There are television adverts for the National MS Society, billboards, Facebook pages are bubbling with chat, and people are wearing orange and taking part in awareness activities across the country. I’ve decided to try to post a little something every day this week, starting out year six at a sprint! Today, I’m focusing on MS =. The National MS Society has created this page so that all of us who live with MS — patients, families, friends, co-workers, etc — can go there and type a headline (no more than 60 characters) explaining what MS equals to them. I’ve been reading many of them, and no one emotion is left out of my reaction. I wrote “MS=An end to old dreams…but living new dreams built on hope” ... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4592548 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 16:14:02 +0100 4592548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4592549&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Flife-with-ms-blog-five-years-old-today%2F The Life with MS blog may not be the oldest running blog about Multiple Sclerosis, but in an experiment I conducted this weekend, I found that it’s pretty damned popular! When I searched (with various search engines) “MS Blog,” “Multiple Sclerosis Blog,” and “Life with MS” our little community was the number one result, every time. (Ok, once MS Magazine’s blog and once an advert for Microsoft’s blog came on top of ours…but still!) If you would have searched those keywords five years ago, who knows what you would have found. I know that if you had searched my name back in 2005, the only thing you would have found on the web was an old work e-mail address and the testimony I once gave at city hall in the small Washington city where I lived at the time. (I would not recomm... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4592549 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 17:04:36 +0100 4592549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575150&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Femergency-preparedness-and-ms-annette-funicello-and-the-japanese-earthquake%2F On a night when my multiple sclerosis was quiet and actually allowing for a good night’s sleep, I was awakened just after 5:00 am by a text message from my father in Florida. While he knows we live a couple of hundred feet above sea level, we aren’t far from the sea on the Pacific Northwest coast of the United States. News of the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan was racing around the news wires and internet and he, being fatherly and all, wanted to make sure our pack was safe. We are. As I searched the internet and surfed television channels I came across other alarming news… The first love of an entire generation of American boys, Annette Funicello (of Mickey Mouse Club and surf movie fame), was rushed to the hospital this morning as a fire engulfed her Souther... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575150 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:50:14 +0100 4575150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4566233&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fyour-charlie-sheen-free-zone-how%25e2%2580%2599s-your-ms-today%2F The response to my recent Facebook/Twitter chirpings about having had enough of Charlie Sheen prompted the addition to our monthly title. Let the Life With MS Blog be 100 percent Charlie-Free! We try to take the first Wednesday’s post each month to ask this question, but last week’s slot was taken by breaking news about the FDA’s rejection of the oral MS med, Clabridine. Now, let’s get back on track… MS changes our lives and it changes much of our day-to-day as well. These monthly check-ins give some reference and insight for us and for other members of the community. In our ”Frustrations” blog last week, one comment from Susan in Knucklehead Ranch, Texas (and who couldn’t love Susan for that nom de plume?) asked, “To what end do you compare the today you to the year... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4566233 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 22:11:47 +0100 4566233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4560355&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F07%2Fovercoming-productivity-hurdles%2F Why haven’t you finished your novel? What happened to starting your own blog? Why haven’t you gotten around to working on that exciting project? We want to start many projects, but we can never find the time. Maybe we’re just too busy, overwhelmed by the scope of a project or simply exhausted after finishing up the day’s responsibilities. But there’s usually more to it than that, according to productivity coach and author Hillary Rettig. She shares her insight on overcoming anti-productivity traps, which can even stop people from pursuing the projects they’re most excited about. Get clear on your mission. People get stuck, Rettig says, when their values or identities conflict. She gives the following example: People who may “devote significant time to caring for children ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4560355 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:07:20 +0100 4560355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4554337&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV123.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit On episode #123 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Alan, and Rich talk about XMRV integration sites in prostate tumor DNA, the decline effect and scientific method, and the first virus of Caenorhabditis nematodes. Right click to download TWiV #123 (67 MB .mp3, 93 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, by email, or listen on your mobile device with the Microbeworld app. Links for this episode: Analysis of XMRV integration sites from human prostate cancer (Retrovirology) Integration site preference of XMRV (J Virology) The Decline Effect and the Scientific Method by Jonathan Lehrer (New Yorker) Why most published research findings are false (PLoS Medicine) Cochrane Rev... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4554337 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 19:12:02 +0100 4554337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4549834&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fyou-can-still-count-in-a-life-with-chronic-pain%2F As many of you, I have those days when my thinking is fuzzy. That’s a kind and understated way of saying I feel my years of this compromised life, am distracted by daily pain and have done something to confuse myself. That something is often forgetting to eat, resulting in low blood sugar. Other days I run around in a fog for no reason at all, because I’m trying to do too much too fast or haven’t slept well the night before. Today, as I was refilling my medicine containers into those weekly plastic containers I realized how often I use basic counting to prevent mistakes and to promote many of the other forms of therapy I use in my life of chronic pain. I’m certain many of us have tricks, gimmicks and reminders as we find our way through this strange life we have been given. We writ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4549834 Fri, 04 Mar 2011 21:57:12 +0100 4549834 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4544968&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fchronic-fatigue-syndrome-can-psychotherapy-and-exercise-help%2F2011.03.03 [Recently] in The New York Times, David Tuller [wrote] about a study published in The Lancet that shows that psychotherapy is an effective treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome. In his article ”Psychotherapy Eases Chronic Fatigue, Study Shows,” Tuller writes: The new study, conducted at clinics in Britain and financed by that country’s government, is expected to lend ammunition to those who think the disease is primarily psychological or related to stress. The authors note that the goal of cognitive behavioral therapy, the type of psychotherapy tested in the study, is to change the psychological factors “assumed to be responsible for perpetuation of the participant’s symptoms and disability.” In the long-awaited study, patients who were randomly assigned to receive c... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4544968 Thu, 03 Mar 2011 20:00:00 +0100 4544968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4540656&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fnew-multiple-sclerosis-pill-shot-down-by-fda%2F The multiple sclerosis pill Cladribine has been dealt another blow by FDA pharmaceutical regulators. FDA’s Euro-Zone sister agency rejected Cladribine just over a month ago based on its unacceptable risk-benefit ratio for patients in drug trials. In its letter to Merck, FDA cited the same concerns. The agency didn’t question the drug’s efficacy in reducing multiple sclerosis relapse and progression. In fact, Merck officials claim encouragement in that the response letter verified the claims about Cladribine on those fronts. This leaves Cladribine (its planned brand name is “Movectro”) in the arsenal of people living with MS in Russia and Australia — the only two major nations to approve its use for multiple sclerosis. The manufacturer is not willing to let Cladribine di... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4540656 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 23:20:19 +0100 4540656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4522194&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fon-the-day-after-theres-a-cure-for-multiple-sclerosis-i-will%2F Nearing my one-decade mark post-diagnosis, I lay awake last night planning a fairly busy schedule (by my “new normal” standards) for today. I became keenly aware of the modifications which have become mundane and the extraordinary which has become every day. As I walked through today in my mind, I found myself stepping over MS at every turn, which got me to thinking about the day after a cure. Some with early stages of RRMS will say that most of their days are sans MS, so such a day is nearly routine. Many people with MS say they are experiencing such a day directly after being treated for CCSVI. There seemed, in my waning minutes of consciousness, to be far too many changes to list, but it became something of a distraction from my stiff and cramped legs. I thought I would start and w... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4522194 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 19:38:46 +0100 4522194 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4512502&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fcog-fog-multiple-sclerosis-cognitive-fog%2F I’m told by those who have cared for someone with Alzheimer’s disease that the hardest part is when the patient emerges, momentarily, from their dementia and it is evident by the look on their face (or comments) that they know exactly what is happening to them. While we know that multiple sclerosis isn’t Alzheimer’s, many of us are cognizant of the fact that “cog-fog” is a part of MS too. The anecdotal reports of treatment for CCSVI (the narrowing of veins which is theorized to be a contributing factor in MS) include a lifting of cog-fog as a major benefit. This “brain fog,” as it’s sometimes called, is difficult to pigeonhole in the realm of direct MS symptoms because teasing it from co-morbidities such as depression and fatigue can prove beyond the abilities of patients... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4512502 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 20:52:36 +0100 4512502 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4522296&cid=t_105959_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F30-workaholic-questions%2F Workaholism or Work Addict?Answer yes or no to each questionIs your work very important to you?Do you like things done ‘just right’?Do you tend to see things as black or white, not grey?Are you competitive and often determined to win?Is it important for you to be right?Are you overly critical of yourself if you make a mistake?Are you afraid of failing?Are you restless and impulsive and easily bored?Do you drive yourself, and have high levels of energy and stamina?Do you suffer periodic bouts of extreme fatigue?Do you take work home and work nights and/or weekends?Do you feel uneasy or guilty if there is nothing to do?Do you think you are special or different from other people?Do you read work related material when you eat alone?Do you make lists of things to do or keep a daily diary?Do... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4522296 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 16:07:01 +0100 4522296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4501589&cid=t_105959_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2F7krMyt1h-TA%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4501589 Mon, 21 Feb 2011 11:56:05 +0100 4501589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489832&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fode-to-my-ass%2F Thus you’ve always been, Following me around Changing with each age and phase Once so firm and round. I used to be quite fond of you When we both were young and perky, That was very long ago Now you look like turkey jerky. I know gravity takes its toll I see it mirrored day by day But I must confess I do resent you, Do you consider this fair play? All those years you came last Letting me go first Then behind my back you fell apart As if a balloon had burst. I once had a shape to be envied And loved to shake my booty. At least you still hold up my pants And they don’t fall down around my footy. You were designed to sit, To hold my legs and back To help me get from place to place So what if you were cracked? When sacroiliitis struck my tush, Pain came to live with me Infesting everything... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489832 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 22:53:35 +0100 4489832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489171&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FCJ9lbZ_nZ84%2F The first detailed study of infection of nonhuman primates with the retrovirus XMRV reveals that the virus establishes a persistent infection characterized by infection of multiple tissues. Viremia (virus in the blood) is low and transient, with proviral DNA detectable in blood lymphocytes. The results show that the Rhesus macaque can be used to study XMRV infection, transmission, vaccines, and antiviral drugs. The subject of this study, the Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta), was selected because of its evolutionary proximity to humans and a comparable immune system. The monkeys used did not have antibodies to the capsid protein p30 of XMRV, indicating that they were not previously infected. Animals were inoculated intravenously with 3.6 million TCID50 of purified XMRV – a good amount... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489171 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 20:20:24 +0100 4489171 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489833&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fgetting-behind-the-wheel-with-ms-multiple-sclerosis-driving%2F Ah, for the days when getting into the driver’s seat simply meant pushing it back, adjusting the mirrors, and turning the engine over… Nowadays, before I even grab the keys – from their designated resting place where I’d lose them were they not returned each and every time they are not in my pocket – there is a whole other checklist I must complete. Is my clutch leg strong enough today? Is there any sign of an impending migraine? Reflexes seem to be normal? Vision okay? Bladder empty? Lhermitte’s sign acting up? Any “cog-fog” today? Mobile phone… “just in case”? We’ve talked about driving with MS before, but, hell, we’ve been writing about living with MS for nearly five years… we’ll re-cover things from time to time… Many of us have been driving ever since ... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489833 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 22:55:41 +0100 4489833 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4455015&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV119.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and David Tuller On episode #119 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent and journalist David Tuller converse about the state of science reporting by the press. Right click to download TWiV #119 (43 MB .mp3, 60 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with the Microbeworld app. Links for this episode: The four XMRV papers in Retrovirology (one, two, three, four) and a commentary David’s recent coverage of ME/CFS in the NY Times (July 2010, August 2010, January 2011) MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus): The press’ mea culpa TWiV on Facebook Send your virology questions and comments (email or mp3 file) to twiv@twiv.tv. You can also p... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4455015 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 18:38:05 +0100 4455015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4433161&cid=t_105959_113_f&fid=38494&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcuretogether.com%2Fblog%2F2011%2F02%2F03%2Fsurprising-new-data-what-really-helps-patients-with-chronic-fatigue-syndrome%2F For the live-updated, interactive version of this infographic, click here. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a puzzle. People with CFS live with incapacitating exhaustion, as well as a host of other unpleasant symptoms, and they often don’t know what to do to feel better. But I didn’t realize how much of a puzzle CFS really was until I saw this data (in the infographic above). It is such a poorly understood condition that the treatments reported to help most are predominantly lifestyle changes, while the medical treatments are predominantly reported to produce negative effects. This would suggest that medicine today doesn’t know how to effectively treat CFS. Here at CureTogether, 1,319 people have reported having Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and 6,524 data points have been shared... The Collective Well blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4433161 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 17:18:19 +0100 4433161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4318076&cid=t_105959_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Ffirst-time-cpap-users-feel-refreshed.html (Source: Sleep Education) Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4318076 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 22:56:00 +0100 4318076 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4318444&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-or-not-get-outside%2F Tuesdays are trash, recycling, and yard waste and compost day in my neighborhood: The Bin Man cometh. Between catching up on a few projects, getting back into the swing of things after the holidays, coxing my legs to respond to commands, and some wicked cold temperatures; I didn’t get out of the house on Monday at all. Well, that might be a bit of an exaggeration… I did let the dogs out into the back garden and I did open the door so the hot water heater repairman could come in to restore proper flow of the warm wet. But that was it! Come Tuesday morning, I was gently nudged from my warm, dream-filled morning REM sleep by the sound of the first of several trucks making their way up and down my quiet, residential lane. DAMN! I forgot the bins!!! Now, I don’t know how many of you share... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4318444 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 19:04:04 +0100 4318444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4314129&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-or-not-get-outside%2F Tuesdays are trash, recycling, and yard waste and compost day in my neighborhood: The Bin Man cometh. Between catching up on a few projects, getting back into the swing of things after the holidays, coxing my legs to respond to commands, and some wicked cold temperatures; I didn’t get out of the house on Monday at all. Well, that might be a bit of an exaggeration… I did let the dogs out into the back garden and I did open the door so the hot water heater repairman could come in to restore proper flow of the warm wet. But that was it! Come Tuesday morning, I was gently nudged from my warm, dream-filled morning REM sleep by the sound of the first of several trucks making their way up and down my quiet, residential lane. DAMN! I forgot the bins!!! Now, I don’t know how many of you share... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4314129 Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:28:41 +0100 4314129 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4309595&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=36941&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mazecordblood.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1013 We’ve all been there… feeling like a walking zombie, whether its day or night, the fatigue of having a newborn can be trying. Remember your body has also been through a trauma, and is recovering slowly. If you learn to eat well and graze during the day on healthy foods you will notice that you have more energy during the day. Smaller healthier snacks and meals help furnish your body with nutrients and vitamins and help it produce more breast milk.  Try staying away from sugary drinks and alcohol too, as your baby is the direct recipient of those foods too.  Read here for a more extensive article for the people at www.parenting.com (Source: Cord Blood News) Cord Blood News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4309595 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 22:27:48 +0100 4309595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4300629&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fbeginning-a-new-year-with-hope-%25e2%2580%2593-and-10-years-with-ms%2F If I’ve learned ONE thing from living with multiple sclerosis it is this: The only thing in life over which we truly have control is our reaction to things which happen to us and around us. Between vacation schedules at the Everyday Health office and my own travels and MS issues of late, the last two weeks of this year have nearly slipped past without a blog post. I’m sorry for that, but if any group of people on the web would understand; I know it is you! I had, in my head, planned something of a “year in review” posting for this New Year’s Eve. As I sat, shagged-out from travel and the demands (both internal and external) which the end of the year places on us, to write that review, I realized that would simply be looking backwards. There are times to do that, and I’m usually... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4300629 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:03:10 +0100 4300629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4326823&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV113.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, Rich Condit, and Alan Rein On episode #113 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Alan, and Rich discuss the retrovirus XMRV with retrovirologist Alan Rein of the National Cancer Institute. Right click to download TWiV #113 (55 MB .mp3, 76 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: XMRV: A new virus is prostate cancer? (Cancer Research) Detection of XMRV in normal and prostate tumor tissue (J Inf Dis) Reach for a scorecard (commentary, J Inf Dis) Retrovirology papers: one, two, three, four, commentary Integration sites of XMRV in prostate tumor DNA (J Virol, PLoS One) TWiV on Facebook Letters read on ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4326823 Sun, 26 Dec 2010 21:56:38 +0100 4326823 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4277635&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FjPsBI__cFRA%2F Since the first observations that the human retrovirus XMRV is associated with prostate cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), new studies have been carried out to determine the role of the virus in these diseases. The results have been conflicting: XMRV (and related retroviruses) have been found in some patients, but not in others. Whether laboratory contamination could explain the origin of XMRV has been considered by four independent research groups. In a study of Japanese patients with prostate cancer or CFS, the investigators found that control samples were positive when examined by PCR for XMRV sequences. They traced the problem to a component of a PCR kit that contained a mouse monoclonal antibody – produced in mouse cells, it likely was contaminated with murine viral nu... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4277635 Tue, 21 Dec 2010 16:17:58 +0100 4277635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266031&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Ftwas-the-week-before-christmas%2F Twas the week before Christmas, so much to be done My body was laggin’ while my spirit cried “RUN!” So hard to do when your whole body hurts And your energy comes in bits and in spurts. There’s truly a magic that now fills the air With wreaths and seraphims with soft angel hair. All creatures were stirring, even the mice Children and grown-ups, all “extra nice.” The gifts were arriving, thanks to the ‘net How could I do it and stay out of debt? Aw heck, this is Christmas, forget about that. In January we’ll all eat like Jack Sprat. The pup dogs were snuggled all warm in our bed They hadn’t a clue as to my week ahead. How could I do it, so much to be done? My energy left with the rise of each sun. It was years ago, when my health fell apart, But I feel just the same, a... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266031 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 21:57:49 +0100 4266031 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266032&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fgratitude-for-sleep-with-or-without-an-ms-attack%2F Sleep comes in fits and starts when I am in the midst of an MS attack. I’ve been told by my doctor that my brain goes into overdrive trying to re-route signals and assessing damage and generally freaking out during times of active exacerbation. As I head into the third week of this “thing,” sleep is becoming more and more spotty. I get VERY tired but will only sleep for a few hours before something will wake me and I lay awake three to five hours, too exhausted to get up and do anything, too awake to shut down the bouncing of my mind. If I am able to get back to sleep by 5 a.m., I sleep until about 8 a.m. and wake again; this time tired and cranky. Last evening, while driving home from Poker Night (my self-help group for men living with multiple sclerosis) I heard something o... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266032 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 20:18:18 +0100 4266032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266164&cid=t_105959_136_f&fid=39213&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbeingcancer.net%2F2010%2F12%2F16%2Ffeels-like-forever-guest-post%2F "Bad Day" by 5 year old Sophia Short post today.  Both myself and my guest blogger are tired.  I just have a bad cold.  Cindy is struggling with putting her multiple myeloma in its place.  You can find her at Cindy’s Multiple Myeloma Blog. It Feels Like Forever It feels like forever since I’ve written in here. It feels like forever since I’ve had Multiple Myeloma. It feels like forever since I could walk without help. It feels like forever since I could go to the bathroom normally and feel I actually accomplished something. It has been forever since I worked. My last day working was 10/4/05…or was it 10/3/05? I don’t even remember. As I start typing this I realize I shouldn’t have started this entry, as I am nearly nodding off. I’m in serious need for a nap. Eve... Being Cancer Network blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266164 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 05:16:31 +0100 4266164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4245431&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fdo-you-feel-more-like-scrooge-or-santa%2F This grandma feels like she got run over by a reindeer. I realize that isn’t possible because they’re all at the North Pole, or grazing in Lapland, but that’s what it feels like and I think I saw a hoof print on my forehead late last night. It might be payback for eating reindeer meat when we were in Finland about ten years ago. I did swallow, but I didn’t like it. Doesn’t that count? I do hope Santa forgives me and all those Finns and Laps who eat it all the time. I’m pretty sure it wasn’t Rudolph or anyone we know. It’s a funny thing about the holidays how they run all over us, like reindeer run amok, whether we enjoy them or not so why not try to get into the spirit of the season? This year is a difficult one for my family because of a family member who is direly ill but... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4245431 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 22:10:37 +0100 4245431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4245517&cid=t_105959_136_f&fid=39026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcarolinemfr.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fi-am-faced-with-very-long-day.html Today I have a VERY long day - worthy of capitals. I have a 7am PT appointment, followed by work, followed by a Christmas party. I should be home by 8 or so. To many of you that is not a long day, never mind a VERY long day. For me, exhaustion will set in and tomorrow I will have to take it easy as a result.Basically, between all my ailments I have no ability to go out for more than a few hours at a time. Work is not that bad because I sit in a big, ergonomic chair and get up periodically to go to the restroom, printer, copier etc. I go home and I am tired. But I can't work two full days in a row. Tomorrow I will spend most of the day at home - except my chronic pain group (that I haven't been to in months). My life has changed. And won't unchange. Yesterday I successfully made by back, bo... Caroline's Breast Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4245517 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 10:52:00 +0100 4245517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4241917&cid=t_105959_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fweary-prayer.html I had my cancer doctor appointment yesterday. Potentially good news this time, which is a relief - but I won't know anything for sure until after my scan, which has now been set for "as early as possible". Given it is Christmastime, the "earliest possible" for me is January 3. I get injections the 3rd and 4th (Thyrogen - praising God anew for the insurance that allows me to pay for this $25,000 shortcut and remain on my medications). Then the electric blue pill - a mini dose of radioactive iodine 131 - for the scan on the 5th. After 9 a.m. on the 5th, I will be on my own without family once again. This is the hardest part of every year. You would think I'd be clamoring for a week off by this point, but I learned the hard way that it is an experience along the lines of "It's a Wonderful Lif... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4241917 Wed, 08 Dec 2010 14:55:00 +0100 4241917 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4233307&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fmultiple-sclerosis-and-the-season-of-giving%2F I’m just back from an early morning recording session at a local radio station. I was asked to record a public service spot having to do with charitable work and giving during this “special time of year.” Of course, I slipped in mention of multiple sclerosis causes during the commercial! Whether or not we are aware of it, we are the object of millions of dollars of annual giving by those who want to see our disease filed in the annals of medical history — just like we do. Many of us give to those MS causes as well; we give what we can, when we can. Of course, it’s not just money that we think of giving around the holidays: There’s also time, toys for the needy, cards for a soldier or sailor serving… the list goes on. I’m wondering today, as I reflect on my call ... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4233307 Mon, 06 Dec 2010 19:32:46 +0100 4233307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4220342&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fdecember-2010-hows-your-ms-today%2F An unexpected winter snowstorm, family drama, reaching for the stars with a Thanksgiving meal, a consulting project nearly ready to open, major writing deadline… Why was I surprised to have an exacerbation??? All I can say is that it’s a good thing I learned that whole “laugh at yourself” thing early on in my multiple sclerosis career! Every month here at the Life With MS Blog, we set aside one post for anything you want to talk about. It’s a chance to update us on your progress and slips, your successes and failings, and we ask, “How’s your MS today? ” I’ve noted a large number of comments posted by new (or lurking) members of our community over the past month. This excites me to NO END! This is a very popular blog in the MS world and we’re all very proud of that. I’... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4220342 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 20:22:17 +0100 4220342 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4151681&cid=t_105959_86_f&fid=34445&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwomenshealthnews.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F11%2F08%2Fobos-round-up-elections-pelvic-exams-breast-cancer-pinkification-and-more%2F Some of my recent posts at Our Bodies Our Blog are highlighted below. Don’t forget the upcoming 40th anniversary of the landmark book; a new edition will come out next year to celebrate the milestone! In the meantime, catch up with health news and commentary over at http://www.ourbodiesourblog.org Election-Related Repro Rights Round-Up – a collection of commentary from reproductive rights advocates on what the recent election may mean for women. NPR Takes on Pink Ribbon Fatigue: Views from Komen, Breast Cancer Action – NPR talked to a representative of Breast Cancer Action, which has criticized pink ribbon campaigns for breast cancer, and a representative of Komen, which kind of thrives on them. Meeting Dispatch: Resources from the CUE/Cochrane/Campbell Colloquium &#821... Women's Health News blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4151681 Tue, 09 Nov 2010 01:37:44 +0100 4151681 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4098230&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fthe-karate-kid-and-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F Several times over the course of the last few years and our chats together, I have mentioned the films with various reincarnations of the character the Karate Kid. The late Pat Morita starred in three of them and was such a perfect Mr. Miyagi in example and his sparsely spoken words. Anyone who has seen those films was imprinted with the importance of consistency of movement exemplified in such statements as “Wax on, wax off.” Consistency of movement builds muscle mass and keeps us strong and our bodies usable. The conscious movement using both sides of our bodies, particularly our hands, arms, and legs, is our way of putting up a valiant fight against the hostile takeover of disease. Some of us with pain in other areas have, with the help of physical therapy, learned ways to keep thos... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4098230 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 14:24:32 +0100 4098230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4060589&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Ftoo-much-data-can-it-overwhelm-doctors-and-harm-patients%2F2010.10.12 One of the supposed strengths of electronic medical records is better tracking of test data. In theory, when using more sophisticated digital systems, doctors can better follow the mountains of test results that they encounter daily. But a recent study, as written in the WSJ Health Blog, says otherwise. Apparently, a study performed in 2007 found: VA doctors failed to acknowledge receipt of 368 electronically transmitted alerts about abnormal imaging tests, or one third of the total, during the study period. In 4% of the cases, imaging-test results hadn’t been followed up on four weeks after the test was done. Another study, published in March in the American Journal of Medicine, showed only 10.2% of abnormal lab test results were unacknowledged, but timely follow-up was lacking in 6.8% ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4060589 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 17:00:11 +0100 4060589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4060545&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=34470&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thehealthcareblog.com%2Fthe_health_care_blog%2F2010%2F10%2Ftugging-on-supermans-cape--1.html By BOB WACHTER, MD Several years ago, I spoke at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, where Michael DeBakey, the legendary heart surgeon, was master of the universe for nearly half a century. I heard lots of DeBakey stories during... (Source: The Health Care Blog) The Health Care Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4060545 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4060545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4040615&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2F07%2Fnational-depression-screening-day-2010%2F Today is the annual “National Depression Screening Day,” an effort to help people learn if they have the “common cold” of mental disorders — depression. Depression is characterized by feelings of never-ending sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, trouble with sleep, trouble with eating, and trouble with enjoying things in life that only yesterday seemed to bring a smile to your face (or some combination of those and similar kinds of symptoms). In order for depression to be diagnosed, you must have felt these kinds of symptoms without a break for at least two weeks. Most people who experience depression, however, suffer in silence with their symptoms for a lot more than 2 weeks — some suffer for months or even years before finally seeking help for the problem.... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4040615 Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:21:28 +0100 4040615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4025487&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.virology.ws%2Fwhy_coffin_doesnt_sleep.flv John Coffin, Professor of Genetics and Molecular Microbiology at Tufts University, studies the molecular biology and evolution of retroviruses. He wrote a commentary (A new virus for old diseases?) that accompanied the publication by Lombardi and colleagues of the finding of the new retrovirus XMRV in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome, and has spoken widely about whether this virus has a causative role in the disease. In this video he expresses cautious optimism about the role of XMRV (and related murine retroviruses) in human disease. Note in particular his statement “While the major XMRV studies to date appear to be well controlled for these problems, extreme caution is necessary”. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4025487 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 15:47:48 +0100 4025487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4018300&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fthe-power-of-expectation-in-a-life-with-chronic-pain%2F When we are plunged, thrown, or gradually swallowed by a life of chronic pain, it’s only human to feel despair. We say things like, “Well, I’m just not going to let this get me down,” or “I’m trying to stay positive about this.” I’m not certain why we do that. I think we fear thinking about the worse scenario of whatever is happening in our lives and bodies. I believe, also, we are trying to put on a happy face for our family members and friends. We don’t like to embrace the fact we may be causing anxiety, pain, and worry for those we love as well as for ourselves. To have your life shattered takes more than glue to put it back together again. I don’t know anyone who went through life, particularly the early years and said, “Oh let’s see. When I’m 40 years old I t... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4018300 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 19:21:22 +0100 4018300 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3999132&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fthrough-the-looking-glass-of-chronic-pain%2F For some of us, life has totally changed. Like Alice in Wonderland, you wake up one day and you find you have slid into a new world, when you live with chronic pain. The shapes, the appearance, and the order of life have been altered. We find ourselves asking questions like the following: Can I be this tired and still be alive? At first, we try extra vitamins, visit the health food store, and think we need more sleep. We read books on fatigue, pollution, and the influences of chemicals on everyday life. We visit doctor after doctor until one of them comes up with a reasonable, acceptable, logical diagnosis. Gradually, we assimilate this new-found fatigue as part of our everyday lives. We never fully accept it; just live with it. What else can we do? Fatigue that accompanies rheumatoid dis... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3999132 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 19:12:10 +0100 3999132 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3987056&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdebunking-fake-diseases%2F2010.09.20 Ever heard of adrenal fatigue? Wilson’s temperature syndrome? If not, there’s a good reason: They exist only on the Internet. The Hormone Foundation, an affiliate of the Endocrine Society, recently issued two fact sheets for patients debunking these so-called conditions, which were “apparently conceived only in an effort to sell products promoted to treat them,” the LA Times reported. No medical evidence supports either faux disease and there are no tests or treatments for them, but patients still try to alleviate them with supplements, some of them potentially dangerous, the Times said. Adrenal fatigue is characterized by such “symptoms” as having salt and sugar cravings and needing coffee to get you through the day, while the man who discovered Wilson&... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3987056 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:00:00 +0100 3987056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3983290&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmwvideo.s3.amazonaws.com%2FICAAC-TWiV%2FTWiV99.wmv Host: Vincent Racaniello Vincent tours the 50th Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (ICAAC) in Boston, speaking with exhibitors and visitors, including Professors Derek Smith, Michael Schmidt, Frederick Hayden, and Myra McClure. Many thanks to Chris Condayan and Ray Ortega of the American Society for Microbiology for recording and editing this episode. Download TWiV #99 (45 MB .mp3, 62 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: 50th ICAAC ICAAC daily press conference videos (including Prof. Myra McClure) Antigenic cartography Antimicrobial properties of copper Video of this episode – download .mp4 (1.99 GB) or .wmv (935 MB... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3983290 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 02:58:30 +0100 3983290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3980446&cid=t_105959_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F09%2Ffaa-proposal-targets-pilot-fatigue.html (Source: Sleep Education) Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3980446 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 19:10:00 +0100 3980446 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3980921&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fwhen-ms-just-wont-let-you-think-straight%2F I have spent the past couple of days in a part of our country that still finds triple-digit temperatures the norm this time of year. I DO NOT, nor does my multiple sclerosis, find anything “normal” about 104˚F, “dry heat” or not! I head home over the weekend, so I hope this will all pass, but I’m experiencing a kind of MS stupidity with all this heat. I can’t seem to put my finger on words, my reactions times are off, and I just feel a little silly. The physical stuff — doughy face, slow-responding arm, and even slower leg — I expected and can understand. This whole MS “in my head space” thing is very new to me. I’ve found myself being the last one to laugh at something funny or to chime in on a conversation. It’s like I’m a half-step behind the whole wor... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3980921 Fri, 17 Sep 2010 17:30:42 +0100 3980921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3976499&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fchronic-fatigue-syndrome-plenty-of-speculation%2F2010.09.16 Humans love to find patterns in the world. Sometimes patterns exist, sometimes they are imaginary. Sometimes you can see a pattern that may be interesting and ignore its significance. As a resident I used to say that anyone who smokes three packs of cigarettes a day has to be schizophrenic. It was meant more as a joke when, in fact, it was later discovered that tobacco helps ameliorate the symptoms of schizophrenia. I need to pay more attention. Part of my job is to look for patterns as a key to the patients diagnosis. Diseases and pathogens tend to (more or less) cause reproducible signs and symptoms and looking for that pattern is often the most helpful clue towards finding the diagnosis. Of course things are never as easy as one would like, as you have to consider whether you are seeing... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3976499 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 12:00:00 +0100 3976499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3973019&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fwhen-ms-gets-you-down%2F This just in: MS Sucks! It sucks energy and time and emotion and well…it just plain sucks. Today, for me, is one of those “MS Days” that we tell people about in glib, flip little sentences like; “Well, there are good days and bad days.” The sun has made itself known to Seattle on a September day; not a normal occurrence. And I cannot get myself up, mentally, to go out and enjoy it. My morning slurred into noon, which then required a kip (it was one of those lay down or fall down things). Now, I find a list of things that haven’t been done, likely won’t get done, and I’m feeling a failure for it (not a total failure). What is surprising is how this logy, fatigued state can get me down emotionally. MS got me down today when even reading the expectedly inflammatory comments to... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3973019 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 14:33:19 +0100 3973019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3983291&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV098.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit On episode 98 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Alan, and Rich review the finding of murine leukemia virus-related sequences in the blood of CFS patients and healthy donors, laboratory inventories for wild poliovirus containment, weaving high-performance viral batteries into fabric for the military, and a case of human rabies in Indiana. Download TWiV #98 (58 MB .mp3, 80 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: MLV-related sequences in blood of CFS patients (commentary) Laboratory inventories for poliovirus containment Viral batteries for the military (abstract) – also see TWiV 28 H... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3983291 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 00:50:15 +0100 3983291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3953615&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FIE10Jjn_JZc%2F The new human retrovirus XMRV, first detected in malignant prostate tissue, was subsequently identified in a high percentage of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The virus was not detected in four independent studies of CFS patients in Europe or the United States. The results of a second American study, whose publication was blocked for two months, provide support for the involvement of murine retroviruses in CFS. The new study, a collaboration among scientists at the Food and Drug Administration, the National Institutes of Health, and Harvard Medical School, utilized samples from 37 CFS patients obtained in the mid-1990s. A key difference from earlier studies is that some repeat samples were used: four obtained two years later and frozen, and eight taken in 2010 and processed ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3953615 Fri, 10 Sep 2010 02:31:21 +0100 3953615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3914924&cid=t_105959_86_f&fid=38272&url=http%3A%2F%2Flaikaspoetnik.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F30%2Fdoes-the-nhifda-paper-confirm-xmrv-in-cfs-well-ditch-the-mr-and-scratch-the-x-and-youve-got-mlv%2F The long awaited paper that would ‘solve’ the controversies about the presence of Xenotropic Murine Leukemia Virus-related virus (XMRV) in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) was finally published in PNAS last week [1]. The study, a joint effort of the NIH and the FDA, was withheld, on request of the authors [2], because it contradicted [...] (Source: Laika's MedLibLog) Laika's MedLibLog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3914924 Mon, 30 Aug 2010 03:32:21 +0100 3914924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3915257&cid=t_105959_136_f&fid=39026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcarolinemfr.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F08%2Fpaying-price.html Today I am paying the price. Yesterday I had fun. I got together with a college friend. She runs half marathons and I don't so she is probably in better shape than I but that, of course, didn't stop me. I went to visit her yesterday. She went for a run before I got there so she should have been tired. We hung out on the rocks behind her house on the lake. Then we went for a little hike - 3-4 miles through the woods and got caught up on marriages and old friends. After a brief shopping stop, we decided to cool off by floating around her lake on tubes. After successfully flipping from my back to my stomach on the tube and staying dry, I was over confident and assumed I could handle tubing. I erroneously attempted to navigate off the tube and onto the rocks. On my first try, I stayed mostly o... Caroline's Breast Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3915257 Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:56:00 +0100 3915257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3899360&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fput-down-your-ipod-to-avoid-brain-fatigue-say-researchers%2F Put down your iPod and go to the park, if you want to avoid brain fatigue. Although there are some serious benefits to getting online (like being able to read Blisstree), researchers claim that our constant use of technology and electronics is causing brain-drain, and impairing our ability to learn, as well. As we constantly fill our moments of “down time” and rest with games, videos, articles, and podcasts, we’re not giving our brains a genuine chance to stop, absorb, and process information and experiences that we collect throughout the day. So, according to researchers, even if you think you’re relaxing by watching a video clip on your iPhone while you wait for a bus, or listening to music while you’re exercising at the gym, the constant flow of information... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3899360 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:04:13 +0100 3899360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3896101&cid=t_105959_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Freduces-fatigue-by-65%2F People in early recovery will often experience low levels of energy. This research shows that a leisurely walk can increase energy over a period of time. But, once one gets the momentum going – try to keep it up – one day at a time. People who regularly complain of fatigue can increase their energy levels by 20% and decrease their fatigue by 65 percent by engaging in regular, low intensity exercise, according to a new University of Georgia study. “Too often we believe that a quick workout will leave us worn out – especially when we are already feeling fatigued,” said researcher Tim Puetz. “However, we have shown that regular exercise can actually go a long way in increasing feelings of energy – particularly in inactive individuals.” Professor O’Connor, co-director of ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3896101 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:53:11 +0100 3896101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3889126&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F08%2F20%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-august-20-2010%2F The creative process is a mysterious one. I sit down at my computer twice a week not knowing how I will do it and what will come out when I type. Yet, if I come to my desk present, open-minded and trusting, somehow my fingers do the work for me. That doesn’t mean that I don’t have days when the writing doesn’t flow and that I don’t feel stuck. On those days, I notice it’s one or all of the three f’s: fatigue, fear or feeling frazzled that pushes me over the edge. Then, it feels like I’m trying to run in water or force a piece into a puzzle that just doesn’t fit. I tend to think of those times as moments when self-care is vital. I might be feeling anxious, overworked or my own negative thoughts could be sabotaging my efforts. Yet, when we&#821... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3889126 Fri, 20 Aug 2010 10:25:53 +0100 3889126 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3885285&cid=t_105959_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2F2010%2F08%2Ftai-chi-improve-fibromyalgia-symptoms%2F A new study just published suggests that the meditative exercise practice of tai chi reduces the pain and chronic fatigue experienced by fibromyalgia patients. The leader of the study Dr. Chenchen Wang comments. (Source: Inside Surgery) Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3885285 Thu, 19 Aug 2010 11:27:10 +0100 3885285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3876648&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdoctors-and-alarm-fatigue-potential-for-patient-harm%2F2010.08.17 The hospital is never a quiet place. Walk through the wards on a typical day and you’ll hear a cacophony of alarms, bells, and other tones coming from both computers and medical equipment. American Medical News recently discussed so-called “alarm fatigue.” They cite a study showing find that “16,934 alarms sounded in [a medical] unit during an 18-day period.” That’s astounding, and for those who are wondering, that’s about 40 alarms an hour. It’s not surprising that doctors become desensitized to these alarms, and that has potential to harm patients, as physicians may miss legitimate, emergent findings. (more…) *This blog post was originally published at KevinMD.com* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3876648 Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:00:48 +0100 3876648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3854633&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fits-hard-to-feel-good-when-you-dont-feel-well%2F We all wake in the morning knowing we have MS, just like when we fell to sleep the night before. We all get out of bed (most days) and make the best of the day the way we did the day prior. We all do our best to be our best. Some days, however, we are far from our best! This past weekend, I was hit with a debilitating ocular migraine headache. I’ve had them before, and with greater frequency of late. This was a doozie and, well… I just didn’t feel well. I began to notice how my other MS symptoms seemed to be more of an issue than they typically are. My leg and entire left side felt weaker, my neck felt fragile, my cognition was out the window. Even my attitude, the thing we’ve talked about at length in these pages, was way off. I know that a severe headache can turn the world on it... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3854633 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 14:33:07 +0100 3854633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3843755&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV094.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, Rich Condit, and Ila Singh On episode #94 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Alan, and Rich speak with Ila Singh about the new human retrovirus XMRV, and how her laboratory is studying its association with prostate cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome. Download TWiV #94 (56 MB .mp3, 77 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: CFIDS Association of America Discovery of XMRV (PLoS Pathogens) Detection of XMRV in CFS patients (Science) Presence of XMRV in malignant prostate (PNAS) Inhibition of XMRV by raltegravir (PLoS One) Letters read on TWiV 94 Weekly Science Picks Alan – The new Federal Register ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3843755 Sun, 08 Aug 2010 12:24:14 +0100 3843755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3805875&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2F30%2Frecovering-from-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-cfs%2F Today I have the pleasure of interviewing Jody Smith, creator of the website www.ncubator.ca, who spent 15 years losing the battle against Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Three years ago, she found treatment that worked for her and is making a comeback. In the process, she’s helping a lot of people. (You can check out her blog, “ncubator” by clicking here.) You tried many treatments and finally you got there. What worked? Jody: My naturopath believed that my liver needed relief from its toxic load, and my immune system needed building up. She put me on a tincture with natural antivirals and adaptogens and vitamins in it, and put me on omega3 oil. I’d gone low carb some years before which had made quite a difference. I did dry skin brushing with a loofah, to help lymph mov... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3805875 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:32:43 +0100 3805875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3737021&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fhealthy-office-habits-tips-for-staying-sane-at-work%2F photo: Thinkstock Whatever your work hours, we’re guessing you’ve labored over an inane task or two that have gotten you a little loopy at least once during the past week. We don’t mean the kind of loopy that comes with being in love or really excited for a long weekend – we mean an utter loss of sanity that’s a result of entering numbers into a database for five hours straight. The blog Jane Has a Job offers some good advice on how to avoid going completely nuts on the job. Close your eyes for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Sometimes it feels like you’re seeing double after staring at the computer screen for hours. Overworking your eyes can lead to serious damage, so you need to take a break every once in a while. (Even from Blisstree. Sad emoticon.) Snack... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3737021 Thu, 08 Jul 2010 20:30:32 +0100 3737021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726745&cid=t_105959_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Flamenting-loss-of-normalcy.html Sometimes it just hits you in the gut like a ton of bricks.  There is nothing left in your life that is normal.  You watch, on Facebook, at church, through blogs and e-mails, as your friends and most of your family progress through a "normal" life, with fun pictures of holidays, updates about jobs, all the little details that make up "normal".  And you realize there is nothing left you can claim as normal.  I found a photo taken a few weeks before we lost normal.  What brings the tears the quickest is my children, my husband.  He looks so young.  I look at Caleb - just born - and Amelia, not even 2.  They don't remember "normal".  I see Katy's innocence.  I had never asked to learn to do laundry or cook a meal or clean a bathroom yet. &nbsp... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726745 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 19:30:00 +0100 3726745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726746&cid=t_105959_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fhome-bed-heaven.html I skipped everything I *thought* I wanted to do on the way home from the hospital yesterday...even walking in to Walgreens for a few essentials.  Coming out of the hospital after the pacemaker was a different experience - felt great.  Yesterday I felt more tired and more on the verge of nothingness than I have since my college days.  Which is interesting.  Back then, I thought it was my heart making me so tired, but now I wonder if it is the many, many times I hit my head when I fainted.  As soon as I got home yesterday, I went to bed and I really haven't gotten up yet, except for brief intervals to use the bathroom and have a drink.  I forced myself to eat something this morning, as I have no appetite yet.  I haven't had to take any pain relievers as my ... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726746 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 17:36:00 +0100 3726746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724382&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV089.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Alan Dove On episode #89 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent and Alan review recent findings on the association of the retrovirus XMRV with ME/CFS, reassortment of 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza virus in swine, and where influenza viruses travel in the off-season. Download TWiV #89 (56 MB .mp3, 78 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: Conflicting XMRV papers on hold Leak of PNAS paper CDC study on XMRV in CFS patients (Retrovirology) and Science update Where influenza viruses travel in the off season (EurekaAlert! and PLoS Pathogens) NPR article on Ebola siRNA treatment (thanks, Andreas!) Priming mechanism for re... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724382 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 17:03:57 +0100 3724382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3713806&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FFZh81QtZR4Y%2F The findings by the NIH and FDA that XMRV is associated with chronic fatigue syndrome has been accepted for publication by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). Release of the article has been blocked by PNAS due to work carried out by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That study, which was submitted to Retrovirology, failed to find a link between XMRV and CFS. Its publication has also been placed on hold. According to ScienceInsider: The contradiction has caused “nervousness” both at PNAS and among senior officials within the Department of Health and Human Services, of which all three agencies are part, says one scientist with inside knowledge. It is senseless to block publication because the two papers reach different conclusions.... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3713806 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 02:41:10 +0100 3713806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3695703&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fwhat-does-fatigue-feel-like%2F We all know what it is to be tired, exhausted or sleepy. As part of the human cycle of life we eat, we work, we sleep, and we awake, refreshed. Don’t we? Some of us do but many of us do not. The 24-hour day changes for many of us as night becomes day, sleep brings no relief, and mornings are not refreshing. How could we possibly awake with the same feeling of heaviness we had when we went to bed? For many of us who live with chronic pain, chronic illness or are experiencing some acute health crisis, fatigue can reach a whole new level. For those going through numerous medical treatments such as treatment for cancer, recovery from surgeries of many kinds; they are surprised and discouraged as they discover their “POP” has disappeared. You know, as in “I’m too pooped to POP?” For... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3695703 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 21:38:04 +0100 3695703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3686886&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FgJwQyYUT-RI%2F A press release from the Netherlands indicates that the FDA and NIH have independently confirmed the association of XMRV with chronic fatigue syndrome as published last fall in Science. Apparently two journalists for the Dutch magazine ORTHO obtained a copy of a lecture by Dr. Harvey Alter in Zagreb which confirms these findings. According to Newswire.com: The ORTHO journalists were able to obtain a pdf document of the lecture given by Harvey Alter at the IPFA/PEI 17th Workshop on ‘Surveillance and screening of Blood Borne Pathogens’ in Zagreb. The International Plasma Fractionation Association (IPFA) represents the not-for-profit organizations around the world involved in plasma fractionation. The IPFA is based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The highly-experienced Dr. Harvey A... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3686886 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 22:18:58 +0100 3686886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3666074&cid=t_105959_117_f&fid=37824&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doctorkalitenko.com%2Fblog%2Fgeneral-health%2Fwhy-depression-medication-fails-us Depression is a very serious subject and by no means does any doctor, functional, holistic or alternative, downplay the seriousness of what depression can cause. The symptoms of depression are vast, from physical to mental to emotional. The effects are devastating on it’s victims, families, careers, children and futures. Suicide is the most awful ending to depression, but it is not the most common at all. Most people live with depression. Some seek counseling, while others just suffer through the symptoms. Many learn to live with the symptoms until life is only a shell of what it used to be. But this is not how to handle depression. Even treatment, with a psychiatrist and medication, may not always help the ways that one may expect. Some of the basic signs of depression include: Feelin... Doctor Kalitenko antiaging blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3666074 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 18:05:51 +0100 3666074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3641160&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-and-a-moment-of-silence%2F Multiple sclerosis has created a lot of “noise” in my life.  Either real or perceived or figurative; a lot goes on in the head of someone living with MS.  I think the sheer volume of “stuff” I think about has quadrupled since diagnosis. I mean, seriously, who else has to think about all of the “what if’s” and “then I would’s” and “how will I’s” and “am I able to’s” that go with just about every part of our lives as MS progresses?! Whether it’s sleepless nights during/post attack, as my brain tries to reroute signals or the constant self-talk to get me through-over-around-(sometimes) under obstacles (both real and imagined) it seems that I’ve never a quiet moment. Well, this weekend I got one… well, several. I a... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3641160 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 19:26:45 +0100 3641160 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629242&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FpFYQ0lulg4g%2F Robert H. Silverman, one of the authors on the study implicating the new human retrovirus XMRV as an etiologic agent of chronic fatigue syndrome, has written an excellent review article on the current status of research on the virus. The article is behind a paywall at Nature Reviews Urology, so I’ll provide a summary of the salient points. The article begins with a description of how XMRV DNA was isolated from surgically removed prostate tumor tissue. Sequence analysis of three strains showed that the virus is most closely related to xenotropic and polytropic murine leukemia viruses and hence was named xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus, or XMRV. Five lines of evidence indicate that XMRV is not a laboratory contaminant: XMRV was detected in RNA isolated from human prosta... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629242 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 03:26:12 +0100 3629242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629763&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fnew-beginnings-in-your-heart-and-head%2F There is a great tendency to be discouraged when you have pain everyday. It’s like a slippery slide in our Oregon rain. If you just sit there on that slick slope, you’re going to slide down and probably land in the gooey mud. Sliding through this life is easy. You don’t really have to do anything in particular. Just embrace your depression, know life today and again tomorrow, will be terrible and there you have it; the slow descent into a life of hellish pain and suffering. It’s an interesting fact about suffering that it is not all in the physical realm. Suffering is highly contagious and can infect our hearts, out minds and our attitudes…big time. It spews and oozes over into our social lives, our family lives and our financial existence. All of us know what it is to wallow, we... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629763 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 22:06:31 +0100 3629763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3581396&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FP0IXq90nJzQ%2F An important question about the retrovirus XMRV, which has been implicated in prostate cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome, is where the virus replicates in humans. Such information would provide clues about how infection might be transmitted. To date the virus has been detected in malignant prostate cells and in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells and plasma of patients with CFS. A new study reveals that XMRV is present in respiratory secretions. Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect XMRV in 267 respiratory samples taken from German patients. One group comprised sputum and nasal swab specimens from 75 travelers from Asia who had respiratory tract infections. The second group consisted of 31 bronchoalveolar lavage samples from patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3581396 Wed, 19 May 2010 15:51:27 +0100 3581396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577473&cid=t_105959_111_f&fid=39123&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fnursingcomments%2Ftdtc%2F%7E3%2FxytqX3cytuI%2F           Crohn’s disease is a lifelong inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).  Parts of the digestive system get swollen and have deep sores called ulcers.  The disease usually is found in the last part of the small intestine and the first part of the large intestine, but it can develop anywhere in the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus.  Doctors don’t know what causes Crohn’s disease.  You may get it when the body’s immune system has an abnormal response to normal bacteria in your intestine.  Other kinds of bacteria and viruses may also play a role in causing the disease.  Crohn’s disease can run in families.  Your chances of getting it are higher if a close family member has it.  People of Eastern European (Ashkenazi) Jewish family background may h... Nursing Comments blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577473 Wed, 19 May 2010 12:29:16 +0100 3577473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3546799&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV081.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Rich Condit On episode #81 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent and Rich answer listener questions on viruses and gluten allergy, RNA silencing, influenza virus, herpes simplex virus, HIV/AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, manicure salons, and the koala tea of Marseilles. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code TWIVPOD to receive $75-$500 off a Drobo. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #81 (68 MB .mp3, 94 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: Virus infections and gluten intolerance on TWiS (thanks Jesper!) Viral small RNAs in PLoS Pathogens (thanks Jason!) Canadian S... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3546799 Sun, 09 May 2010 14:01:03 +0100 3546799 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3542263&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F8JNHifK_FIM%2F Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) is a private, non-profit institution located in the eponymous town on Long Island, New York. Over 400 scientists work there on a wide range of biological problems, including cancer, neurobiology, plant genetics, and genomics. CSHL has a storied research history, having hosted nine Nobel Laureates. But it is also well known for its world class scientific conferences. The first of these was the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Symposium on Quantitative Biology, which was held in 1934. Another well known event is the Phage Course, founded by Salvador Luria and Max Delbrück in 1948. There are now over 24 meetings held annually. One of these is the meeting on retroviruses, which will begin on 24 May 2010. Below is a list of the presentations about XMRV, the n... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3542263 Fri, 07 May 2010 15:04:27 +0100 3542263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3538092&cid=t_105959_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fdoctors-are-human-too%2F2010.05.05 It’s all too easy to try and quantify everything in medicine. We are, after all, under the widely held delusion that medicine is like physics. A thing that follows fixed, predictable mathematical models. A thing reproducible if only algorithm A is followed for this disease and algorithm B is followed for that disease. This belief is also held by the government, which doesn’t want to pay for readmissions or mistakes. Because it is believed that all things in medicine can be known from an exam, some labs, some tests, and some studies. Nevertheless, things happen. Disease are transmitted in public or by families. Medications don’t always work. Bodies change. Bodies age. Humans are non-compliant. Humans are suffering from physiologic phenomena we can’t yet comprehend. Viruse... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3538092 Thu, 06 May 2010 01:00:12 +0100 3538092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519581&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2F3-rules-for-living-with-chronic-pain%2F If you’re one of us who live with chronic pain that means you have a constant roommate. That roommate is chronic pain. Quite frankly, it’s a lousy companion and an inconsiderate guest. That invader never pays rent, takes up far too much attention, and doesn’t pick up after it’s self, leaving us in our compromised state to do all the work.  You figure out immediately, life isn’t fair. Fairness is left behind as a childhood fantasy and we’re left with the stark reality of inequality. We rant, we rave and we cry but eventually, we learn that peace comes with acceptance and we adapt. Adaptation reveals that somewhere, deep within us, hope is alive. We can’t always see it but it’s there. Life has a way of charging forward without our approval as dust gathers, duties beckon and ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519581 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 19:56:54 +0100 3519581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508124&cid=t_105959_86_f&fid=38272&url=http%3A%2F%2Flaikaspoetnik.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F04%2F27%2Fthree-studies-now-refute-the-presence-of-xmrv-in-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-cfs%2F .“Removing the doubt is part of the cure” (RedLabs) Two months ago I wrote about two contradictory studies on the presence of the novel XMRV retrovirus in blood of patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). The first study, published in autumn last year by investigators of the Whittemore Peterson Institute (WPI) in the USA [1], [...] (Source: Laika's MedLibLog) Laika's MedLibLog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508124 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 16:45:46 +0100 3508124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508273&cid=t_105959_111_f&fid=39123&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fnursingcomments%2Ftdtc%2F%7E3%2FuQdtGoRQJT0%2F           Feeling depressed or forgetful?  How about being tired all of the time or notice your hair falling out?  Are you gaining weight for no reason?  I was just two years ago.  Luckily I went to my doctor with these symptoms and he ran some blood tests.  Guess what?  I had hypothyroidism.  Believe it or not – approximately 59 million Americans have this mysterious and often undiagnosed disease.  In fact, more people are affected by hypothyroid symptoms than diabetes, yet it is far less recognized or understood.  Hypothyroidism is more common than you would believe, and millions of people are currently hypothyroid and don’t know it.  What is it?  Very simply, the disease is an underactive thyroid.  Unfortunately, the common warning signs are often dismissed... Nursing Comments blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508273 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 16:13:07 +0100 3508273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3505155&cid=t_105959_167_f&fid=38576&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drbriffa.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F04%2F26%2Fmy-advice-for-those-looking-to-have-an-energised-and-productive-afternoon%2F Apparently, it’s 30 years ago that Marks and Spencer (a UK-based food, clothing and home goods retailer) started selling pre-prepared sandwiches. Other retail outlets followed suit, and the end result is that sandwiches now are the prime lunch fodder for workers up and down the land. But do they represent prime fuel for those with [...] (Source: Dr John Biffa's Blog) Dr John Biffa's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3505155 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 07:16:57 +0100 3505155 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3499197&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fms-and-compassion%2F Do you ever feel like you maybe don’t give yourself enough credit for doing as much as you do…MS and all? I had a very busy work weekend (which ran into Tuesday).  I had every intention of waking up on Wednesday, banging out a blog for posting and getting on with a productive day. And now, it’s Thursday! I really have no idea where yesterday went. By the evening I was beating myself up pretty good over what didn’t get done; including (but FAR from limited to) that blog… But this morning, even though I don’t feel 100%, I think I’ll get a little more done.  Certainly, I’ll not get everything done I want.  In fact I hope to get everything done I need and will call that a successful day.  But, here I am writing this blog so things are at least a bit better than yesterday. P... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3499197 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 20:32:31 +0100 3499197 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3494370&cid=t_105959_111_f&fid=39123&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fnursingcomments%2Ftdtc%2F%7E3%2FPg-75NOruns%2F           About 5 million people in the United States suffer from congestive heart failure (CHF).  Approximately 550,000 new cases of the condition are diagnosed every year.  It is the most common hospital discharge diagnosis with more than one million hospital stays annually.  A person 40 years or more has a 1 in 5 chance of developing heart failure.  Congestive heart failure (CHF) affects 1% of the people aged 50 years, 5% people aged 75 years or older and 25% people aged 85 years or older irrespective of sex.  Congestive heart failure, or simply heart failure, is a condition where the heart fails to pump adequate blood to meet the body’s need.  Unlike a heart attack, the heart does not stop beating – rather, it weakens over the course of months or years so tha... Nursing Comments blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3494370 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 11:13:50 +0100 3494370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490276&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FmEKbafeJIUM%2F All mammalian genomes contain genes encoding Apobec proteins. Several members of this protein family (the name stands for apolipoprotein B mRNA editing complex) are induced by interferon and are intrinsic antiretroviral proteins. Apobec proteins inhibit the replication of XMRV, a new human retrovirus associated with prostate cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome. During retroviral replication, Apobec proteins are packaged into newly synthesized retrovirus particles (illustrated). They exert their antiviral effect when Apobec-containing virions infect a new cell. As the viral reverse transcriptase begins to copy viral RNA into DNA, Apobec removes an amine group from cytosines in single stranded DNA, a process called deamination.  The consequence of deamination is that cytosine is changed to ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490276 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 18:29:46 +0100 3490276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3475946&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fthe-morning-in-my-life-with-chronic-pain%2F Before I open my eyes each morning, upon awakening, I feel pain.  Each day it is the same, that moment never changes because my body has not changed. The area of pain may move, and does, as I take inventory each morning. “Arms, legs…  still intact. Hips in pain as well as the backside. Neck, sore yet functional, etc.” When I am asleep I dream the dreams of the healthy which are shattered on awakening. Each day, I am disappointed. I must be a slow learner because I have not accepted the pitiful side of my fate by now; or perhaps I am just a believer in efforts, faith and possibilities. When I open my eyes, I usually have the front or the rear view of a furry grey Miniature Schnauzer who has cuddled closely to me with the morning chill, trying to horn in on my heating pad. Both ends... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3475946 Thu, 15 Apr 2010 19:46:19 +0100 3475946 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3454051&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fis-it-ever-too-late-to-take-back-your-life%2F Roll up the cuffs on your pants; take off your shoes because it’s going to get deep in here. We’re going to ask ourselves questions like, “What is the meaning of life?” as well as “What does life mean to you?” and “Is it possible to be happy living a life with chronic pain?” What is the meaning of life to you? I know there are as many answers to that question as there are individuals asking it. To some of us it has changed over the years as we have changed. We age, we decline, we become more educated, we get sick, and we get rich or poor and our goals in life change. Nobody stays the same, ever. The glitch in the answers to life seems to come in at that change part. When we live with someone else and we change, they have to adapt, or adjust to that change or there can be su... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3454051 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 22:00:01 +0100 3454051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443512&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FHyz-u3g1UBE%2F Xenotropic murine leukemia virus related virus (XMRV) has been implicated in prostate cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Because XMRV is a retrovirus, it might be susceptible to antiviral drugs that are licensed for the treatment of AIDS. AZT (azidothymidine) was previously found to block XMRV replication. A screen of forty-five compounds reveals that XMRV replication is inhibited by raltegravir and three other drugs. The authors studied the effect of 45 compounds on the replication of XMRV in cell lines derived from human breast (MCF-7) and prostate (LNCaP) cancers. Twenty-eight of the drugs have been approved for use in humans, including treatment of HIV-1 infection. The drugs tested include nucleoside and non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors, and integrase and proteas... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443512 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 15:44:48 +0100 3443512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443859&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fadapting-to-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F I may look the same as everyone else, but inside, I feel differently because I always have pain. It doesn’t come and go, like an errant neighbor; no, it stays, more like an inconsiderate relative who moved in without waiting for an invitation. When a cataclysmic event occurs in your life, like the advent of chronic pain, it changes you. Not only do you have the physical part of it to deal with, but because you still walk, hopefully, talk and breathe, you have to find a new and often inventive way to do everything. Life’s personal responsibilities remain, our family duties continue and the mere simple tasks of daily life call out to us; therefore you find new ways to do old, everyday jobs. Over the years on this blog I have discussed with all of you the many ways to ease life while at t... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443859 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:33:52 +0100 3443859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3436204&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV076.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Stephen Goff Vincent speaks with Stephen Goff about the origin of the retrovirus XMRV and its association with prostate cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code TWIVPOD to receive $75-$500 off a Drobo. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #76 (40 MB .mp3, 55 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Discovery of XMRV in prostate tumors Association of XMRV with chronic fatigue syndrome Enhanced infection of prostate cells by XMRV XMRV and xenotransplantation Send your virology questions and comments (email or mp3 file) to twiv@twiv.tv or leave voicemail at Skype: twivpodcast. Post articles that ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3436204 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 12:58:09 +0100 3436204 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435108&cid=t_105959_111_f&fid=39123&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fnursingcomments%2Ftdtc%2F%7E3%2Fi5vowIaWt8o%2F           If you have ever known anyone that has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, it is no joke!  Contrary to what some believe, fibromyalgia is NOT psychological burn out or depression, it is NOT laziness, whining or malingering.  It IS the result of widespread dysfunction in the body and the brain that is hard to understand, difficult to diagnose and treat, and so far, impossible to cure.  In a nutshell, fibromyalgia is widespread pain in the muscles and soft tissues above and below the waist and on both sides of the body.  It is actually a syndrome – a set of symptoms that happen together but do not have a known cause.  In this syndrome, the nervous system(nerves, spinal cord, and brain) is not able to control what it feels, so ordinary feelings from your muscles, j... Nursing Comments blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435108 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 15:37:43 +0100 3435108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435144&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fwhen-ms-wrings-you-out%2F MS is a condition which, no matter how well we plan, takes us by surprise now and again.  Go to bed “fine” wake up with part of our body not responding to a call to action.  A simple battle with the circulating bug du jour and a fever sits you down like a crumpled boxer in his corner. Vertigo, which can make a turn of the head into a cyclone-spiral to the floor… MS can really wring one out…with little warning! I’m currently on a planned slide into anemia after my treatment on Monday.  I’ve been able to pretty much plan a lighter schedule (ok, who am I kidding?) knowing that I’d be far from 100%.  Still there are things which should get done by me.  It’s just taking a little extra effort. So, it got me to thinking about those times when our requirements wander beyond t... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435144 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 18:18:02 +0100 3435144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420632&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fnovantrone-one-last-dose%2F Well, today ends an era for my MS treatment. Today I max out my lifetime allowable dosage of Novantrone. Much has changed since I began taking the drug. Most notable, my symptoms have changed dramatically for the better. Of course it should be noted that things had gotten pretty bad by the time we made the decision to use that drug. I was about a year and a half post Dx and had experienced 6 additional attacks. I was walker-dependant for most things outside of the house and fighting every indication that I should purchase a scooter. My disease had gotten aggressive so, my medical team and I decided we had to respond in kind; we got aggressive! At the time, Novantrone was the only drug available for a “breakthrough disease”, meaning MS that was not responding to one of the (at that time... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420632 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 03:28:36 +0100 3420632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374261&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fweakness-in-the-hands-and-the-price-of-dishes%2F I’m dropping things! Pre-diagnosis, back in my 20’s, I simply thought I was clumsy.  I’d trip on exposed tree roots on a hike.  I’d slip and fall down the stairs.  Rugs (and cats) became my introduction to the floor more than once and oh, the glassware I’ve broken… That was then; this is now and I’m still dropping things. Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve noticed that I’m sweeping up more broken glass and porcelain than I have in a while.  Wine glasses (empty, thank goodness, up to this point) seem to have an additional gravitational pull these days.  Plates (not all empty, unfortunately) have simply flung from my hand as I turned.  The cost of toothbrushes I’ve had to replace is starting to need its own line in my budget. The incidents are not coincidence.  I ... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374261 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 19:14:44 +0100 3374261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3327180&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fa-life-with-chronic-pain-and-my-enemies%2F GRAVITY is always there, to trip us up, drag us down or rocket some object into our pathway. It is also an enemy to us as the pull of the earth draws all body parts downward. It’s truly amazing how quickly your face can hit the floor. PAIN of course, that’s a given with the title of this blog. Pain everyday pokes, prods, tugs, needles, cramps and generally befuddles, bewilders and baffles a normal existence. Pain is the giant wrench in the engine of life as it attempts to chug along life’s track. NEGATIVITY can rock your world, darken your day and cause the skies to open up. When you need every bit of positive fortitude within you to tackle a challenging life, this comes along to tie your hands, dim your wits and cause tears to stream down your face. It very soon can warp into it’s... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3327180 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 22:38:12 +0100 3327180 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322519&cid=t_105959_129_f&fid=36038&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Ftrevis-life-with-multiple-sclerosis-ms%2Fhow-are-you-proactive-with-your-ms%2F Let me begin this posting with a disclaimer.  I am not an expert at living with multiple sclerosis.  I am a student of living with my MS. Last week we began an 8-week course of “Empowered Living for Couples”.  The program is offered by my local chapter of the National MS Society and taught (though she prefers “facilitated”) by my dear friend Maureen Manley. For the next eight weeks, a group of 7 couples will take 2-hour journeys of discovery and (hopefully) learn skills for living our lives more aware.  I suspect the concept may be a little touchy-feely for some, but I’m looking at it as; anything that may help us live our lives better, in the company of this uninvited guest, is worth a go. Part of our initial meeting divided us into two groups (the haves and the have nots) w... Life with MS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322519 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:18:10 +0100 3322519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3311288&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FmTG92pSAQiQ%2F The suggestion that the retrovirus XMRV is the etiologic agent of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) arose from a study in which the virus was found in 68 of 101 US patients. The virus was not detected in two independent studies of 186 and 170 CFS patients in the United Kingdom. A new Dutch study has also failed to reveal XMRV sequences in 32 CFS patients. The subjects of the Dutch study were part of a 298 member cohort. All patients fulfilled the Oxford criteria for CFS and reported debilitating fatigue for at least one year. Cryopreserved peripheral blood cells taken from 32 of these individuals between 1991-92 were used for preparation of DNA. This material was then subjected to polymerase chain reaction to amplify proviral XMRV DNA. The primer sets used were the same as those employed in... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3311288 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 04:02:36 +0100 3311288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3298550&cid=t_105959_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fbreast-cancer-and-the-power-of-napping%2F There is new information out of the University of California at Berkley that indicates that napping during the day boosts cognitive power. I like this! I am a napper. I don’t always get the opportunity for a short afternoon nap, but when I need it I take it. It might just be a few minutes before dinner or an evening class but it helps. When we go through chemotherapy or radiation one of the most distressing side effects is fatigue. Usually I worked in the morning and then went to Chemotherapy in the afternoon, returning to work the next day. This resulted in only a half day off from work. After a couple of months I would take the day after chemo off as I began to feel the cumulative effects of months of treatment. That would give me the whole day to rest. I then learned that if I cou... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3298550 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 22:16:14 +0100 3298550 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3301989&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV070.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Dickson Despommier, and Alan Dove On episode #70 of the podcast ‘This Week in Virology’, Vincent, Dickson, and Alan consider a broad spectrum antiviral against enveloped viruses, how a plant virus induces chemical signals in the host to maximize its spread, a new way to preserve viral vaccines at tropical temperatures, and the continuing story of XMRV and chronic fatigue syndrome. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code VINCENT to receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #70 (56 MB .mp3, 77 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Broad spectrum antiviral against enveloped virus... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3301989 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 23:50:04 +0100 3301989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3288063&cid=t_105959_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FQmz9TMVNsAI%2F “Never Wake Up” courtesy of Heiko Muller I bet you’ve had days when you just want to stay under the duvet. Maybe you slept badly, or perhaps you just can’t face dragging yourself out of bed and facing your to-do list. Yet you know that if you could get up when you want to every day – rather than at the last minute possible – you’d be able to accomplish a lot more of your goals. Here are nine ways to wake up ready to rock, roughly in order of when you’ll need to do them the day before. Feel free to add your own tips in the comments! 1.    Exercise During the Day There are plenty of great reasons to exercise, and I won’t rehash them all here. Many people, though, find that exercising helps them to sleep well at night – yet another health-boosting benefit. If yo... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3288063 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 17:03:35 +0100 3288063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283609&cid=t_105959_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F17%2Fteens-sunlight-and-sleep%2F Two new studies out this week demonstrate the importance of teens getting enough sunlight and sleep. Staying up all night — and not worrying about sleep until later — can come back to haunt you for numerous reasons. Fatigue leads to poor school performance and general crankiness (above and beyond your normal crankiness). Lack of sleep may also shrink your brain as well as your memory. And sleep problems in children have been linked to ADHD. Researchers have studied this behavior and now believe insufficient daily morning light exposure contributes to teenagers not getting enough sleep: “These morning-light-deprived teenagers are going to bed later, getting less sleep and possibly under-performing on standardized tests. We are starting to call this the teenage night owl syndr... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283609 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 18:24:07 +0100 3283609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3275540&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FXVFhebH9lYo%2F A new retrovirus, xenotropic murine leukaemia virus-related virus (XMRV), first identified in tumor tissue of individuals with prostate cancer, was subsequently found in 68 of 101 US patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). XMRV was not detected in blood samples of 186 confirmed CFS patients in the United Kingdom. A second independent study in the UK (pdf) has also failed to reveal XMRV in CFS patients. The subjects of this study were confirmed CFS patients from St George’s University of London, Barts and the London Hospital Trust, and Glasgow Caledonian University. A total of 170 serum samples from CFS patients and 395 controls were used. A polymerase chain reaction assay was devised that could detect as little as 16 copies of proviral XMRV DNA (viral DNA integrated into human chro... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3275540 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 20:07:08 +0100 3275540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271162&cid=t_105959_135_f&fid=35274&url=http%3A%2F%2Facidrefluxweb.com%2F%3Fp%3D4346 Even though it’s been a very mild winter, and far more sunny days, it is starting to get a bit more difficult. I haven’t been getting depressed, but I do wake up so bloody tired and stay that way all day.  This is probably due to the fact that I’ve been working hard on a lot of various projects, all of which I enjoy a lot. Then it hits me, what I call “The Wall” I met this guy at the Y, and we had a chat afterwards, and the subject of health comes up.  I have a really hard time answering the question of whether or not I’m in good health or not. I get a lot of colds, and various weird, yet not parlous health problems. The single number one thing for me is my stamina.  I do not have the ability to push myself a great deal. Getting up a few hours early one day and running a lon... acidrefluxweb.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271162 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 15:37:57 +0100 3271162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254157&cid=t_105959_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fflying-cheap-frontline-investigates.html Tonight on PBS, FRONTLINE takes a hard look at the regional airline industry in “Flying Cheap.” Are inexperienced, fatigued pilots putting passenger safety at risk?The industry came under scrutiny a year ago when Continental flight 3407 crashed outside of Buffalo, N.Y. The flight was operated by a regional airline.The ensuing investigation put a spotlight on the lifestyle of some regional airline pilots: Cross-country commutes. Long hours and low pay. Less experience and training. Sleeping in cramped “crash pads.”FRONTLINE reports that regional airlines account for more than half of all scheduled domestic flights in the U.S. And they have been responsible for the last six fatal commercial airline accidents. Is pilot fatigue partly to blame?“Flying Cheap” will be broadcast tonig... Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254157 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:00:00 +0100 3254157 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251431&cid=t_105959_167_f&fid=38576&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drbriffa.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F02%2F08%2Fmy-friends-son-reminds-me-how-important-blood-sugar-control-is-to-energy-and-mood%2F I was talking to a son of a friend of mine over the weekend. Mark (not his real name) is 18 and has been finding his energy and motivation can flag at times. Some of the time he can be energised and motivated. Other times he feels lethargic and “can’t be bothered with life”. Naturally, [...] (Source: Dr John Biffa's Blog) Dr John Biffa's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251431 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:29:53 +0100 3251431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3243410&cid=t_105959_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fgallup-survey-did-you-feel-well-rested.html New Gallup-Healthways survey data show that 29 percent of U.S. adults said they did not feel well rested the day before the survey.The survey involved 700,000 adults who were contacted by phone. It was conducted in 2008 and 2009. Respondents were asked, “Did you feel well rested yesterday?”Women were more likely than men to report that they did not feel well rested. Rest also was more elusive for young adults, lower-income adults and those with at least one child in the household.Older adults appeared to be the best rested. Only 19 percent of adults who were 65 years of age and older said they did not feel well rested.Feeling well rested also was related to overall well-being. Fifty-one percent of people who were well rested considered themselves to be “thriving.” But only 39% of p... Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3243410 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 22:23:00 +0100 3243410 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231759&cid=t_105959_135_f&fid=35262&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsurvivinghiv.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Flecture-survivor-health-wisdom-strive.html (Source: Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog) Nelson Vergel's HIV Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231759 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 04:23:00 +0100 3231759 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3189412&cid=t_105959_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FClRqp2NkoRc%2F Workaholism or Work Addict? Answer yes or no to each question Is your work very important to you? Do you like things done ‘just right’? Do you tend to see things as black or white, not grey? Are you competitive and often determined to win? Is it important for you to be right? Are you overly critical of yourself if you make a mistake? Are you afraid of failing? Are you restless and impulsive and easily bored? Do you drive yourself, and have high levels of energy and stamina? Do you suffer periodic bouts of extreme fatigue? Do you take work home and work nights and/or weekends? Do you feel uneasy or guilty if there is nothing to do? Do you think you are special or different from other people? Do you read work related material when you eat alone? Do you make lists of things to do or keep... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3189412 Wed, 20 Jan 2010 02:00:55 +0100 3189412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159560&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV065.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Matthew Frieman Vincent, Alan, and Matt discuss a project to study the RNA virome of Northeastern American bats, failure to detect XMRV in UK chronic fatigue syndrome patients, and DNA of bornavirus, an RNA virus, in mammalian genomes. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. To receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S, visit drobostore.com and use the promotion code VINCENT. Download TWiV #65 (58 MB .mp3, 80 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Mist net Indigo Tunnel, Western Maryland Railway (jpg) Eric Donaldson and Amy Haskew with bat in holding bag (jpg) XMRV not detected in UK chronic fatigue syndrome patients (virology blog) Bornavirus DNA in ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159560 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:53:19 +0100 3159560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3156327&cid=t_105959_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fviral-debate-about-chronic-fatigue.html This study did not duplicate the rigorous scientific techniques (used by the U.S. research team),” said a group statement. “Therefore it cannot be considered a replication study… Significant and critical questions remain as to the status of patient samples used in the U.K. study.”Simon Wessely, another co-author of the U.K. study, also cautioned that their results are not conclusive. He said more research is needed to determine the fundamental cause of CFS."It is important to emphasize that today's findings do not invalidate all previous research,” said Wessely. “As ever in science, no single study is conclusive.”CFS occurs four times more often in women than in men. The CDC notes that CFS is neither a form of depression nor a mental illness.“There is now abundant scientifi... Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3156327 Sat, 09 Jan 2010 11:55:00 +0100 3156327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153094&cid=t_105959_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FHaLPVvKYgys%2F A new retrovirus, xenotropic murine leukaemia virus-related virus (XMRV), first identified in tumor tissue of individuals with prostate cancer, was subsequently found in 68 of 101 US patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). This observation raised the possibility that XMRV is the etiologic agent of CFS. An important question is whether XMRV is associated with CFS in other parts of the world. For some CFS patients in the UK the answer appears to be no. The subjects of this study were 186 confirmed CFS patients who had been referred to the CFS clinic at King’s College Hospital, London. DNA was prepared from blood samples and subjected to polymerase chain reaction using primers that anneal to an XMRV-specific sequence, and to a sequence conserved among murine leukemia viruses. To d... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153094 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 21:59:16 +0100 3153094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149135&cid=t_105959_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FSXIkAaXGJQs%2F Being abused as a child has a lifelong impact on people, even if they think they’ve left the abuse behind. In some cases, it may come out in personality issues and in others, physically, such as high stress levels or illness. Migraines, one of those mysterious ailments that affect so many people, is one of the long-lasting physical effects that may result from childhood abuse. Of course, that’s not to say that if you have migraines, you were abused – absolutely not. But, researchers have found that a significant number of people who do live with migraines were somehow abused or neglected when they were children. Child abuse and neglect are, unfortunately, still very much present in today’s society. In the United States, the U.S. Department of Health has said that in... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149135 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:55:36 +0100 3149135